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Lizbeth J was born in Los Angeles, California, with a rich Mexican heritage she’s proud of. She currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with two cherished companions—her cats Leia and Luna. When she's not writing, Lizbeth enjoys participating in thrilling Dungeons & Dragons sessions with her friends, getting lost in the pages of her beloved romance novels, capturing the beauty of nature through her photography, or relishing the genuine Mexican dishes served at small establishments.
Reviewed by Lorraine Cobcroft for Readers' Favorite
Beneath Autumn Leaves, by Lizbeth J, opens with Autumn Evans returning to the town she grew up in after a seven-year absence. But she is keeping dark secrets from her family and friends. The author has created a character who is struggling with her self-image, her relationship with her mother, and her memories of years of spousal abuse. Autumn’s abuser, Mason, re-enters her life. A chance encounter draws Emmett Miller into her world and entices her to stay in the town she fled from. But Emmett has a past too, and forgiveness isn’t always easy. Then, just when Autumn begins to heal and she and Emmett see real hope for their future, Mason manages to turn their lives upside down again. Can they ever find peace?
Lizbeth J doesn’t just tell a gripping story. She doesn’t just create believable characters. She takes us into Autumn’s mind and heart. We experience the fear, the sense of betrayal, the hurt of a daughter desperate for her mother’s approval, and the yearning for the sense of security that comes with being truly loved. Reading Beneath Autumn Leaves forces you to, for a while, be Autumn Evans. Lizbeth J takes us into the world of the deranged abuser, showing us precisely how his manipulation confuses his victim and destroys her sense of self-worth. She shows us how the victim becomes isolated and full of shame. If you have never experienced spousal abuse or been close to someone who has, this story might help you understand its profound effect. It might offer a glimpse into the workings of the minds of some abusers. Yet this is done with tact and discretion, in a manner that does not distract from the entertainment value of the story. This is a story with depth. It’s a story that evokes a powerful emotive response. But it’s also a story full of hope and reassurance of the healing power of love and genuine friendship. It’s a fantastic read for anyone who loves great women’s fiction, psychological thrillers, and stories that entertain us while shining a light in the darkest corners of our world.
