One of the most rewarding aspects of writing is when readers not only connect with your characters but understand them at their core. Helen Farrimond’s thoughtful review of They Left It Too Late was one of those rare gifts—full of insight, warmth, and attention to detail that every writer hopes for. 

Helen begins her review with a line that made me smile: “Everyone likes Justin Ebberson.” That was the intent—Justin is meant to be quietly likable, the kind of man whose goodness doesn’t always make headlines, but who lives with sincerity, loyalty, and a quiet yearning for more. Helen captured this perfectly, particularly when she notes his hesitancy with Jean Baxter, the “love of his life.” That fear of rejection, rooted in past experience, keeps Justin in a state of emotional limbo—and Helen’s words reflect this nuanced inner conflict beautifully. 

Here’s Helen’s full review, which I’m honored to share on the blog: 

Everyone likes Justin Ebberson. He is friendly and gets on well with work colleagues, bosses and neighbours. Previous experience and fear of rejection make him hesitant to pursue the 'love of his life,' Jean Baxter, so he passes up opportunities and makes no progress romantically for almost a year. Women are interested in him! He has a couple of lucky escapes but he manages to remain faithful to Jean. He is a conscientious employee and his efforts to modernise the workplace in readiness for new technology are described in some detail. Justin's social life is repetitive, consisting of regular Saturday night visits to the local pub with a group of workmates, all women, and the occasional brass band concert, amateur dramatic production or dance. He spends most Sunday mornings working on his 'plot.' Although a self-confessed novice gardener, the results of his labours are impressive. He enjoys regular chats with his neighbours, Arthur and Nellie, always accompanied by tea and home-made cake. The author's knowledge and interest in brass band music and the RAF history in the area are evident, and he is often most descriptive when describing these passions. He has also thoroughly researched the history of this small group of islands and his chats with Arthur yield much information on that subject. 'They Left it Too Late' is an interesting read with a teasing cliffhanger in the last paragraph, which definitely makes the reader want to know what happens next. 

What I appreciate most about this review is that Helen truly saw the book—not just the plot, but the texture and tone of the life I was trying to portray. She noted the everyday rituals that define Justin’s world: Saturday pub outings, Sunday gardening, the cozy chats with Arthur and Nellie (and, of course, cake!). These were the quiet rhythms that give the novel its soul, and it’s gratifying to know they resonated. 

Helen’s recognition of the historical and cultural layers—particularly my interest in brass band music, RAF heritage, and the local island history—was especially meaningful. I spent a great deal of time researching and weaving these elements into the story, not as background noise, but as essential threads that shape the characters and their world. 

And then there’s her final note: “a teasing cliffhanger in the last paragraph, which definitely makes the reader want to know what happens next.” That was intentional, of course—but to have it land so effectively, and be called out by a reader, is the kind of feedback that makes all the hours spent behind a desk feel worthwhile. 

Thank you, Helen Farrimond, for reading with such care—and for reminding me why storytelling matters.