Review ~ Authentically, Izzy by Pepper Basham

I missed launch day yesterday because I was loving on our sweet little 8 month old grandson but I do want to encourage any of you who have read epistolary novels to definitely give this newest from Pepper Basham a go!!! I absolutely loved it!!! 

#authenticallyizzy #BlameItOnABashamBook

About the Book

“Dear Izzy—I feel certain there’s a book-loving man living relatively nearby waiting to speak bookish to you ’til death do you part. You just haven’t met yet.”

Izzy Edgewood is a wannabe bookstore owner, quote queen, and Lord of the Rings nerd who has been waiting for Prince Charming to sweep her off her sneakered feet. But it’s hard to meet people when you spend more time with fictional humans than real ones. Which is why her pragmatist cousin Josephine decides to take Izzy’s future into her own meddling hands and create an online dating profile for the hopeful romantic.

To Izzy’s shock (and suspicion), Josie’s plan works. Soon, she’s dialoguing with a Hobbit-loving man named Brodie who lives in a small town an ocean away from her home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. But is their shared love of books, family, and correspondence enough to overcome Izzy’s fear of flying and the literal distance between them? And is a long-distance relationship even worth considering when a local author has been frequenting the library where she works and is proving to be a perfectly fine gentleman?

In this epistolary novel from award-winning author Pepper Basham, bookish dreams and happily-ever-afters collide to create a beautiful sort of magic that’s even better than fiction.

Purchase:

Amazon

Baker Book House

Christianbook

My Review 5 STARS

I have seen glimpses of Basham’s humor for years in her stories but I was unprepared for the level of wittiness that she has produced in Authentically, Izzy. Outstanding is all I can say.

A long time fan of epistolary novels, this one utterly delighted me with its fast pace, charming characters, and entertaining plot. I waited on pins and needles for the proverbial ball to drop and when it did I found myself muttering to Brodie and Izzy about how stupid they had been/were being. But of course without this tension the whole time it wouldn’t be any fun to read.

If you are looking for your imagination to be captivated by solid imagery, character growth, family dynamics and faraway lands, look no further than Authentically, Izzy. While much of it is written communication—texts and emails—there is plenty of face time (see what I did there ha-ha) between Brodie and Izzy and his family which adds an extra dimension to the story. The descriptions are so vivid I had no problem visualizing anything.

I highly recommend this book to Basham fans and fans of contemporary romance that enjoy epistolary style novels.

I received an electronic copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review.

Review ~ The Sisters of Sea View (on Devonshire Shores Book 1) by Julie Klassen

Paperback, 448 pages

Expected publication: December 6th 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

About the Book

When their father’s death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers convinces her sisters to open their seaside home to guests to provide for their ailing mother. Emily and Georgiana agree, but Viola, who wears a veil to cover a scar, detests the idea. Determined to stay together, the sisters begin the new venture. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family. Meanwhile, the new situation exposes Viola’s scars--both the visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.

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My Review 4 STARS

There are many nods to Jane Austen’s classic novels in this latest accomplishment from award winning author Julie Klassen. Delightful words of wonder grace the pages of The Sisters of Sea View in a gentle yet engrossing manner. There is a slow pace to this story that rings true to the time period while exerting just enough adventure to keep readers turning pages. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, perhaps this one will offer you several hours of diversion from life’s cares. I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the lives and loves of The Sisters of Sea View. I received an electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley with no expectation of a favorable review.

 

"I Spy" Premonition GIVEAWAY!!!

This is a fantastic *giveaway* to promote this equally fantastic new release from the highly acclaimed author Jaime Jo Wright. Her stories have what it takes to leave this reader breathless on many occasions!! 

My review is posted here in case you want to know what I thought about the book. 

Don't miss out on this opportunity to win some awesome swag!!!

Join the "I Spy" Premonition GIVEAWAY! How does it work? See Premonition online? Save the link and submit it! See Premonition in a store? Snap a pic and submit it! See Premonition in your library? Snap a pic and submit it! We're playing "I Spy" to see where "The Premonition at Withers Farm" shows up and we need YOU to find it! Once you find it, use this form https://forms.gle/k7XQCmzZNQXN3cvMA to submit your entry!

