Reader Comments
Reader comments about Soot and Sweat on Flesh, the sequel Torch, and about writing in general are welcome. Questions will be answered to the best of my ability. Please send any correspondence to juliemacshane @ yahoo.com (without the intentional spaces). You can also leave comments on amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com.
Most recent comment from a Maryland reader:
"I recently purchased a signed paperback copy of Soot and Sweat on Flesh from you for my husband. He absolutely loved it and read it in a single day! I guess you really got it right because as a firefighter for 34 years, he can be pretty hard to please when it comes to firefighter novels."
Comments about Torch, published in Dec. 05:
I enjoyed Torch first and foremost because it was fun to read - it was an excellent mystery as I tried to figure out who the arsonist was. I loved the way the story flowed and developed - I was completely engrossed. I enjoyed reading the thoughts, conversations and interaction of the characters, especially Bette. She is quite an interesting and provocative person! Torch was a great sequel to Soot and Sweat on Flesh. I look forward to the next!
T.C., Stoughton, MA
The author really kept the book moving along -- each chapter ended in a cliffhanger. There was so much character development here, and you really find yourself caring about what happens to them. The author also has a real ear for realistic firefighter dialogue. And I will enjoy the recipes. :) Bravo!
S.D., Miami, FL
Torch was suspenseful and a page-turner. I loved (character firefighter Stuart) West. I loved his attitude!
G.G., MA
Comments about Soot and Sweat on Flesh, published in Jan. 04:
Finally, a fresh main character who thinks on her own and has opinions that are insightful and stirring. The book starts with a bang, then branches out to paint a picture of the service and the 'brothers' she works with. I was not disappointed with the style of writing or the great inspiration it brought to me in the end...
A reader from Rhode Island
The book is an excellent, well-written story of a young woman's struggle to be accepted in the macho world of firefighting. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions. I especially enjoyed the development of characters & being privy to their innermost thoughts. Bette's challenges as a probie, her interesting past and her rocky romance with Joe make for an exciting read and, I think, would make a great TV series! I can't wait for the sequel!
T.C. from Stoughton, MA
FOUR NEW COMMENTS:
The author developed character and personality very well. Bette Maguire has a huge chip on her shoulder. I loved the description of the antagonism between (Lt. Harry) Briscoe and Bette.
M.D., at recent book signing
What I liked about the book is that Bette tried to stick to her ethics throughout the story even when challenged by others. It was interesting to watch her struggle to retain her independence and how the men try to get her to change from being overbearing to being one of the team.
S.W., at recent book discussion group
I liked the romantic tension between Bette and Joe: will they or won't they get together? I also liked how fair (Lt. Patrick) Keane; Bette had to get along with Briscoe or else she would not survive.
S.D., book group member
I liked the characters; incorporate more of Rose (St. Pierre, the police officer-roommate of Bette) and Monica (a really horrid girlfriend) into the sequel. Quirky, fun characters.
C.M., book group member at recent book discussion group
The book is fun and exciting: I couldn't put it down. The suspense is great; you don't know what to expect. GREAT Job.
Greg MacShane, husband
(obviously an unprejudiced reader!)
I've read through Chapter 4 and I'm hooked!
Co-worker and book club member
(This co-worker is an avid book reader.)
That Bette! She's quite a character!
Anonymous reader
(Bette is the main character)
You must know something about firehouse chili, c'mon now!
A person trying to get me to each his chili, unsuccessfully.
(A funny guy and free spirit.)