Why would
this novel be of interest?
1. It reveals the power influence entertainers can have on
their fans.
2. It
reveals the enduring quality of some entertainers.
3. The
dual setting of northern Nova Scotia and New England
provides an international flavor.
4. It is
still possible to tell a powerful story without extreme
violence or steamy sex!
5.
Through Robert’s struggle with the antagonist, we gain a
clear definition of manliness.
6. The
use of and value of diaries and heirlooms are featured.
7. It
highlights a minority group that rarely gets attention: the
miners from Belgium who came to work the pits in North
America.
What
have others said about the novel?
John Donatelli of New Jersey, USA a web master for a
comprehensive Connie Francis web site, provided the
following comments on the novel: “Even if you're not a fan
of singer Connie Francis, this is a heartwarming, romantic
story of the struggles and triumphs that only love can
endure and conquer. It also shows how the power of song,
sung by a power of a voice can influence our lives. Reading
you won't want to put down until the very last word. And
then pick it up and read again!”
A great read! December 26, 2002 Reviewer: Sharon
Gauthier from Nova Scotia
I am very careful about what I choose to read. I have a busy
career and want to spend my home time relaxing. This book
was a melody of feelings and scenes from all of our youths.
The main character experiences sadness and joy and a love
that he must keep private. The scenes from his home are
sensitive and warm. There are many clever lines and turns in
this work. The sub-plots were cleverly interwoven . As an
English teacher, I constantly looked for good Canadian
writers- Henaut makes the grade.
Multi-layered, February 1, 2003 Reviewer: A reader
from New England. This author obviously writes of what
he knows; the result is an engaging story peopled with
characters who are believable, refreshing and sometimes
unique. Robert and Rachel's long-term, long distance romance
provides for a creative exploration of the traditional link
between New England and the Maritime Provinces. There is an
excellent portrayal of the elderly; the reclusive aunts
(bouquet) and the manor guests. Trevor is a classic villain;
I was surprised by the twist at the end of the novel. This
novel does not need violence or sex to make it a worthwhile
read! The unusual device of interweaving the effect of
Connie Francis' music on their romance works well. The
reader will not want this multi-layered ‘good read’ to end.
Contains the key ingredients, August 17, 2003 Reviewer: A
reader from New Brunswick. With Connie, With Love
contains all the key ingredients of a good romance novel and
lovers of the genre will feel this to be a good read.
No Need For Censure, August 16, 2003 Reviewer: A reader
from Toronto. The novel can be left unattended on a
coffee table. No need to worry whether your children will
read it or Aunt Grace if she visits or the minister or
priest for that matter. And anyone who enjoys romance would
have to find some pleasure in spending a few hours with
Robert and Rachel. It may not be a classic in the making,
but it will satisfy the need for an escape to a world where
values count, people care and good triumphs in the end.
Katherine
Old/Young, July 27, 2003 Reviewer: Senior Citizen from
Nova Scotia. The novel has a lot going for it: a good
love story, fast paced plot, and unique characters. I think
Trevor makes a great villain and "the bouquet" are
extraordinary characters. Don't we all wish we knew people
like those strange Bronte like sisters? I think that best
feature of the novel was the evolution of the relationships
between the aged and the young caregivers. Robert may be
many things, but his relationship with the Manor guests is
worth the read. Rachel comes to live with her eccentric
aunts and changes their lives. In a society that glorifies
the young; it is refreshing to read a story of young
caregivers who nurture seniors.
Connie Again, February 20, 2003 Reviewer: A reader from
Cape Breton, Canada. Viewed biography of Connie Francis
on A&E television last night. Very interesting. Listening to
her songs drew me back to the book (With Connie With Love)
where her music and words run such a parallel current
through the theme of love, loss and life. Both Connie's life
and the books ending speak of the hope and healing of time
and the human spirit. Good show.....Good read.
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