You'll be entered for the giveaway of a SIGNED COPY OF PREMONITION, a cozy FLANNEL BUFFALO PLAID SCARF, and your choice of COFFEE or TEA! What are you waiting for? Be on the lookout! Contest ends midnight 10/31/2022

One entry per person

 USA entries only

*Stuff & Nonsense is not affiliated with this giveaway in any way, shape, or form.

Review ~ Honor Bound (Love and Honor #1) by Hallee Bridgeman

Paperback, 384 pages

Published September 6th 2022 by Fleming H. Revell Company

It may seem odd to seek peace by moving to a war-torn African country, but for medical missionary Dr. Cynthia Myers, it provided a way to escape a shallow life of unearned wealth, a philandering fiancé, and a father now square in the public eye as vice president of the United States. At least here she knows her work and life have meaning. But all that is thrown into chaos when she fails to save the life of a local warlord's mortally wounded son.
As part of the Army Special Forces "A-Team" on a mission to capture and subdue the warlord, Captain Rick Norton is compelled to use deadly force to save Cynthia's life. Enraged at the violence she witnessed and riddled with guilt that men died because of her, Cynthia tries to hold on to her anger--but an unwanted attraction is taking hold.
With two members of his team badly injured and rebels in hot pursuit, Rick will have to draw upon all his strength and cunning to get her out alive . . . because he's beginning to think they just might overcome their differences and be able to make a life together.

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My Review 3 STARS

This is the first book in a new series by this author but I still felt like I was missing some ties to earlier characters. The military aspect of this story was fast-paced and seemed realistic. Captain Norton's team is one that I can imagine being filled with real life heroes. I liked how strong and outspoken of a Christian Norton is and would like to read more about him beyond his relationship with Cynthia. She is a character that I didn't connect with and was often irritated with because of her pacifist views being vocalized to an elite member of the military.

 It's a common trope in military fiction now, saving a 'damsel in distress' in a foreign country. I'm sure this is a story that many will enjoy even though I didn't like it as much as I thought I would. I received an electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ The Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright

 

Paperback, 400 pages

Expected publication: October 11th 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

In 1910 Michigan, Perliett VanHilton is a self-proclaimed rural healer, leaving the local doctor, George Wasziak, convinced she practices quackery. It doesn't help that her mother, Maribeth VanHilton, is a Spiritualist who regularly offers her services to help others speak to their dearly departed. But when Perliett is targeted by a superstitious killer, she relies on both George and an intriguing newcomer for help.

In the present day, life has not developed the way Molly Wasziak dreamed. Facing depression after multiple miscarriages, Molly is adapting to her husband's purchase of a new farm. A search for a family tree pulls Molly deep into a vintage web of deceptions, made more mysterious by the disturbing shadows and sounds in the old farmhouse.

Perliett fights for her life, and Molly seeks renewed purpose for hers as she uncovers the records of the dead. Will their voices be heard, or will time silence their truths forever?

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My Review 4.5 STARS

‘Molly ducked her head. She watched a tear fall, dropping onto the wood floor, staining it. Yes. She knew. She knew, deep in her heart, she had to move on. To be healthy again. To find healing. To find…meaning. But when an earthly hell came to visit you, it didn’t just go away. It dogged your feet until—Molly glanced at the attic window—until maybe you actually started to see physical ramifications of it. Evil. Abandonment. Loss. It haunted you until it enveloped you entirely.’

The Premonition at Withers Farm is thick with darkness, one in particular that afflicts many women. I did not like Molly as a person but this contemporary aspect of the story is actually what kept me reading. Don’t get me wrong. The historical timeline is so incredibly well-written that it makes the book hard to put down. It does have spiritualist content that was extremely hard for me to read but again, this author is a master at bringing all the pieces together and making them fit.

Wright always, always makes sure the reader knows even though there is darkness, the tiniest bit of light shined in will devastate it, and she brings Christ into this story beautifully.

I received an early advanced reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley, and also purchased a copy.

COMING NOV 15, 2022 ~ Authentically, Izzy by Pepper Basham

Epistolary scares off some people but this contemporary novel is so much fun!!! You will be sad if you miss the witty and fast-paced banter flying through cyber space in this delightful novel.

Pepper Basham is a favorite of mine no matter what genre she writes. Don't miss the pre-order on this one at Baker Book House for a 20% discount!!!

