Slow Burn

This book was suggested for my book club to read by the owner of the book store where we meet. I recall her saying that the "Cover Design" does not do the story justice. That was an overstatement. This book was fantastic! The multi-dimensional characters lives were realistic, haunting, and packed with drama. Ms. Esdaile has woven an exciting thriller. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to satisfy my curiosity as to how Claudia and Nate would finally be able to rise above their circumstances and fine inner peace. The dialogue was real and the spiritual issues were tackled with divine intervention. Even the sub-characters had issues. I loved the way she connected all of the characters lives linking them together by the same circumstances. Her resolution was flawless! I can't wait to read other works by this very talented writer.

Ms. Esdaile's characters were 3-dimensional and complex. More than just a romance novel, Slow Burn wove a romance, mystery, and a woman's story of self-actualization into one. Her writing style is reminiscent of some of our most accomplished black female authors. Ms. Esdaile should be applauded! Hope to see her again real sooon.

While reading this story I keep saying Lord help her. How can one person have so many adversities to over come. I've never cried so much and so hard about a character in a book before. The story felt so real in the begining that I found myself praying for Claudia constantly. I had to get a grip and say this is only fiction but it felt so real.

Most romance novel characters lead a charmed existence. They generally are beautiful, rich and successful. They have bright futures. Love, given a chance, may stand a chance in such an environment. But what about those for whom life is not so rosy. The walking wounded. Nate and Claudia are two such people. They're not wannabes, they're use-to-bes. Claudia used to be a fastidious, religious, conscientious person before her sister's death. Nate was a successful businessman and attorney before his wife and child were killed in an accident. Nate and Claudia have shunned their former selves for self-pity and alcohol. It is not a pretty sight. The author has created a set of circumstances to make you wonder if the characters can make it from day to day, let alone creating a foundation for a relationship to grow. There are plot twists galore. When the ride is over and the book ends, all you can say is: "Whew."