'Under Construction [is] irresistibly readable, with a striking storyline. Pamela Johnson writes with great feeling and wit about Amy Beardsey's return to life after her husband's sudden, shocking death. The dilapidated house which Amy takes on is a character in its own right. Pamela Johnson writes with knowledge and craftsmanship about its transformation from raw mud and rafters to the place Amy has imagined, with its 'state-of-the art kitchen built by James Joyce'. The relationship between 'James Joyce', the infinitely desirable Irish carpenter, and Amy, the infinitely desiring client, is beautifully done.' Helen Dunmore 'The slow, yet dizzying slide into love makes for a compelling read. Throughout I marvelled at the novel's sensitivity to the surface of life and its capacity to suggest what lies beneath. The writing is deft, uncluttered... observations are acute and perfectly judged. Under Construction is a book that is true to the way lives can change so greatly almost without our knowing.' James Friel '[E]ngrossing ... craftsmen everywhere will queue to be the role model for Conor - the sensual Irishman making a living from contract cabinetmaking when his real love is sculpting wood' CRAFTS Magazine 'unravels itself in rich, poetic prose' Northern Ireland Homes & Interiors 'Johnson portrays Amy's daydreams and Angst with imaginative sympathy, but is best when slyly mocking her 'right on' tastes' Harper's & Queen, London 'In its short, poetic chapters you get to know every corner of the house - the fireplaces, the ruby and emerald stained glass in the front door, the crazy half-levels - but as the work gets underway, it becomes not only the central character but a metaphor for a woman's life' Ruth Gorb, Hampstead and Highgate Express 'Very well written, sensual, tactile first novel of more than usual promise. Johnson has been a pupil of Helen Dunmore - and it shows (in the best possible way).' The Good Book Guide (Mch '99) 'Irresistibly readable, with a striking storyline. Pamela Johnson writes with great feeling and wit' -- HELEN DUNMORE 'The slow, dizzying slide into love makes for compelling reading' -- JAMES FRIEL 'Engrossing ... craftsmen everywhere will queue to be the role model for Conor - the sensual Irishman makinga living from contract cabinetmaking when his real love is sculpting wood' -- CRAFTS Magazine 'unravels itself in rich, poetic prose' -- Northern Ireland Homes & Interiors