An Unintentional Blogging Break

I really didn't mean to take a blogging break but summer became one big crazy thing!! So much has happened but hopefully all is on the UP side now. 

Praying it is so!

I've been reading a few good books over the summer that I plan on reviewing here. I'm on the launch team and just finished my review copy of a new book coming out in October, The Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright. If you've read any of Jaime Jo's novels you know they are epic suspense bordering on thriller, which I love!!! 

As for craftiness, Slow Stitch is my medium nowadays although my husband did buy me a new sewing machine a couple of months ago!! I'm excited to get to where I can use it regular. Taking it in and out of a case is such a hassle. Or I'm super lazy ;) This is a piece I made for my oldest granddaughters 10th birthday this month. It's a combo of applique, beading, and slow stitch. The butterfly was a beast to bead but I think it came out pretty. 

If you're on Facebook, I'm in an awesome group called Roxy's Journal of Stitchery. Soooo many uber-talented stitchers in there. Come on over and check it out! You don't have to post your work (I haven't yet) but you can still enjoy and be encouraged by the other stitchers. It's a project oriented group that two sisters lead with video etc. You can find them on YouTube and check it out first!

Well, lovelies, I'm off to do stuff and get stuff done!

Rebecca Reviews ~ The Deadly Shallows | Coastal Guardians 3 | Dani Pettrey

From Goodreads:

A DEADLY ATTACK.
A STOLEN WEAPON CAPABLE OF IMMENSE DESTRUCTION.
A PAINFUL SECRET THAT THREATENS TO TEAR TWO HEARTS APART.

CGIS Agent Noah Rowley is rocked to the core when several of his valued team members come under fire on his Coast Guard base. He and his remaining team race to the scene and end the attack, but not before innocent lives are lost. Furious and grief-stricken, he vows to do whatever is needed to bring the mastermind behind the attack to justice.

Stunned by the ambush, Coast Guard flight medic Brooke Kesler evacuates in a helicopter carrying the only surviving gunman. The gravely wounded man whispers mysterious information to Brooke that immediately paints a target on her back.

As Brooke and Noah race to uncover answers, emotions between them ignite. Noah struggles to protect Brooke at all costs and to conceal the secret that prevents him from becoming what he longs to be--the right man for her.

Everything is at stake as a horrifying truth emerges. . . .

The attack wasn't the end game. It was only the beginning.

Bestselling author Dani Pettrey again delivers a fast-paced story in an acclaimed style readers have come to love: full of snappy dialogue, thrilling adventure romance, and unexpected plot twists.  

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Rebecca's Review 3.5 stars

"Cold water rose from below. Deeper water. She dove, bullets straying farther from her. . . . Her breath nearly burning in her lungs, she swam as fast as she could towards shore."

There was death in those shallows, and Coast Guard flight medic Brooke Kesler knew exactly what was riding on reaching solid ground, and then . . . . she would have very little time to figure out the "what next"; her body had been brutally abused, plus, she had seen one of their faces. Under extreme duress, when she thought her life might end then and there, the name that whispered from her lips had been . . . . Noah. . . . . . . would they ever have a conversation about "what next".

CGIS Special Agent Noah Rowley had a lot on his plate; a mass shooting, a toxic waste dump, a highly classified weapons theft . . . . and Brooke. The fact that she had been through such a traumatic experience broke his heart, making Noah more determined than ever to stand by her side; forever, if she would let him. Unfortunately, Brooke didn't have all the facts about Noah's past, totally his fault. Would knowing more keep their relationship in the "good friends" category? He sincerely hoped not, but time would tell.

What I enjoyed most about this book were the relationships, they were woven deeply and securely into everything that happened, definitely softening the jagged edges of a plot line that included more body bags than I could count. It's always nice when a series closes on a very high note!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

Rebecca Reviews ~ Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordham

 

As Norah King surveys her family land in Iowa in 1880, she is acutely aware that it is all she has left, and she will do everything in her power to save it--even if that means marrying a man she hardly knows. Days before her wedding, Norah discovers an injured man on her property. Her sense of duty compels her to take him in and nurse him back to health. Little does she realize just how much this act of kindness will complicate her life and threaten the future she's planned.

