Ever since I picked up the manuscript of this novel, I have been talking about it – to my friends, to my family, to my co-workers, to librarians – to anyone who would listen. This book very quietly wrapped itself around my heart and it has stayed there ever since. Set against the backdrop of Miami, this affecting debut novel offers a gripping, bittersweet portrait of a marriage—and a romance—that deepens over the course of three decades. I just love this book and it seems I’m not alone:
Nina Sankovitch on the Huffington Post writes, “Stiltsville is a compelling portrait of a marriage, a sweet serenade to Southern Florida, and a moving account of a woman’s life.” Read the rest here.
“I fell in love with Susanna Daniel’s characters, Dennis and Frances. The dialogue, the pacing, and the tenderness between this married couple is so authentic and true. But it’s the setting of Florida, and especially the place that is Stiltsville, that literally elevates this story to magic.”
— Hannah Tinti, author of The Good Thief
“Set against the wild and changeable landscape of South Florida, Stiltsville is a wise and loving portrait of a marriage, written with keen insight into the ways two lives grow together over the years. This is a rare first novel. Susanna Daniel writes beautifully of matters of the heart.”
— Jennifer Haigh, author of The Condition, Baker Towers, and Mrs. Kimble
“Like the narrator of this wonderful novel I fell in love in the opening pages of Stiltsville. There was nothing I wanted more than to spend time in the company of these vivid characters and keep reading Susanna Daniel’s lovely, lucid prose. Sadly, like all good books, this one came to an end-for me at two in the morning. Happily I can go back and be transported all over again. Many readers, I’m sure, will follow me.”
— Margot Livesey, author of The House on Fortune Street
I’ve got 50 finished copies that I’d like to send to anyone who wants to write a review. Send us an email (librarylovefest AT harpercollins DOT com) if you’re interested.
Thanks!
-Virginia
I picked up an uncorrected proof copy at ALA Boston and am currently reading it now (such a great read so far, by the way). I have noticed minor mistakes throughout but am assuming that the story didn't change since then. Am I correct, or should I be reading an updatted copy?
Posted by: Shannon | August 23, 2010 at 10:06 AM
Looks like one of our library book clubs is thinking about this as a selection. Sounds perfect.
Posted by: Maggie | August 21, 2010 at 03:29 PM
Virginia:
I am home recovering from hip surgery and would be happy to read and write and review for you. If you would like me to, please send the book to my Texas address. Let me know if you need it.
Posted by: Andrea Lapsley | August 19, 2010 at 03:16 PM
This was such a great end of the summer read!
Posted by: Jennifer W. | August 19, 2010 at 03:16 PM