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The Delicate Things We Make
Hitting rock bottom in the concrete jungle of Manhattan, investigative journalist Jamie Walker lands the assignment of a lifetime: Find the most elusive artist of a generation, who has enthralled the art and fashion world for over a decade.
This assignment is supposed to finally be Jamie’s ticket to journalistic fame and fortune. The quest, however, proves to be difficult, as—so far—nobody has managed to discover who the legendary DeVor really is.
As Jamie delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic artist, trying to salvage her stagnant career, she risks getting in over her head and losing her heart in the process.
This assignment is supposed to finally be Jamie’s ticket to journalistic fame and fortune. The quest, however, proves to be difficult, as—so far—nobody has managed to discover who the legendary DeVor really is.
As Jamie delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic artist, trying to salvage her stagnant career, she risks getting in over her head and losing her heart in the process.
Audiobook
First published January 19, 2021
289 people are currently reading
1848 people want to read
About the author
Milena McKay
20 books1,516 followersMilena McKay is a Lambda Literary and Golden Crown Literary Society award-winning sapphic fiction author.
She is a cat whisperer who wears four-inch heels for work while secretly dreaming of her extensive Converse collection. Would live on blueberries and lattes if she could.
Milena can recite certain episodes of The West Wing by heart and quote “Pride and Prejudice” in her sleep. Her love for Cate Blanchett's Carol Aird knows no bounds.
www.milenamckay.com
She is a cat whisperer who wears four-inch heels for work while secretly dreaming of her extensive Converse collection. Would live on blueberries and lattes if she could.
Milena can recite certain episodes of The West Wing by heart and quote “Pride and Prejudice” in her sleep. Her love for Cate Blanchett's Carol Aird knows no bounds.
www.milenamckay.com
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September 19, 2023There’s a screenshot roaming around Twitter at the moment, where some bloke in America reckons that fellow writers are not your friends, but rather your competitors. Every now and then, an author grabs the image and absolutely debunks the statement with how much they love their fellow writers and how much of a support they are.
I’m about to debunk that silly statement as well, because below this is a pile of words about the amazing debut novel ‘The Delicate Things We Make’ and how eternally grateful I am that Milena McKay is a fellow writer-y friend-type person, and not my competitor, because oh my God wow.
Jamie Walker, an excellent, but down on her luck, journalist is given the task to investigate—actually find, as per the contract—the reclusive and incredibly anonymous artist, DeVor. Vivian DeVor is a force within the art and fashion world. With the sale of a single painting or sculpture, she can shape the entire season’s collections for all the fashion houses in Europe and America. She has power and yet nobody knows who she is. However, Jamie manages to do what others have failed to do—I’m not giving a spoiler there—and this throws open doors on a number of closets and no-one is prepared for the skeletons revealed.
One must be careful around delicate things; they can break if you’re not careful. McKay takes us on a journey that demonstrates that delicate things are fragile; a person can be broken very easily, when you think about it. To break someone’s spirit through actions unconscionable is to destroy. But delicate things can survive if they stand on a solid plinth, or are supported by a strong wall, or have love as a guide, particularly when all around them are forces designed to crush and control. I found myself glued to the page, which sounds mightily uncomfortable, and I curse McKay for my three o’clock in the morning lights out, because the book is immersive. It is clever how the immersion is present throughout the entire book. The first third of the book is about the chase, the blush of love and a hint to the possibilities left in the past, and could have been dealt with quite lightly. But McKay didn’t do that, because the entire journey needed significance. The story holds you, in that deep ocean of text, for the remainder where the link to the past solidifies and the old is renewed when the corrupt insidious world of fashion and publishing is exposed, where violation of power is currency, and love, like any big love, shifts as external pressures force it to alter its shape.
There’s a way of writing that some authors have where they swim into a pool of vocabulary, gather it in, and soak their sentences in only the beautiful words. McKay does that to precision. This novel has a depth, a solidity to it that initially comes from the word choices. There’s weightiness to the sentences which create layered paragraphs where a reader feels like they can hold them for a while and admire their structure. Yet, that sounds like the book is too robust. It’s not. There’s a fragility to the layers, something ethereal, that feels like if we look away, then something will break. It comes down to attention to detail. McKay has researched, and selected, and investigated, and found nuances from the world of publishing, fashion design, art, human rights, #metoo, statutes of law, that add to the story like the last infinitesimal brushstrokes of a painting. The word choices and the details ask you to pay attention…here. And here. Also here. Look at these words describing this. Do you see? Do you feel?
There are twenty-two chapters in this novel, and each has a title. A perfect title. They are as delicate as the art DeVor creates, as sharp as the knife’s edge of trust, as fragile as the lives cracked and broken. I pottered about the internet with a pair of quotation marks and McKay’s chapter titles, and I couldn’t find much in the way of references or reasons for their selection. I assume they appeared in McKay’s head, which leads me back to oh my God. But one I did know in my own head (yay, me) is the chapter title ‘The Oboe and the A Note’ - Chapter Five. That note you hear before an orchestra performance? That’s the A note from an oboe, and it’s the reference point for all the musical instruments so they can tune, and focus, and attend to the piece. It’s the clearest sound a person can hear. Chapter five? That’s the chapter when Jamie discovers DeVor’s location and the instruments—the past events, the people, the whys and what ifs—begin to turn their faces. Jamie’s played her note.
The delicate things we make indeed.
I’m about to debunk that silly statement as well, because below this is a pile of words about the amazing debut novel ‘The Delicate Things We Make’ and how eternally grateful I am that Milena McKay is a fellow writer-y friend-type person, and not my competitor, because oh my God wow.
Jamie Walker, an excellent, but down on her luck, journalist is given the task to investigate—actually find, as per the contract—the reclusive and incredibly anonymous artist, DeVor. Vivian DeVor is a force within the art and fashion world. With the sale of a single painting or sculpture, she can shape the entire season’s collections for all the fashion houses in Europe and America. She has power and yet nobody knows who she is. However, Jamie manages to do what others have failed to do—I’m not giving a spoiler there—and this throws open doors on a number of closets and no-one is prepared for the skeletons revealed.
One must be careful around delicate things; they can break if you’re not careful. McKay takes us on a journey that demonstrates that delicate things are fragile; a person can be broken very easily, when you think about it. To break someone’s spirit through actions unconscionable is to destroy. But delicate things can survive if they stand on a solid plinth, or are supported by a strong wall, or have love as a guide, particularly when all around them are forces designed to crush and control. I found myself glued to the page, which sounds mightily uncomfortable, and I curse McKay for my three o’clock in the morning lights out, because the book is immersive. It is clever how the immersion is present throughout the entire book. The first third of the book is about the chase, the blush of love and a hint to the possibilities left in the past, and could have been dealt with quite lightly. But McKay didn’t do that, because the entire journey needed significance. The story holds you, in that deep ocean of text, for the remainder where the link to the past solidifies and the old is renewed when the corrupt insidious world of fashion and publishing is exposed, where violation of power is currency, and love, like any big love, shifts as external pressures force it to alter its shape.
There’s a way of writing that some authors have where they swim into a pool of vocabulary, gather it in, and soak their sentences in only the beautiful words. McKay does that to precision. This novel has a depth, a solidity to it that initially comes from the word choices. There’s weightiness to the sentences which create layered paragraphs where a reader feels like they can hold them for a while and admire their structure. Yet, that sounds like the book is too robust. It’s not. There’s a fragility to the layers, something ethereal, that feels like if we look away, then something will break. It comes down to attention to detail. McKay has researched, and selected, and investigated, and found nuances from the world of publishing, fashion design, art, human rights, #metoo, statutes of law, that add to the story like the last infinitesimal brushstrokes of a painting. The word choices and the details ask you to pay attention…here. And here. Also here. Look at these words describing this. Do you see? Do you feel?
