Almost Strangers

Rating:
Summary: Haunting
Review: I have to admit the first time I saw the cover of this book I went like, "Oh, this must've been another Harlequin type'. But then my friend recommended(or force, more likely) me to read this book. And after finishing it, I learned that I was so wrong. It's nothing like the usual romance novels I've read. Delsa Winer definitely is well talented. She's capable in combining words into great lines, the easy-to-understand ones, but still have their beauty in it. The plot line was encouragingly strong, and Winer had managed to add up some 'spice' in it, which made the story even better. The connections between the characters were very clear and acceptable. Say, the part where Crissy and Ursula met again long after the flight accident. They didn't know each other by that moment. They had no idea about their hidden history. Then, they found out the whole deal and the bomb dropped. They knew how they used to be enemies, but they still had a friendship, though an uncomfortable one, for the needs to know that they actually have someone to lean on. I must say that's my favourite part of the entire book. Teary, but worth it. I guarentee this book will be a perfect fall material for any romance novels digger.

Rating:
Summary: Boring and too coincidental
Review: I read this in one sitting, not because it was a page-turner, but because I just kept waiting for something to happen! The characters were flat and the relationships never really explored...It was also entirely TOO coincidental...The slowest part of the story is the "meat"- the entire body of the novel - when "Lucy" is wandering throughout Greece etc...the narrative is not descriptive and often jumps and it is really hard to follow. I know the author is trying to get you into Lucy's frame of mind, but enough already. I was very disappointed and the ending was not that great either.

Rating:
Summary: a woman's search for identity
Review: Ms. Winer's graphic images of identiy diffusion and formation are something every woman can relate to. The connection between her protagonist's intensely close relationship with her mother and the resulting confusion she has about intimacy is profound. This is a terrific first novel and one that will stay with you long after you close the book.

Rating:
Summary: Haunting
Review: This haunting and inspired novel is one whose gripping images remain with the reader long after the book is put down. As someone recently out of a relationship and in transition in my life, the image of a woman whose identity is lost and is being reshaped was profoundly compelling. In that, the book quietly and subtly offers hope and possibility, recognizing the everpresent dangers and possibilities of life changes. For anyone swirling from the unexpected turns life sends, this book will become a welcome partner.