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Recommend this book:
The Roots Run Deep
Chris Strong
2024 Finalist
242 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong, Chris West is overcome with intense grief at his childhood friend's funeral, finding the sorrow linked more to the loss of a family member than to a friend's passing. Nostalgia kicks in and West reflects on his past with the Cool Crew, a group of friends from Coolidge Lane who once dreamed of a road trip to Mt. Hood. But life happens, and as an adult West is sandwiched between his busy life and a desire to reconnect with his friends. Buddy, who meets Stella at an airport after a minor accident, marries her, and they have a child within four years. Meanwhile, Izzy’s suicide attempt prompts West, Buddy, and Sean to finally organize that dreamed-of trip to Mt. Hood, looking to provide Izzy with a supportive escape from what pushed him to the edge, only to discover that he is not the only one who needs support, or whose life hangs in the balance.
The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong threw me for a bit of a loop because I was pretty sure I knew more about the funeral West is eulogizing than it turns out I did. The author has some twisty turns in there and they're both beautiful and devastating. This completely character-driven novel transitions between the friends as kids and the friends as adults on their trip, and proves that there is a story to be told in which the journey is the whole point and not the destination. The beauty of literary fiction is that it has the flexibility to be more artistic without getting tied up in a single discernable plot. We know someone has died, and we learn of the trip that precludes it...but then Strong pulls out his ace card. The writing is simple and straightforward with some fun nods to generational pop culture. Overall, Strong gives us a thoughtful work of escapism that will no doubt resonate with readers. Recommended.
In The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong, Chris West is overcome with intense grief at his childhood friend's funeral, finding the sorrow linked more to the loss of a family member than to a friend's passing. Nostalgia kicks in and West reflects on his past with the Cool Crew, a group of friends from Coolidge Lane who once dreamed of a road trip to Mt. Hood. But life happens, and as an adult West is sandwiched between his busy life and a desire to reconnect with his friends. Buddy, who meets Stella at an airport after a minor accident, marries her, and they have a child within four years. Meanwhile, Izzy’s suicide attempt prompts West, Buddy, and Sean to finally organize that dreamed-of trip to Mt. Hood, looking to provide Izzy with a supportive escape from what pushed him to the edge, only to discover that he is not the only one who needs support, or whose life hangs in the balance.
The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong threw me for a bit of a loop because I was pretty sure I knew more about the funeral West is eulogizing than it turns out I did. The author has some twisty turns in there and they're both beautiful and devastating. This completely character-driven novel transitions between the friends as kids and the friends as adults on their trip, and proves that there is a story to be told in which the journey is the whole point and not the destination. The beauty of literary fiction is that it has the flexibility to be more artistic without getting tied up in a single discernable plot. We know someone has died, and we learn of the trip that precludes it...but then Strong pulls out his ace card. The writing is simple and straightforward with some fun nods to generational pop culture. Overall, Strong gives us a thoughtful work of escapism that will no doubt resonate with readers. Recommended.
Recommend this book:
Drawn from Life
a psychological suspense
Sarah P. Blanchard
2024 Honorable Mention
356 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite
What an indescribable pleasure it is to find a novel that holds you captive not just with its clever, dark plot, but with characters so riveting, real, and relatable that it’s impossible to put the book down. Drawn from Life by Sarah P. Blanchard is one of those stories I won’t forget in a hurry, with its contrasting protagonist, Emma Gillen, and antagonist, Lucy, Emma’s cousin. When we first meet these cousins, though they appear close, one senses something odd about their relationship. It takes a frightening car accident that results in the deaths of three people and leaves Emma with permanent disabilities to make readers question that relationship. As the plot details slowly unfold, so do these two women’s personalities and characters.
