Thinking On A Debut

Welcome to Writing with Sprinkle!

This is the place where we chat about our favorite things- BOOKS!

On my new Instagram page I've got to connect with an amazing and talented writer by the name of Rose Marzin.

I'm excited to make this post all about her debut novel.

Though I'm not one to stray away from scifi, fantasy, and the occasional nonfiction. I'd felt a connection to this author. So, when she wanted me to read this. I decided that I must. It's a Contemporary, second-chance romance read.

The book is called Better Than This.

It's about Taamarai.

I love how her name is from India and means lotus flower. The author clearly did such a great job at creating the character's name.

Taamarai moved from Boston to North Carolina on high hopes after receiving a job and acceptance to a college program but things get to be less than expected. Content with the possibilities of her new apartment that her neighbor doesn't think too glorious the story begins.

My Initial Thought on the Main Character

Really enjoyed that the character had a mixed race due to having parents from two different countries. Indian and British. This is a good representation of American culture via the character's life but the roots show through in the mannerisms of Taamarai. Representation of marginalized communities is important.

Another thing I enjoyed about the character is that she's also nearly in her mid-thirties. Most adult characters are generally written with earlier-aged adults in mind. People of eighteen to their twenties are making the bracket of most characters in adult fiction. So, showing an older main character is very important.

The fact that Taamarai was written a bigger woman who is practicing body appreciation is also fantastic.

My Favorite Parts

If I could pick a few favorite parts of the book without spoilers, I would say both the relationship Taamarai has with Ali and her passion.

Her passion for cooking and literature really could be felt through the author's descriptions.

Message That It Tells

This story explored the struggles of the characters than can be linked to real relationships. Struggling with feelings of guilt, body shame, cultural shame and pride, and the long distances that keep people apart. You never know who is truly there for you until you see how they act when you're apart. The relationship between Tamaarai and Darren is actually something I've seen a similar example of with a couple that I knew. So, the message stands to truth under real circumstances. Perhaps, I should even recommend this book to someone I know.

Overall Thoughts

My overall thoughts are that the author has done a fantastic job of portraying these characters in a way that they seem realistic and well-written. The imagery is clear enough for you to see what is described within your own mind. I certainly recommend this book to readers of its genre who would thoroughly enjoy it. Take this talented writer from the depths of obscurity and allow her unique voice to grace your shelf.

Thank You For The Author

I'd love to extend a sincere Thank You to Rose Marzin for allowing me to read her debut novel and allowing me to hype her up during this exciting time in her career as an author.

Keep up the fantastic work. I hope to see you make many more sales.

Note for the community

It's always good to support and encourage one another in our writing journeys. I highly recommend you try to make more debut novels and indie-published novels a staple in your book selection process when reading.