Tag: Women’s Fiction

From Bellechester to London: A Heartfelt Tale of Purpose and Passing the Torch

‘The Doctor of Bellechester’ is Book 1 in the Dr. M.E. Senty series by Margaret A. Blenkush

Margaret A. Blenkush is a lifelong learner who earned an M.A. in Theology from St. John’s University, Collegeville, MN, and an M.L.I.S. from UW-Milwaukee. Suffering a life-changing illness in 2005, she received a medical retirement from her dream job. Always a Benedictine in her heart, she became an Oblate of St. Benedict’s Monastery, St. Joseph, MN in 2010. A Minnesota twin by birth, she enjoys retirement, gardening, volunteering, sudoku puzzles, hot fudge sundaes, and the changing seasons. She shares her childhood home with her nephew and two pet rabbits.

Her debut novel “The Doctor of Bellechester” is Book 1 of 2 in the Dr. M.E. Senty series.

“The Doctor of Bellechester” – Dr. Harold Merton, the kind and caring General Practitioner (GP) for the village of Bellechester, is worried because a near-fatal case of pneumonia last winter has made him think about the future. If something happened to him, who would take over his practice? Rarely leaving his beloved home in the Shropshire Hills, Harold courageously ventures into 1959 London to find a junior doctor to mentor and who will one day take his place. With the aid of his classmate, Dr. Basil Applegate, who is now Director of Junior Doctors, Harold hatches a plan to discover the most suitable candidate. What could possibly go wrong?

Upon his arrival in London, Harold meets a self-assured, young American woman, Emme. Her act of kindness sets off a chain of events that interweaves their lives in a way neither expected. Hidden identities and unexpected changes to plans lead to three memorable days for both Harold and Emme.

Review:
This is a women’s fiction story that captures the heart and soul of medicine in post-war Britain. Set in 1959, the story follows Dr. Harold Merton, a seasoned country physician from the fictional village of Bellechester, who journeys to bustling London’s Mother of Mercy Hospital in search of a junior doctor to mentor—someone who will carry forward his legacy of compassion, dedication, and community care.

It takes place in the span of three days and begins as Dr. arrives at the hospital on a hot summer day and is overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the big city. Frozen with doubt, a young woman (who turns out to be Emme), approaches him offering help. They get to know each other and that fateful encounter will change both of their lives forever.

Dr. Merton is a character of deep integrity, and his mission is not just professional, but deeply personal. Through his search, readers are introduced to a range of young doctors, each reflecting the shifting ideals and ambitions of a new generation. Authoritative yet tender, the prose evokes a bygone era with authenticity, capturing the emotional weight of mentorship, the quiet dignity of service, and the timeless value of human connection in healthcare. It stresses the frustrating attitude towards women in medicine in the 1950s.

The narrative is dialogue driven and the action develops at a comfortable pace to allow Dr. Merton to get to know Emme. With vivid language, the settings comes to life: “He knew he should move, but the soles of his shoes seemed to have melted into the sidewalk and the hypnotic doors had put him in a daze.” The characters are well-developed and relatable while the different medical personalities reflect how varied their reasons are for entering the medical profession. It explores the themes of friendship, identity, compassion, and courage.

Overall, “The Doctor of Bellechester” is a tribute to country doctors and a reflection on legacy, vocation, and the healing power of mentorship. It’s a moving, memorable read and recommended for readers drawn to stories of purpose and humanity. Since it’s a quick and cozy read, it’s suitable for book clubs or classroom teaching and includes discussion questions at the end.

“As if she needed encouragement for what lay ahead, the cardinals and the robins voiced their support in song. Their messages of merriment and hopefulness were impossible to miss.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Power of Reflection: My Review of ‘Lost in Thought’ by Deborah Serra

‘Lost in Thought’ is the inspiring new novel by Deborah Serra. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Deborah Serra is a recipient of the Hawthornden Literary Fellowship, a semifinalist for the Faulkner-Wisdom Creative Writing Award, and nominated for the O. Henry Prize. She has been published in literary magazines and is an editor with the ethics and short story magazine, After Dinner Conversation. Serra is the author of the thriller, “Primal,” and the humorous travel memoir, “2 Broads Abroad.” Her latest book is “Lost in Thought,” a novel about unconscious decision making and the illusion of free will.

