It’s always a pleasure to read a novel written by John Howell. He has a way of mixing action, thriller level excitement, real world politics, intelligent discourse and detail (much of which feels ripped presciently from today’s headlines), all wrapped up in believable, relatable, and importantly – likeable – characters. And it’s all his own – the John Howell style – immediate, engrossing and always great fun.
This time the author notes some autobiographical parts, and an homage to great friendships. And this is what surrounds the novel – a great, true friendship from life and beyond life, adding a paranormal element that is warming and comforting rather than frightening or strange. It is a testament to John’s writing skill that you accept the supernatural premise immediately and naturally. Of course such a strong friendship, which is more like a family tie than just companionship – of course it survives even death. And of course it becomes a guarding angel over the thrilling ups and downs of the narrative itself.
There is pain here – a relationship ending which you partly see coming from sad, well placed clues but you hope against hope will not happen. And when it does you feel right alongside the main character. But also you are warmed by his strength and an innate goodness that I always believe would be true of the author . This flows from his writing and its generous spirit, and it lives in the characters as well.
I thoroughly recommend this novel. It is exciting, heartwarming and also spiritually affirming (without you having any particular religious or spiritual affiliation). It gives you faith and hope in something greater than that – and simpler: faith in a little thing called love.
(c) Helen Valentina 2017
helenvalentina 
Helen, thank you for the wonderful review. I can’t tell you how much your words affected me today. Having had a share of challenges your understanding and praise of Circumstances brought tears to my eyes. I am grateful to you for reading and reviewing the book. I am also humbled by your words. Thank you so much.
Really loved the book. I loved your trilogy too of course but this book had so much heart in it..made me cry at some points. Beautifully done! 🙂
Aw. Thank you, Helen. 😀
Reblogged this on Fiction Favorites and commented:
Helen Valentina is a wonderful poet and storyteller. She has given Circumstances of Childhood a warm and thoughtful review which needs to be shared. Helen never fails to move me with her work and now has moved me immensely with this review. Thank you, Helen.
You are more than welcome. It was a very moving novel as well as an exceptional thriller. 🙂
😀
Wonderful review, Helen. The last line is powerful!
Thanks, that’s because the book itself and its central theme was so universal, so human and so powerful. 🙂
Thank you, Gwen.
Wonderful review, Helen!
Thank you! 🙂
It is isn’t it, Jill.
Great review! Finished reading it last week and would recommend it also.
Thanks, it’s a great book! 🙂
Wonderful review!
Thank you! 🙂
A lovely review to share, Helen. Thank you. 🙂
Reblogged this on Musings on Life & Experience and commented:
A great review by Helen Valentina of John W. Howell’s book, “Circumstances of Childhood”.
A wonderful review of John’s new release, Helen. Thank you.😊
Great review! Couldn’t agree more! HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Thanks, Happy New Year to you too!
This sounds wonderful thank you for sharing. 🙂
It is wonderful – John Howell is a great author! 🙂