Illusions (Apple Hill Book 2), has been on the Celebrate Lit Blog Tour since May 13th. I am incredibly grateful that my publisher grants me this opportunity whenever I have a new book release (all two times!) Unless you’re a writer, you may not understand the importance of book reviews. Amazon reigns as king for book sales, and the more reviews, the better coverage they allow an author. So, I want to take the time to thank every Celebrate Lit Blog Team member who took precious hours from their lives to read and review this book, as well as those on my Street Team, and then posted on Amazon and/or Goodreads.
When a writer puts their book out for the world to see, it’s like holding up their precious baby and hoping people will think it’s beautiful. Mothers always think their babies are beautiful. But if we’re going to be completely honest, we’ve all seen a couple of unattractive babies. It doesn’t matter if a novel is the best written piece of work since the Bible, not everyone is going to love it, and that’s okay. I’m learning that it’s like any piece of artwork—it’s all in the perspective. However, reviews help to understand what the reader connects with and what they struggle with, which helps me craft my next novel.
I am amazed and humbled by God’s blessing on Illusions. Reviews for Surrendered (Book 1) were good; some reviews were even great. But the feedback I’m receiving for Illusions far surpasses my expectations. Here is just a glimpse of some of the reviews:
Illusions, the second book by Jennifer Sienes, is one of the best books I’ve ever read. –John Vonhof
Jennifer Sienes is a new author to me with her novel, Illusions; however, this will most definitely not be the last one that I read. This book was completely engrossing, and I was immediately drawn into the characters’ lives. –Kristi
Once I started this I could not stop! I read it in less than 24 hours… I am placing this book in my top 5 books of 2020. –Deanne Patterson
Once I started reading Illusions, I could not put it down. I read the entire book in one day. –Anne Herron
A grabber from the beginning, this one is gut-wrenching, heart-hurting, faith-reaffirming and extraordinarily difficult to put down… This author is a master of her craft and provides her readers with a memorable story that speaks volumes about human nature, the preciousness of forgiveness and the fragility of life. –CarpeDiem
I think this book needs to be put in every church library. It should also be required reading for all leaders and new members of a church. Allow this story to teach lessons about forgiveness, trust, communication, family and unconditional love. –Deana
There are many more, but you get the gist. With each beautiful review I read, it reminds me that I am not the true Author of Illusions—God is. I’ve already turned in Book 3 (Providence) to my publisher, which is good. Otherwise, I’d be second-guessing every sentence I wrote to see if it stacks up next to Illusions. As I begin my new series, there is a little pressure (an understatement) to be able to deliver the same quality of writing. It seems simple enough, right? However, it’s only by God’s grace that I can develop a storyline and articulate the emotions necessary to grab my readers’ attention. How do I do this? Lots of prayer, discipline and listening to honest critiques.
I am especially grateful for my readers. Thank you for your encouragement, support and inspiration. May the words God puts on my heart continue to connect with yours.
Comments 2
Great reviews Jennifer. It’s thrilling to see the huge improvement between Surrendered and Illusions. I agree with all the reviews about how it grabs and holds your attention from the get-go. Strong captivating storyline. God will continue to keep giving you more ideas and themes in your new books upcoming. It’s exciting to be on this journey with you.
Author
Thank you, Corlis. It’s a little unnerving though that I wrote Illusions before Surrendered, though.