Review: Excellent, Unique Journey
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 8, 2014
Third Degree uniquely portrays the real and honest feelings of a young woman deep into a life with genius knowledge yet very little life experience. The writing precisely cultivates feelings within the reader of a conflicting time in our lives where we trying to figure who we are to ourselves. Add the pressure of being a child prodigy who’s adoringly awkward and socially inept, thrust her into a medical career because of her fascinating brain power and we are given Isabel Jenkins, MD. And just as Isabel forges her way to self-awareness and understanding she’s given Marshall Collins; socially adept, charismatic, accepting Marshall Collins. Their story is nothing short of perfection. Ms. Cross captivated me with her elegant words, intriguing plot, and her delicate handling of the unique situations both Izzy and Marsh face as new adults.I found Ms. Cross’s characters so enchanting; they complimented each other in the most unique ways providing each other with a sense of security they’d both been lacking. The friendship they build together endears them to each other and to the reader. Stories based on friendship always make me happy to read and this one is built on a solid foundation and understanding.Isabel Jenkins proves to be nothing short unique. She’s beyond intelligent, witty, and funny (even though a lot of times she’s not trying to be). Assimilating into ‘normal’ college life doesn’t prove to be an easy transition in her life thanks to her fast-tracked adolescence. When she meets Marshall on the first day of her third round of college, she begins she lighten. Isabel’s character is transformative. The changes she goes through during her time at the college softens her to a point where she can breathe a little easier, she doesn’t recognize it but thanks to the author’s writing we see this unfolding without Izzy’s knowledge. Her compassion for Marshall is a driving force in this change.Marshall Collins wormed his way into my heart almost immediately. He’s care free, mellow, sweet, charming, and quite funny. Marshall engages Izzy like no one else has; I’d even venture to say like no one else can. There’s a cloud of mystery surrounding Marshall and while I do not in any way want to spoil the plot I do want to say that he holds a very special place in my heart – Marshall and I have something very much in common. The author’s handling of this particular commonality is totally astounding. Easy and gentle, taking something that is intrinsically embarrassing (even though it shouldn’t be) and making it a point of togetherness and trust between two characters is beyond thoughtful. Marshall’s highs and lows represent something that causes great suffering and I can’t express enough how much I enjoyed reader how Ms. Cross handled the matter.As I’ve stated, Third Degree, simply put is unique. The characters are unique and their beautifully crafted story weaves together a lasting love story. Additional charm from the secondary characters gives an added layer of sweetness in Izzy and Marsh’s journey. From Marsh’s family, to Izzy’s roommate, provide pleasant escapes from the turmoil that surrounds these two main characters. It’s a journey of understanding, acceptance, and intrinsic faith. It’s about two best friends needing each other on much deeper level and overcoming the obstacles plaguing them in the most satisfying ways. This story will stay near and dear to my heart for many reasons. I hope there is more to come from these characters. Thank you, Ms. Cross, for this enchanting story - you not only made me believe in these characters but led me to fall in love with them too.