"Original, eloquent, and a simply fascinating read from start to finish, "The Double Act" is all the more impressive as a work of deftly crafted literary fiction when considering that it is Claire Southwood's debut as a novelist. Showcasing her genuine flair for the kind of imaginative and narrative driven storytelling style, "The Double Act" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick."

"Southwood does something incredibly bold here: she takes the overlooked, dismissed Mary Boleyn and gives her the spotlight she was always denied — then mirrors that exact wound across time into Amanda Sanders, a woman in present-day Savannah fighting the same battle of being side-lined by a ruthless sister. And it works. Beautifully. The parallels between past and present aren't forced; they creep up on you like déjà vu. This is historical fiction with a heartbeat."

"A sensitive, inspiring, and empowering novel that will stay with you long after you turn over the last page. I find Southwood's writing style particularly remarkable; it's incredibly vivid, compelling, and atmospheric—completely drawing you into the two artfully interwoven stories. In a subtle and empathetic way, she succeeds in making the connections between past and present visible. This deeper level lends the story additional meaning and prompts deep reflection."

"This work stands out for its blend of historical fiction and contemporary psychological insight. Southwood brings depth to the lesser-explored figure of Mary Boleyn, portraying her not merely as a footnote in Anne Boleyn’s story but as a complex individual marked by ambition, exclusion, and enduring pain. In the modern thread, Amanda’s emotional journey adds layers of relatability, making the historical elements feel immediate and relevant."

"This felt much more than just a historical drama to me. It is a story about pain, healing, and finally understanding where certain emotions come from. I found the personal and emotional side of the sisters’ conflict especially touching, because it reminds us how family relationships can shape so much of our lives."

"I found the First Act, The Old World, to be absolutely spellbinding and didn’t want it to end. The court of Henry VIII comes alive, providing insight into the characters and the times. I also enjoyed Amanda’s soul-searching approach in the Second Act, The New World, and applaud her courage. She’s a true heroine. I loved the surprising twists as Southwood invites readers to consider life-changing experiences that can result when anger and negative emotions remain unresolved."

"What moved me most was the focus on Ancestral Healing. As I read, I felt a personal shift, the narrative encourages a deep inner healing process, helping the reader recognize their own karmic entanglements and the burdens we unconsciously carry for our ancestors."