Review: A treat for the senses.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 11, 2013
I first became aware of this author through her blog - an aspiring author's informative, laugh-out-loud thoughts on writing and publishing. His Brand of Beautiful is her first novel - an ebook with Harlequin's Escape digital imprint. Although not a regular reader of this genre I was keen to see the end result of Lily's publishing journey - so far. (I say `so far' because if this novel is any indication, we'll have a fabulous new Aussie voice to enjoy over the coming years.)His Brand of Beautiful is a rollicking good read from the first page. I loved the humour and unexpected turns of phrase throughout this novel, with Lily's easy-going writing style and perfect balance of humour and high emotion keeping me entertained through to the end. There is also some very clever sprinkling of background that builds interest and empathy for the two main characters: Christina Clay - seeking marketing guru (among other things!)-- and Tate Newell - said marketing guru!I love good fiction, but it's always a bonus to find a story that blends fiction with fact so I learn something new; such is Lily's approach to everything from wine making, to marketing, to horsemanship, and even shooting a .22 rifle. It takes special skill to deliver the right amount of detail and description without preaching or teaching.Readers of romance (who don't mind things getting a teensy bit hot) will find this a treat for the senses. There is something special about the authenticity Lily brings to the page that makes me think we'll soon see her books hitting the popular fiction shelves in the chick-lit genre.