Norah's care does more than aid Quincy Barnes's recovery--it awakens his heart to possibilities. Penniless and homeless, he knows the most honorable thing he can do is head on down the road and leave Norah to marry her intended. But walking away from the first person to believe in him proves much harder than he imagined.

Rachel Fordham invites you to experience the strength and beauty of love forged in the crucible of hardship in this heartwarming story.

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Rebecca's Review 3.5 STARS

"This land, her father had said before he died, was their legacy. It was the backdrop of their story - their wrestle and toil - and their love."

And Norah King would do anything to keep it. Even marry a virtual stranger who clearly wanted the property first and a young bride second. Then one day, along came Quincy. . . . . actually, Quincy didn't "come along", his body was dumped . . . along her creek bank, ready and waiting for the vultures that were circling overhead alerting Norah to his presence . . . his very large presence.

Nursing Quincy back to health is only the beginning of their story. The rest takes many twists, turns and "bends in the road" before Norah comes to the hard-earned conclusion that her father's real legacy had been "the happiness in our home, and the way we stuck together and kept going even when life was hard. Family was our legacy . . . ".

A really sweet story, full of multiple heartaches and an abundance of blessings.

"I told you once I dreamed of dancing. I still dream of that, but now I'd like that dance to be with you."

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

Review ~ The Heart of the Mountains by Pepper Basham

 

JULY 1st 2022

BARBOUR PUBLISHING

About the Book: To escape a forced marriage, Cora Taylor travels from England to the *Blue Ridge Mountains in search of her brother, who is working as a teacher in a mission school. She hopes to find a place where her nursing skills and independent ideas will be accepted and appreciated, but nothing prepares her for the wild mixture of isolation, community, brokenness, and hope within these mountains…or in the person of Jeb McAdams.

Returning from the devastation of World War 1 emotionally damaged, Jeb McAdams struggles against the rampant mountain alcoholism to soothe his nightmares. It’s easy to hide within the mountains, or it was, before Cora Taylor arrives. Now, she seems to show up at every turn, bringing her ideas, curiosity, and beautiful eyes with her. Their mutual understanding of the costs of war leads to an unspoken bond that develops into a hesitant friendship. As Cora turns her nursing experience and determination on establishing hygiene and education for women in the Appalachian community while also attempting to rescue Jeb from his own ghosts, Cora and Jeb’s partnership turns into a project of celebrating the gifts within Appalachia. But when the past sweeps back into their lives and an outbreak of scarlet fever threatens the future, will Cora and Jeb find a way to work together – even if it means unplanned matrimony – or will their different lives and brokenness tear them apart.

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My Review 5 STARS

‘As she stepped from the house, her bag in hand, she looked back over her shoulder. Their gazes held for a few seconds as the door closed, and Jeb knew, sure as shootin’, he was ready to take all this lip itchin’ and put it into action.’

If you know anything about pivotal moments in romance novels, the heroine looking back at the hero is important. Cora definitely looks back. J She and Jeb are one of the best “on paper” couples. I did so love the interaction between them, their obvious differences and yet some striking similarities.

Basham is queen when it comes to writing Christian historical romance, in my opinion. Ticking all the boxes for me—witty dialogue, satisfying character growth, uncertainty and bravery, laugh-out-loud humor and lots of strong emotion—this novel made for a riveting story, along with lovable and not-so-lovable secondary characters.

I will journey time and again to my beloved Appalachian Mountains and immerse myself in whatever story this author writes. She brings the essence of the mountain folk to life with entertaining vernacular while painting lovely word pictures of the sights and sounds of life in Appalachia!

Historical fiction with deep faith encircles these mountain folks. Fans of this genre will be deeply satisfied and left longing for more stories set in The Heart of the Mountains.

I received an early copy of the book in electronic form from the author. I was under no obligation to write a review.

*Y'all might want to read My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge: Laurel's Dream as it has characters that overlap in this novel. It's FREE to read on Kindle Unlimited. 

Review ~ A Feeling of Home | Redemption’s Light 3 | Susan Anne Mason

Bethany House Publishers

July 1, 2022

Within months, Isabelle Wardrop lost her parents, her fortune, and her home. With no options, she is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw--the very man she blames for her mother's death. Mark has hopes of earning Isabelle's forgiveness and affections, but an unexpected incident may derail any hope they have of being together.

