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Recommend this book:
Rude Boy USA
Victoria Bolton
2016 Bronze Medal
282 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
A story that begins with someone spitting in another’s face and getting tortured and killed for a secret he can’t reveal immediately raises a lot of interest and curiosity in readers, but the grim fun is yet to begin. Rude Boy USA by Victoria Bolton is a riveting story of an unquenchable thirst for power and terror, featuring characters that will draw powerful emotions from readers. Bernie Banks has slowly but surely established himself as a powerful gangster with unusual but ruthless methods of operating. At a time he and his boys are sure to get on the top of the game, a powerful rival joins the game and a waitress causes a distraction that could break the solid Chimera Group. The big question is: who’ll make it to the top in this game of power where no one accepts defeat?
Victoria Bolton’s Rude Boy USA will take readers deep into the psychology of kingpins and the mechanics of the game of power. Bolton writes with unwavering confidence and grace, unveiling a plot that is laced with unusual turns and sudden surprises, a pace that quickens with the reader’s heartbeat. The characters are as real as they are compelling, sometimes funny and at times very, very nasty. The language is blunt, so blunt the reader can squirm at times at what they hear. The dialogue comes off the pages naturally and draws readers in as the plot progresses to a rocket-like climax. This is a book I will gladly recommend to fans of thrillers and crime fiction. An enjoyable read indeed.
A story that begins with someone spitting in another’s face and getting tortured and killed for a secret he can’t reveal immediately raises a lot of interest and curiosity in readers, but the grim fun is yet to begin. Rude Boy USA by Victoria Bolton is a riveting story of an unquenchable thirst for power and terror, featuring characters that will draw powerful emotions from readers. Bernie Banks has slowly but surely established himself as a powerful gangster with unusual but ruthless methods of operating. At a time he and his boys are sure to get on the top of the game, a powerful rival joins the game and a waitress causes a distraction that could break the solid Chimera Group. The big question is: who’ll make it to the top in this game of power where no one accepts defeat?
Victoria Bolton’s Rude Boy USA will take readers deep into the psychology of kingpins and the mechanics of the game of power. Bolton writes with unwavering confidence and grace, unveiling a plot that is laced with unusual turns and sudden surprises, a pace that quickens with the reader’s heartbeat. The characters are as real as they are compelling, sometimes funny and at times very, very nasty. The language is blunt, so blunt the reader can squirm at times at what they hear. The dialogue comes off the pages naturally and draws readers in as the plot progresses to a rocket-like climax. This is a book I will gladly recommend to fans of thrillers and crime fiction. An enjoyable read indeed.
Recommend this book:
Things Unsaid
A Novel
Diana Y. Paul
2016 Silver Medal
270 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Ica Iova for Readers' Favorite
Diana Paul’s novel, Things Unsaid, examines the dynamics of the family. It’s tough getting old — for you and those around you. As an elderly parent, how much do you have the right to expect from your children? As a child of an elderly parent, how far would you go for your parent? Would you do everything humanly possible to maintain your parents’ comfort and lifestyle, even if that comes at the expense of your own family? These are the questions Julia has after another argument with her husband about her parents.
Robert and Aida Whitman, Julia’s parents, live in Safe Harbor, an assisted living community that costs five thousand dollars a month. Moreover, Julia’s father has invested in penny stocks and lost almost everything he had. Julia and her two siblings, Joanne and Andrew, are now supposed to compensate and keep up the lifestyle to which their parents have become accustomed. Except that Andrew and Joanne have their own financial crisis. Julia is left to bail her parents out even as her own family’s finances are at risk, including her daughter’s college fund that is slowly draining away.
Things Unsaid by Diana Paul is a powerful, emotional tale that takes the reader deep into the complex dynamics of a dysfunctional family, alternating between love and obligation. Paul expertly entwines the past and present while exploring Julia’s moral impasse between love and duty for her two families — the one she was born into and the one she has created as an adult.