“Lost in Thought” – Ilana works at Lyric Opera House and is in a committed relationship with Adam, a neuroscientist, for the last 3 years. They live in a cozy Greenwich Village apartment where they often share meals with friends as they engage in stimulating conversations. She’s adopted, and the questions inside of her are growing insistent including who would she be if she’d grown up in her birth home? Is she truly who she thinks she is? Has she ever freely chosen anything at all? Are these questions in part due to Adam’s research on how people make their decisions. It could also be suppressed grief from the death of her adoptive mother. Her inner dialogue is affecting her daily life: “Her thoughts were loud and they drowned out her words.”

When Ilana learns that her birth mother Fiona Shannon owns a pub in Albany, she figures what harm could there be in casually dropping by for a drink? To see, just to see. What begins as curiosity about her choices evolves into a traumatic shift in her world. She loses control of her life and then chaos breaks out.

Review:
The story begins as Ilana is taking the elevator to her office in the 12th floor. A germaphobe by nature, it intensified by Covid and it shows in every part of her life. She’s the production manager at the opera house and the job requires a sense of authority. To everyone around her, she seems calm and confident, but it’s only a front. She was raised to act confident regardless of her situation, and in her line of work, emotions are a sign of defeat and she refuses to show any weaknesses.

Her adoptive mother died of Covid months ago after being on a ventilator for months. She wasn’t allowed to visit her in person and she helplessly watched her die through her iPad. This experience still haunts her and is slowly chipping away at her confidence and total belief system. She desperately wants to know more about her birth family, if she has any of their traits, physical or otherwise. Her best friend and ex-boyfriend William tries to convince her that her personality is the sum of her experiences, which sets forth the nature vs nurture debate. That impulsive trip to see Fiona and her husband Shea O’Holleran will change her life in ways she never saw coming.

This combination of women’s literature and literary fiction is a compelling exploration of the subconscious mind and how unconscious processes shape our decisions, often without our awareness. The novel invites readers into the life of Ilana, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after realizing that much of what she believed to be her free will was, in fact, influenced by external forces and internal biases. Serra cleverly examines the illusion of choice, presenting a narrative that challenges the notion that we are fully in control of our actions.

The writing is introspective and open, combining scientific concepts with philosophical musings in a way that’s thought-provoking yet not overly dense. The novel’s pacing keeps readers engaged, blending character-driven drama with intellectual inquiry. As Ilana confronts the complexities of the human mind, the book raises important questions about responsibility, autonomy, and the nature of free will. With highly descriptive language, the action flows easily through the pages: “The industrial breezes from cars and buses and subway vents blew hot into her face, grabbed her silk skirt, and whipped the loose strands of her hair.”

Overall, “Lost in Thought” is a stimulating read that challenges perceptions and invites reflection on the unseen forces that guide our choices. It explores the themes of family, identity, love, and friendship. By making abstract ideas concrete, it offers a relatable and human story while tackling deep philosophical themes. Readers are left questioning their own thought processes and the extent to which they truly have control over their lives. It is recommended for readers who enjoy intellectual literary fiction that features smart and relatable characters.

“Now, her mind was relentlessly chewing. It was thrilling but like a horror film. She asked herself why she was going down the dark basement stairs.”

*The author received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

‘Something Better’: Diane Parrish’s Insightful New Debut Novel

‘Something Better’ by Diane Parrish. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Literary fiction is a genre that emphasizes character development, thematic depth, and stylistic innovation. Unlike genre fiction, which often prioritizes plot and genre conventions, literary fiction explores the complexities of human experience and societal issues through detailed narratives and intricate prose. It often challenges readers with its explorations of morality, identity, and existential questions, encouraging deep reflection and interpretation.  Literary fiction invites readers to engage with both the text and their own perceptions, fostering a profound connection with the human condition.

Among the new books coming out next month in the literary fiction genre, specifically women’s literary fiction and contemporary literary fiction is “Something Better” by Diane Parrish.

Diane Parrish is originally from the Midwest and now lives with her husband and their elderly Corgi in Connecticut, where they raised their two children. Her essays and short fiction have appeared in various literary journals and magazines. “Something Better” is her first novel and will be released October 8, 2024. It is available for pre-order through Amazon and Bookshop. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)  

“Something Better” – Shocking, heartbreaking, funny, and tender, “Something Better,” the accomplished debut by Diane Parrish, will stay with you long after you’ve read the final poignant scene.

The bubble in which Ruth and David live their tidy suburban lives is about to burst. A tragic automobile accident shatters their insular world and sends David into an emotional tailspin. An unexpected job opportunity takes Ruth to the West Coast, waylaying her desire to become a mother and making her increasingly unavailable for David’s needs.

