*This is an old review transferred to my new website*

Review

I have no idea where I found this book or why I chose to download it. It’s not my usual genre, but a period piece and a prelude to a historical romance at that (my least favorite genre).

That being said, this novella was amazing. Parnell created Silvia’s world with an unencumbered flare for detail. I easily immersed myself in her world – a world I could practically see, it was so clear. The characters were engaging and likable. The scenes were real, smooth, and pulled the reader into the moment, feeling tension and anxiety for Silvia.

I finished this novella and immediately wanted to go out a get the next installment, Dark Splendor. Totally brilliant and I entirely encourage you to pick it up. I just wish I could pick up the next book and read it now!

About the Author

I was always tying stories to places and objects so it was no surprise that should happen at a retreat on a coastal Georgia island where the ancient oaks dripped moss like secrets, the sun on the marshes captured all thought and the remnants of the early settlers tended to come alive in my mind. My book, Dark Splendor, formed in the mysterious atmosphere of summer days in such a place.

Dark Splendor was first published in 1986 as the launch title for a line of Sexy Gothics, adding a much more sensual element to the classic Gothic novel. The book earned the Romantic Times Award for Best New Gothic Author and was my first of ten novels published. I have also published short fiction, articles and have over one million copies of my books in print. My works include Gothic, Western, and other historical and contemporary romances. I have received the Maggie, Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Awards and other awards for my novels.

I taught creative writing classes for many years through a local community college, am a member of Novelists, Inc. (NINC) and past president of the Georgia Authors Network. I am fond of cats, travel, overgrown gardens, and old houses with lots of crooks, crannies, and interesting shadows and just generally puttering around and ruminating.