A Tragic Event Brings A Family Together
“In her debut novel, Kaulkin tells a taut story . . . neatly reveals the complex, surprising layers in her characters. A story of intrigue, pain and strength.”
— Kirkus Reviews
5 Stars for Brenda!
from Amazon.com reviews:
“A STORY WITH MORAL COMPLEXITY AND A DEEP HEART
Brenda Corrigan Went Downtown grabbed me right from the first scene and didn’t let me go until the very end. The plot moves quickly, and I came to care about the characters and the morally complex situations. The story is a tribute to free will and the ultimate right of each individual to define “the life worth living” for his or her own self. Brenda Corrigan will make a wonderful book group book. It offers layers of ethical issues contained within a page-turning narrative. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in literature that depicts trauma and healing, complex family dynamics, and strong, imperfect characters motivated by compassion and love. I will never forget this book because Brenda touched me deeply; her story is with me for life.”
“A BOOK CLUB MUST-READ
Brenda’s journey was captivating. This book has been selected by my book club; I look forward to the thought-provoking discussion it will generate.”
“VERY AMBITIOUS
I loved it. When I read the last page, I turned back to the beginning to rethink everything that happened. Absolutely brilliant story telling.”
“BRENDA CORRIGAN IS EVERYWOMAN
Donna Brookman Kaulkin has created a character who is vibrant, original and perceptive then placed her in a set of circumstances that are the dark reality for all women. That Brenda is mature and a fully developed human being makes her even more interesting as she brings her unique perspective and individualism to all of the challenges she faces. She has full awareness of the facts of aging, how we become vulnerable and diminished–even invisible in the world while carrying the sum of all of our experiences and self-knowledge within. Brenda’s voice needs to be heard because she is all of us.”
“COMPASSIONATE, LITERATE
Realistic characters and relationships kept me interested. Very satisfying.”
“THOUGHT-PROVOKING
I laughed often at Brenda’s wonderful ability to laugh at herself and at the repartee, so familiar, between mother and daughter, sister and brother, friend to friend. Compels us to confront our own complex selves.”
“ENGAGING
I didn’t want it to end. Excellent choice for a book group, for a stimulating discussion.”
“COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN
Family dynamic and relationships, deep friendships are explored beautifully. Highly recommend!”