Published by Story PlantDate Published: April 21, 2020
Pages: 192
Genres: Historical Fiction
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
Purchase: Amazon
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Youngstown, Ohio, 1977. Between the closing of the city's largest steel mill and the worst blizzard in more than 40 years, the table is set for remarkable change. Unemployed steel worker Bobby Wayland is trying hard to help his family and still pay for his wedding, but the only solution he can think of involves breaking the law. On the other side of town, a little girl named Hope is keeping a big secret, one she won't even share with her Great Uncle Joe―she can make things move without touching them. Watching over both of them is the city herself, and she has something to say and something to do about all of this.
The Heebie-Jeebie Girl is the story of an era ending and the uncertainty that awakens. It's the story of what happens when the unconscionable meets the improbable. It's the story of dreams deferred, dreams devoured, and dreams dawning. It is likely to be the most distinctive novel you read this year, but it will startle you with its familiarity. Author Susan Petrone has created an unforgettable tale of family, redemption, and magic.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.
My Thoughts
A fantastic read! Yes that’s correct! This book captured the 1970’s Ohio essence beautifully. Youngstown came to life for me! Petrone quickly captured me from the start and kept me hooked until I reached the last page. I didn’t want this story to end! It’s rich in history and deep in meaning!
Hope, Joe and even Bobby are wonderfully chiseled. Growing up with a steel mill working grandfather, I felt a strong connection to this story. This multi-voiced story was beautifully written! It is filled with somes ups, and plenty of downs, but most of all, these voices tell a tale of morals and redemption.
These characters, this story line, this novel, it’s all a magnificent combination that will quickly suck you in. Blending with the characters is the perfect amount of mystery and intrigue. The voices telling the story, they truly work their way into your heart to stay! This is a book that will resonate with me for years to come, and leave you wanting more from this author. I highly recommend this read to all!
About Susan Petrone
Susan Petrone has been published in such diverse outlets as Glimmer Train Stories, ESPN.com, and Belt Magazine. She is the author of the upcoming The Heebie-Jeebie Girl (2020,) The Super Ladies (2018), Throw Like a Woman (2015) and A Body at Rest (2009), which won a bronze medal for regional fiction from the Independent Publishers Book Awards (IPPY). Her short story, “Monster Jones Wants to Creep You Out” (Conclave, 2010) was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. She is also one of the co-founders and former president of Literary Cleveland (litcleveland.org). Susan holds a master’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Cleveland State University and lives with one husband, one daughter, and far too many animals in a little house near some medium-sized woods
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