Review: An engaging story from a promising new author
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 25, 2014
Although this is the third novella in a series, I found the story to be seamlessly engaging without having read the first two. Vi Zetterwall takes on the familiar theme of love and acceptance while overcoming obstacles, but her characters face uniquely difficult circumstances while constantly being thrust into gut-wrenching situations that elicit a kaleidoscope of emotions. This is a heartfelt and gripping tale that I found to be surprisingly good. The plot is well-paced, and you cheer for the main characters of Marci and Kyle as they struggle to defeat the odds against a deck that is stacked heavily against them.Marci grabs your sympathy right away as she endures a disability brought on by the hands of an abusive, alcoholic father. The sympathy, however, morphs into admiration as we watch Marci show a strength and determination that, perhaps, she didn't even realize was there. Zetterwall does an amazing job of conveying the abject pain and fear that accompanies hopelessness and it is truly an uplifting reading experience to watch this character persevere in the face of brutal odds to rise from the depths of despair through sheer will and determination. Despite the setbacks that life has placed in her path, Marci embodies the traits that most of us only aspire to attain and, for that reason, she ultimately becomes a person to respect rather than one to pity.The special emotional connection between Marci and Kyle is equally compelling (and equally heart-rending) as a tale of unrequited love. Their platonic friendship provides a fertile soil for these unreciprocated feelings and it serves to further depict Marci as a noble and unselfish character with a stoic ability to accept suffering.The "Coin of Luck" concept came a bit out of left field for me as I might have preferred to see Marci overcome all of her obstacles on her personal merits alone. However, this element inserts a mystical flavor to the story that many are sure to find appealing. The ending proves a perfect garnish as it brings an unexpected and satisfying close to what is, overall, a very engaging story with characters you'll care about. I'll be interested to follow Ms. Zetterwall as she continues to evolve as a promising new author.