“Plain Like Vanilla is a psychological action-packed thriller, unlike any other fiction I have read. This book not only is page-turning exciting, but also solicits deep philosophical thinking from the reader. Should post-amnesia young Vanilla be held accountable for her pre-amnesia sins, and should her former acquaintances forgive her? Who will Vanilla be if and when she regains her memory, and is she really plain? The various characters struggle with their own identities regarding forgiveness or the lack thereof, shame, family heritage, ethnicity, anger, love, depression, excitement, and hope, along with a touch of romance. The reader will question what appropriate forms of rewards and penalties should exist in a society with nontraditional ethical and moral standards, which seem to be accepted by all of the characters. Should money and power be used to commit acts of malice against (usually!) not-so-innocent victims to promote overall benevolence, just like in war, even though this society is at peace? The setting is perhaps a few years into the future in Charlottesville, Virginia, with painstaking details specific to the University of Virginia and other local landmarks including statues, buildings, and the local country club. The book occasionally references some of the famous and infamous events of Charlottesville’s distant and modern history. The book even aligns itself with other great works of literature as the various plots develop. If you want action, this is the book for you. If you appreciate critical thinking and/or want to have intellectual discussions in a book club, this is also the book for you. This book is a mixture of Shakespearean-like tragedy, action, good-feeling (but unlike those predictable Hallmark movies), psychology, and philosophy. Kudos to the genius Janna Welborn, for writing such an amazing work of art!”
— Steve G.
“Mysterious. Provocative. “Did she just say what I think she said?” Or rather, “Did she mean what I think she meant?” If every good story is essentially a mystery (Patterson) then there are several layers to this one. Beautifully written and evocatively told, this is a very compelling story of identity and trauma. Charlottesville fans will love the retrospective memories, turned sinister, of the beloved hallowed grounds.”
— Chris Atwell
“I brought Plain Like Vanilla with me on a recent vacation...I was looking for a riveting, page turner book for the beach. WOW! I was glued to this story. The twists, turns and grand finale were woven together seamlessly. I never would have guessed that Vanilla would have such a colorful (non vanilla) journey. All of the characters are carefully developed, each representing crucial details to the novel. Clear, colorful descriptions of events and scenery all play pivotal in the story plot. Pay careful attention to the details....they all add up to a big bang ending! A great summer read!”
— Marla Meredith
“Amazing riveting story. Loved the way the author created such an intricate plot while weaving in social issues to help us think critically. Didn’t expect this read to be so thought provoking on so many levels! Great job! Book clubs- put this on your book club list! Promise great discussions!”
— C. Joseph Cattano
“Plain Like Vanilla” is a fantastic read by Janna Welborn. If you like a great psychological thriller which does not disappoint on fabulous character development, a few unexpected plot twists, and intelligent writing, you will LOVE this book. Janna has painstakingly researched all aspects of her novel and weaves together her imaginative prose with well crafted plots and creative characters. Its a book you can’t wait to get back to each night.”