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My Review 3.5 STARS

There’s something harmonious about Susan Mason’s writing. The long and short of it is that Mason writes historical fiction that keeps my interest by creating riveting characters and intriguing plot lines.

That said, there are several phrases/ideas that caused me to lower my rating on this one. There are references to toxicity in relationships that are definitely modern. The atomic bomb hadn’t been used yet so I don’t think they would know what a “toxic ball” even was. Also, one particular gentleman who claims to be a Christian referred to something as being “a sign from the universe”. That is new age thought, not the thought of any followers of Christ that I have known these last 40 years. I may be a tad nit-picky but to me, these things matter in CF.

None of this stops me from wanting to read any stories Mason publishes in the future though. She writes compelling storylines full of emotion and grace!

I highly recommend this entire series to readers looking for pleasant summer reading. I received a print copy from the author and publisher. No review was required.

Review ~ Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook by Wanda Brunstetter

 

About the Book

Fresh Recipes for Each Season of the Year
Do you strive to eat what local, fresh, and in season? Then this is the cookbook for you. Organized by the winter, spring, summer, and fall seasons, there are a bounty of recipes for various ways to use up seasonal fruits and vegetables. Sprinkled with tips for growing and harvesting, too, the well-organized book boasts contributions from Amish and Mennonites from across the United States who are fans of author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, it is a must-have cookbook for anyone who gardens, participates in a CSA, or enjoys farmers’ markets.

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My Review 4.5 STARS

It being close to summer, I decided to try making the recipe that most closely resembles my favorite summertime dessert, Peach Cobbler. The recipe in Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook I chose to make is entitled Peach Cream Pie (pg. 78) and let me tell you it is sooooo good! I used fresh peaches, following the recipe exactly as written which for me is unusual. I admit I am a canned peach person but the pie was sweet and tasty and had a custard-like filling that made my mouth water! I served it to our family after dinner and I must be honest and say that only two out of five of us liked it but we also are the only two that also like custard. I’m sure that’s a texture thing. ;)

I also made Baked Oatmeal (pg. 179), using the suggestion to add canned Blueberries to the bottom of the dish before putting in the oatmeal mixture. Oh. My. I will be making this again. Both recipes were easy to prepare and quite tasty. The cookbook has a spiral binding which makes it easy to fold back and not have to worry about it falling over or anything like that. Lots of pretty color photos of food dishes for all seasons of the year too!

If you’re looking for simple recipes and some down home comfort food, look no further! I’m planning on trying more of these scrumptious looking recipes as the year goes on. I also think this would be a fairly easy cookbook for a beginner cook.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright

 

About the Book

To save the innocent, they must face an insidious evil.

Wren Blythe has long enjoyed living in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, helping her father with ministry at a youth camp. But when a little girl in the area goes missing, an all-out search ensues, reviving the decades-old campfire story of Ava Coons, the murderess who is believed to still roam the forest. Joining the search, Wren stumbles upon the Coonses' cabin ruins and a sinister mystery she is determined to unearth.

In 1930, Ava Coons has spent the last several years carrying the mantle of mystery since the day she emerged from the woods as a thirteen-year-old girl, spattered with blood, dragging a logger's ax. She has accepted she will never remember what happened to her family, whose bodies were never found, and that the people of Tempter's Creek will always blame her for their violent deaths. And after a member of the town is murdered, and another goes missing, rumors spread that Ava's secret is perhaps more malicious than previously imagined.

Two women, separated by time, must confront a wickedness that not only challenges who they are but also threatens their lives, and the lives of those they love.

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My Review 5 STARS 

“We’re all lost in our own ways. Some of us just hide when we shouldn’t. We hide in our grief, in our minds, in our pain…in the woods…or in a story, like Ava Coons.”

Dual time lines (or time-slip) novels are some of my favorites to read, especially when they are high caliber like The Souls of Lost Lake. The suspense is phenomenal, as always, but there is just something about this tale that grabbed hold of my imagination and will not let go. Maybe because I love “camp fire tales” and my husband and I told so many of them to our children during their growing up years that this book resonated with me as much as it did. I don’t know. I do know that for the last two weeks since I finished the book, Ava Coons still rattles around in my brain almost daily!

