Valencia and Valentine

Suzy Krause's novel "Mrs. Valentine" is a quirky, colorful story about love, loss, second chances, and what it means to truly live. Valencia, a timid debt collector with OCD, is afraid of flying and turning thirty-five, so her therapist suggests she fly somewhere before her upcoming birthday. Meanwhile, Mrs. Valentine, an eccentric old woman, is desperate for company and shares her life story of love and adventure with her new cleaning girl. The stories may appear to have nothing in common, but life is not as straightforward as it seems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2019
Publisher: Amazon Publishing

Suzy Krause, the talented debut author, presents a captivating and vibrant tale that delves into the realms of love, loss, second chances, and the essence of truly living. For readers who have enjoyed Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, this novel promises an equally delightful and unconventional experience.

Valencia, a timid debt collector plagued by crippling OCD, faces numerous fears, but the two that haunt her the most are flying and reaching the age of thirty-five. In an effort to confront these anxieties, Valencia's therapist suggests taking a flight to anywhere, just to get it over with before her upcoming birthday. As Valencia embarks on a telephone romance with a man from New York, she suddenly finds herself with a destination in mind. However, there's a catch—she's not entirely sure if he exists.

Mrs. Valentine, an eccentric older woman yearning for companionship, finds solace in the presence of neighbors, telemarketers, and even the funeral director (after all, when you reach her age, you attend quite a few funerals). She is overjoyed when the new cleaning girl becomes her listening ear, offering a compassionate ear for her life's story—a tale of a romantic love and extraordinary adventures around the world with her husband before his enigmatic and sudden disappearance.

At first glance, the stories of Valencia and Mrs. Valentine may seem unrelated, but as you delve deeper, you'll discover that nothing in life is as straightforward as it appears. Suzy Krause masterfully weaves together these two narratives, creating a tapestry of emotions, humor, and unexpected twists that will keep you engaged and captivated until the very end.

Valencia's journey of self-discovery and growth is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to overcome personal obstacles. Her determination to face her fears and embrace new experiences is inspiring, and her interactions with the people she meets along the way add depth and complexity to her character. Meanwhile, Mrs. Valentine's story offers a poignant reflection on the importance of connection and the enduring power of love. Through her interactions with Valencia, she learns to open up and share her own experiences, finding solace and meaning in the process.

The novel also explores themes of loss, grief, and the complexities of human relationships. Krause handles these topics with sensitivity and empathy, allowing the characters to navigate their emotions and find healing in unexpected ways. The bond between Valencia and Mrs. Valentine is a particularly touching example of the power of friendship and the ability to bridge gaps between different generations and backgrounds.

In conclusion, Suzy Krause's Mrs. Valentine is a must-read for fans of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine and anyone who appreciates a quirky, colorful story about love, loss, second chances, and the meaning of truly living. With its captivating characters, thought-provoking themes, and unexpected twists, this novel will leave you feeling uplifted, inspired, and grateful for the beauty of human connections.

Weight: 260g
Dimension: 140 x 208 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781542040396