Diana Paul’s novel, Things Unsaid, examines the dynamics of the family. It’s tough getting old — for you and those around you. As an elderly parent, how much do you have the right to expect from your children? As a child of an elderly parent, how far would you go for your parent? Would you do everything humanly possible to maintain your parents’ comfort and lifestyle, even if that comes at the expense of your own family? These are the questions Julia has after another argument with her husband about her parents.
Robert and Aida Whitman, Julia’s parents, live in Safe Harbor, an assisted living community that costs five thousand dollars a month. Moreover, Julia’s father has invested in penny stocks and lost almost everything he had. Julia and her two siblings, Joanne and Andrew, are now supposed to compensate and keep up the lifestyle to which their parents have become accustomed. Except that Andrew and Joanne have their own financial crisis. Julia is left to bail her parents out even as her own family’s finances are at risk, including her daughter’s college fund that is slowly draining away.
Things Unsaid by Diana Paul is a powerful, emotional tale that takes the reader deep into the complex dynamics of a dysfunctional family, alternating between love and obligation. Paul expertly entwines the past and present while exploring Julia’s moral impasse between love and duty for her two families — the one she was born into and the one she has created as an adult.
Recommend this book:
Ripples Through Time
Lincoln Cole
2016 Gold Medal
200 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Hilary Hawkes for Readers' Favorite
Ripples Through Time is Lincoln Cole’s story of elderly Calvin Greenwood as, recently bereaved of his wife Emily and feeling he has no more to live for, he looks back over his life from childhood, through growing up years, marriage, parenthood and into older age. His friend Edward listens to the reminiscing - and the story is presented from the perspectives of the different characters, family members, others, Edward himself, as well as Calvin. A story of memories, relationships, mistakes, hopes, challenges and forgiveness emerges as the intricacies of his life are explained, and the connections between the people in Calvin’s life are revealed.
I found Ripples Through Time a thought-provoking and gripping story. I loved the characters – well-defined, believable – and the way the author reveals their backgrounds, stories, and what links them all to Calvin’s current situation. Lincoln Cole’s writing is of a high standard and the book is carefully plotted, moving along at a nice pace with a good amount of intrigue and suspense-building as it goes. I like the way it is told from the perspectives of different characters, and at different times in the past. The examination of grief, regret, forgiveness, aging, and euthanasia is sensitively and empathetically done, leaving the reader with much to ponder. At the same time this is not a sad story, but a realistic look at one man’s life with humor, friendships, and hope.
The book looks at all the complexities of life and how all the different situations, our different relationships, reactions, mistakes, and decisions add up to make us who we are. It is the story of how Calvin realizes what matters most in life and his hope for forgiveness and peace. Recommended.
Ripples Through Time is Lincoln Cole’s story of elderly Calvin Greenwood as, recently bereaved of his wife Emily and feeling he has no more to live for, he looks back over his life from childhood, through growing up years, marriage, parenthood and into older age. His friend Edward listens to the reminiscing - and the story is presented from the perspectives of the different characters, family members, others, Edward himself, as well as Calvin. A story of memories, relationships, mistakes, hopes, challenges and forgiveness emerges as the intricacies of his life are explained, and the connections between the people in Calvin’s life are revealed.
I found Ripples Through Time a thought-provoking and gripping story. I loved the characters – well-defined, believable – and the way the author reveals their backgrounds, stories, and what links them all to Calvin’s current situation. Lincoln Cole’s writing is of a high standard and the book is carefully plotted, moving along at a nice pace with a good amount of intrigue and suspense-building as it goes. I like the way it is told from the perspectives of different characters, and at different times in the past. The examination of grief, regret, forgiveness, aging, and euthanasia is sensitively and empathetically done, leaving the reader with much to ponder. At the same time this is not a sad story, but a realistic look at one man’s life with humor, friendships, and hope.
The book looks at all the complexities of life and how all the different situations, our different relationships, reactions, mistakes, and decisions add up to make us who we are. It is the story of how Calvin realizes what matters most in life and his hope for forgiveness and peace. Recommended.
