This Summer's Great Read Comes Right OUT OF THE BLUE

Out of The Blue by Cheryl Bruder

Self-published paperback, 359 pages

Cover photos by Rachelle Rousseau

Front cover art by Patrick Berry 

        When I read author Cheryl Bruder's previous novel, My Mezeppa, a couple years ago, my review said I thought the story provided an entertaining and unpredictable plot, interesting and unique characters, believable dialogue and heartfelt emotion, a challenge for some writers in their early efforts. Well, all of that can be said about her new novel, Out Of The Blue, but it is almost like she has been practicing and gaining experience, between the two novels.  The attention to detail and production of the actual book has a very professional look with lovely cover photos by Rachelle Rousseau and some great creative work by Patrick Berry on the front cover.

        The story is written in first person and although that seemed unusual at the beginning, the style seems to suit the story, and it ends up feeling like a bit of a journal. Bruder's writing has become more comfortable and easier to read. Her descriptive vocabulary has grown impressively and she uses the precise words to effectively capture the ambiance of each scene.  For example, the tranquil atmosphere in the opening chapter is nearly palpable.   As much as I enjoyed her first novel, this one I liked in a completely different way.  Very nice.

        Out Of The Blue is a story about different kinds of love and self-discovery. It is about new beginnings and inevitable endings and transitioning from one chapter of a person's life to the next. Bruder's main character, Dana Foster has experienced plenty of loss in her life.  Years ago, the marriage of her one and only love, Neil, to another woman, left her heart raw and aching for him. Perplexed, she doubts if she really knows what love is at all. And now, the sudden and unexpected loss of her closest friend, Gerry White Cloud, and secrets uncovered in the aftermath, have left her reeling. 

        With the power of native spiritualism she learned from Gerry, her spirit guide and the quiet of a peaceful old farm, Dana is working her way through the pain and confusion day by day and finally beginning to move on with her life.  Her newest challenge is a difficult horse named Moose whom she loves as much as he seems to loves her, but unfortunately only her.  Unless she, an untrained trainer, can somehow convince Moose to accept other humans, he too will be taken from her. And this loss may be more than she can bare. Surprisingly, an unexpected face appears but is it to take Moose from her or to save him with her.

        Watching Dana learn what true love actually looks like is heart warming. Out Of The Blue is romantic and uplifting with just a bit of heat and enough mystery to keep us readers interested.  A good bet for a great read this summer.