From “Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Reviews—ABNA Expert Reviewer

What is the strongest aspect?
This writer has very strong and sophisticated storytelling skills which engaged this reader immediately. Even though this is designated for Young Adult readership, it will appeal to the mature reader as well.

The atmospheric setting is truly evocative and will transport the reader to another time, another place.

I love the authorial balance of dialogue, action, thoughts, senses and feelings which allows the reader to experience the story rather than having it summarized through the author.

What is your overall opinion?
This narrative is lyrical and poetic, written with the touch of a seasoned writer. Here are immaculate chapters rich in atmosphere, tone and style.

I do prefer its splendidly executed "show, don't tell" approach to historical fiction. This author employs a marvelous variety of dialogue, thoughts, alternating first and third person points-of-view, letters, back stories and background details to convey its social themes with due attention to period details and fidelity.

Image: The magic of trees… at Laurelhurst Park. This has, undeniably, been my inspiration from childhood and even still for the lyrics and poetry, for the message, for the mystery, for the love of Bentari and his people. Thank you, ABNA reviewer. Your words are music to my heart.