Reviewed by Robin Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I get this story…I really do. We all at some poinReviewed by Robin Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I get this story…I really do. We all at some point in our lives go through some small or large form of verbal abuse. If married we all find that it takes work it isn’t easy. It isn’t perfect. We work together to obtain the perfect relationship but there is always things that aren’t perfect; we don’t live in a perfect world.
While I thought that the story was full of potential I felt it fell flat with the characters. I wasn’t able to relate to them. They weren’t as strong as I thought they could or should have been. Beth just wasn’t someone that I was able to grasp a hold of as a person. She was kind of flat and one dimensional. I also felt that her husband/ex was the same way. The men in this book where just a little too whiney for me.
Ms. Sharp dealt with the marriage falling apart, the divorce, letting others know, and dating again in such a fashion that the story moved on without a hitch.
I however was not convinced with the characters. It was however a little far-fetched that Beth went from a marriage of twenty plus years to a nudist colony, a swingers experience and even plastic surgery in no time at all. I guess that is why it is fiction.
Overall it wasn’t a bad story it was just not great in this reader’s views.
Merged review:
Reviewed by Robin Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I get this story…I really do. We all at some point in our lives go through some small or large form of verbal abuse. If married we all find that it takes work it isn’t easy. It isn’t perfect. We work together to obtain the perfect relationship but there is always things that aren’t perfect; we don’t live in a perfect world.
While I thought that the story was full of potential I felt it fell flat with the characters. I wasn’t able to relate to them. They weren’t as strong as I thought they could or should have been. Beth just wasn’t someone that I was able to grasp a hold of as a person. She was kind of flat and one dimensional. I also felt that her husband/ex was the same way. The men in this book where just a little too whiney for me.
Ms. Sharp dealt with the marriage falling apart, the divorce, letting others know, and dating again in such a fashion that the story moved on without a hitch.
I however was not convinced with the characters. It was however a little far-fetched that Beth went from a marriage of twenty plus years to a nudist colony, a swingers experience and even plastic surgery in no time at all. I guess that is why it is fiction.
Overall it wasn’t a bad story it was just not great in this reader’s views....more
Reviewed by Lori Book provided by the publisher Originally posted at Romancing the Book
If the reader enjoys chick lit, then this book will be the perfecReviewed by Lori Book provided by the publisher Originally posted at Romancing the Book
If the reader enjoys chick lit, then this book will be the perfect fit. This book reminds me almost of reality television almost with some drama, and friends not liking each other anymore because they got into an argument. This book is chock full of drama, and angst, but in a funny entertaining way. Angst seems to go hand in hand with being young and in the early twenties. I remember so well.
Despite me not being in my early twenties anymore, I found myself empathizing with them and I really understood where they were coming from since I’m a woman too and at one point, I was a twenty something. I was really afraid I wouldn’t be able to connect with the characters as I was older, but luckily, I was wrong. That always makes me happy.
This book is a romance as well because the characters are engaging in trying to find who they want to be with.
The authors are well aware of the limelight because of their work, and have captured what it’s like trying to get into acting, how hard it is, how much time and commitment, and hard work it takes to even get an audition, never mind actually getting the part.
I love that the authors talked about The Law of Attraction, and Vision Boards. I’ve been studying the LOA for about five years now and I love it.
Basically, these gals know what they want, they’re making a plan to get it, and they are going to not let anything stand in their way. They are trying to find their bliss and I think that that’s great. I’m still looking for my bliss too.
This book is funny and entertaining and I really hope that the reader enjoys this book. Take a chance and give this book a chance....more
Reviewed by Robin Book provided by Netflix Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Family isn’t always blood. Sometimes it may be just a bunch of Reviewed by Robin Book provided by Netflix Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Family isn’t always blood. Sometimes it may be just a bunch of people that have been there for each other over the years. Who have been thrown together for whatever reason but have been there for each other. These people all live on Ten Beach Road. They remind me of where my son lived in Florida. Because not everyone has family or could spend the holidays with family they became family. Tables down the center of the street and everyone pitched in for the meal. It was heartwarming.
I loved the renovations that were taking place not only with Bella Flora but also the cottages. Everything was cute and I was ready to move in.
