Press & Reviews

SONGS FROM A SMALL TOWN (IN A MINOR KEY):

“Life in this town is far from idyllic, and Chamberlain reminds the reader of this through setting descriptions that are all the more lively when placed in contrast to the drab places they detail. Similarly, she describes the feelings of townspeople during the deterioration of the quaint small town illusion. Though the town may appear to be based on multi-generational connections and close family ties, the panic of this uncertain disease shows how a desire for self-preservation quickly pulls the town apart. The community swiftly becomes a place of sidelong glances, For Sale signs, and whispers in the street: ‘They aren’t contagious, are they?’” - The Ormsby Review

“Sometimes you pick up a book and you can't look away. Time stands still as the pages fly by. Such is the transformative power of Penny Chamberlain's "Songs from a Small Town i(n a Minor Key). Themes such as innocence, loss, love, and redemption are explored amidst the intricacies of small town life, where a bizarre afflictions dogs the community's teenage girls. The novel's poignant characters stand alone in their own chapters as short stories, yet are tributaries of a larger narrative that deepens and interconnects as the book continues. Chamberlain writes with the power and clarity of Elizabeth Stout (Olive Kitteridge) and the "dirty realism" of Raymond Carver (Where I'm Calling From). Highly recommended.” - Stephanie Reisler, Amazon review

“I love how this book is written. It is a collection of 12 short stories looking at an event from multiple perspectives. Characters intersect through the stories in peripheral ways that drive continuity and change the readers perceptions as more information emerges about the people in this small town. The short stories are compelling on their own, but I did find myself getting more desperate to know why this weird phenomenon was happening. Really enjoyable book! Highly recommend!” - Carrie Young, Amazon review

“It was amazing. I am new to this author. I bought this book because I was intrigued by the title and the fact that she is a local author to the city I live in. I am SO glad I did. Her story telling and writing completely captivated me! It was thoroughly engaging. I loved how she twined the stories together to reveal one vision of a place and people. I loved the hope at the end. This is a must read book, I highly recommend it.” - Gwen Marron, Goodreads review

The Olden Days Locket:

“I fell in love with this beautifully written novel when I was much younger. The story still remains with me. The way its written allows for you to feel like you are in both of the times. Also you easily can connect emotionally with the characters. I still love this wonderful novel.” - Brittany Miller, Good Reads

Chasing the Moon:

“Penny Chamberlain has a smooth writing style and an eye for historical detail that gives the book a feeling of authenticity. Chasing the Moon is historical fiction, but Chamberlain includes a compelling thread of supernatural intrigue.” - Vikki VanSickle, CM Magazine

Shack island summer:

“Strong, identifiable characters and a clearly described setting are the book’s strengths and should please readers looking for an intriguing summertime read.” - Kay Weisman, CM Magazine