There are twenty-two chapters in this novel, and each has a title. A perfect title. They are as delicate as the art DeVor creates, as sharp as the knife’s edge of trust, as fragile as the lives cracked and broken. I pottered about the internet with a pair of quotation marks and McKay’s chapter titles, and I couldn’t find much in the way of references or reasons for their selection. I assume they appeared in McKay’s head, which leads me back to oh my God. But one I did know in my own head (yay, me) is the chapter title ‘The Oboe and the A Note’ - Chapter Five. That note you hear before an orchestra performance? That’s the A note from an oboe, and it’s the reference point for all the musical instruments so they can tune, and focus, and attend to the piece. It’s the clearest sound a person can hear. Chapter five? That’s the chapter when Jamie discovers DeVor’s location and the instruments—the past events, the people, the whys and what ifs—begin to turn their faces. Jamie’s played her note.
The delicate things we make indeed.
March 16, 2022
Edit: March, 16th, 2022, audiobook review: 5 ⭐️
I have a lot of love and tenderness for this book. There’s something about it that speaks of a new era and gives me hope. I won’t repeat what I wrote in my original review, I still agree with myself – which isn’t always the case. It’s been a really interesting experience, listening to it now, a little over a year after it first came out and Milena McKay burst onto the lesfic scene. So much has happened since then, a novella, a second novel that is now in the running for multiple awards, a third one coming soon (A Whisper Of Solace: A Tainted Tinseltown Book, April 12th). McKay has grown tremendously as an author over this period and yet there’s already so much wonderfulness in this debut.
I love Jamie’s big heart and, of course, I love Vivian’s sharp tongue and tenderness and the vulnerability she doesn’t hide that well. Hearing her now, I feel like I understand her better than I did a year ago. Unsurprisingly, Abby Craden's narration is fantastic. Jamie’s voice reflects her wide-eyed youth and tenacity. Vivian’s is at once haughty and warm, perfectly embodying the complexity of the character. The secondary characters shine just as much and I’m particularly fond of Arabella, even more than when I read the book.
One thing I don’t think I’ve mentioned in previous reviews of McKay’s novels (I’m not including The Perfect Match in this comment, it’s a much lighter and fun read, since, you know, cupids…) is the sense of humour. Obviously, there’s Jamie’s friend Lucy, but beyond this character, there’s an underlying but quasi constant tongue-in-cheekiness that allows the story to tackle dramatic issues while keeping an uplifting quality, leaving the reader, or the listener, inspired rather than despondent. That same sense of humour also permeates The Headmistress, with the same success.
If Milena McKay’s precise writing and wonderful characters didn’t already have my whole heart, with this audiobook and Abby Craden’s narration, they would now.
------------------------------------------------
4.5⭐️ – Another very promising debut! We may not be living in the most joyful, comfortable world right now, but good books make everything better and I feel very lucky that I get to read so many of them.
Beggars can’t be choosers and when she’s asked by one of the most important fashion magazines to find who a reclusive but extraordinary artist is, struggling journalist Jamie signs her soul to the devil in half a second. Her investigative skills serve her well and soon enough, she’s met her target. Little did she expect to be so captivated by the woman that she’d rather date her than out her, or that in her search, she would uncover a seventeen-year-old mystery that led to two breakups and the end of a friendship. And that’s only the beginning.
The Delicate Things We Make is dedicated “to the survivors”, so be warned that it tackles sensitive and possibly triggering topics. There is no on-page rape or assault but these subjects are very much part of the story. It’s a love story and a #MeToo story, it speaks of strength and vulnerability, of taking back the power, taking back one’s life and also of letting go. And it does so with care, finesse and talent.
A common issue with debut novels, especially those that started their life as fanfic (as this one did) and especially those that are independently published, is pace and length. This book suffers from this to some extent, there are a few redundant sentences and paragraphs here and there, as if the author couldn’t decide between two rather pretty ways of saying things. Don’t, however, let these minor flaws stop you from reading. The writing is good. The characters have depth, they’re complex and multilayered. More than once I thought another author might have given Jamie a break but Milena McKay keeps backing her into corners and forces her to go further, to rethink what she believes to be right. There’s a very moving scene between Jamie and her friend Lucy – there’s another story there too – that really made me want to applaud Lucy for being so wise and kind (and funny). The story isn’t straightforward and I like that. The resolution doesn’t come fast and easy, mistakes are made, egos are bruised. There’s real character growth. The romance is lovely and, at times, raw, and there’s definite ice queen melting. Love scenes aren’t easy to write, and chemistry isn’t always obvious on paper (or in digital form, as may be), but McKay carries it off.
So okay, The Delicate Things We Make isn’t perfect, but it made me think, it made me happy, it made me mad. All good things.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have a lot of love and tenderness for this book. There’s something about it that speaks of a new era and gives me hope. I won’t repeat what I wrote in my original review, I still agree with myself – which isn’t always the case. It’s been a really interesting experience, listening to it now, a little over a year after it first came out and Milena McKay burst onto the lesfic scene. So much has happened since then, a novella, a second novel that is now in the running for multiple awards, a third one coming soon (A Whisper Of Solace: A Tainted Tinseltown Book, April 12th). McKay has grown tremendously as an author over this period and yet there’s already so much wonderfulness in this debut.
I love Jamie’s big heart and, of course, I love Vivian’s sharp tongue and tenderness and the vulnerability she doesn’t hide that well. Hearing her now, I feel like I understand her better than I did a year ago. Unsurprisingly, Abby Craden's narration is fantastic. Jamie’s voice reflects her wide-eyed youth and tenacity. Vivian’s is at once haughty and warm, perfectly embodying the complexity of the character. The secondary characters shine just as much and I’m particularly fond of Arabella, even more than when I read the book.
One thing I don’t think I’ve mentioned in previous reviews of McKay’s novels (I’m not including The Perfect Match in this comment, it’s a much lighter and fun read, since, you know, cupids…) is the sense of humour. Obviously, there’s Jamie’s friend Lucy, but beyond this character, there’s an underlying but quasi constant tongue-in-cheekiness that allows the story to tackle dramatic issues while keeping an uplifting quality, leaving the reader, or the listener, inspired rather than despondent. That same sense of humour also permeates The Headmistress, with the same success.
If Milena McKay’s precise writing and wonderful characters didn’t already have my whole heart, with this audiobook and Abby Craden’s narration, they would now.
------------------------------------------------
4.5⭐️ – Another very promising debut! We may not be living in the most joyful, comfortable world right now, but good books make everything better and I feel very lucky that I get to read so many of them.
Beggars can’t be choosers and when she’s asked by one of the most important fashion magazines to find who a reclusive but extraordinary artist is, struggling journalist Jamie signs her soul to the devil in half a second. Her investigative skills serve her well and soon enough, she’s met her target. Little did she expect to be so captivated by the woman that she’d rather date her than out her, or that in her search, she would uncover a seventeen-year-old mystery that led to two breakups and the end of a friendship. And that’s only the beginning.
