Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “The Art of Regret” by Mary Fleming, She Writes Press, 10/19, for Suzy Approved Book Tours

Linda’ Book Obsession Reviews “The Art of Regret” by Mary Fleming, She Writes Press, Oct. 2019 for Suzy Approved Book Tours

Mary Fleming, Author of “The Art of Regret” has written an emotional and thought-provoking novel. The timeline for this novel is in the author’s present and also goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The Genre for this novel is Fiction. The author describes her characters as complex, and complicated. The story takes place in France, but America is mentioned.

Trevor McFarquhar has had early trauma in his life. He lived in America and after his father’s death, Trevor moves with his mother and brother to France, where his mother remarries. Trevor fixes bicycles for a living and is barely getting by. There is family suspense, drama and deep secrets that has Trevor at times feeling isolated from his family.

This is a very slow-paced novel, that is often repetitive.  After the first 25 percent of the book, the story moves slowly forward. After the 1995 transit strike, people are starting to buy bicycles, and Trevor is in a better situation, but questions what he wants.

At one point in the story, Trevor mentions regret in regard to his taking pictures. He often feels he doesn’t get to capture the vision of the picture, that it is too late. Will Trevor be able to move on?  What secrets seem to be involved. I appreciate that the author discusses the importance of family, second chances, love, and hope.