an unexpected and stellar review

Current work: second revisions on the Venice book (last push because it has to be done today)
Listening to: Robert Plant, Band of Joy
Reading: Freya North, Home Truths (still enjoying)

Had a wonderful surprise yesterday – a lovely review for Neurosurgeon…and Mum! on Dear Author.

Sunita, the reviewer, was absolutely lovely and gave it a B+. Yes, she saw flaws in it, but she was honest and constructive about it rather than snarky (which is very much appreciated, because I can learn from that and make my books better – constructive criticism, for me, makes a much better review than a post full of mockery). And there was praise as well as criticism.

This is what she had to say:

“This is a pretty realistic, down to earth story with characters who could live next door to you, and with whom I would happily have dinner. The hurdles Amy and Tom face in terms of Amy’s decisions about her professional life, deciding whether they are committed enough to move forward as a family, and the lingering effects of their past relationships are dealt with very well.”

The bit that really warmed me, though? Excuse the trumpet-blowing, but when reviewers come out with a line like this, it’s brilliant crow-dealing material. So I’m going to share it (take that, crows) :

“the lovely characterizations of the main characters, the realistic feel of the setting and the storyline, and Ms. Hardy’s usual excellent writing made this a very enjoyable read”

Wow. Just wow. Dear Sunita, I’ve been having a pretty rubbish week, work-wise, and you just made it a whole lot nicer with your review. Thank you very much. (And you can see the full review if you click on the link to DA above.)