Kent Nelson's writing was lovely and unsentimental, crisp and clear headed. I was hanging on the words, dreaming on behalf of the characters and hoping their problems would find happy resolutions. And they did, but not easily - these characters earned their triumphs.
This novel was full of profound and subtle fire. As a reader, my time was richly rewarded.
Nelson's particular skills include being able to tell a story that captures your interest (despite plot being rather predictable) and great skill with building reader identification with the characters. The dialogue is skillful - often short and crisp, ironic, and well-on. I could really picture this being a made-for-TV thing. It's entertaining, but I guess I wish I could have felt more in awe of the prose; the writing is effective but doesn't take your breath way, sort of like the difference between viewing a Norman Rockwell vs. a Matisse.
Regardless, I enjoyed the whole book and the characters are remaining with me...