Five Windows by Jon Roemer | Teen Ink

Five Windows by Jon Roemer

March 7, 2024
By mickyds SILVER, Schaumburg, Illinois
mickyds SILVER, Schaumburg, Illinois
6 articles 4 photos 3 comments

In the bustling confines of a densely populated hillside city, our narrator, a diligent book editor, observes the ebb and flow of his neighborhood with keen interest. His routine is disrupted when three houses are consumed by flames, prompting concern and speculation, yet no inquiries into the cause are pursued. Amidst this backdrop, the narrator finds solace in the annual library gatherings, where he becomes intrigued by the seemingly idyllic relationship between his neighbor Kenny and his partner Darrel—a union that has endured longer than the narrator's own marriage.

As the narrator navigates the complexities of his personal life, including the return of his ex-wife Sylvie and the unwavering support of neighbors Max and Marleen, he grapples with professional challenges at his publishing house. The arrival of acclaimed author Beau Bram and the subsequent collaboration with the narrator's small publishing firm raise suspicions, leading to a confrontation and a series of unexpected revelations.

Through trials and tribulations, including confrontations, injuries, and a pervasive sense of disillusionment, the narrator learns the invaluable lesson that amidst life's adversities, the presence of supportive companionship can provide solace and strength. Despite grappling with feelings of isolation and existential angst, the narrator ultimately finds resilience and hope in the bonds forged with his community.

While the narrator's journey is marked by moments of introspection and self-doubt, the narrative resonates with authenticity, capturing the nuances of human relationships and the complexities of navigating life's uncertainties. Roemer's adept storytelling delves into themes of injustice, bravery, and the quest for connection, offering readers a poignant and relatable exploration of the human experience.

In its portrayal of everyday struggles and triumphs, this novel serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community and the enduring resilience of the human spirit. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narrative.


The author's comments:

Michelle's journey as a book reviewer since 2018 has been marked by versatility and dedication. Transitioning through various blog names, she has consistently provided a platform to promote authors, publishers, and their books. From organizing book cover reveals to conducting tours and blitzes, Michelle's repertoire includes esteemed publicity services like Rockstar Book Tours, Goddess Fish Promotions, Meerkat Press, Lola's Blog Tours, and more. With access to advanced reading copies from prominent publishing houses such as Scholastic, Penguin Random House, Disney, and Harper Collins, her reviews are well-informed and insightful. Now resuming her passion with the new blog, “Michelle, The Book Critic”, after a hiatus, Michelle is poised to reignite her love for reading and sharing her opinions within the vibrant community of book reviewers.


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