In case you don't know what the book is about, I'll just add the blurb:
Whilst on assignment in Iraq, English TV presenter and journalist Robert Tremayne is captured by the Islamic Jihad and held hostage.
His soul mate, Marielle, can barely come to terms with her loss but tries to move on with her life. Two years later Robert is discovered alive. Marielle is overjoyed, but her life has changed beyond all recognition, and the man she loved is now very different. His time in Iraq has left him cold, emotionless and detached.
There's much to tell, and each wants desperately to return to the way things once were.
With the past always there to come between them, will they be able to recapture their lost love? Will they ever be happy again?
Since its release I have had four reviews. My favourite is obviously the one from Manicreaders.
4.5 STARS: "The Return is an amazing book... I picked this book because it sounded good but didn't realize just how great it would turn out to be. The relationship that Robert and Marielle shared was both steamy and sweet. This book read how a true romance novel should be like... leaving me wanting more. I experienced every emotion with Robert and Marielle from...love, loss, betrayal, friendship, and happiness. I plan to return for more good reads with Jan Bowles." -- Cheryl, Manic Readers. Please click this link HERE to see the entire review.
I have also received three 4 star reviews, from LASR, the Pen and Muse, and Mind Fog Reviews.
I'll put the links below
LASR
Mind Fog Reviews
The Pen and Muse
I've noticed under each review one can leave a comment. I'd really love to say thank you to the reviewers. Because I'm new to all this I haven't left a comment so far. Do you think it's the correct thing to do? Or would you personally leave that to the readers?
I had a lovely email from Kristie Casey who read 'The Return' here's what she said
I just finished reading The Return. I absolutely loved it. The story line was very moving. It just made me think of how this situation is affecting other families in real time. The characters and situation was so real, the story just flowed off the pages. I had a hard time stopping at times. My children were very impatient with me.
I really love the feedback one gets from readers. It makes all the hard work worthwhile.
I've just finished updating my website. I'm afraid the earlier version was a bit Barbara Cartland with bows and ribbons. I've tried to make this one a little more professional.
http://www.janbowles.com/
Thanks for looking. Good luck to everyone this coming year with your new releases. Jan
10 comments:
What wonderful reader feedback, Jan! What superb reviews! THE RETURN sounds a fantastic book and is on my to be read pile in the computer. I bought it recently and am waiting to grab some time so I can settle down and read it.
You're right - Jinger's cover is beautiful.
Thanks for sharing your reviews!
I don't see what's wrong with thanking the reviewer on the comment tags. I think they might like it. I know I do at CRR.
Thanks Lindsay
I hope you enjoy it.
I began writing it 15 years ago, inspired in part by the Jill Morrell and John McCarthy hostage situation.
I kept the first chapter and a half, and re-wrote the rest.
I will certainly write some comments for the reviewers. I wasn't sure if it was the done thing.
Jan
Jan,
The Return sounds amazing, definitely going in my TBR list. Great reviews.
Thank you Chelle
It's quite a deep emotional journey. For me anyway.
Best wishes
Jan
Jan, your Jinger cover is beautifully romantic. I love it!
Congrats on your great review!
As far as comments, if you feel like thanking the reviewer, go right ahead. Most of them appreciate it.
If not, use your best discretion in offering any comment.
Personally, I'm hoping one review site which shall remain nameless, *never* reviews one of my books again, since they've panned them in some way ever time. One time so meanly, plus with a review which misrepresented the book, that I asked them to take down that review. They did. Thank goodness, actual readers have given the book high marks.
In this site's most recent review of my book,I swear the little gal, who meant well, must have failed comprehension lessons. Once again, I asked them not to review any of my books, saying so in the comment section.
I don't think I'm popular with reviewers. Just as well, if they're going to be mean, or aren't able to understand the story.
JAN--I know your'e on cloud nine with those wonderful reviews. I LOVE the cover--and yes, it is quite romantic. Congratulations on being with BookStrand--the publisher seems to be doing a great job! Celia
ME, AGAIN--I love your new look to your website! It's very unique and eye-catching. Celia
Savannah, I know what you mean about reviews. One of my reviews does have a few unfavourable comments, some of which I agree with, but one of which I definately don't. Unfortunately, they are mentioned just before the nice bit ;-)
Best wishes
Jan
Hi Celia, glad you like the new look website.
I'm very pleased with everything, and looking forward to my next cover for 'Lessons in Love'. I'm sure Jinger will make it every bit as romantic as The Return.
Best wishes
Jan
Another on my TBR list. :-)
I think leaving a thank you to a reviewer is a very nice gesture. I do a fair bit of reviewing and after taking the time to read the boook and write a thoughtful review, it is nice to know the author took the time for a simple thank you where it's possible.
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