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Emma Hartley is an author and artist living in picturesque Maine. She has been writing and making art since childhood and has been insatiably curious and industrious her whole life. Emma was a double major in English and Fine Arts and holds a Masters in Art and Design Education. This devotion to art is apparent in her in her novels, manifesting itself in the work her characters enjoy. Emma’s other interests include playing drums in an indie rock band, gardening, and exploring every square inch of the Maine coastline. The Annealing of Aliza Bennett is her second novel.
Reviewed by Deborah Lloyd for Readers' Favorite
From page one, the reader discovers this is not a typical romantic novel. Annealing is not a common word in the English language, and the author includes the definition: to heat and cool (as steel or glass) usually for softening and making less brittle; to strengthen, toughen. Aliza Bennett is a 22-year-old actress, who has already lived a difficult life. She, along with Jesse Black, are the costars of a new prime time drama. The filming takes place in Twin Falls, a small idyllic New England town, the opposite of their Los Angeles homes. Aliza is strong and feisty, with a troubling past that has followed her from LA. As she and Jesse forge a loving relationship, her abusive ex-boyfriend becomes a major threat. Author Emma Hartley has written a complex and thought-provoking novel in The Annealing of Aliza Bennett.
The story is mostly relayed through in-depth, serious conversations between the two main characters, Jesse and Aliza. Jesse perceives Aliza’s inner turmoil quickly and soon forms a protective, devoted connection with her. Other characters in the plot include Rudy, the supportive director; Michelle, the insightful makeup artist; Jesse’s affectionate mother and grandmother; and Cameron, the domineering ex-boyfriend. The writing style is easy to read and informative – for example, the explanation and treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder is accurate and understandable to any reader. The Annealing of Aliza Bennett by Emma Hartley is a wonderful book for someone who enjoys a fascinating exploration of a budding committed relationship. The title itself is fascinating indeed!