Thrown off balance and alone, David develops a fixation on Annabeth Brady, the daughter of the friends killed in the car crash that fateful night. As he and Ruth drift further apart, each must decide if they will remain true to their vows, or what it might mean to search for something better.

Parrish pulls back the facade of the carefully cultivated suburbs with luscious prose infused with flashes of humor and insight, as she quietly questions our notions of forgiveness and faith. “Something Better” ushers a sparkling new talent onto the literary landscape.

“Something Better gently explores grief in its many forms. Infused with keen insight, empathy into our human foibles, and wisdom about grace and forgiveness, Diane Parrish’s deft prose offers a timely reminder that it’s never too late to heal, if only we can take the first step.”
—Kristin Koval,author of the novel “Penitence”

“Diane Parrish beautifully constructs a world where things left unsaid create a pathway to redemption.”
— Susan Aronson, writer, producer, Emmy Award winner

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It Ends With Us: The New Adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Bestseller

The movie adaptation of ‘It Ends With Us’ will be released on August 9, 2024. Photo: Amazon

In movie news today: If you’re a fan of the worldwide bestseller “It Ends With Us,” the long awaited movie adaptation hits theaters next month.

Colleen Hoover is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty four novels and novellas. Hoover’s novels fall into the New Adult and Young Adult contemporary romance categories, as well as psychological thriller. In 2015, her novel “Confess” won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance. That was followed up in 2016 with her latest title, “It Ends With Us,” also winning the Choice Award for Best Romance; it has been adapted into a feature movie and will be released on August 9, 2024. It stars Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and Brandon Sklenar. (Amazon/Colleen Hoover, 2024)

“It Ends With Us” – Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town where she grew up—she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. When she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life seems too good to be true.

Ryle is assertive, stubborn, maybe even a little arrogant. He’s also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily. And the way he looks in scrubs certainly doesn’t hurt. Lily can’t get him out of her head. But Ryle’s complete aversion to relationships is disturbing. Even as Lily finds herself becoming the exception to his “no dating” rule, she can’t help but wonder what made him that way in the first place.

As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan—her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.

Celebrate your love for “It Ends with Us” with the all new official journal.

For the millions of Colleen Hoover fans, this officially licensed journal gives you a space to write and reflect on your favorite quotes, characters, and scenes of the novel and its soon-to-be-released movie adaptation.

This  journal is the perfect place to keep all your thoughts and feelings as you watch the movie. Featuring art inspired by the movie, this journal includes 192 pages of high-quality ruled paper, printed end sheets, an elastic closure, a ribbon placeholder, and plenty of space to record your musings.

Perfect for fans of the novel—and its soon-to-release movie adaption—this journal is sure to be a treasured keepsake.

New book release: ‘Let the Devil In’ by Maeve McKnight

‘Let the Devil In’ is the new novel by Maeve McKnight. Photo: Amazon

Romance novels are some of the most popular books and come in a variety of sub-genres. They are often a guilty pleasure because they are usually easy to read and immerse the reader in a world where a person, or a couple, overcome adversity to obtain their happily every after. On that subject, today’s new book release is “Let the Devil In” by Maeve McKnight. This romance e-book centers around Agatha, whose world is rattled when she meets a mysterious man who makes her feel emotions she does not feel for the man is supposed to be marrying. Want to find out what other surprises life has in store for her? Order your copy today, this title is available on Amazon Kindle.

Maeve McKnight is a working woman by day and a romance writer by night. She longs to bring life to the characters in her head and introduce them to the world. She has been married for ten years to her supportive husband and is a mother to a young child and a Yorkshire Terrier. (Maeve McKnight, 2023)

“Let the Devil In” – Agatha had her life planned for her by both her parents and society. She was to be married to the richest family in town. She feels nothing for her new fiancée but it doesn’t matter in a world that only cares about money and climbing the social ladder. However, a strange man she never met makes her feel alive. He then offers her a deal. Will she make the right choice?

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Book review: ‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ by Susannah Marren

‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ is the latest novel by Susannah Marren. Photo: Amazon

Susannah Marren is the author of “Between the Tides,” “A Palm Beach Wife,” and “A Palm Beach Scandal” and the pseudonym for Susan Shapiro Barash, who has written over a dozen nonfiction books, including “Tripping the Prom Queen,” “Toxic Friends,” and “You’re Grounded Forever,” among others. For her nonfiction, she has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, The Chicago Tribune, Elle, Marie Claire, and has appeared on national television including the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS, CNN, and MSNBC. Barash has been a guest on national radio including NPR and Sirius Radio. For over twenty years she has taught gender studies at Marymount Manhattan College and has guest taught creative nonfiction at the Writing Institute at Sarah Lawrence College. Presently she is teaching at the Westport Writers Workshop. Her new novel, “Maribelle’s Shadow,” is a compelling tale of deception and family loyalty.