It’s fascinating to watch how skillfully the author lets the characters fully evolve. Also clever, sometimes even amusing, is Blanchard’s depiction of the effects of brain damage on Emma’s speech. Yet the author’s depiction of that, along with Emma’s relationship with her father, Chaz, and the detective who helps her discover the truth about the accident is handled with such sensitivity. Stellar writing from one of the best writers I’ve had the pleasure to review. The end notes about Sarah P. Blanchard tell us that she “is drawn to flawed, compassionate characters who believe they must battle their demons alone and complex antagonists who think they have nothing to lose.” Emma and Lucy illustrate that approach perfectly. Drawn from Life is a superb blend of psychological thriller and literary fiction, making it a novel that resonates with fans of both genres. If you’re one of those fans, add it to your bucket list now! I cannot recommend this novel highly enough.
What an indescribable pleasure it is to find a novel that holds you captive not just with its clever, dark plot, but with characters so riveting, real, and relatable that it’s impossible to put the book down. Drawn from Life by Sarah P. Blanchard is one of those stories I won’t forget in a hurry, with its contrasting protagonist, Emma Gillen, and antagonist, Lucy, Emma’s cousin. When we first meet these cousins, though they appear close, one senses something odd about their relationship. It takes a frightening car accident that results in the deaths of three people and leaves Emma with permanent disabilities to make readers question that relationship. As the plot details slowly unfold, so do these two women’s personalities and characters.
It’s fascinating to watch how skillfully the author lets the characters fully evolve. Also clever, sometimes even amusing, is Blanchard’s depiction of the effects of brain damage on Emma’s speech. Yet the author’s depiction of that, along with Emma’s relationship with her father, Chaz, and the detective who helps her discover the truth about the accident is handled with such sensitivity. Stellar writing from one of the best writers I’ve had the pleasure to review. The end notes about Sarah P. Blanchard tell us that she “is drawn to flawed, compassionate characters who believe they must battle their demons alone and complex antagonists who think they have nothing to lose.” Emma and Lucy illustrate that approach perfectly. Drawn from Life is a superb blend of psychological thriller and literary fiction, making it a novel that resonates with fans of both genres. If you’re one of those fans, add it to your bucket list now! I cannot recommend this novel highly enough.
Recommend this book:
Sun in My Heart
Contemporary Romance With A Twist
Tricia T. LaRochelle
2024 Bronze Medal
212 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite
Sun in My Heart by Tricia T. LaRochelle is a gripping contemporary romance novel that delves into the lives of characters scarred by their pasts. Pop star Julian Sommers awakens from a night of debauchery to find himself haunted by the tragic events of a deranged fan's obsession, while Sophie Quinn, a woman desperate to escape her abusive husband, embarks on a journey to reclaim her life. Sophie meets Brian, a handyman who works for Julian and who has his own secrets to protect. Sophie's pursuit of freedom from her violent husband and her struggles with her mother's expectations lead her on a transformative journey. Meanwhile, Brian has a hidden past that threatens to unravel the budding connection between him and Sophie. The enigmatic Julian, still reeling from a traumatic event, seeks solace and distance from the limelight.
Tricia T. LaRochelle's Sun in My Heart is an emotional rollercoaster, a story skillfully crafted to keep readers engaged and invested in the lives of the characters. The story is a tapestry of broken souls seeking redemption and love. Sophie's journey from a place of vulnerability and fear to one of strength and self-discovery is a compelling character arc. Her struggles with an abusive husband and a demanding mother will resonate with many readers who have faced similar challenges in their lives. The introduction of Brian as a love interest adds depth and complexity to the story, with his secrets adding an intriguing layer of suspense. The narrative weaves complex relationships, familial dynamics, and personal secrets into a thrilling tale of survival, resilience, and the healing power of love.
Sun in My Heart by Tricia T. LaRochelle is a gripping contemporary romance novel that delves into the lives of characters scarred by their pasts. Pop star Julian Sommers awakens from a night of debauchery to find himself haunted by the tragic events of a deranged fan's obsession, while Sophie Quinn, a woman desperate to escape her abusive husband, embarks on a journey to reclaim her life. Sophie meets Brian, a handyman who works for Julian and who has his own secrets to protect. Sophie's pursuit of freedom from her violent husband and her struggles with her mother's expectations lead her on a transformative journey. Meanwhile, Brian has a hidden past that threatens to unravel the budding connection between him and Sophie. The enigmatic Julian, still reeling from a traumatic event, seeks solace and distance from the limelight.