Daniel and his wife weren’t very likable but you have to have someone in the story that just makes you want to punch them. Kyra and her son Dustin were just cute. I love when the story has a small child they bring so much life to the story. Who cares if Daniel is famous he could have asked Kyra before getting his gift for Dustin and his wife who cares that she knows people that know people that could destroy careers if Dustin can’t work on the movie.
Since I have read others in this series I was able to get things. I would suggest however to read the others in the series along with this so that you understand the family dynamics of this wonderfully mismatched set of characters. There is also a bit of a mystery as to who is renting Bella Flora…Cliffhanger indeed. The end leaves/ alludes to what is happening or going to but it leaves you hanging waiting for the next book in the series.
All in all Ms. Wax gave us another heartwarming story of friends that have become family.
I want to warn you that if you are looking for HEA or a story that has an ending there isn’t one. This is a novella that leaves you hanging to await the next book. In the end it doesn’t matter that there are questions…Or that you are left hanging. I found this still to be a fun book…about the spirit of Christmas....more
Reviewed by JoAnne Book provided by Little, Brown, and Company Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Review: This was such an enjoyable read thaReviewed by JoAnne Book provided by Little, Brown, and Company Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Review: This was such an enjoyable read that I was able to read it in one day – just kept turning those pages! There were a lot of Quinns to meet both past (ex-wife) and present – Dad, Kelley, second wife Mitzi, kids and grandkids. There were a lot of twists to the story because all of them were facing problems in their lives that they couldn’t solve by themselves – crimes, unexpected love and consequences, secrets that went astray, unrequited love on several fronts, among others. The family while totally dysfunctional were there for each and every one of them when it was needed and their Irishness always shown through. Mom, Margaret, seamlessly slid back into their lives when she came to give moral support even though the family might not need it and didn’t know they might. Having Mitzi and George involved in the family dinner just didn’t seem right. Scott was very different from Nathaniel and Ava could feel the pull from both and was really in a quandary. It was interesting to see how the author gave us the history of the family as a whole as well as the individual members of it and how often Kelley and Margaret’s kids were surprised by what they heard.
I have read books by Hildebrand before and enjoyed them and until I read the blurb on the book jacket hadn’t realized this was her first novel set at Christmas although still in Nantucket. The characters were multifaceted and we got to know each of them a little at a time. The descriptions made me feel that I was there not only in Nantucket but also at the Winter Street Inn with the traditions, decorations, private quarters, smells of the holiday, the carols, the cold and the food – it is a B&B after all!
There was some closure but still so much story to tell especially the way the book ended. A few more chapters or an epilogue would have tied things up better but maybe we’re meant to be back at the Inn at another time. One can only dream – hint, hint! All in all a book that I didn’t want to end even after the last present was unwrapped.
Favorite Quote: Kevin decides the proper course of action is to pour shots of Jameson all around. They are, after all, a family of Irish heritage, their great-grandfather Quinn hailing from County Cork, so whiskey is acceptable in any emergency…...more
Reviewed by Danielle U. Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
When I Grow Up… (volume 1) by Patricia AsedReviewed by Danielle U. Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
When I Grow Up… (volume 1) by Patricia Asedegbega is absolutely enchanting. The characters are funny, smart, and believable. I was hooked immediately by this intriguing mystery. The plot is fast-paced and keeps readers guessing what will become of the characters’ jobs as well as their friendships. Patricia Asedegbega has brilliantly spun together a novel that will instantly lure readers in and keep them reading until they finish the book. A novel that features the Spanish culture as well as family, loyalty, and the desire to find the truth. When I Grow Up is a story that can be read by teens and adults. The ups and downs fo each character inside this novel, is captivating. I could hardly believe how everything was perfectly wrapped up and tied in together. The ending was super good and will leave readers feeling happy.