“Maribelle’s Shadow” – The only thing that spreads faster than gossip in Palm Beach is news of a mysterious death. As the editorial director of Palm Beach Confidential, Maribelle Walker knows what lurks beneath the glittering facade of the rich elite on Florida’s most glamorous coast. Or does she? The story begins when her adoring husband Samuel dies suddenly. She knows he is being unfaithful but she is hesitant about confronting him. With his death, secrets surface, including the secrets and lies between Maribelle and her sisters Caroline and Raleigh. Compounding the anguish, the authenticity of their socially ambitious mother Lucinda and lavish lifestyle of mansions, privilege and couture clothes is thrown into doubt. As their carefully constructed image unravels, each sister realizes she must fend for herself. The pathway out is steep and worth any risk – until the winner takes it all.

Even though it is fun to read about the rich and social elite, sometimes the characters are not very relatable, so it is hard to feel sorry for them when their lives take a downward spiral. Such is the case of the Barrow sisters. Thanks to their momager, they are always in society-lady mode and since they are obsessed with their social status, every decision they make, from how they dress to where they are seen and with who, is based on whether or not it will elevate or improve their status. The story is divided into three parts and the chapters are alternately narrated in the point of view of the sisters, so readers get an insight into their thoughts and characters. Because of this, the plot is character driven and the mystery behind Samuel’s death unravels slowly in the background even though it marks the beginning of the end for Maribelle. With highly descriptive language: “…she was trapped in mounds of seaweed, fighting to reach the shoreline,” the story flows naturally through the pages, making this an easy and fun to read novel. It also highlights the point that every family, regardless of social status, has secrets that will eventually come to light. Overall, “Maribelle’s Shadow” is a story of family and loyalty, and how far some people will go to hang on to what they have. It is recommended for readers who enjoy women’s fiction centered around socialites, power, and money.

“Don’t be so dramatic, Maribelle,” Lucinda said. “Samuel was another husband. They come; they go…..They’re fungible. Sisters, friends who are like sisters, aren’t.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘The Invisible Red String’ by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah

‘The Invisible Red String’ is a love story by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Topics like fate and predestination can be subjective, especially when love is concerned. Some believe that love knows no boundaries because it is written in the threads of destiny. According to an old Chinese proverb: “An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break,” some people are destined to meet and their destinies have been predetermined by ‘the gods.’ This belief is the subject of a new book by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah. “The Invisible Red String” is a spiritual love story that examines the complex concepts of abuse, trauma, and therapy, offering a glimpse into the power of human connection and the unbreakable threads of destiny that bind us all. It is available on Amazon. 

“The Invisible Red String” is a soulful odyssey where an invisible red thread of destiny weaves a tapestry of love, growth, and transformation across continents. Join four extraordinary souls as their lives intertwine in the most unexpected of ways, transcending the barriers of race and culture to create profound and meaningful connections.

John – an advertising executive, carries the scars of a turbulent past, a product of the foster care system, now striving to provide a loving home for his son, who has Down syndrome. When his supermodel wife abandons him, he finds himself at a crossroads, searching for healing and redemption.

Anna – hailing from a conservative background in Kerala, India, knows the pain of forced arranged marriages and the depths of physical abuse. As a divorcee, she is determined to break free from her past and discover her own path to happiness.

Jake – a successful cardiologist, appears superficial on the surface, but beneath his polished exterior lies a longing for something deeper. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering a love that transcends time and space.

Lilly – a young African woman who once endured the cruelty of corporal punishment, arrives in a foreign land to pursue her education, with no family to guide her. She finds unexpected solace in the warm embrace of a gay couple who become her chosen family.

As these four souls converge at Soul Haven, a place where personal stories are shared, and meaningful bonds are forged, they embark on a remarkable journey of growth and transformation. Through profound experiences, they confront their traumas, explore unconventional therapies like past life regression and shadow work, and break down the barriers of race and culture.

Anna and John’s love story emerges as a beacon of hope, proving that love can heal even the deepest wounds. Jake and Maya’s connection transcends the physical realm, leading Jake on a quest to understand the depths of his own soul.

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Courtesy photo, used with permission.