Tricia T. LaRochelle's Sun in My Heart is an emotional rollercoaster, a story skillfully crafted to keep readers engaged and invested in the lives of the characters. The story is a tapestry of broken souls seeking redemption and love. Sophie's journey from a place of vulnerability and fear to one of strength and self-discovery is a compelling character arc. Her struggles with an abusive husband and a demanding mother will resonate with many readers who have faced similar challenges in their lives. The introduction of Brian as a love interest adds depth and complexity to the story, with his secrets adding an intriguing layer of suspense. The narrative weaves complex relationships, familial dynamics, and personal secrets into a thrilling tale of survival, resilience, and the healing power of love.
Recommend this book:
Keeping Janie
Book 2 of the Southport Series
S.R. Fabrico
2024 Silver Medal
320 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
Keeping Janie by S.R. Fabrico is the second book in the Southport Series. Lizzie Levine waits for the looming court date that will decide if she can keep her daughter, Janie. Gray, Janie's father, seems to have changed, going to great lengths to restore Lizzie's trust. He allows Lizzie and her fiancé, Josh, to raise Janie, but Gray's involvement is a sore point in Lizzie and Josh's relationship. Josh wants to adopt Janie, but Gray pushes deeper into their lives, and Lizzie hopes his intentions are pure. Catalina, the woman who raised Janie for the first year of her life, is released from prison, and she is determined to reclaim Lizzie's daughter. With tensions in the custody case mounting, Lizzie receives pictures, showing someone is watching her family.
S.R. Fabrico brings readers another story with suspense dripping from the pages. As a mother, I was saddened by the legal hoops Lizzie had to jump through to remain with her daughter. I was flipping as fast as my fingers could fly to find out what happened to Lizzie and her precious Janie. Lizzie and Josh have a strong connection, and Fabrico tests it throughout the story. The author explores themes of grief and redemption as if she is one of the characters in the novel, making the situations feel as though they are happening to people you know. Prepare to be shocked by the events in the story, and don't let your guard down until the end. Readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with romance and strong female characters will love Keeping Janie.
Keeping Janie by S.R. Fabrico is the second book in the Southport Series. Lizzie Levine waits for the looming court date that will decide if she can keep her daughter, Janie. Gray, Janie's father, seems to have changed, going to great lengths to restore Lizzie's trust. He allows Lizzie and her fiancé, Josh, to raise Janie, but Gray's involvement is a sore point in Lizzie and Josh's relationship. Josh wants to adopt Janie, but Gray pushes deeper into their lives, and Lizzie hopes his intentions are pure. Catalina, the woman who raised Janie for the first year of her life, is released from prison, and she is determined to reclaim Lizzie's daughter. With tensions in the custody case mounting, Lizzie receives pictures, showing someone is watching her family.
S.R. Fabrico brings readers another story with suspense dripping from the pages. As a mother, I was saddened by the legal hoops Lizzie had to jump through to remain with her daughter. I was flipping as fast as my fingers could fly to find out what happened to Lizzie and her precious Janie. Lizzie and Josh have a strong connection, and Fabrico tests it throughout the story. The author explores themes of grief and redemption as if she is one of the characters in the novel, making the situations feel as though they are happening to people you know. Prepare to be shocked by the events in the story, and don't let your guard down until the end. Readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with romance and strong female characters will love Keeping Janie.
Recommend this book:
Pursuit of Innocence
Bethany Rosa
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Pursuit of Innocence is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and coming-of-age subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of sexual scenes and the use of explicit language throughout. Penned by author Bethany Rosa, the plot follows Lily as she navigates the complexities of love and desire amidst the competing affections of billionaire Sebastian Dubree and her longtime crush, Jackson. Determined to focus on her goals of graduating and landing a high-paying job, Lily finds herself caught in a whirlwind of emotions when both Sebastian and Jackson vie for her attention. As she grapples with her feelings and the blurred boundaries between desire and resistance, Lily must ultimately decide whether to surrender to the passion ignited by the dominant CEO or cling to the familiarity of her childhood longing.
