Lorelei by Lori Derby BingleyHometown challenge, Canadian Book Challenge: PEI entry
I chose this book because it is set on Prince Edward Island and because it was written by someone from my hometown, so it worked for two challenges. It was a romance, possibly a paranormal romance of which I'm not really sure what that means, but there was a spirit guiding the romance of the heroine. Romances aren't my type of genre to be honest, so I was looking for other factors for my enjoyment. I was a little distracted by the girl and her family because they were so similar to the author's family, - three girls, two boys, father an accountant; I think I knew too much about the author, having gone to school with her brother.
The main character, Amanda's life is like most little girls growing up in Sherwood. The descriptions of the neighbourhood, schools, and town were like being there, because I have been! The proper names of restaurants, streets, and businesses were exactly right, but somewhat distracting because I went to Stonepark, I've eaten in The Golden Wok, and I live blocks fron the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Amanda grows up from a young girl to become a novelist, fights against the man she meets and truly loves, and it takes a spirit who is trying to redeem her own past actions to try and get them together.
And although they were distracting, I enjoyed the mentions of local places. It's a little bit of history for anyone who grew up in Sherwood during the eighties. The romance part of the book was good, but predictable as I find most romance novels are. The element of supernatural, and the twists and turns in the plot were good, but if you aren't a fan of romance books, I'd avoid this one.
For as great as Lucy Maud Montgomery is, I'm glad to see some other authors from the island. I don't think I've ever read a book that could really be classified as a romance. Oh wait, Pride and Prejudice. Anyway, I should I guess, and expand my horizons a little more. At least you've done it close to Valentine's Day.
ReplyDeleteWhat fun to read about the place you grew up. I can see how that would be a bit distracting, but really fun also. I just read a true story set in Wyoming where we lived for 11 years. I even know some descendants of the families involved in the story. Really enjoyed being that close to a good book!
ReplyDeleteI know if I read this one it would just add fuel to my desire to return to PEI. We just didn't stay long enough.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about knowing too much about an author on a personal basis. I'd rather not.
As the author of this book, I appreciate your review. I love to hear from readers and especially those who are open and honest with their opinions. I can understand you not enjoying a romance aspect in the book, but I put it there because for me -- no book is complete without someone to root for in the end. And in this case Amanda was nothing without Gabe. However, I will also admit that it was a first (and last) for me to write something like this. I usually write mysteries, and have six other books in print. There's nothing like murder to keep you up nights! lol. Take care and thank you again!
ReplyDeleteLori Bingley