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A Sudden Gust of Gravity
Until a tragic loss scuttled her dreams, Christina Davenport had been training to become a magician like her father. On her twenty-fifth birthday, a mysterious present reawakens her interest. A pop into the local magic store captures the attention of a charming street performer, who hires her as his assistant. Christina has no desire to make a career out of holding some guy’s props, but Reynaldo the Magnificent could be her ticket to something bigger. When his dark side threatens to make everything she’s worked for disappear—including the troubled young doctor who has become one of her fans—she questions if the opportunity for a second chance is worth the price of admission.
286 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2015
About the author
Laurie Boris
28 books163 followers Laurie Boris is a freelance writer and copyeditor. At one time, she was a magician’s assistant, although she was very bad at it. She has been writing fiction for thirty years and is the award-winning author of Boychik, The Joke’s on Me, Drawing Breath, Sliding Past Vertical, The Call: A Baseball Novel, The Kitchen Brigade, and The Trager Family Secrets series. When not hanging out with the universe of imaginary people in her head, she enjoys baseball, reading, and avoiding housework. You can learn more about Laurie and her work at http://laurieboris.com.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 11, 2015
“You’re exactly what a magician wants in an assistant. Small. Graceful. Flexible as hell. And like I said, not a bad piece of misdirection.”
A SUDDEN GUST OF GRAVITY by Laurie Boris is a smart, inviting tale that takes you in almost immediately. I like her unusual choice of words and her clever scenes that unfolded like a theatrical event. Luxurious and full of personality.
A cozy read into the unknown world of a magician and his family. An entertaining mix of intrigue and romance. A well-written tale with a magical feel as well as a magical plot line. Nicely told and easy to imagine being there amongst the cast of characters and old fashion magic tricks and other stories from the beginnings.
Once the box arrived, everything changed. This is a story of second chances, an uplifting look about not settling for less than you deserve. I found this to be uplifting and delightfully endearing. Moved me and had me charmed.
Quote ~
Was he worthy of her father’s collection? She wanted more time to decide. Meanwhile, the goodies on the display shelves beneath the window caught her attention. Polished to a high shine, they winked at her. Finally she found the illusion she craved. The one her father had; the one that wasn’t in the case her mother had sent. Not the cheesy rhinestone version, but the real deal, made from ebony wood and colored crystal. She smiled, remembering the day she could finally make a gem look like it had leaped from one stick to the other. She’d run to perform it for him. He’d acted like she was the greatest show on earth. Now, with dust tickling her nose and fingers pressed against the display’s clear panel, the memory of the joy fluttered higher than the pain. It soared above the chatter of the people who tried to discourage her, who tried to tell her that she was too broken to take up magic again. Too traumatized. Too female—
A SUDDEN GUST OF GRAVITY by Laurie Boris is a smart, inviting tale that takes you in almost immediately. I like her unusual choice of words and her clever scenes that unfolded like a theatrical event. Luxurious and full of personality.
A cozy read into the unknown world of a magician and his family. An entertaining mix of intrigue and romance. A well-written tale with a magical feel as well as a magical plot line. Nicely told and easy to imagine being there amongst the cast of characters and old fashion magic tricks and other stories from the beginnings.
Once the box arrived, everything changed. This is a story of second chances, an uplifting look about not settling for less than you deserve. I found this to be uplifting and delightfully endearing. Moved me and had me charmed.
Quote ~
Was he worthy of her father’s collection? She wanted more time to decide. Meanwhile, the goodies on the display shelves beneath the window caught her attention. Polished to a high shine, they winked at her. Finally she found the illusion she craved. The one her father had; the one that wasn’t in the case her mother had sent. Not the cheesy rhinestone version, but the real deal, made from ebony wood and colored crystal. She smiled, remembering the day she could finally make a gem look like it had leaped from one stick to the other. She’d run to perform it for him. He’d acted like she was the greatest show on earth. Now, with dust tickling her nose and fingers pressed against the display’s clear panel, the memory of the joy fluttered higher than the pain. It soared above the chatter of the people who tried to discourage her, who tried to tell her that she was too broken to take up magic again. Too traumatized. Too female—
December 12, 2015
A young woman with aspirations of being a magician has put her dream on hold due to a scarring event in her youth. Then she meets Reynaldo, a magician who hires her as his assistant. But what should be a partnership is anything but. Narcissistic and sadistic, Reynaldo puts Christina through the wringer. Meanwhile, a resident physician, struggling with the emotional toll of working in the ER, falls for Christina, and soon a triangle of friction is formed.
