Red City Review

http://redcityreview.com/reviews/the-brownstone-by-julie-brown/

The Brownstone by Julie Brown

The Brownstone, written by Julie Brown is the first book of The Brownstone Series. Many people have suffered from some sort of loss in their lives, for one reason or another. A reader will find themselves spiritually, emotionally, and mentally connecting with the main character Lilli’s life experiences right away, as the author skillfully weaves them through the concepts of life after death, of joy after devastation, healing, and a journey towards clarification. The story is exciting, adventurous, and far from predictable. A reader will find themselves finished reading quickly, as the suspense to know what happens next is increased with each chapter. I absolutely related to and loved this book. It has everything a well-rounded reader could want; adventure, romance, suspense, and a great mix of events and emotions. This is a must read new series from a promising new author.

Troubled Waters by Julie Brown

In this second installment of the Brownstone series, Julie Brown writes Lili as she moves past her most vulnerable stages. Lili is still the compassionate and light-hearted woman she’s always been, evolving with each change she is put through. When the world continues to beat her down, she does not roll over and allow it. There are many lessons to learn: those of healing, those of self-love, and then how to bring out that inner strength to love others. Lili’s story reminds readers that when one path closes, a million more branch out. Her character is woven with complexities that mirror real life — it is no walk in the park to move on. Each supporting character is also fleshed out to give credence to their message. Beautifully crafted, the story gives Lili options beyond what she thought she was meant for. There is no replacing dancing and loving Terence, but surrounded by those that care for her, she wonders about one doctor that is more than sweet on her, and someone waiting for her back at the Brownstone. Troubled Waters is a moving tale of transcendence and survival with grace. Readers may take the steps to find peace alongside the story, just as Lili is saved.

Celtic Whispers by Julie Brown is a rich, multilayered story replete with romance, adventure, suspense, mysticism, and both interpersonal and inner-personal drama. A very touching, soulful tome, it explores, and challenges, the boundaries of life as we know it and ultimately shows that the “human experience” isn’t as cut and dry as we perceive it. As Lili continues to come to terms with her Gift, discovers shocking secrets, and struggles to make difficult life decisions, the reader can’t help but feel concern and worry about her fate. But, with that concern and worry, there comes great comfort. Just as Lili learns a great deal throughout the novel, the reader learns a great deal through her story—and, in the end, both are left with a greater understanding of what it means to truly live, love, and experience freedom.