Recommend this book:
Montpelier Tomorrow
Marylee MacDonald
2015 Gold Medal
318 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Patricia Day for Readers' Favorite
Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald is a well-written and comprehensive account of the family struggles that ensue when one member is diagnosed with ALS. You will meet Sandy and Tony, a young couple and parents to little Josh and baby Ben. Their world is shattered when Tony is diagnosed with ALS. How to cope is the number one question. Sandy’s mother, Colleen, bravely steps in to help however she can. She does not realize the toll it will take on her as the disease not only ravages Tony, but threatens the well-being and the sanity of everyone around him too; hers included. However, she resists the temptation to give up. She is there for the long haul, no matter what. Her love for Sandy and for Tony – a beloved son-in-law - will not allow her to wallow in self-pity.
With the aid of friends, support workers and extended family, they are occasionally relieved of the all-consuming exhaustion that the demands Tony's deterioration brings, as well as the growing tension of worry and stress. One close friend even gives up his home to give them a much-needed break from their distressing everyday burdens. The story continues with clarity and understanding until a completely unexpected event throws all of their beleaguered routine into disarray.
How they face this and how Tony’s condition is eased with drugs and therapy makes for thought-provoking reading. It took me along a road I hope I never have to travel. Not necessarily an easy read, but one that will cause you to thank your lucky stars it is not your life. The author must have done a great deal of research into this topic in order to write such an informative book. A good read - even if I did feel exhausted as I reached the last page. Well done.
Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald is a well-written and comprehensive account of the family struggles that ensue when one member is diagnosed with ALS. You will meet Sandy and Tony, a young couple and parents to little Josh and baby Ben. Their world is shattered when Tony is diagnosed with ALS. How to cope is the number one question. Sandy’s mother, Colleen, bravely steps in to help however she can. She does not realize the toll it will take on her as the disease not only ravages Tony, but threatens the well-being and the sanity of everyone around him too; hers included. However, she resists the temptation to give up. She is there for the long haul, no matter what. Her love for Sandy and for Tony – a beloved son-in-law - will not allow her to wallow in self-pity.
With the aid of friends, support workers and extended family, they are occasionally relieved of the all-consuming exhaustion that the demands Tony's deterioration brings, as well as the growing tension of worry and stress. One close friend even gives up his home to give them a much-needed break from their distressing everyday burdens. The story continues with clarity and understanding until a completely unexpected event throws all of their beleaguered routine into disarray.
How they face this and how Tony’s condition is eased with drugs and therapy makes for thought-provoking reading. It took me along a road I hope I never have to travel. Not necessarily an easy read, but one that will cause you to thank your lucky stars it is not your life. The author must have done a great deal of research into this topic in order to write such an informative book. A good read - even if I did feel exhausted as I reached the last page. Well done.
Recommend this book:
Lady of the Manor
Adrian Heflin
2015 Finalist
285 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Jessyca Garcia for Readers' Favorite
Lady of the Manor by Adrian Q. Heflin is my favorite kind of book. Not since V.C. Andrews’ book, Flowers in the Attic, have I read about so much family drama and so many secrets. The story follows the lives of the Creek family. Rosemary Creek, the evil matriarch, forces her son and his family to live with her in her manor in order to stay in her will. The manor is home to thirty years of dark family secrets. Every member of Rosemary’s family, as well as the whole town, hates her with a passion but is too scared to go against her orders.
I thought Lady of the Manor was a fantastic, drama filled book. Reading about another family’s drama always makes me appreciate my own family. Especially after reading about all of Rosemary Creek’s dark secrets. My favorite thing about this book was all of the secrets. Some of those secrets were absolutely shocking, which made it hard to put down the book in case another secret was coming. Heflin is a genius when it comes to putting twists and turns in a story. I loved how Heflin gave every character a background story telling where they came from. I also liked that every character in this book had a secret.
Lady of the Manor is the type of book that I will read over again just to make sure that I did not miss any secrets. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a V.C. Andrews fan. I am talking about the original V.C. Andrews, not the ghost writer who is far too innocent for my tastes. There is no reason why this book should not be on a best seller list.
