A Crimson Rose by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

This novella is a sweet read. While it will work as a stand-alone, having read at least the first book in Grace Greene's Crimson Grove series will truly make this story make more sense. Amelia Hennipen is a caregiver at heart. Circumstances, and likely God, have put Amelia in situations that some would find anywhere from untenable to uncomfortable. She not only manages them, but thrives, and so do those under her care. Does she have weak moments, absolutely. The team she has built around her and those who have come alongside her see her through. Grace Greene is truly a master of character development. In A Crimson Rose she honors both the lifetime character of Henny who is journeying through Alzheimer's as well as the changes that have manifested. The story has a gentle, slow pace as this type of story deserves. Deep emotions cannot be rushed. It is special that Greene is able to accomplish this within the constraints of the book being a novella rather than a full-length novel.

I highly recommend this book and series, and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

A Crimson Heart by Grace Green - A Book Review

 

It felt as if it had been a while since I last had the pleasure of reading a Grace Greene novel, or in this case novella. I was thrilled to receive a complimentary e-copy of A Crimson Heart from the author. It was just as moving and lovely as each of her other books. I my mind, Grace Greene is among a small group of authors who consistently excel in character development. She truly presents polished, appealing, and believable interactions between her characters, most often tugging at the readers' heart strings, as she does in A Crimson Heart. Many readers will identify with the novella's themes of caregiving for loved ones, choosing to be family even with those who are not blood relatives, and true compassion. Many, like me, will be hoping that this book will serve as a prequel to a new series. I recommend this novella for reading anytime, but it is especially poignant for this busy holiday season when one must fit reading in between preparations and celebrations. 

A Heart Beyond by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

There is a scene in this book where Sam takes Leigh for a ride in the country, asking her to trust him. Initially, a confirmed city girl, Leigh dislikes being out of her comfort zone and wishes to get it over with and to return home. After contemplating all of the reasons she has to trust Sam, she decides to approach this trip with more of an open mind and enjoys herself enough to later return on her own. This scene is a great analogy for my experience with A Heart Beyond. Initially I, who am not a pet person, was not experiencing the same enjoyment that I usually do from a Grace Greene novel, telling my husband that there was just too much focus on the cat. Then it was as though Grace was asking me to trust her. I considered the delight I had taken in the fourteen of her books that I had read over the last six years, and knew that I could indeed trust her to give me a delightful reading experience this time. So, with a more open mind, I continued reading and was not disappointed. The story took some turns that involved both intrigue and romance, and some valuable life lessons about worry and moving forward after hurt and betrayal. It wasn't long before I had a hard time putting the book down. It was a delightful read.

Grace Greene is truly a trusted author, and I highly recommend A Heart Beyond and all of her other novels. It was certainly wonderful to revisit Cub Creek, home of the Wildflower House in this book. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Emerald Heart by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

Grace Greene's books always evoke intense emotional responses from her readers. Her writing style is slow paced which ideally fits her stories and allows for deep character development. Her stories are designed to develop empathy with her characters in their struggles, and to then to help one deal with their own struggles or the struggles of others within their sphere of influence. Emerald Heart is a story of grief, grief that has lingered on for too long. It is a story about moving forward past the many obstacles and hurdles that stand in the way. It is a story that will likely hit close to home to those of a certain age, those who realize that type of grief is getting closer to being their own reality, as well as those who have, at whatever age, already encountered the loss of one or more of those dearest to their heart. Grace Greene does not shy away from the tough stuff, nor does she leave us there. She shines a light on possibilities, on healthy choices, and on realizing that memories are rooted in our hearts not places or things.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Beach Wedding at Emerald Isle, NC by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

This book was difficult to read in that is dealt with some hard truths, truths we likely all need to come to grips with at times in our lives. Previous encounters with Maia had been filled with light and sweetness. Maia was a character with a true servant's heart. In Beach Wedding we see a different, darker, side of Maia, the side that occurs when bitterness and resentment crowd out the light. Sometimes though, the light when it returns seems all the brighter when juxtaposed against the darkness. I am grateful for this beautiful story and its lessons and reminders. Thank you, Grace Greene, for providing me with a complimentary copy without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Beach Winds by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

Why is it that so often when I finish a Grace Greene novel that I think, “This is my new favorite of Grace's books!” I guess it is fair to say that Beach Winds is my current of many favorites of Grace Greene's novels. In this novel Frannie Denman struggles with feeling comfortable in her own skin. She struggles with reconciling her true self with her public persona. She bemoans her frequent missteps in social situations. Then, at age thirty-one, her life change and many things become clear, things that will require much and will possibly give much, but maybe this time around she won't have to handle things alone.

