I’m thrilled to share with you the book review I received from Kirkus Reviews just last week. Kirkus Reviews are the gold standard for anonymous, fair, unbiased book reviews. Many librarians use their reviews to determine which books they will purchase and shelve. See a partial review of Song of Herself, my debut novel.
… Wiley-Jones packs her narrative with a plethora of captivating themes and images that expose Fiona and readers to India’s cultures, religions, and styles (Women “wrapped their silhouettes with sarees in every color from ruby red to sapphire blue, and marigold to lemon yellow”) as well as the building Indian resentment toward British imperialism. Then there is the chaos of Calcutta, which the author describes in vivid detail, capturing the city’s history, topography, sounds, smells, and foods. Fiona is a complex character who repeatedly turns to Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass for inspiration and guidance in her search for her own center. …
… An engaging period drama overflowing with historical tidbits.
Consider buying a copy for a Christmas gift of the book, Song of Herself !
Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1639885501
Ebook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDK7Q54J/
Recently my friend Marge wrote me,
“I just finished your book and loved it. It was a page turner! I loved the character development and learned so much. All your hard work paid off! Thank you for the adventure. I loved the ending!!”
If you have read the book, please leave a short review of two or three sentences on Amazon.
This is the gold standard indeed and they’ve given you the key to success. As a retired librarian I would suggest framing this review. Then when you are writing your next novel and get stuck you can look up and know that you can do it again. Bravo and cheers to you
Letty Watt
Click on the link below to read my current blog post at Literally Letty https://literallyletty.blogspot.com
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Hi Letty, I may just do that — frame the Kirkus Reviews book review. Thanks for your congrats! Hope you enjoy the book.