The Delicate Things We Make is dedicated “to the survivors”, so be warned that it tackles sensitive and possibly triggering topics. There is no on-page rape or assault but these subjects are very much part of the story. It’s a love story and a #MeToo story, it speaks of strength and vulnerability, of taking back the power, taking back one’s life and also of letting go. And it does so with care, finesse and talent.
A common issue with debut novels, especially those that started their life as fanfic (as this one did) and especially those that are independently published, is pace and length. This book suffers from this to some extent, there are a few redundant sentences and paragraphs here and there, as if the author couldn’t decide between two rather pretty ways of saying things. Don’t, however, let these minor flaws stop you from reading. The writing is good. The characters have depth, they’re complex and multilayered. More than once I thought another author might have given Jamie a break but Milena McKay keeps backing her into corners and forces her to go further, to rethink what she believes to be right. There’s a very moving scene between Jamie and her friend Lucy – there’s another story there too – that really made me want to applaud Lucy for being so wise and kind (and funny). The story isn’t straightforward and I like that. The resolution doesn’t come fast and easy, mistakes are made, egos are bruised. There’s real character growth. The romance is lovely and, at times, raw, and there’s definite ice queen melting. Love scenes aren’t easy to write, and chemistry isn’t always obvious on paper (or in digital form, as may be), but McKay carries it off.
So okay, The Delicate Things We Make isn’t perfect, but it made me think, it made me happy, it made me mad. All good things.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Want to read
June 26, 2024 I don't even know much about this book - but I've heard it's good. The cover is gorgeous and it's a FF Romance so... obviously this is getting read.
➴ Angst
➴ Sapphic Romance
➴ Age Gap
➴ Mystery
➴ NYC Setting
Krysta! 👀
➴ Angst
➴ Sapphic Romance
➴ Age Gap
➴ Mystery
➴ NYC Setting
Krysta! 👀
September 20, 2021
For the survivors.
What a sensual cover! Many thanks to the wonderful people who recommended this to me. It's good, so good that I tend to forget that this is McKay's debut. She has written three books by now and I've read two of them. McKay has developed her own writing style, one that suits me well so I enjoy her stories a lot.
I think I prefer the romance in The Headmistress but The Delicate Things We Make feels a lot more meaningful. In this one, McKay handled a delicate topic very well and I love how the story pans out. The #metoo movement has gained traction in the last few years but more still needs to be done and victims need a lot of support and encouragement in order to speak up so I'm kinda glad that this came up. The romance is done very well too though it's a little slow at the start. But when the time comes, the chemistry is outstanding. I was engaged entirely through the journey that Jamie takes to learn all about the elusive artist, her past and her secrets. And while Vivian's story was such an impactful one, I think Jamie's character really shines.
For those of you out there who are still wondering about this book, think no more. Just give this a try. It's a beautiful story, really well done and it's on KU.
What a sensual cover! Many thanks to the wonderful people who recommended this to me. It's good, so good that I tend to forget that this is McKay's debut. She has written three books by now and I've read two of them. McKay has developed her own writing style, one that suits me well so I enjoy her stories a lot.
I think I prefer the romance in The Headmistress but The Delicate Things We Make feels a lot more meaningful. In this one, McKay handled a delicate topic very well and I love how the story pans out. The #metoo movement has gained traction in the last few years but more still needs to be done and victims need a lot of support and encouragement in order to speak up so I'm kinda glad that this came up. The romance is done very well too though it's a little slow at the start. But when the time comes, the chemistry is outstanding. I was engaged entirely through the journey that Jamie takes to learn all about the elusive artist, her past and her secrets. And while Vivian's story was such an impactful one, I think Jamie's character really shines.
For those of you out there who are still wondering about this book, think no more. Just give this a try. It's a beautiful story, really well done and it's on KU.
February 7, 2021
Well THIS was a hell of an impressive debut! The premise is that a down-on-her-luck investigative journalist gets the opportunity to revive her lagging career when she is hired to uncover the identity of an elusive artist considered one of the best and most influential in the world. But as she pieces the clues together and discovers who it is, she suffers a crisis of conscience when she discovers the reason the artist doesn't want to be found. She feels an immediate and strong pull to the subject before ever laying eyes on her and quickly realizes there's a much bigger story to be told. It's about how our upbringing affects us as adults. It's a Me Too story. It's a story of pain, survival, healing and growth. It's about having values and doing what's right, even at the expense of yourself. It's about bravery. And it's a beautiful love story with love scenes to match. I recommend this one, friends. This is definitely an author to keep an eye on as I expect great things are ahead.
February 21, 2021
I’ve been hearing good things about this book so I’ve decided to drop everything else and read it. This is McKay’s debut novel just published last month (January 2021) and she has already published a second book, in this case, a novella, called The Perfect Match. While I think this is a promising debut, I was expecting a bit more.
Investigative journalist Jamie Walker is going through a rough patch: her boyfriend left her, and she’s got no permanent job and no money. When she is asked to use her research skills to find the secretive and elusive artist DeVor, she sees it as a ticket out of her troubles. But as she gets closer to the enigmatic artist, she risks breaking her heart once again.
This book was originally conceived as a Devil Wears Prada fanfiction. And of course, there’s an ice queen and an age gap relationship. Now released as a novel, it still keeps some of the telltale signs of a fanfiction story in its extension and the way the chapters are structured. In my opinion, it could have done with a bit more editing work. For example, the balance between prose and dialogue is a bit off, some important parts of the plot happen off-screen, and there are some issues with the pacing, among other problems. However, it’s a debut so that has to be taken into consideration.
I have to warn potential readers that there are a good number of triggers in this book in the form of rape, sexual harassment, and abuse. Everything happens off-screen but that theme takes a big part of the plot. There’s no way around it and while the romance is in some parts passionate and hot, it doesn’t take away the bittersweet feel of the book. I’m not saying this as a criticism, on the contrary, it’s quite realistic, but I’m just warning not to expect a fluffy read. The story reminded me a lot of the case surrounding Harvey Weinstein so that’s what you should expect to read about.
The story is told in third person from the exclusive point of view of Jamie. Personally, I would have preferred first-person instead in order to reduce the psychic distance between the events of the story and the reader. This is a very personal and emotional story and some of the main character’s experiences are lost because the reader isn’t completely in her headspace. It would have made the investigation process more interesting too.
Regarding the romance, it was sweet, passionate, and sizzling hot. The sex scenes are very good in this novel and the author captures perfectly the sensuality of art. While the romance is mostly in the background, it is very well done and the best part of the plot. Maybe if the main characters’ relationship was in the driving seat, my enjoyment would have been better. Nevertheless, Ms. McKay is an author to watch. 3.5 stars.
Investigative journalist Jamie Walker is going through a rough patch: her boyfriend left her, and she’s got no permanent job and no money. When she is asked to use her research skills to find the secretive and elusive artist DeVor, she sees it as a ticket out of her troubles. But as she gets closer to the enigmatic artist, she risks breaking her heart once again.
This book was originally conceived as a Devil Wears Prada fanfiction. And of course, there’s an ice queen and an age gap relationship. Now released as a novel, it still keeps some of the telltale signs of a fanfiction story in its extension and the way the chapters are structured. In my opinion, it could have done with a bit more editing work. For example, the balance between prose and dialogue is a bit off, some important parts of the plot happen off-screen, and there are some issues with the pacing, among other problems. However, it’s a debut so that has to be taken into consideration.
