Book Review Query

Dear Editor:

At the Crossroads, a novel about four contemporary nuns facing feminist issues, generates women’s studies/religious studies interest, wins Writer’s Digest Award, complimentary reviews. Would you like to review this work or reprint a review? Writer’s Digest Evaluation, enclosed here, may be reprinted in part or in full with credit. Additional full reviews available on request. Bookcover and author photos in jpeg or gif format. Thank you for your time and courtesy. I look forward to your positive reply.

Sincerely,

(Ms.) Frankie Schelly, Author/Publisher

At the Crossroads by Frankie Schelly. FireSign Exclusives, 1854A Hendersonville Rd PMB 125, Asheville, NC 28803, 2001. 376 pg. $18.95 trade paper. ISBN 1-931391-32-7. E-book $9.95. Booklocker.com bookstore order fax: 207-262-5544. Ingram. http://www.firesignexclusives.com.

Honorable Mention Mainstream/Literary Fiction Writer’s Digest 2001 Self-Published Book Awards Evaluation At the Crossroads’ deep inquisitive exploration of contemporary women’s issues and Catholicism as well as its sophisticated level of writing and complex characterization impressed me most about this well-crafted novel. At the Crossroads raises complicated, important questions about the role of women in the Catholic Church. Reproductive issues, desire, care for the elderly, stifling guilt, leadership and education are some of the central subjects – all presented with exquisite sensitivity and an unflinching eye. This is not a clichéd look at issues that have been plaguing the Church for decades, but a truly gritty, in-the-trenches look, told from the refreshing perspective of four contemporary, deeply complex nuns. The guilt-ridden Vivian, the wise, stubborn, Sister Dominic, the revolutionary feminist Kimberly, and the quiet, musically gifted Mary Ruth play off each other perfectly, and each of their individual struggles make up a brilliant spectrum of crucial women’s issues. Not just the characters, but the narrative as well is handled with sophistication and delicacy. Each of the sub-plots is well developed and entrancing, and they come together beautifully when Father shuts down their school. This is a strong, touching first novel. Sarah Beam

Melanie C. Duncan Library Journal –”A strong contribution for most library collections.”

Henry Berry, The Small Press Book Review –”Spirituality gives an added dimension to contemporary issues.”

James A. Cox, The Midwest Book Review – ” …deftly written, powerful novel … explores the hot-button social issues that come uncomfortably close to home …highly recommended.”

Rachel Mulligan WordWrap– “A captivating subject Schelly handles with ease.”