Lady of the Manor by Adrian Q. Heflin is my favorite kind of book. Not since V.C. Andrews’ book, Flowers in the Attic, have I read about so much family drama and so many secrets. The story follows the lives of the Creek family. Rosemary Creek, the evil matriarch, forces her son and his family to live with her in her manor in order to stay in her will. The manor is home to thirty years of dark family secrets. Every member of Rosemary’s family, as well as the whole town, hates her with a passion but is too scared to go against her orders.
I thought Lady of the Manor was a fantastic, drama filled book. Reading about another family’s drama always makes me appreciate my own family. Especially after reading about all of Rosemary Creek’s dark secrets. My favorite thing about this book was all of the secrets. Some of those secrets were absolutely shocking, which made it hard to put down the book in case another secret was coming. Heflin is a genius when it comes to putting twists and turns in a story. I loved how Heflin gave every character a background story telling where they came from. I also liked that every character in this book had a secret.
Lady of the Manor is the type of book that I will read over again just to make sure that I did not miss any secrets. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a V.C. Andrews fan. I am talking about the original V.C. Andrews, not the ghost writer who is far too innocent for my tastes. There is no reason why this book should not be on a best seller list.
Recommend this book:
Promises of Love
David Selby
2015 Honorable Mention
320 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite
Life can be hard, especially in impoverished areas, and that is exactly what Daniel Friend experienced as a child. Promises of Love by David Selby follows the sorrows and successes of Daniel from the death of his young mother from a botched abortion to his old age, introspectively analyzing his life. Raised by his sister, Dee, after their father’s suicide, Daniel strives to succeed academically and professionally, in spite of the negative, defeatist attitudes he had heard constantly up to that point. Becoming a prominent surgeon and returning to the mountain country of his youth, Daniel finally marries, has a family, and continues to strive to be the best he can be. Unfortunately, that means guiding his children according to his plans and dreams even though that path is not necessarily the right one. The question becomes, what is the promise of love when someone is ruled by strong mental will and specific dreams?
Social and cultural expectations change over time and Promises of Love by David Selby offers an intimate look at this process in action. From the post World War II poverty in mountainous Virginia through the protests of the 1960s and beyond, the world changes around Daniel Friend without him really accepting it. Deeply insightful and meticulously detailed, Promises of Love includes you in the main character’s struggles through the years so that you can feel all the pain, hope, disappointment and joy as Daniel lives out his life and pursues his dreams. It is said that the unexamined life is one that is not worth living, but at what point does the examination get in the way of actually living your life? Promises of Love is a well written and engrossing story that provides you with a wonderful opportunity to ponder that question through Daniel’s eyes and leaves you taking a good look at your own opinions and choices. The impact of this story lasts well beyond the last page.
Life can be hard, especially in impoverished areas, and that is exactly what Daniel Friend experienced as a child. Promises of Love by David Selby follows the sorrows and successes of Daniel from the death of his young mother from a botched abortion to his old age, introspectively analyzing his life. Raised by his sister, Dee, after their father’s suicide, Daniel strives to succeed academically and professionally, in spite of the negative, defeatist attitudes he had heard constantly up to that point. Becoming a prominent surgeon and returning to the mountain country of his youth, Daniel finally marries, has a family, and continues to strive to be the best he can be. Unfortunately, that means guiding his children according to his plans and dreams even though that path is not necessarily the right one. The question becomes, what is the promise of love when someone is ruled by strong mental will and specific dreams?
Social and cultural expectations change over time and Promises of Love by David Selby offers an intimate look at this process in action. From the post World War II poverty in mountainous Virginia through the protests of the 1960s and beyond, the world changes around Daniel Friend without him really accepting it. Deeply insightful and meticulously detailed, Promises of Love includes you in the main character’s struggles through the years so that you can feel all the pain, hope, disappointment and joy as Daniel lives out his life and pursues his dreams. It is said that the unexamined life is one that is not worth living, but at what point does the examination get in the way of actually living your life? Promises of Love is a well written and engrossing story that provides you with a wonderful opportunity to ponder that question through Daniel’s eyes and leaves you taking a good look at your own opinions and choices. The impact of this story lasts well beyond the last page.
