From Publishers Weekly
Almost 10 years ago, Evans's first novel, The Christmas Box, became an enormous bestseller, thrusting him into the international spotlight. In his present novel, good guy protagonist Robert Harlan writes a novel titled A Perfect Day, about his wife, Allyson, and her relationship with her beloved father. The book comes out to popular acclaim, rockets up the charts and thrusts Robert into a new life of fame and fortune. An extended book tour, constant interviews, the adulation of millions of women, and a greedy Hollywood agent soon begin to erode his perfect marriage to the patient, loving, beautiful Allyson. There have been other books about authors self-destructing after great success-Youngblood Hawke by Herman Wouk, to name a notable example-but it's a story that seems timeless, still able to enthrall readers. Evans freshens the material by bringing in a hipster angel with attitude ("Actually, angel folklore is the height of nonsense, right up there with the Easter Bunny") and some bad news for Robert: in 40 days he's going to die. Robert begins to see his life in a new light, realizing that his pre-fame love for his wife and daughter is what he has wanted all along. But is it too late? Robert learns man's purpose on earth ("It's about learning how to love") and returns to hearth and home, hoping Allyson will take him back before he dies. The inevitable twist is clever, the writing throughout assured, the sentiment unapologetic and the author confident that he knows just what his readers want and that he's the man to give it to them.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From AudioFile
Robert Harlan is a humble writer whose first novel soars onto the NEW YORK TIMES bestseller list within weeks. David La Graffe's voice exudes joy when he depicts Robert and his wife, Allison's, unexpected publishing success. He also excels at characterizing the emotional costs of selling the book, especially the grueling travel for what their daughter, Carson, calls, "book tour," a euphemism for "daddy's always gone." In a compelling characterization, he distinguishes Harlan's descent into hubris until the moment of his epiphany, when his voice turns somber and husky. This unusual story, with its warm ending--a complete surprise--is one you will long remember. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
--This text refers to the Audio CD edition.
Almost 10 years ago, Evans's first novel, The Christmas Box, became an enormous bestseller, thrusting him into the international spotlight. In his present novel, good guy protagonist Robert Harlan writes a novel titled A Perfect Day, about his wife, Allyson, and her relationship with her beloved father. The book comes out to popular acclaim, rockets up the charts and thrusts Robert into a new life of fame and fortune. An extended book tour, constant interviews, the adulation of millions of women, and a greedy Hollywood agent soon begin to erode his perfect marriage to the patient, loving, beautiful Allyson. There have been other books about authors self-destructing after great success-Youngblood Hawke by Herman Wouk, to name a notable example-but it's a story that seems timeless, still able to enthrall readers. Evans freshens the material by bringing in a hipster angel with attitude ("Actually, angel folklore is the height of nonsense, right up there with the Easter Bunny") and some bad news for Robert: in 40 days he's going to die. Robert begins to see his life in a new light, realizing that his pre-fame love for his wife and daughter is what he has wanted all along. But is it too late? Robert learns man's purpose on earth ("It's about learning how to love") and returns to hearth and home, hoping Allyson will take him back before he dies. The inevitable twist is clever, the writing throughout assured, the sentiment unapologetic and the author confident that he knows just what his readers want and that he's the man to give it to them.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From AudioFile
Robert Harlan is a humble writer whose first novel soars onto the NEW YORK TIMES bestseller list within weeks. David La Graffe's voice exudes joy when he depicts Robert and his wife, Allison's, unexpected publishing success. He also excels at characterizing the emotional costs of selling the book, especially the grueling travel for what their daughter, Carson, calls, "book tour," a euphemism for "daddy's always gone." In a compelling characterization, he distinguishes Harlan's descent into hubris until the moment of his epiphany, when his voice turns somber and husky. This unusual story, with its warm ending--a complete surprise--is one you will long remember. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
--This text refers to the Audio CD edition.
Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