I have to warn potential readers that there are a good number of triggers in this book in the form of rape, sexual harassment, and abuse. Everything happens off-screen but that theme takes a big part of the plot. There’s no way around it and while the romance is in some parts passionate and hot, it doesn’t take away the bittersweet feel of the book. I’m not saying this as a criticism, on the contrary, it’s quite realistic, but I’m just warning not to expect a fluffy read. The story reminded me a lot of the case surrounding Harvey Weinstein so that’s what you should expect to read about.
The story is told in third person from the exclusive point of view of Jamie. Personally, I would have preferred first-person instead in order to reduce the psychic distance between the events of the story and the reader. This is a very personal and emotional story and some of the main character’s experiences are lost because the reader isn’t completely in her headspace. It would have made the investigation process more interesting too.
Regarding the romance, it was sweet, passionate, and sizzling hot. The sex scenes are very good in this novel and the author captures perfectly the sensuality of art. While the romance is mostly in the background, it is very well done and the best part of the plot. Maybe if the main characters’ relationship was in the driving seat, my enjoyment would have been better. Nevertheless, Ms. McKay is an author to watch. 3.5 stars.
Read
March 23, 2021I tried reading this book and couldn't get past the 20% mark. I'm a big Devil Wears Prada fanfiction fan and recognized this must be one after the first few pages. But, what stopped me in my tracks, is that there is almost NO DIALOGUE.
Jamie is an investigative reporter (sort of) looking into the identity behind the most secretive artist in the world but it's all tell, not show. We're TOLD Jamie is an amazing reporter, we're told about how amazing this artist is, how Jamie learned such and such from so and so. But, do we see those interactions? No. I actually started scrolling, whipping the pages forward for nearly 10% of it thinking surely characters will start talking at some point. Nope. The few tags of dialogue here and there, someone is usually talking AT Jamie in their own wall of dialogue with no back and forth. The writer mentions it's because Jamie is such a good listener? I didn't buy it.
I was completely bored and the walls of text sounded like Charlie Brown's teacher after awhile. I'm all about seeing how characters reveal themselves in how they interact with others so this is a no-go for me.
Jamie is an investigative reporter (sort of) looking into the identity behind the most secretive artist in the world but it's all tell, not show. We're TOLD Jamie is an amazing reporter, we're told about how amazing this artist is, how Jamie learned such and such from so and so. But, do we see those interactions? No. I actually started scrolling, whipping the pages forward for nearly 10% of it thinking surely characters will start talking at some point. Nope. The few tags of dialogue here and there, someone is usually talking AT Jamie in their own wall of dialogue with no back and forth. The writer mentions it's because Jamie is such a good listener? I didn't buy it.
I was completely bored and the walls of text sounded like Charlie Brown's teacher after awhile. I'm all about seeing how characters reveal themselves in how they interact with others so this is a no-go for me.
April 1, 2023
Every time I read a book by this author, it ruins my upcoming reads! This book, oh you beauty ! :)
January 30, 2021
These are the types of stories I live for! What a wonderful book from a promising debut author!
Jamie Walker (27) is a journalist who has had a series of misfortunes, losing her career and her relationship. She has since then worked different jobs to try to keep herself afloat. But she was given the chance to pick herself up by writing an article that was bound to change everything. In her investigation, she meets the reclusive Vivian (42) who is extremely reserved and yet very alluring.
Let me just start this review by saying that I was very impressed with the book. This is her first novel and it is not perfect, but the author writes better than others who have published more.
Both characters are very endearing! I also liked most of the supporting characters like Arabella, Olivia, and Lucy.
The author took her time to build the story, giving us an in-depth background about Jamie and her situation. It may have made the book a little longer, but it definitely feels more complete. She spared no details in weaving mysteries and clues as well as details of the characters’ dates. The story took some time to build, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down! I kept reading even when I was eating or working out. I NEEDED to finish it!
The story was not purely romance, as it included a sense of mystery and other socially-relevant issues. BUT let it be known that Milena McKay definitely knows how to write sweet, toe-curling, butterflies-in-the-stomach-inducing romance! I am picky with my romances, but this book left me utterly satisfied. Be warned, though, that adept as she is at writing these sweet moments, she is equally good at breaking your heart. She just has this way with words that lets the emotions hit you like waves.
Overall, this is such a wonderful book that made me happy. It also helps that I’m a sucker for age gap books. There is still the question of her father’s debts, but it’s not really an important part of the story and I guess we can assume that it has been resolved. I miss the characters already. I hope people will give this a chance, and I really look forward to reading more from this author! :)
Jamie Walker (27) is a journalist who has had a series of misfortunes, losing her career and her relationship. She has since then worked different jobs to try to keep herself afloat. But she was given the chance to pick herself up by writing an article that was bound to change everything. In her investigation, she meets the reclusive Vivian (42) who is extremely reserved and yet very alluring.
Let me just start this review by saying that I was very impressed with the book. This is her first novel and it is not perfect, but the author writes better than others who have published more.
Both characters are very endearing! I also liked most of the supporting characters like Arabella, Olivia, and Lucy.
The author took her time to build the story, giving us an in-depth background about Jamie and her situation. It may have made the book a little longer, but it definitely feels more complete. She spared no details in weaving mysteries and clues as well as details of the characters’ dates. The story took some time to build, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down! I kept reading even when I was eating or working out. I NEEDED to finish it!
The story was not purely romance, as it included a sense of mystery and other socially-relevant issues. BUT let it be known that Milena McKay definitely knows how to write sweet, toe-curling, butterflies-in-the-stomach-inducing romance! I am picky with my romances, but this book left me utterly satisfied. Be warned, though, that adept as she is at writing these sweet moments, she is equally good at breaking your heart. She just has this way with words that lets the emotions hit you like waves.
Overall, this is such a wonderful book that made me happy. It also helps that I’m a sucker for age gap books. There is still the question of her father’s debts, but it’s not really an important part of the story and I guess we can assume that it has been resolved. I miss the characters already. I hope people will give this a chance, and I really look forward to reading more from this author! :)
February 5, 2023
A reread. And yea, still slaps!
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This is one of the few books I will absolutely read over and over without worrying about wasting my time. It's a very well-written story, from the plot to the characters, the emotions, and the dialogue. Enjoyed every single second of it. It also discusses an important topic that I found impressive. I had an incredible journey reading this. Also, I'd like to vote for Olivia Harlow as the best supporting character. Such a sassy sidekick side character.
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This is one of the few books I will absolutely read over and over without worrying about wasting my time. It's a very well-written story, from the plot to the characters, the emotions, and the dialogue. Enjoyed every single second of it. It also discusses an important topic that I found impressive. I had an incredible journey reading this. Also, I'd like to vote for Olivia Harlow as the best supporting character. Such a sassy sidekick side character.
February 2, 2021
A new author on the block with a debut hit!
Where have all these debut authors been hiding? Milena McKay is another new author on the block that just knocked it out of the park. #intrigued
Milena McKay has jammed packed this book with so much emotion and beautiful prose that you will need to grab your box of tissues before reading.
My first love will always be Lesbian/ WLW fiction, but my second love is fanfic. This book was originally a 'Devil Wears Prada' fic but be aware it's had a massive rework. If you weren't a DWP fanfic nerd like me, you wouldn't have spotted it. To have my first love and second love all together in one book as practically guaranteed it's 5th star.
In the world of #metoo, this reader has been waiting for a book to tackle this subject. 'The Delicate Things We Make' is for every survivor out there who still believes in love.