Inside of Patricia Asedegbega’s novel, When I Grow Up…, is a sweet and mysterious read. A book that shows readers one woman’s determination to help her friends when they are in need. Alicia at first feel awful around her boss and as the plot unfolds something between them has broken and her fear of her boss is gone. It’s like her boss became a totally new person with Alicia’s help. Then there’s the case of a friend being framed for a company crime that he hasn’t committed…Alicia knows it and she sets out like Nancy Drew and rushes to save the day…only can she? Readers will fall in love with this first volume by Patricia Asedegbega’s series. I highly recommend this delightful yet suspenseful novel to readers everywhere. I can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series. When I Grow Up…is definitely a novel readers don’t want to miss....more
Reviewed by Amy W. Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Cracking open a Debbie Macomber book is like comReviewed by Amy W. Book provided by the author for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Cracking open a Debbie Macomber book is like coming home again. For me, there are certain author names that practically guarantee a top-notch reading experience. Macomber has been on that list since I was introduced to her writing more than 20 years ago. When A Girl’s Guide to Moving On arrived in oversize paperback form in the mail, I knew this would be a read to remember.
What sets Macomber apart from other writers is her keen sense of character development. The men and women who grace her pages are not only completely realistic (warts and all), but they are brought to life in a vivid manner. In this particular book, I could hear Nikolai’s accented English as he conversed with Leanne. I could picture Nichole putting together various outfits for women in need like Shawntelle.
The focus of the story is unique in that it takes a mother and her daughter-in-law, both of whom share a history of unfaithful husbands. The bond they share is fully explored as they unite and try to rebuild their lives. The list they develop, which is where the title originates, is a common sense approach to dealing with life challenges.
I was quite impressed with the depiction of the female characters. Rather than Nichole and Leanne dwelling on the negativity, they embraced a positive outlook and moved forward. That’s not to say they didn’t face challenges, though. While the author did a phenomenal job setting the stage for Jake and Sean as the culprits, she also wove in some redeeming characteristics. As she clearly demonstrates, there are shades of gray when dealing with relationships.
Another key trademark of Macomber’s writing is the comfortable way the storyline progresses. While each chapter alternates between the voices of Leanne and Nichole, there is a clear flow of action. It was incredibly easy to get caught up in the story, especially since there was no real way to predict the ending (even though I tried).
In the end, the reader not only gets a satisfying respite with a fantastic book, but there is an important lesson underscoring the ability for women to start over. No matter what season in life, love is always within reach. The interaction between the characters emphasizes this point, even though infidelity was the root cause of the turmoil.
I laughed, shed a few tears and when the last page was read, I reaffirmed my certainty that Debbie Macomber is a true genius in telling stories that empower women. ...more
Reviewed by Amy W Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Rich with details, Barbara Davis has written a beautiful saga centerReviewed by Amy W Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Rich with details, Barbara Davis has written a beautiful saga centered around a seaside inn. With a touch of suspense, The Wishing Tide manages to transport readers right onto the beach.
From the beginning, it is clear that all is not quite as it seems. The author provides subtle foreshadowing, dropping clues along the way. Lane’s attempts to make friends with Mary serve to illustrate the loneliness that permeates the pages of the story. With Michael added to the mix, there is a solid dose of drama in the form of a secret from the past.
As the story progresses, it is like puzzle pieces shifting into place. When Lane is first introduced in the story, not only is she the operator of the inn, but she writes magazine articles about places she has never been and things she has never done. Each of the three main characters exhibits a sense of false identity that is later revealed throughout the story. I was impressed with the way the author took three seemingly unrelated characters and brought them together in a meaningful way.
The themes contained in the story range from mental illness to the concept of forgiveness. In the end, it is a story about fighting for the life that we want and healing from past transgressions. The challenges presented in the storyline are all part of real life. Watching how the characters would handle those challenges guaranteed my attention from start to finish....more
Reviewed by Heather Book provided by the author for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Despite this being a quick read, I liked this book. ThReviewed by Heather Book provided by the author for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Despite this being a quick read, I liked this book. The characters were very realistic and enjoyable. Laura Lee is a dedicated business woman that is completely focus on her career. She has no desire to find love until her co-worker, Adam, offers to help her. Their story is one that women fantasize about.
At the beginning Laura is very unpleasant and even her friend, Lisa, agrees that she is not date material. However, by the end of the story, she becomes a much more likable person. Laura also changes her opinions on the people around her, making her a stronger character.
The story is told by Laura Lee and only shows her point of view. The story line is great but I feel like more details were needed in regards the events that took place. It went a little too quick for me, skipping from event to event. Even though the story is quick, it does have a good ending that does not leave the reader with any unanswered questions....more
Reviewed by Julie Book provided by the publisher for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I have always had this habit of putting myself in theReviewed by Julie Book provided by the publisher for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I have always had this habit of putting myself in the shoes of a character in a book and trying to imagine what I would think, do, or feel if I were them. I’ve been scolded by some reviewers for indulging in this habit because I am supposed to see the characters for who they are and consider actions based on that.