Recommend this book:
Iron Butterfly
Lisa Wainland
2015 Silver Medal
238 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Brenda Casto for Readers' Favorite
At twenty-nine, Cassie Rappaport's life seems to be coming together, although her job as a newspaper writer could be better. She has finally met the love of her life with Jake Morrow and they intend to be wed. When something happens that jerks her world into a tailspin, it affects not only her life but the lives of everyone around her.
Iron Butterfly by Lisa Wainland is a story that feels so realistic you can imagine these characters could be anyone you know. Lisa Wainland's perceptive descriptions lend a richness to the lives of each character in Iron Butterfly. She breathes life into them in such a way that I felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book. Cassie was oh so easy to relate to, and when she hears devastating news that rocks not only her world but everyone around her, I could easily feel the emotional upheaval that everyone felt. The fear of the outcome was tangible and very realistic. Her worries became mine, and the anxiety of waiting to know the truth of how things would turn out for her compelled me to keep reading. There were some sweetly poignant moments between her and Jake, moments that melted the heart, and showed the depth of love that they had for each other. The stories of Jake and Sandy were also very compelling. The guilt and blame that Jake carried because of something he felt responsible for was heart-wrenching. The issues going on with Cassie allowed him to realize that he needed to deal with the truths of what had happened in the past.
The story between Cassie and Sandy was, sadly, a realistic look at what often happens between siblings. Vivid descriptions allowed me to experience the sights and sounds of the story. I was really touched by the description and symbolism of the butterfly. A richly satisfying novel that makes one realize the ties of family, the strength that we all possess, and how it sometimes takes a scare to make us understand and value what is really important in life.
At twenty-nine, Cassie Rappaport's life seems to be coming together, although her job as a newspaper writer could be better. She has finally met the love of her life with Jake Morrow and they intend to be wed. When something happens that jerks her world into a tailspin, it affects not only her life but the lives of everyone around her.
Iron Butterfly by Lisa Wainland is a story that feels so realistic you can imagine these characters could be anyone you know. Lisa Wainland's perceptive descriptions lend a richness to the lives of each character in Iron Butterfly. She breathes life into them in such a way that I felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book. Cassie was oh so easy to relate to, and when she hears devastating news that rocks not only her world but everyone around her, I could easily feel the emotional upheaval that everyone felt. The fear of the outcome was tangible and very realistic. Her worries became mine, and the anxiety of waiting to know the truth of how things would turn out for her compelled me to keep reading. There were some sweetly poignant moments between her and Jake, moments that melted the heart, and showed the depth of love that they had for each other. The stories of Jake and Sandy were also very compelling. The guilt and blame that Jake carried because of something he felt responsible for was heart-wrenching. The issues going on with Cassie allowed him to realize that he needed to deal with the truths of what had happened in the past.
The story between Cassie and Sandy was, sadly, a realistic look at what often happens between siblings. Vivid descriptions allowed me to experience the sights and sounds of the story. I was really touched by the description and symbolism of the butterfly. A richly satisfying novel that makes one realize the ties of family, the strength that we all possess, and how it sometimes takes a scare to make us understand and value what is really important in life.
Recommend this book:
The Wrath of Karma
Vimal Vaz
2014 Finalist
258 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Michael McManus for Readers' Favorite
Author Vimal Vaz tells us at the outset that his main character, Ashok Choudhary, has changed his destiny by choosing a very different path than the one he chose in The Kiss of Karma. As a result, he finds himself in a future that is more brutal than his past – much more brutal. It is ten years later, and Ash is working for the ruthless Ramesh Rahman, who has built an empire through intimidation, manipulation, and pure greed. Ash’s amoral employer has taken care of him and his mum and sister by providing a high level of financial assistance – in return, the taskmaster has demanded loyalty and obedience. Ash, now twenty-four years old, follows orders and moves through life like a zombie, never allowing himself to feel regret or remorse, only gratitude. However, when Sherifa, the young girl he thought he had lost forever, comes back into his life accidentally, a fire ignites inside Ash. This makes him wonder if he can someday find a different path, one that is wholesome and filled with love. Is there a way out for the lovers, or will they face death while trying to escape? Can Ash ever really divorce himself from his past? Find out in The Wrath of Karma.
