Phillip, thank you so much for taking the time to read Hemlock Manor and, particularly, for giving it such a thoughtful and considered review.
I genuinely appreciate the care you've taken to look at both what worked for you and what didn't. As a writer, those are often the most valuable reviews to receive—not simply praise, but an honest reader's experience of the story.
Hemlock Manor was the beginning of that particular journey for me, so it means a great deal to see you engage so deeply with its atmosphere, characters, mysteries and Gothic world. I was especially pleased by your observations about the manor almost becoming a character in its own right, and about the sensory atmosphere and psychological tension. Those elements were very close to my heart when I wrote it.
And thank you for being equally candid about the areas that didn't work as strongly for you. I respect that enormously.
Most of all, I'm rather touched that you chose Hemlock Manor in the first place. Of all the books you could have picked from my catalogue, I wasn't expecting that one to suddenly appear on your reading list—and certainly wasn't expecting such a substantial review.
Thank you, Phillip. Four stars gratefully received, criticism included. It means a great deal when another writer gives a book this much of their time and attention.
I genuinely appreciate the care you've taken to look at both what worked for you and what didn't. As a writer, those are often the most valuable reviews to receive—not simply praise, but an honest reader's experience of the story.
Hemlock Manor was the beginning of that particular journey for me, so it means a great deal to see you engage so deeply with its atmosphere, characters, mysteries and Gothic world. I was especially pleased by your observations about the manor almost becoming a character in its own right, and about the sensory atmosphere and psychological tension. Those elements were very close to my heart when I wrote it.
And thank you for being equally candid about the areas that didn't work as strongly for you. I respect that enormously.
Most of all, I'm rather touched that you chose Hemlock Manor in the first place. Of all the books you could have picked from my catalogue, I wasn't expecting that one to suddenly appear on your reading list—and certainly wasn't expecting such a substantial review.
Thank you, Phillip. Four stars gratefully received, criticism included. It means a great deal when another writer gives a book this much of their time and attention.
— Iwan