PRAISE FOR THE STORY HOUSE
There is something very special about hearing what happens after a story leaves my hands and finds its way into someone else’s.
Reader Testimonials, Reviews & Endorsements
Praise for The Story House gathers some of the thoughtful words readers have shared about my books, stories and writing. Some speak about a particular book. Others speak about the emotions, memories or reflections a story stirred. I am deeply grateful for every reader who takes the time to tell me what a book has meant to them.
Reader Voices
Every reader brings their own experiences to a story, and sometimes their words reveal something about a book that I could never say for myself.
Praise for The Story House
On Closer Still and Writing That Draws the Reader Deeper
Janet Evanovich
New York Times bestselling author
There’s something very intentional in the way you write… like you’re not trying to rush the reader anywhere, just gently drawing them closer, step by step. That kind of restraint is harder than it looks.
I’ve learned over time that writing from a place of faith and reflection tends to ask something back from the writer, not just the reader. It doesn’t let you stay on the surface.
What you said about not being able to move forward until the words worked on you first — that felt familiar, even if we arrive there from very different places.
I think the work that lasts tends to do that… it slows you down whether you planned for it or not. I’m also intrigued by that doorway you mentioned — how Closer Still led you into The Heart of the Kingdom. There’s something interesting about when one book doesn’t quite let you go and instead becomes the beginning of another conversation.”
Praise for The Story House
On Shadows Across the Lake
“I read your first chapter of Shadows Across The Lake. And it knocked my socks off. Debbie, this looks like a really good read.”
“I think your writing is outstanding. Polished and plain, and writing for kids without writing down to them. Wow.”
— John Gargrave
Praise for The Story House
On The Boy with the Tin Trunk
“First of all, you write so eloquently! Your book reminds me of Charles Dickens’ work and also of another favourite author of mine: Catherine Cookson.”
“You said this story was very difficult for you to write. It was very difficult for Jimmy to live. And, it was even difficult for me to read. So deep…..So intense…..So real.”
“I stayed with Jimmy all the way through chapter eleven. Then I just had to go looking for the light…..your Mom….his Grace. So I skipped ahead to chapter 19. Ahhhhhhh, lovely relief! Now, I have the hope I need to go back to the young Jimmy….”
— Shirley, reader of The Boy with the Tin Trunk
Praise for The Story House
Professional Endorsement
Mike O’Connor
Book & Publishing Coach • Author of Pages to Profit
35+ years teaching publishing at Western, York, U of T and Ryerson
Has worked with authors including Margaret Atwood, Jann Arden and Robert Munsch
Mike O’Connor has endorsed Debbie Blower professionally on LinkedIn and has given permission for his endorsement and publishing background to be shared here.
A Story Shared Becomes Part of Something More
I am deeply grateful to every reader who has taken the time to share their thoughts and to those who have allowed their words to be included here.
If something you have read has made you curious, I invite you to continue exploring The Story House.
Have you read one of my books? I’d love to hear what stayed with you.