Defensive Tactics- Blog Tour- Jennifer Debenham

Today's stop on the blog tour takes us to Jennifer's blog at Write by Candlelight.

Jennifer had some nice things to say about the book but also gave some technical criticisms of the book, like shifting character point of view. She also noted that she would like some of the characters to be fleshed out a little more.

I have heard both of these critisms before and will be things I work on with my next books. As for the characters being more developed, I am a little bit torn on this. My original manuscript for this book was 100 pages longer than the final product. I cut a lot of detail about the characters, trying to avoid too much backstory in an effort to keep the pace moving. I think I was able to keep the pace speeding along, but at the sacrifice of character development. The nice thing about character development, is I can always add it through additional novels.

I've heard a number of people mention that they wish they knew more about why Emily joined the FBI, or had a clearer picture of what makes Paul tick. I think this is great. Perhaps they will get the change to learn more...later.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Jennifer's review.

"Westover gave the reader bigger picture ideas to think about in his book. As mentioned before, this book isn't simply a quick, action-packed read--though the pace does move along nicely. Westover seeks to show how everyday life can sometimes bring out the best and worst in each of us. And like any good book should, his ends with his main characters achieving real growth."

I also like..."Westover leaves the story with unanswered questions that could work nicely into a second novel with the same characters. I, for one, would want to read it if he does.

Overall, this is a great first novel, and Steve Westover shows promise in this genre. I look forward to his future work."

Thank you Jennifer. To read her complete review, please visit her blog.
http://writebycandlelight.blogspot.com