I usually start my reviews with a snippet of the blurb from the book, but I can’t really do that with this one, as the blurb outlines just about everything that happens in the book, so I would avoid that if I were you. As a brief recap (and hopefully less spoilery) Alex Marcotte returns to the camp run by her father to research and write a book on a historic wildfire that ravaged the area. She is then reintroduced to significant emotional triggers, bringing back memories of her lost brother and her parents’ abandonment. While there, she is introduced to Zoe Kimball, a wildlife biologist in charge of ensuring the survival of two bald eaglets on the property.
There were some things I liked about this book, including how it drew attention to how bullying can truly devastate someone for decades, which I think is important for everyone to think about. However, the book fell flat for me. The writing was stilted and I found one of the protagonists (who I admit was dealing with a lot of issues) quite unlikable. Additionally, I felt as though I was beat over the head with obvious metaphors for the majority of the book, which doesn’t allow the reader to figure anything out on their own. Important revelations by the characters were dealt with awkwardly, which made it a bit of a chore to get through to the end.
This is my first Bev Prescott book, and I can’t say that this book will prevent me from picking up another one, and I’m sure that if you enjoy this author, you’ll likely enjoy this one as well.
Thanks, Nikki!
Bev joined Andy and me on Cocktail Hour (http://cocktailhour.us/archives/419) and we got a chance to discuss some of the issues that you mention here.
Excellent, will listen posthaste!
I will listen too but it’s late so not quite as posthaste-ish as Nikki! Thanks.
How cool you are, Bev Prescott. After my writing group, I will listen to the interview. Eaglets!
Sally – she does truly rock, doesn’t she?
I found Step into the Wind it to be a magnificent book. The main character was flawed, just as most of us are when we lose a loved one. And part of writing 101 is having a flawed main character, so that there is personal growth and development. I’m getting ready for a second read of Prescott’s book.
I am all about flawed characters. This one I just couldn’t go for. I’m glad you liked it though!