Author Bethany Rosa puts a huge amount of heart, drama, and imagination into crafting this gripping coming-of-age romance that explores themes of desire, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating relationships in the face of conflicting emotions. I was really impressed with the character development, which populates the novel with realistic and relatable characters that are as flawed and raw as they are charismatic and attractive. I especially enjoyed Lily’s attitude and her vulnerabilities, which only served to bring readers closer to her in the suspenseful moments where romance and tension fill her head with conflict. The dialogue reflects so many exciting dynamics between her romantic options and gives even more great characterization, humor, and spice to every moment. The result is a compelling and exciting romantic drama that leaves readers yearning for more as they follow Lily's journey of self-discovery and love. Overall, I would highly recommend Pursuit of Innocence to fans of well-penned, character-driven romances everywhere.
Pursuit of Innocence is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and coming-of-age subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of sexual scenes and the use of explicit language throughout. Penned by author Bethany Rosa, the plot follows Lily as she navigates the complexities of love and desire amidst the competing affections of billionaire Sebastian Dubree and her longtime crush, Jackson. Determined to focus on her goals of graduating and landing a high-paying job, Lily finds herself caught in a whirlwind of emotions when both Sebastian and Jackson vie for her attention. As she grapples with her feelings and the blurred boundaries between desire and resistance, Lily must ultimately decide whether to surrender to the passion ignited by the dominant CEO or cling to the familiarity of her childhood longing.
Author Bethany Rosa puts a huge amount of heart, drama, and imagination into crafting this gripping coming-of-age romance that explores themes of desire, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating relationships in the face of conflicting emotions. I was really impressed with the character development, which populates the novel with realistic and relatable characters that are as flawed and raw as they are charismatic and attractive. I especially enjoyed Lily’s attitude and her vulnerabilities, which only served to bring readers closer to her in the suspenseful moments where romance and tension fill her head with conflict. The dialogue reflects so many exciting dynamics between her romantic options and gives even more great characterization, humor, and spice to every moment. The result is a compelling and exciting romantic drama that leaves readers yearning for more as they follow Lily's journey of self-discovery and love. Overall, I would highly recommend Pursuit of Innocence to fans of well-penned, character-driven romances everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Becoming Glitch
Daniel Sayre
2023 Finalist
458 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Becoming Glitch is a work of fiction penned by Daniel Sayre in the paranormal and supernatural adventure subgenres. It is suitable for mature teen and adult readers and is especially aimed at the New Adult reading niche. In this thrilling tale with all the makings of a fantastic superhero adventure, we follow the generally mediocre Andy, who suddenly experiences a series of wildly unpredictable events that change his life when he catches a cold with a supernatural twist. Can he freeze time, and if so, should he? Andy may not have time to figure it out before his skills are needed to save himself from impending danger.
Daniel Sayre has crafted a superb and truly heroic tale for fans of the New Adult reading niche to enjoy. It was wonderful to see the everyman-type of protagonist elevated and challenged by the supernatural happenings all around him. Andy makes for a highly likable central figure the more we see him grow and develop during the trials of the plot. I also really liked the way that the paranormal elements of the work were interwoven with everyday life. This felt eerily realistic, as though this other world of superhumans could easily be operating in plain sight right beside our own. The pace was well maintained to keep things exciting throughout. This was hugely helped by the dialogue-driven scenes with lots of awkwardly humorous hero banter and shifts of attitude when people encountered Andy for the first time. I would certainly recommend Becoming Glitch for superhero fiction fans everywhere as a highly enjoyable read.
