Review of Boulder Girl

[Hy Be]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Boulder Girl" by Cynthia L. Clark.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

"Boulder Girl" unfolds in the picturesque setting of Boulder, Colorado, where Lana Ross embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing following her divorce from Lucas Chisholm, her husband of eleven years. The story captures the essence of Lana's transformation, deeply intertwined with her love for music, which serves as both a refuge and a mirror reflecting her emotional landscape. From the liberating strains of “Freebird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd to the introspective tones of “Either Way” by Chris Stapleton, music marks Lana's passage through the tumultuous waters of change.

After the divorce, Lana follows her attorney's advice to change the locks of her home, a decision that reconnects her with Leon Alvarez, a locksmith and her high school acquaintance who secretly admired her. As an editor for Boulder Essence Magazine, Lana's life seems relatively balanced, with her friends Cate and Olivia providing companionship and support. However, an unsettling sense of intrusion disrupts her newfound peace when she notices subtle changes in her home. Could someone be entering her space, or is it all in her mind?

Her professional life takes an exciting turn when Lana is assigned to interview Vincent Romano, the charismatic owner of All Roads Harley Davidson in Louisville. A spark ignites between them, evolving into a passionate romance that swiftly leads to marriage. But can happiness last, or is Lana destined for another twist in her journey?

Cynthia L. Clark's "Boulder Girl" is a rich tapestry of emotion, mystery, and romance, masterfully woven into a narrative that captures the reader's heart from the very first page. The novel's unique blend of music and storytelling creates a symphony of emotions, making it more than just a story about finding love after loss—it's a celebration of life's unpredictable melodies. However, two questions linger: how does music truly influence Lana's journey, and what shadows might lie ahead in her seemingly bright future?

Clark excels in creating a protagonist whose depth and complexity invite readers into the very core of her being. Lana Ross emerges not only as a character but as a living, breathing individual navigating the challenges of life with courage and vulnerability. The seamless integration of music into the narrative isn't just a stylistic choice; it's a lifeline for Lana, offering solace, reflection, and eventually, transformation. But as each song punctuates Lana's experiences, we're prompted to consider the deeper impact of these musical interludes on her psyche and decisions.

The suspense element, introduced through the mysterious disturbances in Lana's home, adds a thrilling edge to the story, engaging the reader's curiosity and concern. This, coupled with the blossoming romance between Lana and Vincent Romano, creates a multi-dimensional narrative that is as unpredictable as it is captivating. Yet, the looming question of stability in Lana's happiness adds a poignant layer to the unfolding drama, challenging the reader to ponder the fragility of joy and the strength required to chase it.

From a literary perspective, "Boulder Girl" is a testament to Clark's prowess as a writer. The novel's impeccable editing and grammatical precision are commendable, underscoring the meticulous care taken to craft a story that flows effortlessly, ensnaring the reader's attention and holding it captive till the very end. The pacing is skillful, balancing moments of introspection with action and romance, ensuring that the narrative never loses its momentum.

The emotional resonance of "Boulder Girl" is its crowning achievement. Clark manages to weave a tale that is not only profoundly touching but also universally relatable, addressing the themes of loss, love, and the transformative power of music with sensitivity and insight. The novel invites readers to reflect on their own lives, the music that defines their journeys, and the courage it takes to face the unknown.

In conclusion, "Boulder Girl" by Cynthia L. Clark is a masterfully crafted novel that deserves acclaim for its emotional depth, narrative complexity, and the innovative way it uses music as a narrative device. It is a story that resonates with the truth of human experience, making it a must-read for anyone who cherishes a tale that sings to the soul. With nothing to dislike about this book, I rate it five out of five stars.

******
Boulder Girl
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Amy Luman]

Changes in circumstances demand changes in behavior. I can also see how it would be difficult to prove such subtle, but noticeable, changes to a home. This sounds like a very interesting novel. Thanks!

[Stephanie Runyon]

I read this book and it was interesting to watch how Lana grows emotionally after divorcing Lucas.

[Kristin Cowan]

I love when songs play a part in a book. Thanks for the review.

[Osvaldo Borghese]

I like emotional and well-developed novels, I will read this book with pleasure in the future. Thanks for the review.