However, I simply could not get past some of the things Paige let go. Yes, she was a marriage counselor and she considered herself trained in maintaining relationships. So, when her husband, Dave tells her he has been suspended from work and he doesn’t know why, Paige’s response is rather muted.
To add to the situation with her husband, Paige’s sister, Sloane returns home for a visit after many years of estrangement from the family. Again, Paige accepts this with little interest.
As the mystery deepens with Dave, Paige begins to suspect him of some kind of illegal activity that landed him a suspension. So, because he has been less than forthcoming, Paige decides to do a little digging with the help of one of her sister’s acquaintances.
Another interesting thing is Paige stumbling across some old journals her mother had written way back when Sloane was going through a very bad patch. Knowing it is wrong to read the journals and feeling guilty for intruding on her mother’s innermost thoughts, she can’t seem to tear herself away from them. The discovery enlightens Paige to some facts about her family she had never considered.
This story has many layers that involve Paige and how she tends to compartmentalize her relationships. After her sister went away, Paige no longer even thought of Sloane as a family member. Paige knows her mother has always depended on her to be the dependable daughter, the daughter who does all the right things, unlike Sloane. I really think this shaped Paige into the person she became as an adult. Her job as a therapist, the marriage to Dave, her approach to his sudden changes, the reaction to Sloane, all of it seemed so subdued I wanted to shake her. So, that is why I got so frustrated. If my husband pulled that kind of a stunt it would not have gone on for an entire summer. I would never have put up with any of that. No. way. Ever.
Now the family dynamic part of the story would give a psychiatrist enough to work on for a lifetime. Sloane suffered from a relationship with her mother that was the polar opposite of how Paige interacted with Vanessa. Sloane had problems and I suppose Vanessa felt some kind of intense guilt or pain and so she went overboard trying to win Sloane over, while Sloane remained unimpressed. It was hard to judge Vanessa too harshly. She made some mistakes with her oldest daughter, which causes her to make mistakes with Paige. I did notice some slight intuitions from Vanessa that made me wonder if she was subconsciously aware of a problem in Paige’s marriage. She was nice enough to Dave but she occasionally gave off the impression she felt more comfortable dealing with personal family issues without his presence.
Sloane loves Paige even if she is perhaps a bit jealous of her initially. She is still a hard person, but probably the most real of all these characters, although some readers may find her a little crass in the beginning and of course we are not sure we can trust her.
Thankfully, Paige will be shaken awake from the slumber that she has been living her life in and a new perspective will emerge even if she is somewhat gun shy, which would be understandable.
The blurb uses the word “absorbing” in describing this book and it certainly is that.
Since there are so many different relationships to examine this would be a great book club book. There could be some lively debate about this one. I did enjoy the writing and the outcome will leave you with a feeling that while things are never going to be just peachy for Paige and Sloane, things are going to be much better than they were before....more
Reviewed by Danielle Book provided by the publisher for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
A Paris Affair by Tatiana de Rosnay was like a breReviewed by Danielle Book provided by the publisher for review Originally posted at Romancing the Book
A Paris Affair by Tatiana de Rosnay was like a breath of fresh air. Here, I was thinking it was a book containing one particular couples’ affair and instead I found it contained several different affairs. Each affair had one theme. That theme centralized on how men are cheaters and women know it, yet we set ourselves up for the disaster anyway. But there were also, married women having an affair with married men. So, each affair was like a contradiction to the overall main theme. Tatiana de Rosnay has masterful captured the lives of those living with an affair. The characters come off pages and you feel like you are seated across the room from the action and watching it live instead of just reading about it. The pages will lure readers in instantly with the emotional struggles of the couples having the affair. The romance in these affairs were hot and like that of a fantasy. Yet, the sweet kind gestures were left once they affairs ended. If they ended at all.