Becoming Glitch is a work of fiction penned by Daniel Sayre in the paranormal and supernatural adventure subgenres. It is suitable for mature teen and adult readers and is especially aimed at the New Adult reading niche. In this thrilling tale with all the makings of a fantastic superhero adventure, we follow the generally mediocre Andy, who suddenly experiences a series of wildly unpredictable events that change his life when he catches a cold with a supernatural twist. Can he freeze time, and if so, should he? Andy may not have time to figure it out before his skills are needed to save himself from impending danger.
Daniel Sayre has crafted a superb and truly heroic tale for fans of the New Adult reading niche to enjoy. It was wonderful to see the everyman-type of protagonist elevated and challenged by the supernatural happenings all around him. Andy makes for a highly likable central figure the more we see him grow and develop during the trials of the plot. I also really liked the way that the paranormal elements of the work were interwoven with everyday life. This felt eerily realistic, as though this other world of superhumans could easily be operating in plain sight right beside our own. The pace was well maintained to keep things exciting throughout. This was hugely helped by the dialogue-driven scenes with lots of awkwardly humorous hero banter and shifts of attitude when people encountered Andy for the first time. I would certainly recommend Becoming Glitch for superhero fiction fans everywhere as a highly enjoyable read.
Recommend this book:
Ride
Zachary Ryan
2023 Honorable Mention
341 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Ride is a work of fiction in the women’s fiction, interpersonal drama, and music subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Zachary Ryan. The storyline follows two sisters, Alayna and Morgan, who are brought back together by the death of their mother, and in turn, are both forced to examine the paths their lives have taken since Morgan left town to pursue her dreams, and Alayna’s aspirations were cut to shreds. Morgan’s fame and fortune aren’t all they're cracked up to be, but Alayna’s seemingly settled life is also fraught with pain. What follows is an emotive and powerful tale of trying to reconcile and pick up the pieces of a broken family mired in grief.
Author Zachary Ryan has lovingly crafted a powerful story about family dynamics, pressures, and dreams that will make a superbly engrossing read for any fan of women’s fiction. For me personally, Morgan’s story was the more gripping because I really related to her sense of loss after loss and the hopelessness that engenders, but there’s also just as much care and emotion put into the narration and dialogue around Alayna’s clash between obligation and aspiration. I was also really moved by the use of Lana Del Ray’s lyrics and emotion as an inspiration basis for the characters and their shared trauma, as I am a big fan of her music anyway and it made me want to play it all again. Overall, I would certainly recommend Ride to fans of family dramas and highly atmospheric, emotive writing.
Ride is a work of fiction in the women’s fiction, interpersonal drama, and music subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Zachary Ryan. The storyline follows two sisters, Alayna and Morgan, who are brought back together by the death of their mother, and in turn, are both forced to examine the paths their lives have taken since Morgan left town to pursue her dreams, and Alayna’s aspirations were cut to shreds. Morgan’s fame and fortune aren’t all they're cracked up to be, but Alayna’s seemingly settled life is also fraught with pain. What follows is an emotive and powerful tale of trying to reconcile and pick up the pieces of a broken family mired in grief.
Author Zachary Ryan has lovingly crafted a powerful story about family dynamics, pressures, and dreams that will make a superbly engrossing read for any fan of women’s fiction. For me personally, Morgan’s story was the more gripping because I really related to her sense of loss after loss and the hopelessness that engenders, but there’s also just as much care and emotion put into the narration and dialogue around Alayna’s clash between obligation and aspiration. I was also really moved by the use of Lana Del Ray’s lyrics and emotion as an inspiration basis for the characters and their shared trauma, as I am a big fan of her music anyway and it made me want to play it all again. Overall, I would certainly recommend Ride to fans of family dramas and highly atmospheric, emotive writing.
