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P is for (The) Puzzle Master

So, it wouldn't be right if I didn't plug my own book for the letter "P." A few months ago, I ventured into unknown territory ... and self-published a middle grade book.

Here's the synopsis:

Twelve-year-old Marshall Thompson's favorite place in the world is Luke's Junk Store. With one more trip in before school begins, he's intent on finding the perfect thing to take with him on his first day back. But his "great find" ends up being a girl -- and a friendship begins that will change him forever.


Together, they share a love of puzzles and something else: sickness. With his asthma, and her in cancer recovery, they're linked as kindred spirits. But when a life-changing incident threatens their friendship, Marshall has to learn to pick up the pieces to his broken puzzle of life and put them back together.

The Puzzle Master is a story of friendship, love, forgiveness and hope; issues that surround us at the youngest of age. Through Marshall's tragedies and triumphs, he learns to accept change and overcome his trials even when they seem insurmountable.

Engrossing story, with engaging characters. This novel could stand beside Bridge to Terebithia in a classroom -- it's that good.-- Goodreads Review (I had to add this awesome review!)

Needless to say, this isn't some happy little book. It isn't about vampires, or some fantasy world (though those are great too.)  It's somewhat serious and it's not that long (42,000 words, or about 125 reading pages). But it's a little story that I felt needed to be told. It's that simple. Great for middle grade, and even better for young adults and adults. Check it out on Amazon. I have it in Kindle and paperback versions. Kindle is only $.99. Would love imput, or a review, if you feel so inclined.



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Comments

  1. CourtneyApril 18, 2012 at 10:23 AM

    Heather - I read it last week when I was on vacation, and I loved it. I gave it a good review on Amazon, too. The characters are still rolling around in my head, and I surprised myself by coming very close to crying at the end. I won't spoil it here by saying exactly what scene, but I'm sure you know! It was great.

    (By the way, the Kindle version that I read had a few random errors. Clearly some kind of transposing issue. Just thought you might want to know that.)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heather SpivaApril 18, 2012 at 10:50 AM

      Thanks so much! Your review was great. :) I can't tell you how much I appreciate that.

      And yes, I checked out the random errors. I think kindle has issues with formatting and hence, wording. So that can be frustrating, because I absolutely went over the ms with a fine-tooth comb! I'll check it out again though. Thanks.

      Delete
  2. Krista McLaughlinApril 18, 2012 at 3:15 PM

    This sounds like a very good book! I'll have to add it to my list of books to read! :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Karen BaldwinApril 18, 2012 at 3:25 PM

    "P"lug away...that's what these blogs are all about.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Jay NoelApril 18, 2012 at 8:12 PM

    Good plug! It sounds like a really good book - like something my 11 year old would pick up on his own. Will have to get it for him.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heather SpivaApril 18, 2012 at 8:40 PM

      Jay, you look too young to have an 11 year old. And I should know... I have an 11 year old too. Anyway, thanks. ;)

      Delete
  5. AnonymousApril 19, 2012 at 7:59 AM

    I've got a copy! Can't wait to start reading it (after the A to Z Challenge is done).

    ReplyDelete
  6. Notes4netaApril 19, 2012 at 8:17 AM

    I've downloaded a copy because it sounds intriguing! Looking forward to reading it!

    ReplyDelete

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