Reviewed by Kate

The Lonely Dream introduces the reader to Emily Spike, a young woman who appears timid, but normal, to an admiring young man who sees her jogging. The reader soon finds out, however, that Emily is learning to live with the aftermath of a plane crash.

The premise of this story is intriguing, a look at the private life of another can hold fascination, as evidenced by the popularity of celebrity tell-all biographies. The events in Emily's past, while leaving no scars on the outside, have changed her on the inside in ways that an onlooker could never guess. The author moves the reader smoothly from present to past, linking two evenings in Emily's life.

One thing that is a bit distracting is the date of Emily's disastrous plane journey. A little fact-checking is perhaps in order, assuming the author did not intend creative anachronism.

Emily's story has the potential to be a good psychological piece. I would suggest that the author look at building character and dramatic tension with more showing and less telling, and enlarge on the good, non-sentimental tone operating here.

Story by © LeEtta Kitterman

Reviewed by © Kate

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