Recommend this book:
Reign
Rivermont Royals Book 1
E.J. Knox, Elizabeth Stevens
2023 Bronze Medal
402 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Reign by E.J. Knox is the first book in the Rivermont Royals series. The Royals tormented Eden and her best friend Sam. The Royals were a group that held superiority in school, doing what they wanted without repercussions for their actions. Beckett was the leader of the group and had never paid attention to Eden. On the first day of school, Eden was stunned when Jaeger and Fox acted like gentlemen toward her. Fox even paid her compliments and sat next to her in several classes. In her free hours, Eden went to the library where Beckett attempted to seduce her. Jaeger hinted that Fox and Beckett were vying for her attention. However, while in the locker room, Eden overheard that she was part of a Royal power struggle based on a bet.
E.J. Knox provided an exceptional description of the characters and their personalities. Jaeger was the most open person, although I found it hard to believe what he said to Eden. The character list at the start of the book helped see the rank of each student. Rowan was the scariest character in the entire group. Beckett confused me with his actions. Each scene was full of detail, and there was never a dull moment. I found every page intriguing and watched how the lives of the role-players developed. Despite some of the darker moments, I found the dry humor entertaining. My favorite line in the entire book was Eden’s response to Abby: "Welcome to Rivermont, where all the eye candy has the personalities of caustic soap." I would laugh if somebody said that to me. I am eager to read the sequels of Reign.
Reign by E.J. Knox is the first book in the Rivermont Royals series. The Royals tormented Eden and her best friend Sam. The Royals were a group that held superiority in school, doing what they wanted without repercussions for their actions. Beckett was the leader of the group and had never paid attention to Eden. On the first day of school, Eden was stunned when Jaeger and Fox acted like gentlemen toward her. Fox even paid her compliments and sat next to her in several classes. In her free hours, Eden went to the library where Beckett attempted to seduce her. Jaeger hinted that Fox and Beckett were vying for her attention. However, while in the locker room, Eden overheard that she was part of a Royal power struggle based on a bet.
E.J. Knox provided an exceptional description of the characters and their personalities. Jaeger was the most open person, although I found it hard to believe what he said to Eden. The character list at the start of the book helped see the rank of each student. Rowan was the scariest character in the entire group. Beckett confused me with his actions. Each scene was full of detail, and there was never a dull moment. I found every page intriguing and watched how the lives of the role-players developed. Despite some of the darker moments, I found the dry humor entertaining. My favorite line in the entire book was Eden’s response to Abby: "Welcome to Rivermont, where all the eye candy has the personalities of caustic soap." I would laugh if somebody said that to me. I am eager to read the sequels of Reign.
Recommend this book:
Call Her Janie
A scintillating romantic suspense with a shocking twist
S.R. Fabrico
2023 Silver Medal
348 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
In Call Her Janie by S.R. Fabrico, Lizzie Levine thought she had the life she wanted. She was a busy executive with successful projects, and she loved her boss—both at work and in private—and he showered her with gifts and attention. However, when she found out she was pregnant, she discovered his true personality, which deeply hurt her. After losing their baby, Lizzie moves to her brother and sister-in-law’s home in Southport, South Carolina, and she enjoys the town and the people. She meets Josh, who pursues her, even though she tries to push him away. Just as she begins to develop strong feelings for him, she finds her life may be in danger, and she hopes to piece together the mystery about her stalker before the situation turns deadly.
S.R. Fabrico has built a beautiful community of characters that readers will never forget. The intense mystery surrounding Lizzie’s delicate past is laced with intrigue, while her future holds love, forgiveness, and acceptance. The story showcases the resilience and understanding of love and contrasts with the idea of love that Lizzie once believed. The mystery at the book's heart is revealed in layers, surprising readers with the story's depth. Fabrico has established a solid connection to the characters and has also included a preview of the second book in the series. Call Her Janie is a fantastic selection for readers who enjoy deep mysteries with friends-to-lovers romance.
In Call Her Janie by S.R. Fabrico, Lizzie Levine thought she had the life she wanted. She was a busy executive with successful projects, and she loved her boss—both at work and in private—and he showered her with gifts and attention. However, when she found out she was pregnant, she discovered his true personality, which deeply hurt her. After losing their baby, Lizzie moves to her brother and sister-in-law’s home in Southport, South Carolina, and she enjoys the town and the people. She meets Josh, who pursues her, even though she tries to push him away. Just as she begins to develop strong feelings for him, she finds her life may be in danger, and she hopes to piece together the mystery about her stalker before the situation turns deadly.