Tatiana de Rosnay portrays the hardships and fails of a marriage. The emotional roller coaster that the devoted wives go through when they find out about their husbands’ affairs. This book shows readers how common and widespread the cheating scheme was and how it affects all of those involved. There were marriages with children and without children were the men and women were both cheating. A Paris Affair made me wonder why the men or women who cheated even married their spouses in the first place. I loved how one man is having an affair and he so carefully writes a letter to his lover. A letter that cancels their affair. Then a disaster occurs and this brings him with the haunting conclusion that he needs to come clean with his wife. The ending of its one affair will be priceless to readers. I truly enjoyed reading Tatiana de Rosnay’s brilliant fiction portraying lovers and the realistic side of their affairs. Human struggles and emotions so perfectly brought onto the pages for readers’ entertainment. Overall, I highly recommend A Paris Affair to readers world wide....more
Reviewed by Aubrey Book provided by the author Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Reading this grand sweeping novel, I was so extremely jealous of aReviewed by Aubrey Book provided by the author Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Reading this grand sweeping novel, I was so extremely jealous of all the family members. I always wanted a family like the Harrison clan. They are all so different in their own ways but would come together each Christmas to celebrate the holidays in this grand house that had been in the family for generations.
The author introduces us to all the family members and we get to know them from their descriptions but also how they interact with each other. I adored how quirky they were. I loved the parents and how each family member deals with the fact that their parents are getting older and are not as spry as they once were.
The author did something that I love so much and that is to dedicate each chapter to each month of the year. We see how each family member goes through their year. How much their lives change through out the year. We see a real family that is dealing with real issues. Nothing is sugar coated in that we get to see how this family deals with their problems. How they fight for what they want in life.
I felt like I was reading a Maeve BInchy novel which was so comforting to me since she is one of my favorite authors. One of the authors that I cherish each of their books and read when I’m sad or blue. Amanda Brookfield definitely will be this kind of author for me.
I also have a slight infatuation with anything British. There is something so endearing to me about British literature. I like seeing how other countries do things. The language and slang fascinate me. I so need to go out and look for other books by Brookfield....more
Reviewed by Angie Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I could barely put this book down from the momReviewed by Angie Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I could barely put this book down from the moment I opened to the first page. I love stories written in the “Old South”, especially if they’re a romantic mystery.
Secrets has two time periods and two female protagonist points of view that you read from; the 1930s and modern day. Adele and Leslie. Both points of view kept me fascinated from chapter to chapter.
It is so hard to not give things away that are important to the story. The title is metaphorical, at least in my mind, as everyone from Peak Plantation carried secrets.
I adored Adele from the beginning. Though she is unsure of herself, she soon learns how to stay out of her mistress’ way. She grows into a beautiful, strong woman who has fallen in love with the one person she shouldn’t have.
Suzanne…ugh. I hated her from the beginning. She never does anything to get you to like her; never redeems herself. She hates her husband, hates that he won’t become the man she thinks he should be, blames everyone but herself when it comes to the multiple miscarriages that she suffers…she’s just a spiteful, hateful, manipulative…witch.
Henry needed to grow a set. He could care less about his wife, though I don’t blame him there {even if he’d been attentive she would still be a nasty piece of work}, what the town thinks of him; Henry only cares about his beloved tobacco plants of Peak Plantation. He is pretty oblivious to anything and everything else that’s going on around him.
Though I found him quirky and adorable at first, I learned to want to punch him in the throat in time.
Leslie was just as easy to like as Adele, though there were times when I just wanted to grab her by her hair and force her to see what was in front of her face. My heart broke for her as her story unfolded; a father who murdered her mother in front of her, a grandmother she barely remembered and hadn’t seen in over thirty years, a mother she missed, and a life that was crumbling around her.
I adored Jay more than Leslie. He has secrets of his own, but he was so focused on creating a new life for himself and to get over the past. He isn’t overly receptive to Leslie when she finally shows up days before Peak would have been his according to Maggie’s will. I kind of wanted to hang out in the vineyards and watch the grapes grow. Watching him and Leslie dance around each other made their eventual romance feel real and not forced or overly sappy. It evolved from cautious to friendly and then they couldn’t deny that they were meant to be.
Comedy relief came in the form of Angie and her son. They were adorable and cracked me up repeatedly.
There are so many stories intertwined, but they are easy to keep track of as each one connects to the other.
