Dear John by Norma Betz

Title: Dear John
Author: Norma L Betz
ISBN: 9781434310712
Publisher: authorhouse/2008
Pages: 206

Andi of Andilit sent me copy of Dear John by Norma L. Betz to guest review it for her. I liked reading this.

Plot summary from Back Cover:

When financial aid administrator Susanna Smith goes to Massachusetts to settle her aunt's estate, she doesn't suspect that her well-ordered life is about to take an unusual turn. Susanna and her faithful Weimaraner companion, Quincy, embark on a journey to the past that not only reveals a connection to a famous ancestor whose circumstances parallel her own, but also results in an important discovery about her own life.

What did you like most about the book?

Although it is fiction, it relates to history, that is star of The American Revolution and tells us about women in the eighteenth entury who were very liberated. I liked the letters Abigal wrote to her husband. They are the main stay of the novel. As we get to know about the historical significance via the letters. These letters are what make Susanna realise her roots as they provide great insight into her ancestors mind.

What did you like least?

It tends to get long winded at places. I felt too much detailing spoiled the flow at times. However, it is a well researched novel.

What did you think of the writing style?

Her writing style is good. Not very complicated, very readable and sucks us into it.

What did you think of the main character? What is the central character’s biggest problem?

Susanna is an independent woman who has only herself to care care of save her dog, Quincy. She is very fond of him and thinks of him as her dear friend. She even talks to him as if with another human being. He also responds in a similar way. Her biggest problem is she does not wish to get emotionally closer to any other human being. Not even her aunt when she was alive.

What effect do the people in the book have on one another?

William Shaw had a great relationship with Susanna's aunt. He transfers his affection to Susanna. Mrs O'Hara is a very motherly woman who loves Susanna for what she is. John, William's son develops some kind of feelings for her. And then the Local librarian is also a very likeable character. The local police too is very co-operative. There is a community feeling and all are supportive of each other. Jerry is the only villain here.

Any other particularly interesting characters?

I found the dog, Quincy very interesting. He can understand whatever Susanna says. He loves his mistress to distraction and is very protective of her.

What did you think of the ending?

Quite good, under the circumstanes. It ends with a positive note.

Do you recommend this book? If you use a rating system, what’s your rating?

Yes, I do recommend this book to anyone who is interested to read about history with a bit of mystery and also to those who wish to learn about woman's rights in the eighteenth century. I would rate it 3.5/5.