Dancing with Fireflies is the story of Jade, a
free-spirited, blues playing girl who has fled from her home town only to
return years later, nursing a sad secret. It is the story of Daniel, a man who
has loved faithfully in secret for years and has lost the courage to declare
his love. It is the story of two people whose close relationship must – should –
end with them realising their love for and attraction to each other: but will
they make the wise choice to be together?
I have read other stories by Denise Hunter, finding her an
entertaining writer: enough detail to flesh out the plot, neither too much nor
too little. She shows the characters’
thoughts and feelings without too much angst, subtly driving the plot forward. We meet Jade’s warm family and Daniel’s cool
one, mixed together with peripheral friends who are romantic and suitable
distractions. We read of family rediscovered, lives rebuilt and love reclaimed.
Daniel’s earliest memory of Jade was of her spinning alone
in the at twilight, dancing along with the fireflies. Will she learn to dance with fireflies again?
Denise Hunter writes enjoyable romantic novels which deal
with difficult subjects: death – both actual physical death and the death of
hopes and dreams; loss and bereavement; unwanted pregnancy; rape. The setting
may include dark times but Denise Hunter treats them carefully and thoughtfully
without leaving the reader downcast or despondent. You, too, as I did, will
finish this book with a smile on your face.