Someone said to me they would like a prequel of the events that took place in the past, but I have to disagree. I got the perfect amount of knowledge of events from the past to know that Jamie (and mystery protagonist) were meant to meet at that time. #soulmates
Finally, the Epilogue in this book was just fantastic! Whenever I turn the page after the last chapter and read Epilogue, my tummy does a little flip. I can't tell you how much I appreciate them. This Epilogue just tied all the loose ends up in one nice bow and gave the reader the perfect happily ever after.
I loved the secondary characters in this book so much. They added another layer and depth to the plot. I have this feeling that this could make a fantastic series or have a sequel. I would love to see more of Arabella's future romance or who could tame Heather and make her fall in love! The possibilities are endless.
The chemistry in this book is palpable. You can feel the moment both women connect because chemistry just sizzles. I loved this book because there is an underlying intimate chemistry between them like this is not all about sex but about something more profound, more important. Almost like they have found "The One".
Well damn! This book is terrific. I tossed up between 4.5 and 5 stars for this one, and I would have gone with 4.5 stars had this been a seasoned author but the fact a newbie wrote this book, I just knew it was deserving of the full 5 stars. I think this one should definitely be on your must-read list for 2021!
Where have all these debut authors been hiding? Milena McKay is another new author on the block that just knocked it out of the park. #intrigued
Milena McKay has jammed packed this book with so much emotion and beautiful prose that you will need to grab your box of tissues before reading.
My first love will always be Lesbian/ WLW fiction, but my second love is fanfic. This book was originally a 'Devil Wears Prada' fic but be aware it's had a massive rework. If you weren't a DWP fanfic nerd like me, you wouldn't have spotted it. To have my first love and second love all together in one book as practically guaranteed it's 5th star.
In the world of #metoo, this reader has been waiting for a book to tackle this subject. 'The Delicate Things We Make' is for every survivor out there who still believes in love.
Someone said to me they would like a prequel of the events that took place in the past, but I have to disagree. I got the perfect amount of knowledge of events from the past to know that Jamie (and mystery protagonist) were meant to meet at that time. #soulmates
Finally, the Epilogue in this book was just fantastic! Whenever I turn the page after the last chapter and read Epilogue, my tummy does a little flip. I can't tell you how much I appreciate them. This Epilogue just tied all the loose ends up in one nice bow and gave the reader the perfect happily ever after.
I loved the secondary characters in this book so much. They added another layer and depth to the plot. I have this feeling that this could make a fantastic series or have a sequel. I would love to see more of Arabella's future romance or who could tame Heather and make her fall in love! The possibilities are endless.
The chemistry in this book is palpable. You can feel the moment both women connect because chemistry just sizzles. I loved this book because there is an underlying intimate chemistry between them like this is not all about sex but about something more profound, more important. Almost like they have found "The One".
Well damn! This book is terrific. I tossed up between 4.5 and 5 stars for this one, and I would have gone with 4.5 stars had this been a seasoned author but the fact a newbie wrote this book, I just knew it was deserving of the full 5 stars. I think this one should definitely be on your must-read list for 2021!
March 29, 2021
This book will probably stay in my memory forever since it kept me company while being impacted by Covid 19.
It was an interesting read, but I did not enjoy the book as much as other readers did.
I couldn’t connect totally with the principal main character (the young journalist), while fell in love with the other MC (the artist).
The story fascinated me, full of secrets to discover and digging up the past, mixed with a #Mee too strong case story.
The chemistry between the characters was incredibly hot.
This book had all the elements to be a 5*, but for some reason it did not reach the last one.
I will definitely read the author in the future trying to find out more of her great creative imagination.
It was an interesting read, but I did not enjoy the book as much as other readers did.
I couldn’t connect totally with the principal main character (the young journalist), while fell in love with the other MC (the artist).
The story fascinated me, full of secrets to discover and digging up the past, mixed with a #Mee too strong case story.
The chemistry between the characters was incredibly hot.
This book had all the elements to be a 5*, but for some reason it did not reach the last one.
I will definitely read the author in the future trying to find out more of her great creative imagination.
April 18, 2023
Audiobook review: Though Abby Craden can do no wrong, and her voice for DeVor was PERFECT, I actually enjoyed the regular book more than audio for this one. It doesn't change my rating, but the parts that dragged in my first read were positively at a snail's pace in audio. Still good though!
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A debut novel, really? Well colour me impressed. This was a tale that wove through the art and fashion world of NYC, with mysterious artists and a complex cast of characters that was unique for lesfic, charming in parts and reviling in others. Fair warning that there are some heavy topics in this, and the #MeToo movement takes centre stage.
Just who is the enigma of DeVor? Why did she disappear? And where are all the goddamned mid-60s lesbians today from the NYC art scene that were such trendsetters? They could have a book on their own!
I so crave originality in lesfic, and Ms. McKay truly found that niche, so I thank her for this. Was this perfect? No, some parts dragged on, some editing could have tightened these up, and there was an overuse of some language that got redundant. Also the descriptions while being in DeVor's presence as being "near to god and etheral" and blah blah blah was really OTT. MC Jamie seemed to be in a hypnotic state when around her and the constant "I'm not worthy" got old, fast. However, the two mains were a passionate, beautiful pair, with secondaries such as Arabella and Benedict bringing in a nice balance.
Really looking forward to more by this author.
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A debut novel, really? Well colour me impressed. This was a tale that wove through the art and fashion world of NYC, with mysterious artists and a complex cast of characters that was unique for lesfic, charming in parts and reviling in others. Fair warning that there are some heavy topics in this, and the #MeToo movement takes centre stage.
Just who is the enigma of DeVor? Why did she disappear? And where are all the goddamned mid-60s lesbians today from the NYC art scene that were such trendsetters? They could have a book on their own!
I so crave originality in lesfic, and Ms. McKay truly found that niche, so I thank her for this. Was this perfect? No, some parts dragged on, some editing could have tightened these up, and there was an overuse of some language that got redundant. Also the descriptions while being in DeVor's presence as being "near to god and etheral" and blah blah blah was really OTT. MC Jamie seemed to be in a hypnotic state when around her and the constant "I'm not worthy" got old, fast. However, the two mains were a passionate, beautiful pair, with secondaries such as Arabella and Benedict bringing in a nice balance.
Really looking forward to more by this author.
unfinished
September 25, 2021I have two and a half issues with this that's pushing me to a dnf. The half is a craft issue where the author exposition-dumps in a bit of an awkward way. It's not horrible, but it is noticeable. I suspect that this smooths out because it's mostly background that the author is communicating and that's less pressing as the story progresses. It's a debut, so cutting a little slack on that is perfectly warranted and the rest of the writing is evocative and interesting.
A bigger problem is the background itself. Art is so subjective that I have a hard time believing that a completely unknown person can be so universally recognized as a paragon. More, it is so good that her art routinely dictates fashion trends with designers throwing out entire collections to conform to the latest piece released by this person they don't even know. That's unlikely to the point of absurdity. And I'd roll with it if it were merely a premise to get the story going, but it's too important to ongoing events to do that, here.
But what finally tanked my enjoyment is that I have a really hard time with secret-keeping stories. Where I left, Jamie is starting a relationship on completely false pretenses. Worse, she has commitments that have been ramped to extremely dire should she fail to exploit her budding love in the way she has contracted. So we have the groundwork for a devastating betrayal. And Vivian is fragile. Delicate. And my heart hurts already for her inevitable pain. And I just don't want to face that for an entire story. Because the biggest feature of secret-keeping stories is that they go on and on, stretching the anxiety. And they aren't worth doing if the eventual reveal isn't the worst possible scenario and the most damaging possible. Because nobody does secret-keeping just to fizzle out in the end. There's no point.
