Simon Says Book Review 2

Here's the judge's commentary on Simon Says, Book Two.

Plot: 2

Grammar: 4

Character Development: 2

Cover Design: 3

What did you like best about this book? This book, like the first, kept the reader caring about Ellis and her eventual well being. The story of Simon's demise remained complicated and interesting, and Drake's involvement in the story added a new twist. Ellis' relationship with her doctor and eventual re-awakening was a satisfying ending after a long time with Ellis and her family. Simon's downfall and the reintroduction of Kit were interesting plot elements that were gratifying. The writing was very good, and the plot kept moving without sacrificing all that had been built in the first book. Every element of the plot was nicely tied up and the ending of the book was a satisfying reward for a long, interesting read.

How can the author improve this book? Like the first book, book two continued to follow Ellis' almost blind love of her marriage. More complication on the part of Ellis without further vilifying Simon would be helpful to the forward movement of the plot. In many ways, what happens in the novel is gratifying to the reader, but also pretty expected. Problematizing some of the story line might help to keep the reader engaged and surprised by the story. Drake's awakening to his father's behavior might have been better taken coming from his mother, and also allowed Ellis (and the reader) to better understand her choices. Everything falls into place at the end very neatly, and quickly. Slowing this down might help, as well. This story seems more of a romance than a mainstream novel, although elements of both are obviously present.

There you have it, an objective opinion of my books by someone who doesn't know me, someone I didn't give birth to, someone I didn't grow up with and shared a bed, someone who is a Best Buddy, someone I don't share a bed with now, and finally, someone who is neither friend nor family who might feel compelled to say something nice. I'm proud to reveal that the areas of weakness I saw in my own books were pretty much what was pointed out to me in the commentaries. The compliments weren't expected and I appreciate them very much.