Overall I didn’t want to put this book down for anything as it was intriguing as it switched from the past – from Adele’s point of view – and then Leslie’s modern day as she uncovered her family secrets. Set a weekend aside to get lost in the secrets of Peak Plantation. There are a few you never saw coming. ...more
Reviewed by Marissa Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Written in first person dialog, I felt like I waReviewed by Marissa Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Written in first person dialog, I felt like I was reading someone’s personal diary. It was at times amusing and at others sad but it always felt true, as if Vanessa Wonderman is a real person that exists somewhere.
As a teenager in the 70’s, I remember all the hype over Fear of Flying but never did read it myself. I’m now in my 50’s and, let’s face it, times have changed since Fear of Flying emerged with such sensationalism. We’ve surpassed zipless and are now emerging into Grey territory. As such, Fear of Dying is not an erotic tale but an honest and emotional journey of life after 60 by a woman trying to put the zing back into her monotonous life.
Vanessa is a former actress who feels like life passed her by somewhere along the line. Her parents are old and sick, her daughter is grown up and having a baby and her sex life has been less than satisfactory. In fact, it’s been non-existent so she goes online to try and meet someone for a “zipless” fling
I found this to be a wonderful story about a woman searching for something that may or may not be out there. I think most women our age are going through that, have been through that, or will go through that shortly. Fear of Dying is ChickLit at it’s finest hour. ...more
Reviewed by Angie Book provided by the publisher Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I finished this book a few weeks ago and had to mull over my feeReviewed by Angie Book provided by the publisher Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I finished this book a few weeks ago and had to mull over my feelings towards it. At times it hit too closely to home and I’d have to put it down and walk away until I was able to go back to it. The other times I just wanted to throw my ipad because I was frustrated.
The girls have come home to bury their alcoholic, drunk father who died a few days before Christmas. None of them had been home since they left. Elise, their mother, is happy to have her daughters back home so that they can spend Christmas together and help her in this difficult time. She also hopes that they can forgive the past hurts and forge new bonds.
It’s difficult to explain this book without giving away spoilers. It’s very complex and there are so many different storylines between the girls, their mother, their father, and each of their lives. Mixed between the chapters is a sad cry for help that brought me to tears many times.
I found Elise to be weak. She had no backbone whatsoever and was pretty clueless as to what was going on in her daughters’ lives. She barely knew her grandchildren and seemed to live in a fog for the most part. Towards the end I found myself surprised to lean a few things about her. I know that in the time period she and her daughters grew up in that most women just dealt with abuse rather than strike out on their own, but it seemed that Elise only found her backbone after it was too late.
Julia – or Queenie as her sisters refer to her as – was an interesting character. I didn’t get the vibe that she was a bad mother, though her son certainly seemed to think so. She is the oldest of the girls and takes charge as soon as she arrives home. I felt sorry for her because her husband seemed to care more about his work than he did her and Eli, his stepson. I would have liked some more background about her rather than jumbled bits and only really knowing a little bit from Eli’s point of view.
Maya – Oh my word, for the most part I just wanted to slap her and bring her back down a peg or two. Her need for constant perfection and micromanaging made me want to rip my hair out. I kept wanting to beg her to remove the stick before it became a permanent part of her anatomy. I did feel sorry for her once we got to know a little more of her, but I truly wished that she would open her eyes and just listen instead of being judgmental, but it wasn’t part of her makeup to be rational; she had always felt she needed to control everything, not just herself.
Brad, Maya’s husband, is a heel and could use some therapy and some time in a rehab for addicts. In a way I could understand his behavior, but then again I just found him to be a coward all around. He cared very little about his wife and even less about his children. He should have done the humane thing and left a long time ago.
Claire was my favorite character of them all. She was a free spirit with broken wings. Her childhood was a nightmare, but she struck out on her own without ever looking back. She was treated horribly not just by her father, but her sisters as well. I wanted to hug her, to let her know that she COULD heal and that eventually wounds do heal, even if the scars never fade.
I did enjoy this book as a whole, even if some of the characters were just frustrating to read about. I opted to not give my opinion about Eli so that anyone else who reads could form their own opinions about him.
