"This is a character-driven story about the three women, their relationships with men and each other, and how they became who they are today. The setting is unusual but intriguing to American audiences, who might not know much about the political situation in Ireland.

"The writing flows smoothly, although the scenes are often short and take place over a number of years. The prologue is fast paced and full of action, bringing the reader right into the story. But the main strength of the writing is the care and detail that is taken with the female characters’ lives, Sheila in particular. The trajectory of her ascending life contrasts nicely with that of her friend Phil, who does not seem to have made the best choices. While Mary seems like a less-developed character at the moment, it sounds like she has the potential to become a good foil to the other two."

The Reader went on to say, however, that the author needed to decide if she wanted the book marketed as women’s fiction or as thriller/suspense, and make some adjustments accordingly. As a fellow writer said, "It’s a good review, they’re just not sure which box the novel should be put in!"

It seems a pity that these days, books are expected to be so genre specific. Meanwhile, several other publishers are showing an interest, so there should be developments soon. Watch this space!