Grace Greene writes such beautiful stories that delve deep into her characters' lives, exposing their, and often our, insecurities and weaknesses, but never without hope. That is what the world needs now, hope. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Beach Winds from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Beach Rental by Grace Greene - A Book Review

     

I had read eleven of Grace Greene's books, but never her first, Beach Rental. I am so glad to have now had the privilege and pleasure. Juli Cooke's life had been difficult from an early age. Now in her twenties working minimum wage jobs, trying to keep her head above water, with no high school diploma or GED, Juli doesn't expect that to change any time soon. Little did she know the amazing changes that were headed her way when she met Ben Bradshaw. Ben was only too aware of the changes that had entered his life, changes brought on with his cancer diagnosis. Now he wishes to have companionship with someone who hasn't already gone into mourning for him.

Grace Green was already a master storyteller even in this first of her books. Character development comes naturally to her as she draws readers into relationships with her characters. Her plots gently deliver messages of hope, and will be enjoyed by fans of clean secular fiction as well as fans of Christian fiction. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Beach Rental from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

The Happiness In Between by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

This is an updated version of the original book first published in 2017 along with a new cover. If you are wondering whether to reread The Happiness In Between, I cannot speak to the extent of the updates, having not read the first version. However, if it is a first read for you, as it was for me, I can assure you that you will be happy to have invested time and money on this book, that is unless an abusive relationship is a bit too fresh in your own experience, although walking the path of healing with Cassandra Shoemaker Hurst might be very encouraging. Grace Greene has included many words of wisdom in this story that apply generally to life's challenges and one's personal outlook on life. I found myself highlighting them for future reference. That is not unusual as each of the ten of her books that I have read included valuable insights brought out in the lives of her memorable characters. Greene writes poignant stories that delve into themes that matter, that change lives. It is a privilege to share her work with other readers. May each of us find out hope and our happiness daily, in between what we think we want and what we actually get.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Happiness In Between from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Wildflower Wedding, a Novella by Grace Greene - A Book Review

   

I am not normally a fan of novella length books, but this was the perfect length for the story culminating in Kara and Will's wedding. Within the sweet story, author Grace Greene deals with the theme of anxiety, the fears it leads to, and how one does or does not allow those fears to shape their life. She also addresses the choice we each have to see the positive aspects of the personalities of those around us rather than focusing on the annoyances we might initially respond to. If we see the best in others, might they also be more prone to seeing the best in us? I know we shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but this book lives up to the promise of that lovely cover. 

I am grateful to Grace Greene for providing me with such a delightful reading experience, and for doing so through a complimentary copy of Wildflower Wedding via Book Funnel without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

A Dancing Tide by Grace Greene - A Book Review

  

Grace Greene is an author who listens to her readers. While it wasn't a part of her original plan, she has graced us with a sequel continuing Lilliane Moore's story begun in A Barefoot Tide. A much requested and much appreciated story, A Dancing Tide allows us to see Lilliane's continuing journey into embracing both her past and her future, not allowing either to negate the other. It was delightful to again visit with the group of endearing characters who walk this journey along with her, to browse the dusty contents of the shed in Cub Creek, to sip tea under the shade trees in the backyard, as well as to walk the sands of Emerald Isle. One cannot help but to become completely immersed in Grace Greene's stories. I would suggest reading A Barefoot Tide prior to reading A Dancing Tide in order to get the most enjoyment from the experience.

I am grateful to have received a copy of A Dancing Tide from the author and her publisher, Kersey Creek Books, without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Beach Brides Message in a Bottle Boxed Set: "Claire" by Grace Greene - A Novella Review

   

Beach Brides Message in a Bottle Boxed Set includes nine sweet romance novellas each by a different author. Each story focuses on a member of a romance readers book club of which each has been let down by love. The members decide to do a girls' getaway on a Caribbean island and while there each sends off a message in a bottle.

I jumped straight to Grace Greene's contribution to this writing project because I have read and thoroughly enjoyed so many of her books. This novella was no exception. Claire's story, along with her little sister Darcy's, was poignant as are all of Greene's books. The theme of giving oneself and others time to recuperate and move on from tragedy and grief is an important one, and is well woven into the story. Now I am anxious to move on to the new-to-me authors. While I don't expect to make it to the beach this year, this great beach read will take me on a virtual trip without all the sand and sunscreen.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Elusive Dreams Press via Book Funnel. All opinions expressed here are my own.