What I really liked about this book was the original characters: a woman who aspires to be a magician and a sensitive Korean/American doctor with a gangster past. These are not the stereotypical characters you sometimes find in fiction. I also thought the author did a great job of showing the love/hate relationship invoked by an emotionally (and physically?) abusive partner. This was an entertaining read and should appeal to fans of romance as well as commercial fiction.
What I really liked about this book was the original characters: a woman who aspires to be a magician and a sensitive Korean/American doctor with a gangster past. These are not the stereotypical characters you sometimes find in fiction. I also thought the author did a great job of showing the love/hate relationship invoked by an emotionally (and physically?) abusive partner. This was an entertaining read and should appeal to fans of romance as well as commercial fiction.
October 12, 2017
A Sudden Gust of Gravity by Laurie Boris is an absorbing, satisfying book that takes a fresh look at relationships with original characters. Christina is a struggling waitress who dreams of becoming a magician, a profession she knows only too well is predominantly reserved for men. Her world collides with Devon, a Korean medical resident who is taking a break from his residency after an excruciating experience in the E.R.
Both Christina and Devon are both dealing with past tragedies that sometimes overshadow their present. When Ralph, a/k/a Reynaldo the Magnificent, recruits the young, tiny, attractive Christina to become his assistant, she figures it could lead her back into the world of magic and provide a way to hone her skills. Unfortunately, the dark side of Reynaldo the Magnificent surfaces, and Christina has decisions to make. Not one to shrink from a challenge or wilt away, she is determined to continue pursuing her dream.
The descriptive writing and realistic dialog make the book move along seamlessly. (“A coffee table that might have been rescued from a household of teething dogs.”) I also enjoyed learning about the art of magic. (I even checked to see if any magic shows were coming to my area after I finished this novel!) The tricks and juggling serve as clever metaphors for life.
I highly recommend this book that will please a broad range of readers.
Both Christina and Devon are both dealing with past tragedies that sometimes overshadow their present. When Ralph, a/k/a Reynaldo the Magnificent, recruits the young, tiny, attractive Christina to become his assistant, she figures it could lead her back into the world of magic and provide a way to hone her skills. Unfortunately, the dark side of Reynaldo the Magnificent surfaces, and Christina has decisions to make. Not one to shrink from a challenge or wilt away, she is determined to continue pursuing her dream.
The descriptive writing and realistic dialog make the book move along seamlessly. (“A coffee table that might have been rescued from a household of teething dogs.”) I also enjoyed learning about the art of magic. (I even checked to see if any magic shows were coming to my area after I finished this novel!) The tricks and juggling serve as clever metaphors for life.
I highly recommend this book that will please a broad range of readers.
November 12, 2015
What’s It About?
“If only her father’s magic wands were real and she could wave all of this away.”
Christina Davenport is minding her own business in yoga class, when a charming and persuasive magician sidles up next her, promising her a world of magic and money. Despite her past traumas and bad experiences with magic, she considers and accepts the position of Reynaldo The Magnificent’s Assistant, Teeny.
Devon Park is a medical resident at Mass General whose past weighs heavily around his neck. When he stumbles upon a street performance on Atlantic Avenue with his young nephew, his Doctor side kicks in and he worries about the ‘juggling lady’ who is covered with bumps and bruises.
Christina practices and practices, her dream to be on stage one day, and not performing alongside a street hack. When Reynaldo gets wind of this he draws a line in the sand… what he isn’t aware of, is that the Dr. who has been watching them has a dark past, and he isn’t afraid to use it to protect Christina…
My Thoughts
First of all, I loved the themes of street magic and illusion in this novel! It was such a fun and unique way to bring the characters together. I enjoyed the magic tricks and costumes, and can see how someone, like Christina Davenport, could be caught up in the glitz and glamour of performing arts!
I really enjoyed the characters, too. Christina is highly sympathetic and someone who you want to route for. I was really surprised by the plot twist of one of the major characters who turned villain. –DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!
The world building was great. The story takes place in Boston, and mentions major landmarks like Commonwealth St, Atlantic Avenue, and Quincy Market to name a few. :) Anyone who enjoys Boston will be excited to live vicariously through this novel, (as long as you don’t mind a juggling pin to your face every once in awhile!)
