September Blue

by Cat Whitney

Fearless. That’s how Delilah MacClare described herself before she was stripped her of her courage. Now, she’s traveled three thousand miles from her West Virginia home to the village of Chatfield in rural England. She spends her days alone reading romance novels in a pub until the morning Cameron Burke presumes to share her booth. An English actor with a Hollywood reputation, Cameron Burke has a list of ex-lovers as long as his thirty-year filmography. Had they met in one of Cameron’s blockbuster films, Delilah would have swooned and stuttered in his presence. He would have fallen in love with her at once. But this is no movie. Instead, what follows is a standoff over rights to the corner booth and, ultimately, a relationship that forces them both to confront all that lies beneath their facades. Perhaps, together, they’ll learn it is never too late to shape a different future. Will Delilah rediscover her fearlessness? Can Cameron become more than the sum of his tabloid exploits?

474 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 13, 2016

Reviews

[Anne OK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published in August of 2016 by Cat Whitney, a debuting author, I had no idea how much this story would affect me emotionally. Whitney writes with wit and true emotion surrounding all the feels. The scenario is sad and gut-wrenching at times, but in the telling readers experience human courage and soul-deep love. A breathtaking and compelling book that was impossible to put down.

I am surprised this book hasn’t received more attention or acclaim. None of the reviews I’ve read, or the book blurb gave away any spoilers, so I went in blindly. With each page, I became more and more absorbed by the cast of dynamic characters and the story they would share. My review will keep to the rule of no spoilers as well.

Whitney reveals all in compelling, can't-put-down-prose while at the same time creating masterfully developed characters in Delilah MacClare and Cameron Burke. She’s an American dancer/aerialist and he’s an acclaimed English actor. There’s a 21-year age difference and the only thing they can agree on is that they’re both “complicated.” Their meet/greet was quite adorable. And they shared a love story written in the stars.

In this powerfully riveting story of loss and regret, love and redemption, Whitney masterfully lays bare the emotional journey of each beautifully drawn but tragically flawed character – all the while keeping hold of my heartstrings and never letting go from beginning to end. A stunning first novel.

An unforgettable and profoundly moving reading experience. I cried tears of not only sadness but of joy and hope for what might follow in the years to come. Bittersweet . . . I can’t think of a better word.

[Barbara White · Rating 5 out of 5]

SEPTEMBER BLUE is a compelling read about embracing fear and taking control of your destiny--even in the face of unimaginable loss and suffering. It's also a unique story about the healing power of love. The characters are wonderful--fully drawn and intriguing. And as a Brit, I applaud the author's research behind Cameron Burke, a Hollywood actor who is, at heart, a boy from rural Warwickshire. I loved the opening scenes in the English pub! I highly recommend this debut.

[Carol Boyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once in a while an astounding debut novel comes along and this is one I am so happy I did not miss. It is one that hit me on an emotional level for so many reasons. Cat Whitney has written a beautiful love story with her own literary prose and also filled with references, quotes from poets and authors that relate to the chapters as the book evolves. One that I loved among many was this: "A heavier task could not have been impos'd than I to speak my griefs unspeakable", from Comedy of Errors, by William Shakespeare. There is the great romance of Deliah, and Cameron that is an approach avoidance relationship, that holds your heart, there is human strength through illness, past traumas and fear, grief and forgiveness. The opening pages are poignant and captivating where Deliah is sipping tea, reading her books at an English pub, when the actor Cameron is taken aback that someone is sitting in his own booth that no one else dares to occupy. Keep on reading for you won't be able to let go of this extraordinary book. I highly recommend it and hope it gains much success it well deserves. I want to read more from this author.

[Elaine Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glad I took a chance

I'm slightly acquainted with the author so was intrigued to read September Blue. Very glad I did. The story is very well written, the characters memorable, and the story is gripping.
This is a modern day romance that I'm sure everyone will enjoy. I remember September Blue skies from my childhood on Long Island.

[Susanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully woven book about choices made in the face of heartbreak and uncertainty. Despite their high-profile pasts, Delilah MacClare and Cameron Burke are believable, relatable characters who quickly draw you into their respective stories.

[Maryann Fox]

Great book by a first time novelist. An unlikely love story with sadness. Reference to September 11th and losing a family member.

[Arlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this is just so good. One of the best books I encountered this year. A compelling read, bravery amidst trials and tribulations. Just breathtaking!