I tend to write mini-sized reviews of the books I read, and I don't do it often enough. As an author, I know that even just a few words can mean the world, and just a rating is appreciated. I've fallen behind on reading and reviews, so here are a few words about Shelley Burbank's wonderful novel, so long overdue.
Lively is a fitting name for the main character of Final Draft: An Olivia Lively Mystery by Shelley Burbank. Olivia, who calls herself Liv, is the smart, vivacious character at the center of this realistic world. She fights for truth and stands up for herself, while also leaving time in her busy schedule to help friends. She’s insatiably curious, always three steps ahead in her mind, sometimes inspecting others with a healthy dose of doubt. It was that honesty I loved about the novel—Olivia’s observations about others, not without the occasional opinion, suspicion, or other human traits. This inquisitive, tangential mind is what makes Liv as a private investigator not only credible but intriguing. Burbank isn’t afraid to show her supporting characters’ weaknesses too—the subtle mind games, the clever subtext and body language that is so well illustrated. The writing is strong and descriptive, and moves along effortlessly, inviting the reader from place to place. I enjoyed following Liv on her investigation, and around the beautiful city of Portland, Maine. The novel is part mystery, part domestic drama, with a touch of romance and a lot of spirit. I’d be happy to follow Liv on another journey, or to read anything Shelley Burbank writes. You can purchase the book through the review link on BookBub. Happy April! I'm so excited about this featured interview in WE Magazine for Women by Heidi Richards Mooney. Heidi is a publisher, editor, small business marketing expert, and creator of this wonderful magazine. I'm honored to have IN THE VANISHING HOUR showcased on this week's home page. Thank you, Heidi!
I adore this cover for the German edition of THE ONE TRUE OCEAN, out now in eBook from DotBooks! The new title translates to THE OLD HOUSE BY THE SEA, which I love because it speaks to the novel’s gothic, romantic side. Thank you to DotBooks for bringing my first novel back to readers across the sea.
I was excited (and a bit stunned) to have In the Vanishing Hour chosen as a starred review for Independent Book Review, and I was truly moved by reviewer Melissa Suggitt's lovely words about my novel. Thank you for the feature, and for taking the time to read my work.
To read the full review, visit the book page on Independent Book Review.
Images courtesy of Newton Conservators. A few months back, I offered an advance reader copy of In the Vanishing Hour to be picked up by a reviewer on Reedsy Discovery. It was an excruciating wait, as I was unable to see who the reviewer was or what they thought of my book.
I just received the review by Megan Weiss, and I couldn't be more pleased. You can read the full review on my Reedsy book page, but here's an excerpt: "I kept waiting for new clues to be dropped so that I could pin them up on the corkboard in my mind. In the end, each new connection seemed to blend effortlessly into a bigger picture that was more intricate than you could have ever imagined." Thank you to Megan Weiss for reading my novel and leaving such a lovely review. |
My Journal, a.k.a. BlogA place for author news, writing inspiration, pretty pictures, and other nostalgic musings.
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