The plot was steady with several unpredictable twists and a surprising romance. I enjoyed how everything came together. :)
I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys thrilling stories about street/stage magic, with charismatic characters and a subplot of romance! 5 stars! ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a copy of A Sudden Gust Of Gravity in exchange for a fair, thoughtful, and honest book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
Full Book Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
“If only her father’s magic wands were real and she could wave all of this away.”
Christina Davenport is minding her own business in yoga class, when a charming and persuasive magician sidles up next her, promising her a world of magic and money. Despite her past traumas and bad experiences with magic, she considers and accepts the position of Reynaldo The Magnificent’s Assistant, Teeny.
Devon Park is a medical resident at Mass General whose past weighs heavily around his neck. When he stumbles upon a street performance on Atlantic Avenue with his young nephew, his Doctor side kicks in and he worries about the ‘juggling lady’ who is covered with bumps and bruises.
Christina practices and practices, her dream to be on stage one day, and not performing alongside a street hack. When Reynaldo gets wind of this he draws a line in the sand… what he isn’t aware of, is that the Dr. who has been watching them has a dark past, and he isn’t afraid to use it to protect Christina…
My Thoughts
First of all, I loved the themes of street magic and illusion in this novel! It was such a fun and unique way to bring the characters together. I enjoyed the magic tricks and costumes, and can see how someone, like Christina Davenport, could be caught up in the glitz and glamour of performing arts!
I really enjoyed the characters, too. Christina is highly sympathetic and someone who you want to route for. I was really surprised by the plot twist of one of the major characters who turned villain. –DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!
The world building was great. The story takes place in Boston, and mentions major landmarks like Commonwealth St, Atlantic Avenue, and Quincy Market to name a few. :) Anyone who enjoys Boston will be excited to live vicariously through this novel, (as long as you don’t mind a juggling pin to your face every once in awhile!)
The plot was steady with several unpredictable twists and a surprising romance. I enjoyed how everything came together. :)
I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys thrilling stories about street/stage magic, with charismatic characters and a subplot of romance! 5 stars! ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a copy of A Sudden Gust Of Gravity in exchange for a fair, thoughtful, and honest book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
Full Book Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
December 27, 2015
What a fascinating character study. Christina is a strong personality, she’s smart, compassionate, and a part of her is broken from a devastating event in her past. In her quest to confront and overcome her broken pieces she takes up with a charming magician, Reynaldo the Magnificent, who isn’t as charming as he presents himself. Dr. Devon Park is facing a spiritual crisis of his own. His past was nothing like I would have imagined and set me back to consider the consequences and how they were affecting his present and future. This was not a light read for me, the emotional turmoil felt real.
The secondary characters are fully developed and vital to keep Christina balanced. I enjoyed each of them. They were realistic and added support in a believable way. Devon’s Asian background added a level of realism and responsibility, which was fitting, and I fully appreciated his dilemma.
This character driven plot moved at a realistic speed as events presented themselves for readers to consider how they might have handled each situation. Then turn their support fully to Christina for the best possible outcome. She handles it with class and determination. I thoroughly enjoyed her poignant journey as I cheered her on. Dr. Devon was a heart-throb. I really enjoyed his part in the book. Reynaldo the Magnificent was a unique and interesting character. I think my favorite character in this story was the old man, Herbert, who owned the magic shop.
FYI: **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** December 22, 2015
The secondary characters are fully developed and vital to keep Christina balanced. I enjoyed each of them. They were realistic and added support in a believable way. Devon’s Asian background added a level of realism and responsibility, which was fitting, and I fully appreciated his dilemma.
This character driven plot moved at a realistic speed as events presented themselves for readers to consider how they might have handled each situation. Then turn their support fully to Christina for the best possible outcome. She handles it with class and determination. I thoroughly enjoyed her poignant journey as I cheered her on. Dr. Devon was a heart-throb. I really enjoyed his part in the book. Reynaldo the Magnificent was a unique and interesting character. I think my favorite character in this story was the old man, Herbert, who owned the magic shop.
FYI: **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** December 22, 2015
November 23, 2015
This story is a love triangle between Christina, a hesitant magician’s assistant, Reynaldo the Magificent, her boss, and Devon, the resident doctor who suspects her bruises may not be the rehearsal accidents she considers them.
If you ever harboured a sneaking suspicion that a woman who gets into an abusive relationship has some kind of character flaw, you need to read this book. Ms. Boris’s point-of-view technique creates a stunning moment of empathy. First we see Reynaldo from Christina’s perspective, and we think we know him: handsome, talented, with the slightly grating but perhaps acceptable ego of a successful showman. Then the point of view switches. We see him from Devon’s perspective, and we get a completely different interpretation of the evidence, showing a much darker slant on his personality. And the thought suddenly dawns that we have been enthralled into his image exactly as Christina was. “So that’s how it happens!”
The villain is a complex character whose stage persona overshadows his private life, and so (especially since we saw him in a positive light in the beginning) we accept the rather nebulous way he ends up at the finish. It would be nice to be able to turn every antagonist into a pure villain, but Reynaldo (aka. Ralph) is not that easy to pigeonhole. His final act of what might have been atonement leaves an unsatisfied taste. But that’s how it works, doesn’t it? Does he really believe that all the dangerous stunts he pulls make the act more realistic? Was he really as bad as all that? Well…probably.
Because this is a love story, there is very little doubt in our minds what is going to happen in the end. But how it is going to happen is what keeps us entranced. Adding to the enjoyment is some carefully researched magic, in-depth characterization of the two main players, and some great secondary roles. It’s going to be a real challenge to find an actor to play four-year-old Small Lee when they make the movie version.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good love story or a good novel.
If you ever harboured a sneaking suspicion that a woman who gets into an abusive relationship has some kind of character flaw, you need to read this book. Ms. Boris’s point-of-view technique creates a stunning moment of empathy. First we see Reynaldo from Christina’s perspective, and we think we know him: handsome, talented, with the slightly grating but perhaps acceptable ego of a successful showman. Then the point of view switches. We see him from Devon’s perspective, and we get a completely different interpretation of the evidence, showing a much darker slant on his personality. And the thought suddenly dawns that we have been enthralled into his image exactly as Christina was. “So that’s how it happens!”
The villain is a complex character whose stage persona overshadows his private life, and so (especially since we saw him in a positive light in the beginning) we accept the rather nebulous way he ends up at the finish. It would be nice to be able to turn every antagonist into a pure villain, but Reynaldo (aka. Ralph) is not that easy to pigeonhole. His final act of what might have been atonement leaves an unsatisfied taste. But that’s how it works, doesn’t it? Does he really believe that all the dangerous stunts he pulls make the act more realistic? Was he really as bad as all that? Well…probably.
Because this is a love story, there is very little doubt in our minds what is going to happen in the end. But how it is going to happen is what keeps us entranced. Adding to the enjoyment is some carefully researched magic, in-depth characterization of the two main players, and some great secondary roles. It’s going to be a real challenge to find an actor to play four-year-old Small Lee when they make the movie version.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good love story or a good novel.
August 1, 2016
Is there anything this author can't do? I mean, really, taking an idea of a young woman who wants to become a magician and turning it into a novel that holds the reader's attention until the last page is no easy task! I love Boris' books. From the adoring characters to the engaging plots, I can always count on a wonderful read from her. Another bestseller in my eyes!
August 27, 2018
I was drawn to this novel by the cover. As a child, I longed to run away to the circus. I even learned to juggle.
I was not disappointed. "A Sudden Gust of Gravity" is a great read. Christina, the central character is beautifully written. She's at one of those cross roads of life, and is a fantastic mix of spirited and flawed, determined and vulnerable. Even when I could see her making poor choices, I understood why she went down a particular path.
This novel slides between genres. The romance moves seamlessly into a thrilleresque climax.
Don't miss out. Read this novel soon!
I was not disappointed. "A Sudden Gust of Gravity" is a great read. Christina, the central character is beautifully written. She's at one of those cross roads of life, and is a fantastic mix of spirited and flawed, determined and vulnerable. Even when I could see her making poor choices, I understood why she went down a particular path.
This novel slides between genres. The romance moves seamlessly into a thrilleresque climax.
Don't miss out. Read this novel soon!
August 12, 2017
This was fun and cute and kept me up well past my bedtime. Read my full review at Girl Who Reads
November 7, 2018
Christina grew up practicing magic tricks with her father the magician, but now she is a mid-twenties waitress. She is a bit anxious to get on stage after what happened to her father. It is also nearly impossible to pick up a gig as a female magician. After an impromptu visit to a magic shop, the opportunity to work as the assistant to Reynaldo the Magnificent drops into her lap. Should she take the job? Will being a pretty prop to a some other magician even lead to her own career in magic?
This book packed a punch! I love a book that I emotionally react to, even if that emotion is frustration. I was frustrated with Christina for giving up on a dream. I was frustrated with Christina for then pursuing that dream, but getting sidetracked. I was frustrated with the magician. I was frustrated that Christina was not accepted as a female magician. I was frustrated that Christina had to be a pretty prop in order to be a magician's assistant. I was frustrated with Reynaldo. I was so frustrated that I kept reading with a mad intensity, completely engaged in the very real characters and the developing story.
The characters were mesmerizing. Christina was so strong and such a great lead; however, her flaws pushed her into questionable decisions. Why would she stay with Reynaldo? Boris shows us the progression of a relationship from attraction to dissolution so realistically and so well. Reynaldo was such a unique character as well. We had glimpses into his mind now and then that were so fascinating. Why would he do the things he did to Christina? Devon, the Korean-American medical student was the crack in Reynaldo and Christina's relationship, that kept pushing and pushing. Devon's relationship to his nephew was such a relief to read after Reynaldo and Christina, like a breath of fresh air.
Though this book presents a love triangle, it is done so cleverly that you feel like you are reading some fresh new type of romance.
This book packed a punch! I love a book that I emotionally react to, even if that emotion is frustration. I was frustrated with Christina for giving up on a dream. I was frustrated with Christina for then pursuing that dream, but getting sidetracked. I was frustrated with the magician. I was frustrated that Christina was not accepted as a female magician. I was frustrated that Christina had to be a pretty prop in order to be a magician's assistant. I was frustrated with Reynaldo. I was so frustrated that I kept reading with a mad intensity, completely engaged in the very real characters and the developing story.
The characters were mesmerizing. Christina was so strong and such a great lead; however, her flaws pushed her into questionable decisions. Why would she stay with Reynaldo? Boris shows us the progression of a relationship from attraction to dissolution so realistically and so well. Reynaldo was such a unique character as well. We had glimpses into his mind now and then that were so fascinating. Why would he do the things he did to Christina? Devon, the Korean-American medical student was the crack in Reynaldo and Christina's relationship, that kept pushing and pushing. Devon's relationship to his nephew was such a relief to read after Reynaldo and Christina, like a breath of fresh air.
Though this book presents a love triangle, it is done so cleverly that you feel like you are reading some fresh new type of romance.
April 14, 2016
A Sudden Gust of Gravity - Laurie Boris The best thing about e-books is that you don't have to go anywhere to shop for them. So while your pals are out at the mall, elbowing other shoppers out of the way to get to the least ugly sweater in the picked-over bin, you, my friend, can simply go online and buy copies of A Sudden Gust of Gravity for everyone you know. And while you're at it, get yourself a copy, too.The lady on the cover is Christina Davenport, a waitress who has given up on her dreams of becoming a magician. Then she meets Reynaldo the Magnificent, who offers her a job -- not as a magician's apprentice, but as a magician's assistant. You know, the girl in the flirty skirt who keeps the crowd's eyes occupied while the magician does his tricks. Still, she figures she can pick up some pointers from the guy.Across town, Devon Park is a surgical resident with his own set of personal problems. Yet he's intrigued by Christina, when he sees Reynaldo's show in a public park -- and concerned about the bruises Christina's trying to hide with makeup. He's interested, she's trying not to be interested, and Reynaldo's jealous -- so you can bet things are going to get very interesting indeed before the story ends.Boris continues to amaze me with her ability to write about characters from disparate cultures. Devon is Korean-American -- very unlike the Jewish family in her Trager Family Secrets books and, again, unlike any of the characters in Drawing Breath. Laurie Boris is the real deal, guys. Why she's not a bigger literary name is a mystery to me. Highly recommended.Happy holidays, everyone!(Note: I read an Advance Reader Copy of this novel.)
April 21, 2016
I don’t hesitate for one single nano-second when it comes to a new novel by Laurie Boris. And I start it with lip-licking relish and always finish it with a satisfied ‘Wow, that was good’. And this certainly did deserve a ‘Wow, that was excellent’.
I’ve never read a book set in the world of abracadabra, so I found this rather unique.
Christina Davenport’s obsession with magic….and becoming a respected magician…is hardly surprising when her magician father nurtured her interest. But it’s a man’s world. So, when the opportunity to become a street magician’s assistant arises, she jumps at the chance, despite Reynaldo the Magnificent being a smug and arrogant (albeit rather irresistible) so and so. However, she works hard to please, but more importantly to learn and gain confidence…which doesn’t come without a few bumps and bruises when you’re perfecting your juggling and disappearing techniques. Bruises which do not escape one particular member of the street audience, Dr Devon Park, who becomes mesmerised not just by those rather worrying bruises but also by their owner: a petite, attractive assistant.
An unlikely tug-of-war for the affections of a pretty girl ensues. Who’s going to be the victor? The confident, brash, good-looking, cocky and resolute Reynaldo, who wants to win, whatever it takes, or the gentle, caring, kind, slightly baggage-laden doctor with some demons he needs to lay to rest.
Boris can turn her hand as adeptly to a tale of romantic suspense as she can to one of humour (The Joke’s on Me) or heart-wrenching poignancy (Drawing Breath). Meticulously researched, set in the fascinating world of magic, with engaging characters and brilliantly written.
Yes. Boris certainly has pulled a rabbit out of the hat with this one.
I’ve never read a book set in the world of abracadabra, so I found this rather unique.
Christina Davenport’s obsession with magic….and becoming a respected magician…is hardly surprising when her magician father nurtured her interest. But it’s a man’s world. So, when the opportunity to become a street magician’s assistant arises, she jumps at the chance, despite Reynaldo the Magnificent being a smug and arrogant (albeit rather irresistible) so and so. However, she works hard to please, but more importantly to learn and gain confidence…which doesn’t come without a few bumps and bruises when you’re perfecting your juggling and disappearing techniques. Bruises which do not escape one particular member of the street audience, Dr Devon Park, who becomes mesmerised not just by those rather worrying bruises but also by their owner: a petite, attractive assistant.
An unlikely tug-of-war for the affections of a pretty girl ensues. Who’s going to be the victor? The confident, brash, good-looking, cocky and resolute Reynaldo, who wants to win, whatever it takes, or the gentle, caring, kind, slightly baggage-laden doctor with some demons he needs to lay to rest.
Boris can turn her hand as adeptly to a tale of romantic suspense as she can to one of humour (The Joke’s on Me) or heart-wrenching poignancy (Drawing Breath). Meticulously researched, set in the fascinating world of magic, with engaging characters and brilliantly written.
Yes. Boris certainly has pulled a rabbit out of the hat with this one.
December 25, 2015
On the surface A Sudden Gust of Gravity is a version of the age-old dilemma of a woman with two men who want her and she can't decide. Like many common story plots, they've been done so often because they resonate with the readers. It is the kind of story that will never go out of style. However, this story is so much more than that.
The woman, Christina, has priorities that rank higher than finding or choosing a man. She has to deal with the past and also figure out how she's going to deal with her future, or at least how to get to the future she wants. One of the men has the same problems, dealing with a problematic past while grappling with what he wants his future to be. Throw in the other guy who is the apparent answer to at least one of Christina’s problems, throw in family and friends pushing and pulling the characters in different directions, and you're left with a tumultuous stew of a story with no idea where it’s headed.
This is a story that has appeal to women's fiction readers, but enough of an edge that thriller readers, especially those who like psychological thrillers, should find more than enough to keep the pages turning.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
The woman, Christina, has priorities that rank higher than finding or choosing a man. She has to deal with the past and also figure out how she's going to deal with her future, or at least how to get to the future she wants. One of the men has the same problems, dealing with a problematic past while grappling with what he wants his future to be. Throw in the other guy who is the apparent answer to at least one of Christina’s problems, throw in family and friends pushing and pulling the characters in different directions, and you're left with a tumultuous stew of a story with no idea where it’s headed.
This is a story that has appeal to women's fiction readers, but enough of an edge that thriller readers, especially those who like psychological thrillers, should find more than enough to keep the pages turning.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
November 12, 2016
Ok, so in my last book review (Tess of the Durbervilles) I had a mini rant about how I don't do romance.
Well, I read this and it turns out that what I don't like about romance is the ooey gooey stuff. There is no ooey gooey in this, although there are a few sex scenes.
So, on with the review.
I was captivated by the cover and the title of this story, I've read some of Laurie's stories before, and I love her writing style, so I was really looking forward to reading this.
Her characters are incredibly believable; I feel like I could bump into them on the street and recognise them, and she always makes you feel right in the centre of the action.
