Reviews of Joan - Put on a Happy Face
'WOW! Your book is a tour de force. The research that you must have done to cover such a huge amount of years is amazing - I loved this book, you are a natural born storyteller. Congratulations!' Erin Pizzey - Author & Founder of the first women's refuge in UK
"I was truly moved by The Journey of Joan. Joan's quest to reclaim her past and reunite with her family, despite losing her voice and art, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The emotional depth and resilience portrayed in her journey are captivating, and the way you wove her story across centuries added so much complexity. Thank you for such a powerful and thought-provoking read!" (Anon)
"Joan: Put on a Happy Face (Where historical fiction meets true events) (The Elixir Chronicles Book 1)". The intriguing blend of historical fiction, mystery, fantasy, and immortality captivated my interest. Your ability to weave true events with fantastical elements is truly commendable. (Alexis Reese of Shout My Book)
'Ello Carol, I managed to get the paperback version from Amazon and had time to read over the holidays. Well done! An excellent read. I loved your characters and really enjoyed following them on their journey. I'm looking forward to the next book. I really enjoyed the chapters that you recorded too. I think I will ask Amanda to record my book when it's finished. Best wishes' Mark Hadlett - Author, Musician & Graphic designer
"I thoroughly recommend this book. It’s a fantastic read and so very interesting. It’s one of those books that I just could not put down - reading late into the night. I sincerely hope that many others decide to read this incredible read, they will definitely not be disappointed. It’s brilliantly written and a total joy to spend some happy hours lost within its fabulous pages. Bravo and Congratulations to the author Carol M. Mottershead."
[Tricia Walsh]
'Finished your book this morning and I LOVED it - as all my family on my Mum's side are Italian I loved it even more! When they went to the seaside resort in Italy I had and in my mind that it was in my hometown Viareggio which is on the side of Italy and is the most wonderful place in the world - every year they have a Carnival (which is the biggest one in Europe) and is full of amazing floats and I think Joan and co would love performing in it.' Chantal Taylor - Event organiser
'I think it's perfect' Phil Webster - Musician
'Easy to read and quite a page turner. It deserves to become popular. I enjoyed the tantalising summary and was especially interested how the author rehabilitate Joan as a warm resilient and enterprising character. Pat Hardwicke - Retired Social worker
'I've really enjoyed this book. An interesting mix of plot points that cover everything from historical fiction and fantasy, to an in-depth study of marital issues and the strength of character to rise above it. I hope the author continues this story as I really liked the ending too...' David Littlefair - Author
'Love the read, was not expecting the way that Carol has done the story to play out across the eras found it to be a thrilling read.' Etienne Clayphan - Happy reader!
Couldn't put it down, what read! Loved this book, couldn't wait to get to the end and at the same time wished it could go on for ever. Enjoyed the weaving of relationships with historical element. Can't wait to read the next one. [LizFev]
'Just read the first chapter and already I'm hooked. Loving it!' Ron Popple - Puppeteer, Magician
'Very enjoyable read! Enjoyed the history of Punch and Judy. Great story line and easy to ready... will there be a sequel?' [Yes there will Tony] Tony Scarth - Tribute to Tom Jones
'I couldn't put it down. Looking forward to UR next one!' Sharon Young - Happy reader!
'This is an amazing read!' Tricia Blake - Choreographer, Singer
'Great read! I am not a big reader but this was an easy read with a plot to keep me gripped.' Angie Lake - Teacher
"A real window on to history in an engaging love story - I really enjoyed the attention to detail in this novel, which gave a real sense of place and time to an exciting romp of a love story. It took me to a place in history, about which I previously knew very little, and really set the scene to enjoy the twists in the unfolding story. A good read!" [McFarlane]
"A quick read!- A very engaging read. A fascinating take on the imaginary life of Punch's Judy. Lots of historical allusions to keep you intrigued and keen to see where it all goes. It must have taken a lot of research. Not what I would have chosen, if it hadn't been for the recommendation of a friend. I am very glad I tried it. Very much looking forward to the sequel!" [Amazon review]
"Very well researched and basically a good story line but couldn't help noticing some similarities to the film 'Judy and Punch'" [Brenda Timmins]
"A fascinating tale of life through the ages. Truly a must read of 2020! I look forward to seeing what's next!" [Alun Littlefair]
"Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! Keeps the reader hooked and some interesting twists and turns!!! Would highly recommend!" [Faith Burgess] "
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