Hello all & welcome to Mountain (Re)view of Indie books! Here we have There was Music by J.D. Grubb and my impressions of this up and coming author’s book. First off, I’d like to share the Author’s warning that this book contains some scenes with non-graphic torture, sexual assault, rape, and suicidal thoughts. Please be aware of this before reading.
My Review:
How do we address trauma? When it is presented to us, we often shy away from it in uncomfortable silence. This book does not shy away. The horrors and abuses that the protagonist undergoes are not shy and she is not shy in the telling either. But despite the cruelty of the new kingdom that is put into place she is told to survive and, against the worst mankind has to offer, she does just that. In the story of her survival, we get glimpses of a rich world under siege. There is political intrigue, vicious and wondrous creatures, ethereal forces, and a hope that even death can’t stop a strong spirit. This book is not for the squeamish and there were definite times I had to put the novel down but, in the end, I kept being drawn back to finish it. What drew me was a combination of the author’s excellent prose and the desire to see Rhoda reclaim her name and renew her identity. This is not a shy story, this is a story of a survivor.
Haven’t’ read it yet? Check out additional reviews on Goodreads and see if this book is for you. Read it & OMG I need to talk! Join the bookclub discussion here.
Next Thursday I’ll be posting an interview with the Author, J.D. Grubb, on the Briarpatch Podcast.