The subject of magicians behind the scenes was also a fascinating concept.
I can't really tell you about the characters or story without giving you a ton of spoilers. The blurb does its job of informing you of what you need to know.
What I can tell you is that the book cover and the title promise big things from this book, and the story does not disappoint.
Well, I read this and it turns out that what I don't like about romance is the ooey gooey stuff. There is no ooey gooey in this, although there are a few sex scenes.
So, on with the review.
I was captivated by the cover and the title of this story, I've read some of Laurie's stories before, and I love her writing style, so I was really looking forward to reading this.
Her characters are incredibly believable; I feel like I could bump into them on the street and recognise them, and she always makes you feel right in the centre of the action.
The subject of magicians behind the scenes was also a fascinating concept.
I can't really tell you about the characters or story without giving you a ton of spoilers. The blurb does its job of informing you of what you need to know.
What I can tell you is that the book cover and the title promise big things from this book, and the story does not disappoint.
August 6, 2016
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
You can't always tell a lot about a book just by the synopsis. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised with A Sudden Gust of Gravity. I had read the first 40% in one setting and was seeing it as a solid 3-3.5 stars, not head over heels in love with the book, but the deeper I got into the story, the more I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters, some I came to love, and there was one who, I really didn't like all that much and I really enjoyed the story as well. When I finished, I had a feeling of warm fuzzies all over and I do enjoy reading books like that. I will definitely be checking out more work by this author.
You can't always tell a lot about a book just by the synopsis. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised with A Sudden Gust of Gravity. I had read the first 40% in one setting and was seeing it as a solid 3-3.5 stars, not head over heels in love with the book, but the deeper I got into the story, the more I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters, some I came to love, and there was one who, I really didn't like all that much and I really enjoyed the story as well. When I finished, I had a feeling of warm fuzzies all over and I do enjoy reading books like that. I will definitely be checking out more work by this author.
November 21, 2015
This is the fifth novel I've read by Laurie Boris (the others were the first three of the hilarious but thought-proving Trager family series, and the deeply moving Drawing Breath. A Sudden Gust of Gravity has the author's formidable writing skill, especially in characterizations. I thought the plot of this one was a bit too predictable, but that certainly wasn't a reason to stop reading since she had masterfully hooked my interest in the plight of the characters. When an author can do that in novel after novel, you can be sure her future works will be on my TBR list.
February 8, 2016
I am a fan of Laurie Boris' work so I was very pleased to get her latest book. As always, the story was well written and entertaining. I also learned a bit about magicians and their craft. I like the way the author wove in a bit of background on each of the characters so the reader could get to know them and feel the joy, happiness, sorrow and pain each one experienced as the story progressed. I was not disappointed in any aspect of the book and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good story.
January 27, 2016
This book made me think, made me laugh, and made me cry. The main character is a damsel in distress, but she is strong enough to rescue herself. She wants to be a magician, but she has to start somewhere. A magician named Renaldo takes her on as an assistant, but will he teach her what she hopes to learn?
January 4, 2017
A magician, a magician's assistant (who longs to be a magician) and a possible future surgeon make an interesting story. This is a suspenseful story about two people with really different backgrounds coming together. Both of the characters have to overcome their damaged lives to find what they really want in life. Unpredictable and often tense, this was an story that grabs you.
December 7, 2016
Lovely story
I don't want to give anything away so this will be brief. This is a great story with well-defined characters. They all were fleshed out so well with great back stories. Also, its one of the most well edited books I've read. Kudos to Laurie Boris and her editor for great work!
I don't want to give anything away so this will be brief. This is a great story with well-defined characters. They all were fleshed out so well with great back stories. Also, its one of the most well edited books I've read. Kudos to Laurie Boris and her editor for great work!
March 4, 2016
Filled with magic, illusion, and allure, readers will be treated to a refreshing and quick read!
Read full review in the 2016 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 20, 2016
This book has a good group of characters that work well together. Enjoyed the storyline that was good also. The book was just a little to long for me to really get into the story. I was given this book as a ARC for a honest review.
March 22, 2016
Really enjoyed this book. A little kooky with a wonderful main character, Christina Davenport. It's
December 1, 2018
Recommendable book that is more than routine with both a storyline and characters that become involving as flaws and strengths become more apparent. Sadness, heart and perseverance all play their role in providing readers a satisfying journey. 4 star story.
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