Customer Reviews

In the Winter of Her Season

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Ms. Robertson has truly captured the essence of Sarah Hamilton, the fictitious character in this novel. This book could be anyone's life, as I'm sure some of us (if not all of us) can relate somehow to Ms. Hamilton's story of molestation, alcoholism and depression. The sudden death of her brother was very surprising. My heart went out to Sandra and I prayed that through the journey she was on she would find her way, in the winter of her season. Ms. Robertson, you are truly a gifted writer and I look forward to reading your other books. You are genuine and honest in your approach. I believe in your work as a fellow artist and I know you are going to breakthrough upon this generation of readers.

I know this author personally. When she asked me to read her book, I knew it would be good, however, not this good! The characters in this book are very real and a person could easily identify (depending on their circumstances) with anyone of the main characters. For instance, Sandra was molested by her dad as a child, an upstanding minister, which made her turn to alcohol and almost ruined her life. Her brother Jimmy was an alcoholic. Her mom took a backseat to dad and his career and never fulfilled her dreams. Her aunt was a bitter woman who never married (praise the lord). Her first boyfriend (in the book) was a shallow selfish person who got his just rewards.

There is more, but I won't ruin it for you. Buy the book. You won't regret it (I'm not saying this because she's my friend. I promised her I'll do an honest review, good or bad).

Ms. Robertson writes poetry, so the language flows evenly and smoothly and keeps your attention until the last word.

IN THE WINTER OF HER SEASON by Joan Robertson features New Yorker Sandra Hamilton who receives word that her father, Reverend Doctor Trevor Hamilton, Jr., is gravely ill with cancer and she must travel back to her childhood hometown of Cambridge, Massachusetts to care for him by assisting her mother. Sandra has deep-rooted secrets of her childhood, which have manifested into adulthood, and going back may bring them to the surface. Sandra must also deal with the fact that her brother Jimmy and boyfriend Les are less than thrilled with the idea of going to Cambridge to see the elder Hamilton.

Sandra and Les await the arrival of Jimmy and his wife Gee from Santa Monica, California and together they travel to Cambridge to begin an uncertain journey. Upon arriving in Cambridge, small amounts of information are revealed - Sandra begins to drink alcohol at the age of twelve unbeknownst to her family and best friend. Jimmy also explains his demons and his reasoning for leaving home at an early age. During subsequent trips, Jimmy is killed, their mother Hyacinth dies and finally Reverend Hamilton passes on. At this point Sandra begins to hear the voice of her mother guiding her daily. While this element shocks and startles her, she heeds her mother's advice and is introduced to startling information about her family.

IN THE WINTER OF HER SEASON has many elements that make for a satisfying read -developed characters, vivid imagery of the surroundings in question and of the characters' appearance, and realistic dialogue and musings.
Finally, heartfelt emotions are brought to the forefront with some great transitioning from the present to the past. The transitioning is smooth and flawless as we come to understand the childhood of both Sandra and Jimmy and the childhoods and marriage of their parents. The author has added secondary characters who are necessary to the story and each play an integral part, while not overshadowing Sandra's story.

IN THE WINTER OF HER SEASON is a powerful look into self-discovery, overcoming adversity and accepting faith. This is a very good first novel because of the emotions elicited and the ability of the author to utilize writing techniques to paint a distinct mental picture of the characters through the use of letter writing, poetry, strong prose and an intriguing plot.


Reviewed by Dawn R. Reeves
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers