Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This month I considered only three books. The two most clamoring for my purchase were “Her Final Words” and “White Out.” I chose “Her a final Words” by Brianna Labuskes due to my having lived in Idaho 36 years ago, when that state’s take on politics changed my outlook on life forever. That, however, is another story. I was intrigued by the unique premise of this novel. The suspect was arresting and frightening. Viewed in the prism of 2020, I admit the opening, far-fetched as it seemed, grabbed me deep down and wouldn’t let go. So, I chose it as my free book. Before I continue, let me clear the decks of some points I’ve found readers find helpful in selecting stories that keep their interest. LANGUAGE? Moderately strong street language, but only once does the ‘F-word’ appear. Considering the genre, many readers might be able to dismiss this fact. Hint: skip over page 307 (very early in chapter 59) if the word offends you. As for me, it was not an issue in rating “Her Final Words.” PACE & FLOW? After a brilliant, intriguing opening, for me, the writer somewhat overdid the theme, or shock and awe. In other words, wherein I was hooked, line and sinker by the mindset of the perpetrator speaking of her crime while evincing no emotion, I started to fidget as the author furthered her tease. I was SO ready for meat. Fortunately, though, this was not overly long. In fact, I feel a bit guilty even bringing it up. Some readers will likely vehemently register discontent with me. CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT? This was the writer’s strong suit. I wanted to keep learning what it is that makes this woman tick. EDITING QUALITY? Professional. No glaring typos or grammatical errors. CAN DISBELIEF BE SUSPENDED? Yes. Despite an unbelievable premise, I was able to forget what I know, or think I know about people, life, and human nature. DESCRIPTIONS? I appreciated how the writer described people or scenes in short, quick, sometimes staccato discussions. I also liked how she alternated from one style to another. BOTTOM LINE This was better than expected. I hope to see this writer grow into a Star. Four stars out of five. Possibly 4-1/2 stars. I removed the excerpt due to concerns raised by commenters that it revealed a spoiler.