Customer Reviews

Thorn in the Flesh

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've been meaning to write a review of 'Thorn in the Flesh' for some time. It's taken a while partly because I haven't known quite what to say. It's like a discovery you look forward to sharing with someone special - but you don't want to tell them too much and spoil the surprise. Surprising it certainly is. Having read three of Anne's novels now one might expect to see a certain pattern emerging - qualities in the writing that makes you think - ah yes, this is typical; this is similar to what she did before. Many of us are happy to read our favourite authors confident that they will deliver more of the same ingredients that worked so well before. No - think again. Each of Anne's books is gloriously individual - each builds on the strength of what has gone before to deliver something new - a fresh experience for the reader. When I read 'Thorn in the Flesh' I literally could not put it down. Anne delivers a compelling story that keeps you turning the pages. I found her strong central character Kate entirely believable. She is depicted with searing honesty and the character is fearless in her refusal to compromise - to conform to expectation. I imagine that because of this Kate is a character the reader will love - or love to hate. Here is a woman who is attacked in the sanctuary of her own home - whose certainties and securities are torn away - what happens next? Where does she go from here? 'Thorn in the Flesh' is not a comfortable read, it provides no cosy solutions and ultimately it gives no easy answers. It gets under the skin of the reader and causes you to look into the void - to imagine the unimaginable. It is to the credit of the author that the character's journey is so believable. To me there is truth in the story and integrity in the writing. The story taps into the resonance of ancient myth delivered with the pace and assurance of a modern thriller. Read and enjoy." (Review from Sarah Watts originally published on the Writewords site)

I recently had the opportunity to read this work, and was completely blown away by the quality of the writing. Brooke manages to create brilliantly flawed characters, and thrusts them into a story that never becomes cliche or boring. At times suspenseful, at times heartbreaking and at all times a story worth delving into, Brooke presents a story that doesn't necessarily allow itself to be pigeonholed into a specific genre, thus broadening its appeal to many readers. If you'd like to read our full review of this title, please feel free to visit http://ereadindeed.blogspot.com .