A Review of James J. Cudney, IV superb novel, Watching Glass Shatter.
The title alone intrigued me. I already knew that James J. Cudney IV, was a fabulous writer and I already loved his writing style. I knew that it would be a great read, but I had no idea it would be so superb and that I would spend hours reading it while ignoring everything else that went on around me. Honestly, if my house had burnt down around me I probably would not have noticed.
I didn’t answer my iPhone, or make dinner or finish the laundry, I was so taken by it, so entranced by it, that I could do nothing else but read this novel that is as true to life as anything I have ever read. The people in this novel, come to life as real as you and me. James J. Cudney IV’s novel brings a realism to this novel, Watching Glass Shatter, like no other. It is so astonishingly real in every conceivable way.
Normally, when I read a book, I know it is fiction, but not this story, no, anything but fiction. This story is like stepping into a family’s life in a very intimate way, observing, as though you are their invisible friend, and wanting so much to give advice, to hold a hand when tears flowed, to cheer when things go as planned, to grieve when they grieved, to respect their choices, even though poorly chosen sometimes, but necessary.
When I finished reading the last sentence, I knew I didn’t want it to end even though it was after midnight. I realized I had been reading for many hours without stopping for nether food nor drink. I knew in an instant that I would never forget this family, their lives, their losses, and their triumphs. I also knew I would be buying the print version today. I am also thrilled that now, knowing that Watching Glass Shatter is to be printed in several languages, because I am so happy that other people around the world will love this book as much as I do, and I hope the French language is of them. I give this story 5 stars and it doesn’t seem fair…it should be 10 stars!
Pen & Paper 
I have this on my TBR pile. After your review, I’m thinking I need to move it up the list!
LikeLike
Wow! That’s quite the testimonial, Karen. Having read one of James’s other books recently, I can understand why you enjoyed this so much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much. I love this book because it touches so many real life situations of the heart, of life, and of parental love. It also shows so vividly the consequences of the best intentions and what happens so often in many lives.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful review Karen. This is my favorite book of his.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kim, yes, it is my favorite book too. I read it in once sitting (8 hours later I finished it,) I just couldn’t put it down. I was entranced by it. I hated to see it end. I am going to buy the paperback or the hard cover. I want it on my shelve – forever!! I have been dealing with health issues for both me and my husband and so I have been not doing very much in the few months especially, but I am now writing another book. I hope you had a lovely Christmas, New Years, and Valentine’s Day! I can wait for spring.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you and your husband are doing better Karen.🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow!! Reviews don’t get any better than this!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Liz, thank so much and I am so thrilled that you approve. what an honor, thank you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re most welcome, Karen!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Karen,
I’m stunned and thrilled with this review. I love seeing how everyone can connect with the characters. I cried while writing parts of it, and now, as I write the sequel, it’s hard to match the same emotional levels but… the first draft is written and I can edit for a while. I’ll make it just as beautiful… thank you!
J
LikeLiked by 1 person
OMG!! I am so thrilled…I can’t wait to read book 2 🙂 Fantastic!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Karen, wow, that is an incredible and heartfelt review. Going to put it on my TBR list now.
LikeLike