Reading Rosie’s review of A Tarnished Life genuinely touched me. As a writer, my greatest hope is to captivate a reader from the very beginning, so hearing that Chapter 1 immediately drew her in is incredibly affirming. The opening scene with Emma in the basement was carefully crafted to spark curiosity, tension, and emotional investment—and knowing that Rosie felt that fear for Emma means the writing connected in exactly the way I intended. 

Rosie’s mention of my writing style being “beautiful” and her appreciation of the landscape descriptions also means a great deal. I believe setting is not just a backdrop—it’s a living part of the story that shapes the characters’ experiences and choices. I wanted readers to be able to smell the air, feel the weather, and see the scenery unfold alongside the characters. It’s wonderful to know that those details resonated with her. 

She also highlighted something at the heart of the book: the exploration of everyday life and the decisions people make. For me, the most powerful stories come from seemingly ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. I aimed to write a novel that wasn’t just plot-driven, but also emotionally rich, full of questions about identity, resilience, and consequence. Rosie’s reflection captured that beautifully. 

Thank you, Rosie, for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback. It truly means the world to know the story found a place in your heart.