Book Review "Welcome to Maravilla"

Review by Crystal Otto

Welcome to Maravilla is an enjoyable read filled with suspense and humor. What I appreciated most about the book is the well written, believable, dialogue between characters. The banter kept things interesting. The character development of Jake Epstein in particular was very well done by the author, R. Douglas Clark. This science fiction tale was interwoven with reality and I found myself drawn to the history of the tiny hamlet of Maravilla wondering about the redrawing of the Rio Grande and Carson County lines. I quickly became immersed in the story and found the characters to be relatable and the storyline enjoyable. 

The level of detail in Welcome to Maravilla was just right for my liking. For example: I didn’t need to know the color of the curtains in the caretaker’s cottage and instead the author gave me just the information that was necessary telling me simply how many rooms there were. I dislike when authors use so many minute details I forget the storyline and get caught up in the red polka dot curtains and antique lamps… R. Douglas Clark gave me the details and information I needed without taking away from the storyline. 

This is the first book I’ve read by R. Douglas Clark and I enjoyed his writing style. I’ve also never visited Maravilla, New Mexico but after reading Welcome to Maravilla, it is very clear that this is a special place the author is knowledgeable about and cares about deeply. ​

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You can find Crystal riding unicorns, taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary, blogging, reading, reviewing, and baking here and at her personal blog - Crystal is dedicated to turning life's lemons into lemonade!