Review: From these odd moments of cityscape, the blue rose appears, rare, unique and special. Much like this book.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 17, 2012
Alternately described as a modern day Cinderella story or a romance; neither quite does justice to this beautifully written tale.  A book that will capture the imagination of both younger and older readers, ripe with the inclusion of beautifully detailed imagery that makes free and frequent use of New York City as a character.Haley is a child of books; all readers will understand and relate to her instantly.  A reader that is capable of integrating the books she knows and loves into her personality, and draws on those favored lines frequently in her interactions.  It is a trait that could be quite pretentious and affected if overdone, and yet she is so earnest and guileless in her delivery and manner that it is merely a unique characteristic.We are allowed to see her develop from an Ivy League dropout, unsure of fitting in, and certain that she has to do "something" impressive to be valued into a woman on the cusp of 40, still maintaining that tie to the young girl who saw the world as full of magic and miracles, to be greeted with anticipation.It's truly difficult to point to any one character as a favorite: all of the characters are unique and lively, full of the good and bad that truly creates a human being.  Yes, there is a love story, but there are many - it isn't just about a happily ever after for one pair.  The story is very much a faerie tale in feel, although there are moments of sadness and loss, the hopefulness and vision that Haley views the world also is strongly present for those around her.Once opened, this book was difficult to put down, and all distractions were unwelcomed and intrusive.  In the midst of a metropolis, the author created a story-line that muffles the noises and sweetens the smells, putting the city and its scenery into a snow-globe vision that is filled with moments of recognition.  From these odd moments of cityscape, the blue rose appears, rare, unique and special. Much like this book.**I was gifted an eBook copy by the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.