When I decided to write my first novel, my desire was to write a story about friendship and personal growth. I had the characters firmly in my mind before I wrote the first word. The story of the FBI investigation was merely a way to convey the personal stories of my three main characters, and give them a vehicle in which they could be tested.
Each of us, whether we are floundering hopelessly like Jimmy, a little prideful like Paul, or lacking in confidence like Emily, has room for growth, and it is equally important for each of us to work towards self-improvement with the aid of the Savior.
I appreciate the review by Alice because her review focused on the core of WHY I wanted to tell the story. It is very rewarding to learn that someone experienced the book in a rewarding way.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes from her review.
"Who knew I could read a work of fiction to help me figure out this concept of boundaries? I guess I've always know that fiction crosses over, but it's always completely awe- inspiring when a work of fiction can help me with decisions I must make in my own life."
She continues..."I thought that this book was just going to be another action thriller about a couple of FBI agents, but it was so much more than that. It was a perfect example of what good boundaries can do for a person who desperately needs them. It was also a great lesson that boundaries alone are not enough; an adult, just like a child, has to have unconditional love to flourish."
And..."These three characters made a dynamic tale of love and friendship."
I really like this one. "This book was so much more than a private investigator story of mystery and action, it was a perfect love story. A love triangle that left everyone happy. Including this reader."
And finally..."My hat goes off to the author, Steve Westover, for his wonderful character development."
Thank you Alice. Those are very kind words indeed.
To read Alice's full review, please visit her blog...
http://imsofunny.blogspot.com/2010/09/book-review-defensive-tactics.html
Steve, I am soooo happy that you liked my review. I am ecstatic that I was able to get to the core of emotion with which you wrote the book. I always go straight for the emotion and interpersonal stuff. I guess it's just kind of who I have become.
ReplyDeleteI had to go back and correct my own typo of "I guess I have always known" (not know.) I need an editor. :)
I really did enjoy the book, but I think I am going to have to go back and read it again to see this insecure Emily. I finished the book weeks ago and for some reason by the time I wrote my review, I was left with a picture of a confident Emily. And, I don't care how secure Paul was supposed to be, I always think that when people seem so secure on the outside, they are really just hiding some of the greatest insecurities....especially the perfectionist kind...and this was manifested in Paul's constant second guessing about Emily's feelings.
I am thinking it is really interesting that your song playlist is full of music that I love. Maybe we are kindred spirits.
I hope I can get the gumption to actually write a whole book someday.
Well done, my friend.
I would love it if you would put it on Kindle.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Kindle would be cool but I have to wait for the publisher to do it.
ReplyDeleteSteve I really loved your book too! You are an amazing author! You develop your story and characters so well, I felt like I knew them!=0) and I totally love the music on your blog, how did you get it there?
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