DECEMBER 2014 - AudioFile
Narrator Erin Bennett subtly differentiates the characters in this sassy, irreverent romance. In a story that is a slightly darker offering than Phillips's usual fare, Annie Hewitt, a down-on-her luck but plucky would-be-actress-turned-ventriloquist, must spend several months on an island. Enter the dark and brooding but oh-so-gorgeous hero who must save her when a series of escalating pranks threatens her safety. Bennett's portrayal of Hewitt’s talking dummies is especially entertaining—although spooky. Each is distinct, with the perfect voice. Bennett infuses the imperfect but manly love interest with a sexy voice that entices. She gives Annie herself a determined, animated manner that is appealing. A.C.P. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine
Publishers Weekly
★ 06/09/2014
When 33-year-old ventriloquist Annie Hewitt returns to a Maine island and the isolated cottage where she spent her teenage years, she only expects to recover her health and search for a legacy left by her mother. She doesn’t expect to find widower Theo Harp in the manor house on the hill, or Jaycie Mills, the quiet woman who once saved her life, working as his housekeeper and raising a mute four-year-old daughter. Phillips (What I Did For Love) uses hints and references to Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca to create a sometimes tense atmosphere, using the structure of the older book to both fulfill and subvert the reader’s expectations. Theo fulfills his role as the stereotypical brooding hero, and Annie is much more independent than her counterpart as she learns about her past, helps Jaycie’s daughter overcome trauma, and investigates the mysterious occurrences that are trying to drive her off the island. Details of smalltown New England life round out this powerfully successful homage. (Aug.)
From the Publisher
Details of smalltown New England life round out this powerfully successful homage.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“realistically quirky yet all too relatable characters, polished writing, tart humor, and an abundance of potent sexual chemistry. [...] another romance to treasure from one of the genre’s superstars, and proof positive that good things come to those readers who wait.” — Booklist (starred review)
“Heart-wrenching and uplifting, with witty dialogue, emotional depth, and details that give substance and texture to an already entertaining, engrossing story.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“In a stunning change of pace, Phillips reveals a brilliant flair for the gothic as she channels the Brontës, Daphne du Maurier, Victoria Holt, and Phyllis Whitney [...] An unforgettable, deliciously spicy romance that readers won’t want to put down.” — Library Journal (starred review)
Booklist (starred review)
realistically quirky yet all too relatable characters, polished writing, tart humor, and an abundance of potent sexual chemistry. [...] another romance to treasure from one of the genre’s superstars, and proof positive that good things come to those readers who wait.
