Carla Rene' The Gaslight Journal

[Giovanni Gelati]

When I got this I didn’t know what to expect. The last time I read something by this author it was a series of digital shorts put together: they were cute and humorous. Please feel free to go back through our archives for
that. Today though, we are featuring a full length feature by Carla Rene’ that
is almost a 180 degree turn from that, a Christmas story, The Gaslight Journal.
Here is the synopsis of the novel:”

“Sometimes, you can't go home again...The year is 1881. In spite of being in America, how you appear to Victorian high-society determines your future. Isabella Audley is on Christmas break from Radcliffe, returning
home for the first time in 3 years to Fairtown, NY. Grieving the loss of her
father, who died of pneumonia a month before leaving for school, she is excited
to finally spend holiday with her mother, Lilly, see cherished friends, and
step back into the life of privilege she's always known. When the only life
you've known shatters around you, and your choices are limited...But her bliss
is cut short with rumours of a tragedy that's befallen her mother. While
rummaging for decorations one afternoon, "Izzy" finds her father's
journal, after being told of its destruction. She learns its shameful secret
that's already set their path for ruin. Soon, it's evident that Izzy and
Lilly's relationship may not stand against Lilly's deception at having full
knowledge of the secret all along. Chances are slim that a love destined from
the start will survive. Only Thomas, a childhood friend, whom she soon
discovers has a dark secret of his own, has it in his power to pull them from
ruin. As Izzy finds herself falling for him, it's soon apparent that their
difference in stations may prevent them from finding the happiness they were
meant to have.”

Quite a mouthful I must say, but what else would one come to expect from Carla Rene’? I enjoyed the way she fleshed out her characters and gave them a reason to find other issues with each other besides the passing of
her father. Life never seems to be that easy. I enjoyed going on the journey
with Isabella and the townspeople. The plotline was nice for this time of year
and everything seemed to fit as she made me comfortable with all the uneasiness
surrounding all the little secrets that hovered around and around. Will Thomas,
Izzy, Lilly and the gang enjoy a good Christmas and find the happiness and
serenity they hope and wish for? Whose secrets trump whose? Is Carla Rene’ a
good author whose work should be read and enjoyed? I will only answer the last
question, and that would be a resounding yes. Check this out and add it to your
lists of novels to enjoy this Holiday season.

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