Synopsis
For too many years, Prudence Aldrich has been numbing the pain in her life with random sexual encounters. Her marriage to cold, self-centered Nick is, not surprisingly, on the rocks. But after several dangerous experiences with strangers, Prudence finally realizes she needs therapy to stop her self-destructive behavior, and so she checks into the Serenity Hills rehab center.
Prudence blames herself for her irresponsible behavior and is filled with self-loathing. She's convinced she is completely at fault for Nick's manipulative attitude and believes with therapy, she can return their relationship to its idyllic beginnings. However, her therapist and the other members of her rehab group see the person behind the pain. As Prudence learns more about herself and the reasons for her behavior, including startling revelations about her childhood, she begins to understand the basis for her lack of sexual self-respect. She also learns she is not entirely to blame for the failure of her marriage. With the positive reinforcement of everyone at Serenity Hills, Prudence learns not to define herself by her past. But moving forward would mean letting go of Nick for good, and Prudence isn't sure she can.
Review:
Beautiful, moving and authentic!
A Dress the Color of the Sky is impressive beyond reasoning. It is filled with both heartwarming and heart-rending emotion. From start to finish author, Jennifer Irwin, captures the reader’s heart and tugs deeply. She has tackled a sensitive subject based on reality, and accurately brought it to life with intensity, passion and drama.
The main character, Prudence Aldrich, lives life dangerously and on the edge of instability.
Her random sexual encounters are nothing more than an addiction to numb the inner pain that she is living and struggling with.
Her life is complicated and she needs help before her self-destructive behavior catches up with her and causes her real harm.
She checks herself into Serenity Hills rehab facility and begins her journey from self-hatred and addiction to self discovery, healing and freedom.
Prudence is a likable strong character. She is resilient and multi-faceted. Jennifer Irwin has done a remarkable job of writing and developing this character and the others as well.
All the characters are well written with purpose and forethought. Their interactions with one another are believable and pertinent. Jennifer Irwin has a way with words unlike many other authors. She has a gift for writing dialog and giving the plot depth and interest. The way she describes the characters, surroundings and the many details gives the reader a sense of being there and experiencing everything for themselves. It is perfectly delightful and nearly discomforting at the same time.
I absolutely loved A Dress the Color of the Sky. It is brimming with life. It caused me to smile, laugh, cry and even get angry. I love that it brought me, delightfully, out of my comfort zone. It touches on the human condition and issues that are normally hidden from society but never the less real, and I suspect somewhat common these days. That’s why this novel is very timely and relevant.
I was specifically impressed by how the author was able to show that Prudence’s problems stem from many negative incidents, including her childhood. I believe that many readers will relate to this fact in the story. I felt as though I was being challenged to take a closer look at my own life and while reading it, I experienced being undone and put back together again, for the better.
What a remarkable novel! So personal, touching and moving!
A Dress the Color of the Sky By Jennifer Irwin is a praiseworthy work of contemporary fiction. Jennifer has emerged as a fresh new voice in the writing community. One would never guess that this is her debut novel because it is unquestionably written with skill, creativity and real talent. It’s not at all surprising that A Dress the Color of the Sky is already chosen and set to become a full feature movie.
Pick up a copy and read it before the movie comes out. You will be thrilled and glad you did.
