Quarter Finalist
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: This is a delightful and clever work that captivates and lifts the spirit. Liddy-Jean and her mission to right the wrongs in her world are a breath of fresh air; her antics are consistently endearing and her approach to life, something we can all learn from.
Prose: The writing here is convincing as the author details the thoughts and actions of Liddy-Jean, who suffers from a cognitive disability. The author does a stellar job maintaining Liddy-Jean's voice as she puzzles out solutions to the problems she sees.
Originality: Liddy-Jean Marketing Queen and the Matchmaking Scheme is wholly unique romance, as the protagonist, who has a cognitive disability, discovers her talents, which might include matchmaking. She entertains, problem solves, and restores joy to her fellow characters and in her reader.
Character/Execution: The author does a capable job with characterization across the board, but Liddy-Jean is sparkling. Her depiction is realistically presented as a combination of childlike innocence mixed with spot-on intuition.
Date Submitted: May 10, 2024