The ending seemed a bit rushed once the bandages had been ripped off and the wounds were made fresh all over again. But the healing had begun and I was happy to see the direction that everything was going towards. I would love a sequel to catch up with the sisters to see how they’re doing and if they were able to truly mend fences....more
Reviewed by Aubrey Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Brown once again writes a story that captivates you and makes you lReviewed by Aubrey Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Brown once again writes a story that captivates you and makes you laugh. The author’s sense of humor shines through the pages. The characters are larger than life but at the same time believable and down to earth. I would love to work at Bless my Bloomers with Carlene. The store is at the center of a lot of the action of the book whether it is when the store is open for business or the women with their mamas are discussing how to come up with the winning chili.
If my husband (that I don’t have but for the purpose of my review I have one) cheated on me me I would totally want the people that Carlene had backing her up. Alma Grace is the uptight cousin who believes praying will solve everything and Patrice is the no-nonsense cousin who rules with her heart and her head equally. Not to mention the three cousins’ mothers are all sisters who are quirky and funny as a trio. The six women together decide they are going to enter the Chili cook-off that has never had women enter before. The hilarity that ensues is priceless. Who knew that cooking chili would be so much fun or hilarious.
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves stories about small towns and families. It was so sweet and I did not want to finish it at all. Carolyn Brown has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I really hope that she gets to write more in this series. I think one reason I love it so much is that the mothers played an equal role. They were not hated or not even talked about. Their mothers were their best friends, the same way my mother is my best friend. Family connections were strong in this book....more
Reviewed by Heather Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Holy WOW! Kimberly Belle just put me through a sleepless night of Reviewed by Heather Book provided by NetGalley Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Holy WOW! Kimberly Belle just put me through a sleepless night of riding an emotional roller-coaster. I literally could not stop reading it. The Ones We Trust was absolutely mind blowing. Belle definitely put time and effort into researching facts in order to bring readers the perfect story.
Abigail Wolff is a fierce character with a huge heart for doing the right thing no matter what it costs. She is a formal journalist in DC. On her quest to find the truth surrounding the death of one of her father’s soldiers, Zachary Armstrong, she uncovers much more than she was expecting. She teams up with the hunky brother of the murdered soldier, Gabe Armstrong, but she quickly learns that investigating a US Army cover-up could destroy her career, or worse, tear families apart.
Their investigation takes them on a trip through Virginia in order to dig up more information. Along the journey, the two form an unexpected closeness that they both have a hard time dealing with.
The Ones We Trust is the perfect mix of mystery, thriller, and romance. Belle writes about two of the hardest things that our military members face, death and PTSD. She brought the two together wonderfully.
I will be sharing this book with my friends, family, and fellow military spouses. It is definitely one of the best books I have ever read!...more
Reviewed by Robin Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
What a simply enjoyable read. I loved every miReviewed by Robin Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
What a simply enjoyable read. I loved every minute of the book. Ms. Spinella has a way of drawing the reader in with her strong well written characters that make you feel as if you actually know them.
Love after all is all about ‘Perfect Timing’.
Aiden and Isabel were childhood friends who shared allot for such young people. A first kiss, family issues, struggles and secrets. But things happen and they lost touch. Things happen and they are drawn apart. Years later Isabel must go to Aiden for help. She has settled into a New England town where she works for the local radio station. She is in a relationship with Nate (a doctor) who is as far from bad boy rock star Aiden as she could get. As she reunites with Aiden you find you want them to find that young love they had.
I found myself rooting for that love…that true love…the kind of love that follows you through time… The way Ms. Spinella takes us from the past into the present is very effortless and makes it nice to follow Aiden and Isabel back and forth within the story. Ms. Spinella brought all that love from the past, the hopes, the dreams, and emotion forward, showing us that if we truly believe love does and can conquer all.
A story and characters so well written you find it hard to believe that they are just a story…a story that transcends the test of time.
Perfect Timing is a book that will have you believing in the idea of romance and a forever kind of love all over again. This is a nice winter read that will warm your heart. ...more
Reviewed by Robin Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Ms. Liebert takes us on a journey into the livReviewed by Robin Book provided by the publisher for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Ms. Liebert takes us on a journey into the lives of two friends who over the years have become estranged over the years. All because Katherine or Katy to her friends, had the courage to move away, while she left Laney behind. Laney got married, became a mother and has a job at a small spa. To most this would be wonderful but, Laney resented the fact that Katy was so chic and had what to her seemed to be a glamorous job.