Vimal Vaz’s second book is raw and deals with a very seedy side of life. He holds nothing back in describing the baseness of Ash’s different path, one that he chose by his own actions. I loved the way Mr. Vaz gets into the heads of his characters. These are not likable people, but we end up understanding them and even rooting for them to survive and find another way. The plot can only be described as gripping. You will find yourself not able to set it aside for very long. The tantalizing promise of the next chapter will soon bring you back. I highly recommend this book, but you must read The Kiss of Karma first to get the full impact of this intriguing story. This is another fine read from Vimal Vaz - it could find itself on the best seller list very soon.
Author Vimal Vaz tells us at the outset that his main character, Ashok Choudhary, has changed his destiny by choosing a very different path than the one he chose in The Kiss of Karma. As a result, he finds himself in a future that is more brutal than his past – much more brutal. It is ten years later, and Ash is working for the ruthless Ramesh Rahman, who has built an empire through intimidation, manipulation, and pure greed. Ash’s amoral employer has taken care of him and his mum and sister by providing a high level of financial assistance – in return, the taskmaster has demanded loyalty and obedience. Ash, now twenty-four years old, follows orders and moves through life like a zombie, never allowing himself to feel regret or remorse, only gratitude. However, when Sherifa, the young girl he thought he had lost forever, comes back into his life accidentally, a fire ignites inside Ash. This makes him wonder if he can someday find a different path, one that is wholesome and filled with love. Is there a way out for the lovers, or will they face death while trying to escape? Can Ash ever really divorce himself from his past? Find out in The Wrath of Karma.
Vimal Vaz’s second book is raw and deals with a very seedy side of life. He holds nothing back in describing the baseness of Ash’s different path, one that he chose by his own actions. I loved the way Mr. Vaz gets into the heads of his characters. These are not likable people, but we end up understanding them and even rooting for them to survive and find another way. The plot can only be described as gripping. You will find yourself not able to set it aside for very long. The tantalizing promise of the next chapter will soon bring you back. I highly recommend this book, but you must read The Kiss of Karma first to get the full impact of this intriguing story. This is another fine read from Vimal Vaz - it could find itself on the best seller list very soon.
Recommend this book:
The Way Back
Jeffrey Turner
2014 Honorable Mention
314 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Way Back by Jeffrey Turner is a powerful novel of love, deception, and mistakes. Jack Elliot is a college professor, teaching a creative writing class. He is also a published author, husband to Claire, and father to Nathan. The day starts ordinarily enough - until they discover they have mice in the attic. What should have been a simple enough task kicks off a chain of events that have the potential to devastate lives and families. Jack discovers a series of emails hidden away in the attic, emails between his wife and another man. Instead of confronting Claire, he decides to investigate first. Meanwhile, things take a nasty turn in his classroom when two students cause serious disruption and end up being escorted off the premises by security. Jack briefly entertains an affair with one of his students, Rachel Pond, not knowing who she is. A series of events conspires to join all parties in one crashing conclusion, drawing on events from the past. With whom did Claire have an affair? Who is Rachel Pond? And what happened so many years ago to kick-start the chain of events?
The Way Back by Jeffrey Turner is a powerful novel. Anyone who reads this may be able to identify with parts of the story - this isn’t just a novel; it’s a real-life lesson and one that many would benefit from reading. Turner kept my eyes glued to the pages as his skillfully written story unwound. At first, it was difficult to see where all the little side stories fitted in, but with a few curve balls thrown in for good measure, it all becomes clear. Great story, exceptionally well written and thoroughly enjoyable, if a little humbling. Would love to see more from Jeffrey Turner.
