Deborah Clark Vance
When I was 7 my piano teacher said I was "lively and full of fun but serious when it comes to her work. A good combination." I've always walked the line between looking for what's true and finding things to about with abandon, a trait shared by my title character Sylvie. During my adult years I contributed to the family coffers by translating Italian, garden designing, teaching piano, selling my artwork, selling home-grown perennials, editing journals, working on a TV production, teaching adults in an outpatient facility, serving as tenured college prof. and dept chair, teaching college students, and writing all manner of things magazine articles and essays, book chapters, and with a non-fiction manuscript now with a publisher.
External editorial reviews from critics:
Sunny Rocks
"Sylvie Denied" by Deborah Clark Vance is a captivating work of women's fiction that navigates the turbulent waters of personal growth and societal change. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, Sylvie's journey towards peace and self-discovery is both thought-provoking and deeply engaging. The narrative intricately weaves Sylvie's determination to lead a peaceful life with the scars of her past trauma and her relationships with men who have their own dark sides. The story delves into her unique perspectives on love, family, and cultural differences, culminating in her quest for a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. Vance's rich storytelling and vivid character development draw readers into Sylvie's emotional landscape and the complexities of her choices. "Sylvie Denied" is a compelling exploration of one woman's path to self-empowerment and resilience, capturing the essence of an era marked by change and introspection.
Alejandra Pareja Bossio
It´s a poignant and introspective novel that delves deep into the complexities of identity, family, and the secrets we keep from ourselves. Through its compelling narrative and richly developed characters, Vance's book explores the profound impact of denial on one woman's life, and how the past can shape our present in ways we might not anticipate.
The story follows Sylvie, a woman who has spent a lifetime denying her true self and avoiding confronting her past. As the layers of her carefully constructed facade begin to unravel, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and emotional reckoning. The author's skillful writing allows readers to feel Sylvie's inner turmoil and empathize with her struggles.
One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the consequences of denial. Sylvie's attempts to suppress her true desires and emotions lead to a life of unfulfilled dreams and strained relationships. The narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and embracing our authentic selves, even when faced with discomfort or difficult truths.
The author's characters are multi-dimensional and relatable, each harboring their own secrets and insecurities. The interactions between Sylvie and those around her are laced with authenticity, revealing the intricacies of human connection and the impact of honesty on relationships. The author's ability to delve into the depths of her characters' psyches adds depth to the storytelling.
The book also skillfully weaves themes of nostalgia, regret, and the passage of time. Through Sylvie's recollections of her past, readers are transported to different eras and stages of her life, gaining a deeper understanding of the events that have shaped her into the person she is today.
Is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that explores the complexities of self-discovery and the consequences of denying one's true identity. The author's storytelling prowess and keen insight into the human psyche create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience and the transformative power of acknowledging our own truth