The secret keeping/betrayal aspect isn't foregrounded in the blurb, but the hints are there. And they're big enough that I probably should have caught it before hand. So I don't feel like I can ding the author by rating this on my personal taste/experience. So no rating on this one and readers who like that kind of tension in romance will likely find it very engaging.
A bigger problem is the background itself. Art is so subjective that I have a hard time believing that a completely unknown person can be so universally recognized as a paragon. More, it is so good that her art routinely dictates fashion trends with designers throwing out entire collections to conform to the latest piece released by this person they don't even know. That's unlikely to the point of absurdity. And I'd roll with it if it were merely a premise to get the story going, but it's too important to ongoing events to do that, here.
But what finally tanked my enjoyment is that I have a really hard time with secret-keeping stories. Where I left, Jamie is starting a relationship on completely false pretenses. Worse, she has commitments that have been ramped to extremely dire should she fail to exploit her budding love in the way she has contracted. So we have the groundwork for a devastating betrayal. And Vivian is fragile. Delicate. And my heart hurts already for her inevitable pain. And I just don't want to face that for an entire story. Because the biggest feature of secret-keeping stories is that they go on and on, stretching the anxiety. And they aren't worth doing if the eventual reveal isn't the worst possible scenario and the most damaging possible. Because nobody does secret-keeping just to fizzle out in the end. There's no point.
The secret keeping/betrayal aspect isn't foregrounded in the blurb, but the hints are there. And they're big enough that I probably should have caught it before hand. So I don't feel like I can ding the author by rating this on my personal taste/experience. So no rating on this one and readers who like that kind of tension in romance will likely find it very engaging.
February 25, 2021
Impressive and a really good read. It’s a love story, love lost and love found against a backdrop of #MeToo.
A down and out journalist, Jameson Walker, sold her soul to the devil when she took the job of finding the mysterious legendary DeVor, whose identity is not known. Along the way, she uncovered the mystery of what transpired almost 2 decades ago between friends & lovers and hideous transgression occurring behind the publishing world, ran by a powerful man. Harassment of any kind is a big NO and it came to the forefront in the second half of the book.
Very well written.... High 4+ ⭐️ ratings
A down and out journalist, Jameson Walker, sold her soul to the devil when she took the job of finding the mysterious legendary DeVor, whose identity is not known. Along the way, she uncovered the mystery of what transpired almost 2 decades ago between friends & lovers and hideous transgression occurring behind the publishing world, ran by a powerful man. Harassment of any kind is a big NO and it came to the forefront in the second half of the book.
Very well written.... High 4+ ⭐️ ratings
April 12, 2021
Sorry, didn't work for me however hard I tried. Writing just too dense, paragraphs too long, it all needed more input than I could spare, yet the synopsis really gave me hope.
March 13, 2021
4.25 stars.... this wasn’t predictable or your typical romance - in my eyes at least. When the drama happened mid way through the book, I thought it was all a bit premature, but then MORE drama was added on top and the rest of the book explored the resolution of that particular topic. As you can see, I don’t want to give too much away and I only wish I had the time to go through the synopsis and talk a bit about the originality of the story line!
My only gripe and why I didn’t give it a 4.5 at least is that I found it too ... wordy? Tons of adjectives and using lots of big words that weren’t really necessary (which, for my simple mind, was a bit of overkill). ;)
But I do highly recommend it! Great story, excellent MCs and side characters and very entertaining to the end.
My only gripe and why I didn’t give it a 4.5 at least is that I found it too ... wordy? Tons of adjectives and using lots of big words that weren’t really necessary (which, for my simple mind, was a bit of overkill). ;)
But I do highly recommend it! Great story, excellent MCs and side characters and very entertaining to the end.
March 22, 2022
5+ stars
I read this debut by Milena McKay in February of 2021 and knew immediately she was an author to watch. I was blown away by the quality and depth of this, her first novel. And it was no fluke - she followed it up with The Headmistress that same year and has already cemented herself as one of the best lesfic authors in the genre.
As much as I loved reading this, listening to it was even better. And all because Abby Craden does longing and angst like nobody's business. While there are sometimes calls for more variety in who narrates lesbian audiobooks, I will just say if someone can do what Craden does, bring her on. However, she's a unique talent that digs deep to bring these stories to life and only a handful of narrators can accomplish it.
Her DeVor is just fabulous. Her voice, the ice queen persona, the tremendously gifted artist. The woman who has been so hurt in her past that she is afraid to open her heart to anyone again. And in investigative journalist Jamie Walker, she brings out her determination, her desire to tell the story that needs to be told and the longing she has for the enigmatic woman who is the subject of her exposé.
This book is so layered. While it is a romance, it's also a mystery. A Me Too story. A story of bravery. Of overcoming enormous challenges. Of being willing to do what must be done for the greater good.
If you haven't experienced this book yet, I can't recommend it highly enough. I believe the audio version raises the quality of the work - which was outstanding to begin with. I would be quite happy if Craden becomes the voice of McKay's work. Like Noyes/Craden and Winter/Dawe, they are made for each other.
I read this debut by Milena McKay in February of 2021 and knew immediately she was an author to watch. I was blown away by the quality and depth of this, her first novel. And it was no fluke - she followed it up with The Headmistress that same year and has already cemented herself as one of the best lesfic authors in the genre.
As much as I loved reading this, listening to it was even better. And all because Abby Craden does longing and angst like nobody's business. While there are sometimes calls for more variety in who narrates lesbian audiobooks, I will just say if someone can do what Craden does, bring her on. However, she's a unique talent that digs deep to bring these stories to life and only a handful of narrators can accomplish it.
Her DeVor is just fabulous. Her voice, the ice queen persona, the tremendously gifted artist. The woman who has been so hurt in her past that she is afraid to open her heart to anyone again. And in investigative journalist Jamie Walker, she brings out her determination, her desire to tell the story that needs to be told and the longing she has for the enigmatic woman who is the subject of her exposé.
This book is so layered. While it is a romance, it's also a mystery. A Me Too story. A story of bravery. Of overcoming enormous challenges. Of being willing to do what must be done for the greater good.
If you haven't experienced this book yet, I can't recommend it highly enough. I believe the audio version raises the quality of the work - which was outstanding to begin with. I would be quite happy if Craden becomes the voice of McKay's work. Like Noyes/Craden and Winter/Dawe, they are made for each other.
March 17, 2022
I didn’t read this book when it came out, because I found out it used to be a Mirandy fanfic and since I’m addicted to that ship, I decided to read the fic and not the book, but it became one of my favorite fanfics!! It’s so so good! I love this story so much 🥰
But now that the audiobook version came out and it’s narrated by the queen Abby Craden, I decided to listen to it and wow! It’s as perfect as I remember it, even better since it’s Abby Craden who’s voicing these amazing characters 😍 This story is just bittersweet and amazing and full of feelings and complex emotions, but so beautiful and powerful! I love it A LOT!! It makes me and my heart so happy 💛 100% recommend it!
But now that the audiobook version came out and it’s narrated by the queen Abby Craden, I decided to listen to it and wow! It’s as perfect as I remember it, even better since it’s Abby Craden who’s voicing these amazing characters 😍 This story is just bittersweet and amazing and full of feelings and complex emotions, but so beautiful and powerful! I love it A LOT!! It makes me and my heart so happy 💛 100% recommend it!
