Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Review: Eight Moments

Eight Moments
By Carmen Hendrix
Magnolia Babies Publishing
ISBN 978-0-9978060-2-1


What difference does a moment make?


This is the question at the heart of Carmen Hendrix’s second novel, Eight Moments. Donna Catchings hasn’t been home in over a decade and likes it that way. She’s made a successful life in Houston, but that soon changes. Over the course of one week, Donna tries to manage conflict at work, her complicated feelings about a potential suitor, and memories of a family tragedy. When she receives a call about her mother’s failing health, Donna is filled with a whirlpool of emotions. She’d sworn to never lay eyes on her mother again, the woman who’s loathed her since her brother’s death years earlier. Vowing to get answers, Donna travels home to Atlanta. But things aren’t that simple as family tensions and secrets come to a head forcing Donna to contend with the complex truth behind her mother’s behavior.

Eight Moments is a well-plotted open letter to time. Written with the kind of familiarity that reminds you of your best friend, this story unfolds in eight succinct chapters that will beg you to turn the page. Donna’s voice is so well-crafted; she is not a wasted character getting lost in the twists and turns of familial fall-out. With realistic dialogue and crisp description, Hendrix is fully in control of the story, carefully curating a journey to truth.

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