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Reviewed by Olga Markova for Readers' Favorite
Phase by James K. West is an impressive novella for young adults. We are transported to the office of a Washington D.C. law firm and meet twenty-five-year-old Alison Riley, a conscientious, high-performing legal secretary who values her job and the living comforts it provides. Alison also enjoys her secret hobby of drumming. She does not have a life partner but fancies George Kerns, an office supply clerk. But after four years of uneventful routine, Alison’s life and work experience a major shake-up when Joan Stevens joins the firm as a secretary. Joan quickly becomes “mystery secretary”, and one day George asks her for a date. Alison tries to stay uninvolved in the flirt and gossip. But will she manage? And what lies ahead for Alice, Joan, and George?
Phase resonated with me on two pervasive themes. First, Alison’s work for a D.C. law firm saw me compare her experience with my early career days as a legal secretary with a UK law firm. And then, Alison fell for drumming as I did for piano. Further into the story, I enjoyed Alison’s take on the psychological and relationship issues she encountered in her work and personal life. I could not help marveling at how much meaning and depth James K. West fitted into this concise novella without compromising on the fast-moving and enticing action. But what made this story truly stand out for me was the unexpected, dramatic ending. If you like thought-provoking stories about life, romance, and music, this story will not disappoint you.
