James F. McKenzie

In the third of the stories, Virginia is little changed, and still fixated on the one man that she never did succeed in manipulating: her former psychiatrist, Nicholas. I find it difficult to think that this obsession is more than not accepting a NO unless she states it. In fact, much of her personality is easily summed up in this quote from her own thoughts during an encounter with her most recent conquest: “Giving truth to her relationships and believing she could fall in love were just words and thoughts”.

But – still, I read on: the author has created a character that has elicited such a strong reaction from me that I must know what is next. To accomplish that task, and in a short story, Madison Montgomery has skills and talent! Bringing this character to life, giving her a litany of others to manipulate, use, abuse and rail against: the story is full of interesting conflicts, insights and situations that leave readers ultimately conflicted about Virginia. Yes, she is cold, mean spirited and often soulless, but she’s also driven, determined, educated and intelligent. Is there potential for real change and a happier more satisfied less spoiled Virginia?

Those are questions that have no answer at the moment, as there are more questions than answers at the end of this, the last book released. Although I will be the first to tell you that I don’t like or even sympathize much with the character, her story has been a page turner and one that I hope includes another instalment to provide answers to questions left open.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
… (més)