May 8, 2022
May 2022: this audiobook was quite a ride (just like the ebook version last year!) I enjoyed Delicate Things nearly as much this second time around. Abby Craden is a talented voice actor and I loved the way she altered her speaking cadence at the end of each chapter—it was dramatic as hell and also suited the author’s style very nicely.
Something I noted in the narration more than I did while reading it: none of the characters seemed to speak with contractions in their dialogues. It was always, “I did not want to worry you” instead of “I didn’t want to worry you.” Especially for Jamie, it felt a bit incongruous with how causally most 24(?) year old Americans typically speak.
Still loved this book. It’s thoughtfully laid out and the characters have such fantastic chemistry—Milena McKay pulled off a truly unique debut book concept with her skilled storytelling.
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Feb 2021: Can we talk about the sapphic power in lesfic debut novels recently? It is off the charts! (thinking also of Those Who Wait by Haley Cass)
McKay has written such a fantastic story beyond a love story with The Delicate Things We Make—it’s a mystery, drama, tragedy, and comedy as well. The plot is so engaging it’s hard to put down and I found myself itching to share the adventure with friends because I couldn’t keep the excitement in (kudos to those of you on twitter who indulged me, and most gratitude to my girlfriend who allowed me to recap everything I had read to her basically scene by scene). Just realized I didn’t actually share the superrrrr hot sex stuff with my girlfriend in the recaps. Missed opportunity! booo
Like other debut novels, there were some typos and repeated phrases/expressions but overall excellent writing. VERY much interested in future works by Milena McKay, and already have my copy of her novella ready to read!
Something I noted in the narration more than I did while reading it: none of the characters seemed to speak with contractions in their dialogues. It was always, “I did not want to worry you” instead of “I didn’t want to worry you.” Especially for Jamie, it felt a bit incongruous with how causally most 24(?) year old Americans typically speak.
Still loved this book. It’s thoughtfully laid out and the characters have such fantastic chemistry—Milena McKay pulled off a truly unique debut book concept with her skilled storytelling.
———
Feb 2021: Can we talk about the sapphic power in lesfic debut novels recently? It is off the charts! (thinking also of Those Who Wait by Haley Cass)
McKay has written such a fantastic story beyond a love story with The Delicate Things We Make—it’s a mystery, drama, tragedy, and comedy as well. The plot is so engaging it’s hard to put down and I found myself itching to share the adventure with friends because I couldn’t keep the excitement in (kudos to those of you on twitter who indulged me, and most gratitude to my girlfriend who allowed me to recap everything I had read to her basically scene by scene). Just realized I didn’t actually share the superrrrr hot sex stuff with my girlfriend in the recaps. Missed opportunity! booo
Like other debut novels, there were some typos and repeated phrases/expressions but overall excellent writing. VERY much interested in future works by Milena McKay, and already have my copy of her novella ready to read!
September 25, 2021
5 Stars for this debut novel by Milena McKay. EDIT: Initially, I gave this book 4.75 stars. But it kept nagging me. My reasoning was that it felt a bit long and I put it down a couple of times. Its not a completely fluffy story and that surprised me, though the signs were there. It made me feel. Sometimes uncomfortable. But comparing it to other books I'd given 5 stars, it totally deserved it too.
I downloaded the Devil Wears Prada fanfic this story was based on, when it was posted in Sept. 2020 but I never got around to reading it. Then downloaded this ebook, and I'm glad I waited for the published version. Eventually, I will go back and read the fanfic to compare.
Wow. What a great way to begin a writing career with a fabulous debut novel! I'm going to try to review this book without giving too much away. This can be categorized as a mystery-romance.
We follow down 'n out writer, Jamie Walker. An investigative journalist, she wrote a number of articles for several publications, but eventually jobs dried up and so for income she walked dogs and worked as a bartender. She ended up secretly sleeping in the attic of an art gallery where a friend worked. Her luck changed when the Editor-in-Chief of Poise magazine asks her to do an investigative story on the world famous artist, DeVor. DeVor's paintings and sculptures sold for millions of dollars, which they sold only one at a time at auction coincidentally taking place at the gallery where Jamie "lived". DeVor's art was a huge influence on the art world and fashion – as their latest painting's colors would be used in all the fashion houses. Although everybody was familiar with DeVor's work, but no one knew who DeVor was. The editor, tells Jamie that publisher, Gio Salvini is the person who commissioned her and will pay her thousands if she is successful. But, if she fails, she wouldn't be able to work in NY again. Jamie accepts the contract and so begins her search for any and all information on DeVor. She learns that New Yorker, Arabella Archibald bought the first DeVor sold in auction in NYC and later bought 2 paintings until the prices hit at over 1 million. She goes to interview Arabella and learns that Arabella owns the Gallery and that she knew that Jamie was sleeping in the attic. Arabella offers Jamie to stay in the mansion's maid's apartment. The only request Arabella has is for Jamie to use utmost professionalism and care when investigating DeVor.
So begins the mystery of DeVor. Who are they? Why the secrecy? Will Jamie be able to get an interview when she finds them? Will Jamie write the expose´ after meeting them?
This plot sounds deceptively simple. Readers journey with Jamie as she discovers it's not just about finding a mysterious artist.
I downloaded the Devil Wears Prada fanfic this story was based on, when it was posted in Sept. 2020 but I never got around to reading it. Then downloaded this ebook, and I'm glad I waited for the published version. Eventually, I will go back and read the fanfic to compare.
Wow. What a great way to begin a writing career with a fabulous debut novel! I'm going to try to review this book without giving too much away. This can be categorized as a mystery-romance.
We follow down 'n out writer, Jamie Walker. An investigative journalist, she wrote a number of articles for several publications, but eventually jobs dried up and so for income she walked dogs and worked as a bartender. She ended up secretly sleeping in the attic of an art gallery where a friend worked. Her luck changed when the Editor-in-Chief of Poise magazine asks her to do an investigative story on the world famous artist, DeVor. DeVor's paintings and sculptures sold for millions of dollars, which they sold only one at a time at auction coincidentally taking place at the gallery where Jamie "lived". DeVor's art was a huge influence on the art world and fashion – as their latest painting's colors would be used in all the fashion houses. Although everybody was familiar with DeVor's work, but no one knew who DeVor was. The editor, tells Jamie that publisher, Gio Salvini is the person who commissioned her and will pay her thousands if she is successful. But, if she fails, she wouldn't be able to work in NY again. Jamie accepts the contract and so begins her search for any and all information on DeVor. She learns that New Yorker, Arabella Archibald bought the first DeVor sold in auction in NYC and later bought 2 paintings until the prices hit at over 1 million. She goes to interview Arabella and learns that Arabella owns the Gallery and that she knew that Jamie was sleeping in the attic. Arabella offers Jamie to stay in the mansion's maid's apartment. The only request Arabella has is for Jamie to use utmost professionalism and care when investigating DeVor.
So begins the mystery of DeVor. Who are they? Why the secrecy? Will Jamie be able to get an interview when she finds them? Will Jamie write the expose´ after meeting them?
This plot sounds deceptively simple. Readers journey with Jamie as she discovers it's not just about finding a mysterious artist.
August 13, 2022
A very meaningful story of love, strength, vulnerability and survival with a fantastic narration by Abby Craden.
March 17, 2022
This is an update for the audiobook version narrated by Abby Craden.
