This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
I’m always excited to hear about debut novelists and Debbie Carbin was no exception.’Thanks for Nothing, Nick Maxwell’ sounded just my cup of tea, not least because of the quirky title and pretty cover. The novel tells the story of Rachel Covington a somewhat vain and self obsessed individual who gets pregnant after a fling with Nick Maxwell, the office cad. Throughout the novel Rachel attempts to get to grips with her normally polished and organised life being turned upside down.
Continue Reading This Entry! Initially, I thought that I wouldn’t be able to get going with a character like Rachel, who describes herself as the ‘best looking person you’ll ever meet’ (!). But Debbie Carbin does a fantastic job of revealing a softer, sweeter side to Rachel, thus creating an protagonist that the reader cares about, despite her shortcomings. The book is written in a conversational first person, present tense style reminiscent of Jane Green. This really helps the reader to empathise with Rachel’s situation, as well as giving us occasional glimpses into the lives of the supporting characters. Overall, ‘Thanks for Nothing, Nick Maxwell’ is a sweet, witty account of how people can change when they’re given the chance.I will definitely be purchasing Debbie Carbin’s second novel!
Rated 4/5