Paradise, No More

I didn't want to read this. Didn't wanna, didn't wanna, didn't wanna. But it was a gift, so . . .

Suffice it to say that this book, reporter Lizzie Johnson's first, pulls you in with a jerk. Although I hated the topic, (I would literally smell smoke every time I read), the writing is so seamless and perfectly executed that you somehow make it through, wanting to read more. The people, the scenery, the facts all come alive in Lizzie's capable keystrokes, and their tragedy becomes your own. She deftly handles the juggling act of good news vs. bad news, and good decisions vs. deadly ones. Just when you think you might have to take a break, the narrative changes gears and you're in safe(r) territory again. She's a masterful writer who dared to tackle the most difficult of topics. From now on I'll read anything she writes. Highly recommended.