S.R. Fabrico has built a beautiful community of characters that readers will never forget. The intense mystery surrounding Lizzie’s delicate past is laced with intrigue, while her future holds love, forgiveness, and acceptance. The story showcases the resilience and understanding of love and contrasts with the idea of love that Lizzie once believed. The mystery at the book's heart is revealed in layers, surprising readers with the story's depth. Fabrico has established a solid connection to the characters and has also included a preview of the second book in the series. Call Her Janie is a fantastic selection for readers who enjoy deep mysteries with friends-to-lovers romance.
Recommend this book:
Flickering Heart
Sara Browne Series Book 1
Tricia LaRochelle
2023 Gold Medal
374 Pages
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Fiction - New Adult
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Flickering Heart is Tricia LaRochelle’s debut offering in her Sara Browne Series. Eighteen-year-old Sara Brown is a survivor, but she is not living. PTSD grips her so tightly that she separates herself from the people around her. Sorrow is her ever-loyal companion, yet she tries to exhaust all means to rebuild after the only family she has ever known is gone forever. She tries to break down the walls she has built around her as she enters college life. Scott Williams comes along—a distraction that she doesn’t need while getting rid of her dark days. Scott, however, will add something new to her life. It is something new that feels therapeutic but turns into a nightmare when Scott’s own past begins its unlawful entry into Sara’s life.
Flickering Heart does have some of the tropes commonly associated with the romance genre, but I strongly recommend that you give this book a try. Tricia LaRochelle understands what makes an effective romance story work. She doesn’t just offer a girl-meets-boy setup. What she assembles is an interesting pair of characters with flaws that make them distinct, relatable, and utterly human. She handles Sara’s traumatic past with sensitivity and keen attention to its emotional and psychological components, which makes Sara a convincing and fascinating case study in PTSD. Whatever reservations Sara feels about Scott is something that you understand and not to be dismissed as a girl’s typical fickle-mindedness. Scott, on the other hand, may appear like your typical poster boy, but the dynamics of his relationship with Sara in comparison to the past he has built makes him intricate and someone whose true intentions you want to truly know. It’s a romantic relationship filled with complications and it's these complications that will make you want to find out what happens to Sara and Scott in the end.
Flickering Heart is Tricia LaRochelle’s debut offering in her Sara Browne Series. Eighteen-year-old Sara Brown is a survivor, but she is not living. PTSD grips her so tightly that she separates herself from the people around her. Sorrow is her ever-loyal companion, yet she tries to exhaust all means to rebuild after the only family she has ever known is gone forever. She tries to break down the walls she has built around her as she enters college life. Scott Williams comes along—a distraction that she doesn’t need while getting rid of her dark days. Scott, however, will add something new to her life. It is something new that feels therapeutic but turns into a nightmare when Scott’s own past begins its unlawful entry into Sara’s life.
Flickering Heart does have some of the tropes commonly associated with the romance genre, but I strongly recommend that you give this book a try. Tricia LaRochelle understands what makes an effective romance story work. She doesn’t just offer a girl-meets-boy setup. What she assembles is an interesting pair of characters with flaws that make them distinct, relatable, and utterly human. She handles Sara’s traumatic past with sensitivity and keen attention to its emotional and psychological components, which makes Sara a convincing and fascinating case study in PTSD. Whatever reservations Sara feels about Scott is something that you understand and not to be dismissed as a girl’s typical fickle-mindedness. Scott, on the other hand, may appear like your typical poster boy, but the dynamics of his relationship with Sara in comparison to the past he has built makes him intricate and someone whose true intentions you want to truly know. It’s a romantic relationship filled with complications and it's these complications that will make you want to find out what happens to Sara and Scott in the end.
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