A Barefoot Tide by Grace Greene - A Book Review

    

I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Grace Greene's novels that I have been privileged to read, but nothing prepared me for A Barefoot Tide. The raw emotions so eloquently painted on the pages of this book bare the two main characters' souls, evoking a depth of empathy from the reader not often encountered. It isn't often a book effects me like this one did, and when one does the sensation is special indeed. This book is one of self-discovery for thirty-something Lilliane Moore, rediscovery for ninety-something Merrick Dahl, and just maybe a catalyst for some self-reflection on the part of the reader. It places the past in perspective, and opens up a world of possibilities for the future.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Barefoot Tide from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

A Light Last Seen by Grace Greene - A Book Review

    

A Light Last Seen is a coming of age story, a story of second chances. Jaynie Highsmith had a difficult childhood. Her father died in a drowning accident before she came into this world, and her mother drowned her sorrows in booze and men. Jaynie's brother, Mitch, looked after her the best he could, but it was her relationship with their neighbor, Ruth Berry that fed her spirit. While Jaynie had things in common with her mother, such as their tempers, she tried to be forward looking rather than living in the resentment of the past as her mother did. Was it possible that while working toward a better future she had missed the good things in the present? There are life lessons to be learned in A Light Last Seen. Grace Greene reveals these through her well-developed, sometimes quirky characters and her genuine dialogue ripe with emotion. She is a gifted author, one that I am glad to have discovered through her Wildflower series and one I highly recommend.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Light Last Seen in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Wildflower Christmas by Grace Greene - A Book Review

   

Wildflower Christmas is a novella, and the third book in the Wildflower House series. In the prologue the author catches people who have not read books one and two up on Kara Lange's story. It made me think that those of us who have invested ourselves in Kara's story would likely have each written this prologue a little differently depending on our personal lens. As such, I'd wished I had begun my reading with chapter one.

Kara's plans for a quiet Christmas, like the ones she was used to, were quickly interrupted. A new boyfriend, coming alongside a recently discovered aunt in a search for the aunt's twin, caring for five-year-old Maddie while her grandmother recuperates, and the appearance of Victoria, a friend with whom she has had an evolving relationship, all work together to fill her December and Christmas with delightful, loving chaos. She wouldn't want it any other way. The story wraps up a lot of loose ends, and would serve well as a final book in a series, but enough is left open to give readers hope that they might encounter some of these characters in future books.

I used the word poignant to describe the first book in this series, and that word describes the series as a whole. I recommend this sweet, read, but suggest the books be read in sequence in order to get the greatest reading enjoyment. I am grateful to have received a copy of Wildflower Christmas from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Wildflower Hope by Grace Greene - A Book Review

     

I had read and reviewed the first book in the Wildflower House series in November of 2018, and was so excited to have the opportunity to read and review this second book continuing the story of Kara Lange Hart. Her story is an inspiration of resilience. On the heels of a serious car accident came the death of her father whom she was just getting to really know. The emotional upheaval in Kara's life caused her to depend more and more on medication. Wildflower Hope is a beautiful story of getting back up,standing on one's own two feet, while allowing oneself to share burdens with those who offer healthy support.

The Wildflower house itself becomes as much a character in this story as it is a setting. It certainly becomes a place the reader will wish were not fiction, but one to be truly visited. So grab a cup of tea and find a quiet spot to spend some time with Kara in her beautiful, transforming home, or in one of the many quite nooks on the property. You will be more than happy you did.

I am grateful to have received a copy of Wildflower Hope from the author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Wildflower Heart by Grace Greene - A Book Review

     

Wildflower Heart is a poignant tale, a sentimental journey through the life of Kara Lange Hart. Kara's dad described her as resilient, a characteristic that stood her is good stead during her life's many lows with far too few highs. Kara was a survivor, and each time she got back up after being knocked down, she was better and stronger. Kara learned to see herself, other people, and circumstances for what they were, learning to accept each for the positive things they held, but not blinded to shortcomings, yet not controlled by them either. At first I thought that this story was best read by someone who was in a good place in their own life, someone who would not be depressed by the sadder parts of Kara's story, but then I realized that someone in not such a good place would benefit greatly from the hope Kara found as she moved through life, allowing herself to grow.

Grace Greene is an accomplished author; Wildflower Heart showcases her ability to use the beauty of language to capture her readers' hearts and to lead them to embrace her characters. I am sure others looking for a book with depth will gratefully spend time between the covers of this of Wildflower Heart. I anxiously await the next book in this series, and was privileged to be asked to read this book in exchange for an honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.