Elle McKenzie

"The only difference is that when I ask her what her story is, I will already know."

This debut novel has a great story to offer. Do not allow the subject matter to turn you off. Although it deals with suicide, it's not the central theme. Isabella and Damon do not meet (again) under the best of circumstances. Isabella has fallen into a deep depression and feels like there is maybe only one solution. During her evaluation, she meets Damon, a staff psychiatrist, who she feels attracted to, yet is conflicted in this feeling. As their relationship evolves, you find more to the story - they actually have a past that rears its ugly head to threatened their budding relationship.

This was a difficult book for me to write a review. I love debut authors. In such a fondness, I have a tendency to give them a wider berth in the writing. This is a British author. She uses British language and grammar that may be sensitive to American readers. I loved the premise of the story: where it evolved and lead. However, it was the writing style that faltered for me. It felt as if the story was written at two different time periods. One written with us hearing the conversations in Isabella's head. The second being a more traditional novel approach. Also, I felt like the Ms. McKenzie spent too much time explaining to the reader the actions of character getting from here to there in the room. Or details that could have been left out. Now, this may be a style of writing not in my favorites. But, this writer shows promise in the storyline. Will I pick up another novel if I see it available? Yes, I am willing to give this debut artist another turn to immerse me in a story I think she has within her. Just a bit more polish and consistency will give us a four star read.
… (plus d'informations)