Reviews of Chris-Anthem
"A Story of Warmth and Humor - I read this at my wife's recommendation, despite the fact that it seemed to be a girly book (I'm more of a spy thriller and sci-fi type myself). Well, it's a girly book all right -- but a dam' good one, filled with humor, a great story, characters you really get to know and like. I liked the fact that the author never allows her heroines to wallow in victimhood or malaise; this story is about triumph and overcoming adversity. Its vividness extends throughout the novel, to all the minor characters and situations, as the author evokes a place and time I've never before seen in literature. It's a fast, pleasant read that packs an emotional punch, and not just at its stunning conclusion."
A.J.
NC
"I devoured Mona's tale in short order & didn't want the story to end - a sequel someday perhaps?"
Myrtle L
R.N.
"I enjoyed reading this book about the experiences shared by two friends and how they inspired each other with laughter and compassion while facing life's unexpected hardships. The Author is an insightful writer who paints pictures with her words, setting the scenes in vivid detail for the reader. Not only will you read it, but, you'll think about it too."
P.M.
FLA.
"I enjoyed this warm, true-to-life story of how friendship between two women help them deal with the ups and downs of life. Mona and Chris support each other in a book most women can really relate to. Beautifully descriptive, the book captures the spirit of change in this more mature, "coming of age" tale.
Elizabeth C.
Rockbridge County, VA
Posted On Amazon.com
"It's hard to describe a book like this one. It is an inspiring and encouraging story of survival, struggle, change, friendship, love and, basically, life. The relationship between Mona and Chris is one that I think most people can relate to on some level, I think everyone has someone in their life who inspires them to be who they are. The development of the characters and the journey they take together through some of life's hardest lessons are so beautifully written that you find yourself wrapped up in their world, and rooting for them to overcome hardships and not lose sight of who they are. I highly recommend this book to anyone, especially if you need a little lift, and need to feel a bit better about the world!"
Lori G.
It's A Must Read (web-reading group)
Vivid and inspiring Chris-Anthem is a delightful story which offers much inspiration. Télor writes beautifully - I love the backgrounding of each scene. I can just smell the coffee, taste the wine and see the mums every time they are mentioned. It's a descriptive, word-picture type of writing that reminds me of Agatha Christie without the British accent. The story tackles the very sensitive subject of familial abuse but does it in a way that shows love, compassion and hope. In the world we live in today, this kind of writing is refreshingly welcome and uplifting.
Ed R.
MN
I feel a connection to Chris even though I never met her. Her beautiful spirit lives on in your incredible book. You can tell you put your heart into it. Keep writing – it is in your blood!"
T.C.
Detroit
"I read the book and really had a hard time putting it down. You are a fabulous writer."
Franceska U.
Roosevelt-Vanderbilt Historical Assn. NY
"I really enjoyed this girlfriend (and so much else!) story. Télor pulls you in with believable, intriguing descriptions of life, relationships and growing with changes good or bad. I also remember being fascinated by finding something in the wall of an old house. I read this in 2004 and still, seeing a chrysanthemum makes me think of this book and smile."
Alicia A.
Atlanta
"Thank you for writing this book! I really enjoyed it and read some chapters twice. It was very relatable; I believe that's why it evokes emotions from its readers."
Suzanne E.
North Bend
"I read Chris-Anthem last week. It was thoroughly enjoyable. Mona Télor paints a beautiful picture with descriptions of the friendship between the two girls, and their personalities were brought to life with her words. I hope she keeps writing...she's good at it."
M. Lowe
Retired, GTE
"This book covers a lot of ground in its 'novella' format. You can read it over a snowed-in weekend, as I did, and get lost in the story and the characters. I wanted to know more about these women and what happened to them. The teaching moments are so subtly written and flow so naturally with the story that I didn't realize the impact they would have later. Is there a sequel to this book?"
SauceLady
Chicago
"I have read the book and found it quite entertaining. I liked the whole idea behind the Mums, quite inspirational. It deals with woman to woman friendship, and overcoming abuse, both physical and verbal. Of course the address is fictional, but the description of the 'hood was right on the money."
Richard S.
Resident, Seminole Heights Neighborhood
''This book is a short one, actually called a 'novella'. The author writes a lovely story of two lifelong friends and the changes they go through while remaining good friends all the while. It's an uplifting read! I am only midway through it but love it so far. It's easy to relate to the book because it's so realistic. I encourage people to read this book. It makes you appreciate your friendships.''
Corinna B.
