Cantrell, Catherine. Constance, a novel - Brief Article - Book Review

Random House. 220p. c2002. 0-375-75980-8. $12.95. A

Morgan Clifford is a widowed New York editor caught up in the publishing world's dichotomy of cultured writers and cut-throat business mergers. While Morgan has limped along after her husband's death, she has dreamed of discovering a truly great talent. When the mysterious Constance Chamberlain enters her life on the recommendation of her senior editor, she sees a beautiful, reserved woman with a prodigious talent for poetry who is completely unschooled in the world of publishing. Morgan takes her on as a client, reading her work, trying to get her recognized in poetry publications, and offering feedback. Throughout it all Constance is grateful, intellectual, and extremely reserved about her private life. A chance observation through a restaurant window reveals Constance in the company of a powerful and married businessman. Gossip ensues and as Constance opens up to Morgan, revealing the history of her secret romance, a tragedy occurs causing Morgan to wonder about the nature of fame and the recognition of talent in modern society. Cantrell's novel is beautifully written but is the type of book that requires a patient reader interested in both human psychology and poetry. The subject matter and sleeper quality makes it of interest to adults and only the most sophisticated YA readers. Courtney Lewis, Libn., WY Seminary College Prep. Sch., Kingston, PA

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