Review and Critics
Jithendra Jithu's Reviews of book "Lilly Among Clouds" (5/5 stars)
Marie Washtag's Lilly Among Clouds is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that brilliantly fuses crime drama with modern psychological insights, tackling heavy themes such as war trauma, refugee crises, drug abuse, violence, prostitution, and unemployment. Set against the grim backdrop of post-World War II society, this novel explores the deep scars left by war and how they continue to haunt both individuals and entire societies. 👉At the heart of the story is Lilly, a complex and resilient protagonist navigating a world that has been shattered by war. Her character is a raw and authentic portrayal of a woman grappling with the psychological aftermath of conflict. Washtag does a remarkable job of diving into Lilly’s emotional and mental state, exposing the weight of her trauma while also celebrating her strength and determination to survive in a society filled with chaos. The reader is drawn into Lilly's world, sharing in her suffering and triumphs, making her one of the most compelling characters I’ve read in a while. 👉The setting of Lilly Among Clouds is as much a character as Lilly herself, vividly illustrating a society in turmoil. Washtag’s depiction of refugees, the horrors of drug addiction, and the harsh realities of crime and violence make the story incredibly relevant and powerful. Each page is steeped in the gritty realism of a world struggling to rebuild itself, where the consequences of war are still felt daily. The novel goes beyond just a crime story—it is a reflection on human suffering, resilience, and the complexities of rebuilding a life in the shadow of destruction.🔥📚🤩 👉What sets this novel apart is its psychological depth. Washtag has a keen understanding of the human mind, and her characters are imbued with rich psychological complexity. Lilly’s internal struggles, along with those of the supporting characters, are masterfully explored, giving the story an added layer of emotional intensity. The way past traumas impact present behaviors is intricately woven into the plot, making the reader feel every emotional beat of the characters’ lives.
Review from AIMEE ANN for the novel "AN UNEXPECTED MESS" by Marie Washtag (5/5 stars)
Contemporary life in a modern country drives cruel existential conditions and violence against people. This is a story about human solidarity in an unknown environment, about people and their faith. “Marta is sitting down and looking…” So begins “An Unexpected Mess” written by the TALENTED and WELL-ACCOMPLISHED author that is MARIE WASHTAG. Washtag’s latest novel is a hard-hitting, poignant, moving piece of contemporary fiction that will move Its readers. Its incredible story which is focused on harsh realities that occur will make the reader feel a host of different emotions. Contemporary fiction is an incredible genre for me, because most of these books examine the world today through a fictional character and MARIE WASHTAG has PERFECTLY DONE just this with her novel: AN UNEXPECTED MESS. “An Unexpected Mess” is a moving piece of literature that is hard hitting at times, but also crucial to read. It explores the life of Marta and her journey (as well as a few more characters journeys). In the modern world and to overcome adversity. Violence dominates the world, it is around every corner, and even though the events that happen within this GENIUS NOVEL are enough to break the human solidarity conquess and rises. The PREMISE of novel “An Unexpected Mess” is just this, but please know book lovers that a host of other things occurs and when it does it is incredibly entertaining that will keep you turning the pages into the early hours of the morning! MARIE WASHTAG is an INCREDIBLE AUTHOR whose first two books look just as BRILLIANT as this one. I admit I have not read the first two book written by her, but I am desperate to now after this exceptional book of hers! I mention her two books because when I read the descritions of both, they are both very different and different from the tone of “An Unexpected Mess”. This confims that MARIE WASHTAG is a TALENTED, VERSATILE AUTHOR who know how to write great stories that appeal to many different readers. Her perfect book will move you as a reader and will make you think about the world and the hars realities that occur as well as what you can do to change this. Overall “An Unexpected Mess” is a beautifully written, flawless novel that will take its readers on a journey of emotions and so I have no choice but to award AN UNEXPECTED MESS a dazzling ***** FIVE STARS! So please book lovers, read this flawless book and be lost in its poiqnant story. I promise you will not be disappointed!
Pratibha Malav's Reviews - "A COSSACK'S HOUSE" - (5/5 Stars)
Marie Wastag's "A Cossack's House" is a compelling and immersive psychological drama thriller set in the vibrant and enigmatic world of the Cossack regions in southern Russia. With its captivating narrative, complex characters, and exploration of profound themes, this contemporary novel is a thought-provoking and suspenseful read from beginning to end. At the heart of the story is a deeply intertwined love story, where the lives of the characters are shaped by their connections to each other and to the legacy of the Cossack culture. Wastag expertly weaves together the themes of love, identity, and the impact of the past on the present, creating a rich tapestry of human relationships that will keep readers engrossed. The novel spans 330 pages, allowing ample room for the story to unfold at a measured pace, giving readers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the intricacies of the plot and the complexities of the characters' lives. Wastag's writing style is eloquent and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the Cossack regions and bringing the setting to life in the minds of the readers. One of the strengths of "A Cossack's House" lies in its well-developed characters. The protagonists are multi-dimensional, each carrying their own personal struggles, desires, and secrets. The psychological drama aspect of the story adds layers of tension and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you are a fan of contemporary fiction, historical settings, or simply enjoy a thought-provoking read, "A Cossack's House" is a must-read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.