My Book

I am finally writing one of the books rattling around in my head. It is a contemporary story drawn from some my own life experiences. I decided to post about this endeavor as a part of my motivation to remain committed to my goal. 

I have a lot of work ahead, and I am determined to have a first draft done by the end of the year, if not before. I plan to post an update once a week or so. To be continued…

Now in My Bookbag: Ties That Bind, by Debbie White

The publisher of this work provided, through NetGalley, a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Author Debbie White has written a story that has an interesting plot. The events depicted are fairly easy to follow, and the details understandable. The main character, Patsy, takes us on an incredible journey through her life story.

There are many ups and downs throughout. The potential to connect with the segment of readers who are adopted, or know only one birth parent, presents during Patsy and Charles’ expedition to investigate Patsy’s true lineage. The last fourth of the book, or so, elicits several emotions, and offers plenty of opportunity for tears. This is the part of the book that provides the strongest connection to most readers.

However, there is much work to be done on the punctuation… especially commas. There are a very many places that are missing appropriate commas, plagued with too many commas, or a comma is simply inserted at the wrong place. The book needs another proofread. Also, a few of the sentences need restructuring, and the flow needs a bit of work. I am sure that another edit can rectify these concerns.

I like the concept of the book. I love the focus on family. There is an honesty concerning topics like depression, child neglect, and the search for biological connections to the past, and it is very refreshing. I can also appreciate White’s attention to detail on the realities of aging, care taking, and death of a loved one.

With some tweaking, this can be a great book, rather than a good read.  3 1/2 Stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Mason List, by S.D. Hendrickson

This a completely engrossing, all consuming read. I LOVED every minute of it!!

I was hooked from the very start, and I could not stop until I revealed the entire picture. Each chapter provided an extra piece of the puzzle… of the unusual story of Alex Tanner.

Though the story was told from the present, the backstory (spanning 20 years) was revealed through flashbacks. It chronicled family, love, loss, hate and lasting friendship. It introduced the Masons, including nearly life-long, best friend Jess. Even though the story fluctuated between the present and the chronological past, the flow was very good. It kept me guessing through the very end.

The epilogue was a nice touch. It sort of wrapped the story up in a nice bow. This book was phenomenal, and I recommend it with 5 out of 5 stars!

Now in My Bookbag: New York Love Story, by Tony Wards

I wish there had been more.

I hate to criticize someone else’s work. However, it is my hope that my opinions help an author bring the book’s full promise to fruition.

In New York: Love Story, the romantic concept is there, but this story is missing the descriptive details that make you feel as though you are part of it. The fast pace seems to detract from the love story. Whether the setting is a holiday party, touring the city, or out shopping, the finer points are missing.

Amanda and Richard make a lovely couple, but particulars of their appearances are few. Author Tony Wards expresses several plot ideas that receive no further realization.

The last paragraphs have the feeling of an epilogue, rather than part of the story narrative.

I believe that Wards has good ideas for the book, but it needs more tender loving care. There is potential there. I hope he will resolve these issues and re-release this book as the best work imaginable.  3 Stars

Now in My Bookbag: Royal Marriage Market

I am absolutely in LOVE with this book!

It has dynamic main characters that are easy to like. Elsa is witty, smart and unabashedly outspoken. She also loves her country, its people, and her service to both. Chris is accomplished, giving and a good man… despite having a mother who resembles Maleficent.

Author Heather Lyons weaves a story that has the feel of a classic, historical romance which takes place in the modern era. It is a great love story. There are moments that are laugh-out-loud funny.

The dialogue and inner monologues are so well done. The Royal Marriage Market is an engaging, enchanting read that I could not put down. Lyons has truly outdone herself. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Next Together, by Lauren James

This book is difficult to review.

The concept is so fresh that it’s very enticing. It gets more and more interesting the further I read. However, my captivation doesn’t begin until approximately 1/4 of the way in.

There is too much timeline jumping too quickly in the beginning of the book. I find it confusing, and difficult to acclimate to a story that jumps around from the start. I really wish that Author Lauren James had provided a longer intro to each time period.

I am much happier with the rest of the story. It is mesmerizing to meet Kathryn and Matthew throughout each of their incarnations.

There are a few things that remain unanswered, and I feel that it makes the ending a bit weak. I like this book but feel that it could be so much better. 3 3/4 Stars

Happy New Year!!

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