Panic in a Suitcase

Odessa. I was enthralled while reading Yelena Akhtiorskaya’s debut novel titled, Panic in a Suitcase. I opened the novel expecting to read another version of the immigrant story of adjusting to life in the United States. This novel is that and so much more. Set in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn and Odessa, Akhtiorskaya uses carefully selected descriptive prose to make each setting come to life. Her character development displays all the richness and complexity of human behavior. I laughed often at the situations and foibles that she presents. She finds a way to present the strange dimensions of how individuals and families behave in relationships, and draw us into familiarity and differences. I was entertained throughout and impressed by the fine writing. Any reader who enjoys good writing will find something to enjoy in this novel. Rating: Four-star (I like it) Click here to purchase Panic in a Suitcase from amazon.com.