Review of Kingsley Woods by Joan Conning Afman
5 stars
A new gated upscale community located at the site of a
former long-term forest, Kingsley Woods magnetizes many of the area’s former
residents to return and buy home sites there. One of those is Jaycee, who left
after a bad experience in her twenties, and must cope with the memories of her
early life, as well as with new bizarre events in the neighborhood, especially
in the remaining wooded area. In a community which ought to be peaceful,
neighbor-friendly, and relaxed, the tension is ratcheted up almost moment by
moment, until surely something must break.
I totally enjoyed this engrossing, excellent novel, which so
readily suspended disbelief. As a reader, I felt more as if I was a witness,
believing the odd events and sightings which occurred. Author Joan Conning
Afman has a skillful wit and a deft hand with characterization; I came to know
the populace of the novel as if I myself had known them for years. The
paranormal or perhaps Supernatural elements work well as part of the ongoing
plotting. Additionally, the author weaves in some past history, from Colonial
times, and does so in such a way that it becomes another thread in the narrative.
I especially appreciated the approach to history as referencing people, with
their distinct emotions, drives, and fears, rather than as dry dates on a page.
I applaud this novel, which I read in one sitting, totally
oblivious to the world around me, and which I will definitely reread. I
reviewed a complimentary e-book copy provided for my fair and impartial review.
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