The Way Back by Jeffrey Turner is a powerful novel of love, deception, and mistakes. Jack Elliot is a college professor, teaching a creative writing class. He is also a published author, husband to Claire, and father to Nathan. The day starts ordinarily enough - until they discover they have mice in the attic. What should have been a simple enough task kicks off a chain of events that have the potential to devastate lives and families. Jack discovers a series of emails hidden away in the attic, emails between his wife and another man. Instead of confronting Claire, he decides to investigate first. Meanwhile, things take a nasty turn in his classroom when two students cause serious disruption and end up being escorted off the premises by security. Jack briefly entertains an affair with one of his students, Rachel Pond, not knowing who she is. A series of events conspires to join all parties in one crashing conclusion, drawing on events from the past. With whom did Claire have an affair? Who is Rachel Pond? And what happened so many years ago to kick-start the chain of events?
The Way Back by Jeffrey Turner is a powerful novel. Anyone who reads this may be able to identify with parts of the story - this isn’t just a novel; it’s a real-life lesson and one that many would benefit from reading. Turner kept my eyes glued to the pages as his skillfully written story unwound. At first, it was difficult to see where all the little side stories fitted in, but with a few curve balls thrown in for good measure, it all becomes clear. Great story, exceptionally well written and thoroughly enjoyable, if a little humbling. Would love to see more from Jeffrey Turner.
Recommend this book:
Maybe Baby
Kim Golden
2014 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Cheryl Schopen for Readers' Favorite
In Maybe Baby by Kim Golden, Laney Halliwell wants a baby and decides to tell her boyfriend of five years, Niklas, that she would like to start trying. To her surprise, he informs her that he had a vasectomy years ago after having two kids with his ex-wife. She asks him to reverse it and he says no. She can’t seem to let the idea go of her becoming a mother, and being step-mom to Niklas’ irritating teenage kids doesn’t count in her mind. So, taking the advice of her friend, she visits an unconventional sperm bank. It never crossed her mind that she would meet someone like Mads and begin falling in love. Suddenly, Laney is torn between two men. Will she stay with Niklas and realize that he has been the love of her life all along? Or will she take a chance with Mads and see if this instant attraction and chemistry between them can be something more?
Kim Golden is an amazing writer and storyteller. She made these characters so completely real; I was so immersed in Laney’s life and I cared so much about what happened to her that I was pretty much devastated that the book had come to an end. Her thoughts and feelings were so genuine. And as with all love triangles, you will most likely pick a side. I am not going to give anything away, but I will say that this story is about following your heart; the tough part is figuring out what your heart wants. I wholeheartedly enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend it to any fans of romance or women’s fiction. Maybe Baby had it all. It had realistic characters with realistic actions and behavior, a unique and entertaining plot that will keep readers hooked from the first page, and romance that will make your heart flutter and put a smile on your face, making this fantastic book a must-read. I am beyond ecstatic that I found this author. I cannot wait to read more of her stories.
In Maybe Baby by Kim Golden, Laney Halliwell wants a baby and decides to tell her boyfriend of five years, Niklas, that she would like to start trying. To her surprise, he informs her that he had a vasectomy years ago after having two kids with his ex-wife. She asks him to reverse it and he says no. She can’t seem to let the idea go of her becoming a mother, and being step-mom to Niklas’ irritating teenage kids doesn’t count in her mind. So, taking the advice of her friend, she visits an unconventional sperm bank. It never crossed her mind that she would meet someone like Mads and begin falling in love. Suddenly, Laney is torn between two men. Will she stay with Niklas and realize that he has been the love of her life all along? Or will she take a chance with Mads and see if this instant attraction and chemistry between them can be something more?
Kim Golden is an amazing writer and storyteller. She made these characters so completely real; I was so immersed in Laney’s life and I cared so much about what happened to her that I was pretty much devastated that the book had come to an end. Her thoughts and feelings were so genuine. And as with all love triangles, you will most likely pick a side. I am not going to give anything away, but I will say that this story is about following your heart; the tough part is figuring out what your heart wants. I wholeheartedly enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend it to any fans of romance or women’s fiction. Maybe Baby had it all. It had realistic characters with realistic actions and behavior, a unique and entertaining plot that will keep readers hooked from the first page, and romance that will make your heart flutter and put a smile on your face, making this fantastic book a must-read. I am beyond ecstatic that I found this author. I cannot wait to read more of her stories.
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