Wright turned up the “heebie-jeebies” with this one and provided a feast for the senses. The characters jumped off the paper, cementing themselves in my mind, because they were not going to let me get away. Excellent, excellent summer reading!!! I’d give this book 10 stars if I could!

I was provided a copy by the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation has been received.

Review ~ Among the Innocent by Mary Alford

 

About the Book

When Leah Miller's entire Amish family was murdered ten years ago, the person believed responsible took his own life. Since then, Leah left the Amish and joined the police force. Now, after another Amish woman is found murdered with the same MO, it becomes clear that the wrong man may have been blamed for her family's deaths.

As Leah and the new police chief, Dalton Cooper, work long hours struggling to fit the pieces together in order to catch the killer, they can't help but grow closer. When secrets from both of their pasts begin to surface, an unexpected connection between them is revealed. But this is only the beginning. Could it be that the former police chief framed an innocent man to keep the biggest secret of all buried? And what will it mean for Leah--and Dalton--when the full truth comes to light?

USA Today bestselling author Mary Alford keeps you guessing as two determined souls plumb the dark depths of the past in order to forge a brighter future--together.

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My Review 4 STARS

Among the Innocent is a riveting thriller set in St Ignatius, an Amish community in MT. This novel has all the creep factors multiplied by 10. While the crimes are revolting, I couldn’t put it down.

Leah’s family was murdered in front of her but the killer let her live. Now he’s back and he wants her. But he’s going to play a little game first. The psychological aspect captured my full attention and I felt like I was solving the murders right along with Leah and Dalton. Their stories are entwined as well and that was an interesting plot twist. I liked both of these main characters a lot.

This was my first book by Alford but it won’t be my last. Fans of Amish and non-Amish suspense will enjoy this one.

I received an electronic copy of the book from the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation has been received.

Rebecca Reviews ~ The Sweet Life (Cape Cod Creamery #1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

About the Book

Dawn Dixon can hardly believe she's on a groomless honeymoon on beautiful Cape Cod . . . with her mother. Sure, Marnie Dixon is good company, but Dawn was supposed to be here with Kevin, the love of her life (or so she thought).

Marnie Dixon needs some time away from the absolute realness of life as much as her jilted daughter does, and she's not about to let her only child suffer alone--even if Marnie herself had been doing precisely that for the past month.

Given the circumstances, maybe it was inevitable that Marnie would do something as rash as buy a run-down ice-cream shop in the town's tightly regulated historic district. After all, everything's better with ice cream.

Her exasperated daughter knows that she's the one who will have to clean up this mess. Even when her mother's impulsive real estate purchase brings Kevin back into her life, Dawn doesn't get her hopes up. Everyone knows that broken romances stay broken . . . don't they?

Welcome to a summer of sweet surprises on Cape Cod--a place where dreams just might come true.

 

Rebecca's Review 3.5 stars

"Dawn felt queasy, thinking of what a cliche she'd become. Jilted. Just two months before the wedding. Maybe not left at the altar, but pretty darn close."

Yet, Kevin wanted her to take their non-refundable honeymoon trip to Cape Cod and enjoy it with someone else. Dawn chose . . . her mother? Leaving her fast-track-to-the-top job behind in Boston, Dawn and her mother Marnie, headed towards the upscale hotel in Chatham that should have been paradise, but "the loss she felt over losing Kevin hurt in a way she didn't know if she could ever fully recover from". As if that wasn't enough to make Dawn want to bury herself in the sand like a crab, her polar-opposite, pie-in-the-sky mother had managed to fall in love herself, with an old historic building, formerly known as The Main Street Creamery".

As Dawn is pulled into helping her mother bring the old establishment back to life, the two of them discover that the building isn't the only thing that is being given a second chance at life in Chatham. Marnie's grief over the recent death of her husband, coupled with her recent health problems are being eclipsed by some brand new dreams of her own, and Dawn . . . . well, Dawn is rediscovering, or maybe allowing herself to discover for the first time, her amazing creativity; with of all things . . . . ice cream flavors.

But all is not going as perfectly as the mother-daughter team would like to believe. Historic buildings require a certain measure of authenticity, and Chatham's historic commission is unbending about its regulations. Dawn and Marnie need help; they need a rescuer, maybe even two.

What a charming story!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.