BFF…who shared a common bond…and a neighbor in Luella who befriended both of the girls, giving Katy a mother figure as hers had died and just being a friend to Laney. They shared allot with Luella. They both were influenced by Luella. I liked that these two young girls bonded with and formed a relationship with an otherwise lonely neighbor giving her something to live for. Letting her have the chance to feel needed. Not many girls would do that in today’s society. I know in our neighborhood the kids don’t come out of their houses to help the elderly neighbor’s shovel snow or even cut their grass of ask them for help let alone sit and talk to them asking them for advice.
But, for Katy and Laney…Luella was much more than a friend. I guess when Katy learned from Luella to be independent and spread her wings Laney became jealous. Over the years this tore them apart. Luella has passed away leaving a will naming both girls.
These friends are both very driven…and have depth to them making them both very likeable. You feel the heartaches, betrayals, and love that they each have. The past, present and future is woven into the story in such a way that puts you right into the heart of the story as these two remember the past, disuss the present and decide what needs to be done to salvage the future as BFF’s.
Ms. Liebert gave Luella an insight into each of these girls separately yet together so that she knew what each needed at any given time so she was able to help them. The insight was passed onto us the reader giving us a more real feel for the story.
I enjoyed this quick, witty, very real story that tugs at your heartstrings. An easy read making you want to run over and sit down to chat with that older neighbor so that they are a little less lonely. ...more
Reviewed by Angie Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
After being encouraged to read a Robyn Carr novel,Reviewed by Angie Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
After being encouraged to read a Robyn Carr novel, I feel mostly let down that the hype from friends wasn’t exactly all that I probably should have felt.
My biggest pet peeve is using coarse language to express emotions to excess; there are many other wonderful words that can be used to achieve the same result without causing the reader to either wince or roll their eyes after a while.
Gerri’s treatment of Phil and Phil’s subsequent cheating and attempts to regain his wife’s trust and solidify his place in the family did not make for fun reading. She was too abrasive, and his actions were almost romanticized by the author. I will admit that there were more than a few times where I wanted to hand her a Snickers and tell her to shut up and sit down already.
I wanted to reach in and hug Sonya, especially when she was so brushed off for most of the beginning of the book. What could have been led into healthy book club or friendly discussions of how well Sonya’s mental illness was handled by her husband and neighbors, was instead treated with stigma and unoriginality. What was once a woman who was sweet, although annoying when it came to health tips, was suddenly a caustic woman who seemingly became Gerri’s twin. I didn’t seem to care too much about her in the back half of the book.
Andie’s story was the only one that I really kept reading for, but the author chose to further alienate this reader by referring to Bob as fat, overweight, or too old at nearly every chance she got.
Ms. Carr has the capability to weave storylines, especially hot topics such as the ones included in this book, and make them work. However, even after a second read-through I found myself longing to just be done with it and move on. I may still give one of her Virgin River books a try as those are the most highly recommended of all her books. ...more
Reviewed by Amy W. Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Although the community of Stillwater Bay is fictiReviewed by Amy W. Book provided by NetGalley for review Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Although the community of Stillwater Bay is fictional, it could very well represent all of the locations throughout our country that have experienced the devastating effects of a school shooting.
Get your tissues ready for Steena Holmes’ Stillwater Rising, which takes place in the aftermath of a community tragedy. The story focuses on the lives of two friends and the roller coaster ride that ensues. With their friendship hanging in the balance, one woman is trying to deal with her grief while the other is trying to look out for the best interests of the town. That creates a collision course involving other grieving parents, as well as the mother of the shooter.
From start to finish, the author has captured a full gamut of emotions within the pages of this story. Anyone who has experienced such a tragedy in real life will no doubt be able to identify with the characters.
The true gem, though, lies in the real reason behind why the boy took a gun to school in the first place. While on the surface it appears that he fits the stereotypical mold, it turns out there is much more to the story. The author very skillfully weaves this information into the storyline, guaranteeing that you will never see this plot twist coming.
This was a riveting piece of work that perhaps hit a bit too close to home. With a conclusion that left me gasping for air, this is one of those stories that you will remember for a long time to come. ...more
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