I read this book exactly a year ago and now that I've reread my review I realise that I've been a bit harsh. I think it's because this book was so highly recommended to me that I've felt a bit disappointed when I didn't like it as much.
Anyway, this is a debut and as such it showed the great potential that Ms. McKay had as an author, potential that two books after has been corroborated, especially in the light of The Headmistress, which has been on everyone's lists of top wlw books of 2021, mine included.
Back to The Delicate Things We Make, after listening to the audiobook version, I came to two conclusions. One, that I still think that this book has bumps typical of a debut and two, that Abby Craden elevates any story that she performs. So I really recommend readers to listen to the audiobook instead of reading it.
What I'm going to say comes from a place of admiration for Ms. McKay's talent and with the benefit of hindsight. After experiencing this story for a second time, I wish that this hadn't been this author's debut. This is such a compelling and powerful story dealing with such a crucial delicate (no pun intended) subject that it would have deserved Ms. McKay writing at her best.
Abby Craden did, as usual, an amazing job and this story couldn't have had a better narrator. Ms. Craden is the perfect fit to bring Jamie and, most especially, Vivian to life. Excellent as usual. 4 stars.
Length: 9 hrs and 12 mins
I read this book exactly a year ago and now that I've reread my review I realise that I've been a bit harsh. I think it's because this book was so highly recommended to me that I've felt a bit disappointed when I didn't like it as much.
Anyway, this is a debut and as such it showed the great potential that Ms. McKay had as an author, potential that two books after has been corroborated, especially in the light of The Headmistress, which has been on everyone's lists of top wlw books of 2021, mine included.
Back to The Delicate Things We Make, after listening to the audiobook version, I came to two conclusions. One, that I still think that this book has bumps typical of a debut and two, that Abby Craden elevates any story that she performs. So I really recommend readers to listen to the audiobook instead of reading it.
What I'm going to say comes from a place of admiration for Ms. McKay's talent and with the benefit of hindsight. After experiencing this story for a second time, I wish that this hadn't been this author's debut. This is such a compelling and powerful story dealing with such a crucial delicate (no pun intended) subject that it would have deserved Ms. McKay writing at her best.
Abby Craden did, as usual, an amazing job and this story couldn't have had a better narrator. Ms. Craden is the perfect fit to bring Jamie and, most especially, Vivian to life. Excellent as usual. 4 stars.
Length: 9 hrs and 12 mins
February 10, 2021
This book is based on a Mirandy's fanfic I read last year. This fic was fabulous but the book is much better, it's outstanding. I highly recommend this new author.
March 24, 2021
This was a very good debut novel. I enjoyed the story.
September 19, 2025
Milena McKay enters Lee Winter territory as she crafts a framing narrative that is at least as interesting and engaging as the central romance itself. I always think that if a romance story minus the romance is still an interesting story, then you’re likely to be reading one heck of a book! Enjoy especially Lee Winter for this, where the frame narrative could have a life of its own. The trick to making this kind of romance successful is ensuring that the romance does not get drowned within the other aspects of the story. As I say, there is nobody better in lesfic than Lee Winter, for me, at finding the perfect balance. But my Milena McKay pulls this off superbly here, too, with an intriguing mystery to begin with that develops into a how-does-she-get-out-of-that situation, all while falling in love.
Both leads are superb, Ms McKay writes superb ice queens and plucky heroines. Jamie is a delight. Their chemistry sizzles pretty much from the moment they meet.
This is the third story I greatly enjoyed by this author; I would put this top of three (this one, The Headmistress, and a Whisper of Solace).
Highly recommended and, as always, perfectly performed by Abby Craden in the audio version, with which I happily curled up :).
Both leads are superb, Ms McKay writes superb ice queens and plucky heroines. Jamie is a delight. Their chemistry sizzles pretty much from the moment they meet.
This is the third story I greatly enjoyed by this author; I would put this top of three (this one, The Headmistress, and a Whisper of Solace).
Highly recommended and, as always, perfectly performed by Abby Craden in the audio version, with which I happily curled up :).
February 22, 2025
“How she copes, how she lives, how she survives… It’s none of your business. If she opened up to you, if she shared any of this with you, that alone is a tremendous privilege she bestowed on you. You are not entitled to her trauma. Nobody in the world is.”
4.5
Above all, this is a powerful story about women uniting to seek justice. It's raw, important, and heartbreakingly authentic. Words fall short of capturing the impact of Milena McKay's narrative; her work is truly beautiful and I shed a few happy tears reading the Epilogue.
4.5
Above all, this is a powerful story about women uniting to seek justice. It's raw, important, and heartbreakingly authentic. Words fall short of capturing the impact of Milena McKay's narrative; her work is truly beautiful and I shed a few happy tears reading the Epilogue.
March 13, 2021
I love this book, holds element of May December romance, Ice queen, slow burn?! Not sure about the last element. Anyway, it had been some time since I have been reading word for word in a book, can't wait for the next chapter yet afraid that it is the last.
McKay really writes well, and I love that how the plot intricately came together. Moving on to her next book, and hoping desperately this author churns out more works!
McKay really writes well, and I love that how the plot intricately came together. Moving on to her next book, and hoping desperately this author churns out more works!
February 3, 2021
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I have to be honest, there's nothing particularly bad about this book. I think it's well written, there are no big editing issues and the characters and general "vibe" feels like it's surely based on The Devil Wears Prada which I honestly love so I don't have a problem with that.
It's an age gap romance with ice queen character, which was great, with some unfortunate for me side of insta love, which I love less. But my real problem was with the fact that I really couldn't get into this story. It felt like the plot was too big for this book, I think from the moment we find out what caused DeVor to disappear the book completely changes track without rhyme or reason.
And then there's the main relationship, I think the book focused way too little on it, they were immediately in love/drawn to each other and yet every time there was a conflict between them it felt very nonsensical. I knew what the fights were supposed to be about but it didn't feel like I actually read them arguing about anything or it didn't make sense they would be even angry at each other over it. And honestly as much as I loved DeVor I truly didn't care about Jamie. She was purer than snow and she could do no wrong in her own eyes. We spend the first good chunk of the book with her lying about who she really is but when the confrontation happens she manages to turn herself into the victim.
I think this book might just not be for me.
I have to be honest, there's nothing particularly bad about this book. I think it's well written, there are no big editing issues and the characters and general "vibe" feels like it's surely based on The Devil Wears Prada which I honestly love so I don't have a problem with that.
It's an age gap romance with ice queen character, which was great, with some unfortunate for me side of insta love, which I love less. But my real problem was with the fact that I really couldn't get into this story. It felt like the plot was too big for this book, I think from the moment we find out what caused DeVor to disappear the book completely changes track without rhyme or reason.
And then there's the main relationship, I think the book focused way too little on it, they were immediately in love/drawn to each other and yet every time there was a conflict between them it felt very nonsensical. I knew what the fights were supposed to be about but it didn't feel like I actually read them arguing about anything or it didn't make sense they would be even angry at each other over it. And honestly as much as I loved DeVor I truly didn't care about Jamie. She was purer than snow and she could do no wrong in her own eyes. We spend the first good chunk of the book with her lying about who she really is but when the confrontation happens she manages to turn herself into the victim.
I think this book might just not be for me.
November 1, 2021
4.5 stars, rounded up. Another wonderful story from Milena McKay! This definitely deals with some heavy and potentially triggering content (namely sexual assault), so read with care <3
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