by Bette Lee Crosby
Genres: Women's Fiction
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Rating:
Louise Palmer is a settled-down person. A woman who wants nothing more than to remain in the same house until the day she dies. When her husband, Clay, announces an intention to quit his job and move to Florida, her life is thrown into a turmoil of mixed emotions and strained loyalties. Torn between Clay’s desire for “the good life” and the lifelong friendships of her quilting club, Louise struggles with what to do…until her best friend hatches a scheme to thwart the move. Before she discovers the truth of what matters most, a marriage will be tested, family relationships will fall apart and the friendships Louise tried to hold onto will change dramatically
I have read and enjoyed a few of Bette Lee Crosby’s books and was delighted at the chance to read What Matters Most. Crosby brings her characters to life and shares with us friendship, change, growth and most of all “what matters most.” Three word review: touching, realistic, inspirational.
Louise Palmer has mapped out her life since she was a child and if you asked her she could tell you exactly what she would be doing twenty years from now but all that changes when her husband Clay decides to take early retirement and sell their family home to move to Florida. Overwhelmed with the thought of leaving her friends and children she and her best friend devise a scheme to stop the move. The tale that unfolds was realistic, and inspirational with fleshed out characters I came to adore.
One of Crosby’s gifts is creating realistic characters that are flawed and then she allows them to grow throughout the novel. Louise Palmer could be me, she could be my next door neighbor and we all know a person just like her best friend Billie. Louise seems well rounded and adjusted in the beginning of the tale but as Crosby peels back her layers we begin to understand her actions and see her weaknesses. I imagine each of us can identify with her, as we often label our success as woman, wives, and members of our community by some of the things Louise did. I loved the transformation she undergoes and found her to be both likeable and genuine. Clay is a solid guy and a wonderful provider. He isn’t as sensitive as I would have liked or as physical but I imagine he is typical of a lot of spouses. *Clueless!* Secondary characters were an absolute hoot and added to Louise’s tale and I giggled quite often. Louise’s complaining, judgmental Aunt was hilarious and we all have one in our family. Lord, the things that came out of her mouth. The lovely old woman at K-mart was inspirational and one you just wanted to hug. Cherry is a woman I know you all have met, from the way she talks to how she dresses. She was delightful, over the top and had me laughing and cringing.
What Matters Most touches on so many subjects we as individuals face throughout our lives and of lessons learned. Some of us learn them early and some never do. What I love about Crosby is that she places her characters in realistic situations. I have moved six times in my marriage and the last has taken us the furthest from family and friends and Louise’s experiences hit home a few times. From the trip to their new home there were humorous and ridiculous moments as Louise tries to cope and I slipped right into the tale as her troubles became mine. The tale flowed beautifully with moments of panic, humor, fear and inspiration. I fell in love with her quirky, realistic characters and enjoyed the ride. While it offers up lessons it also had it’s fair share of humor and I giggled my way though this. I closed this book with a smile as I said good-bye to my new friends.
Fans of realistic characters, real life situations and humor will enjoy What Matters Most and it’s inspiring message. Betty Lee Crosby is the author of Spare Change, The Twelfth Child, Cupid’s Christmas and Cracks in the Sidewalk.
kimbacaffeinate
both a lovely lady and writer!
emaginette
I’ve visited Bette Lee’s blog almost weekly and It is nice to know her books in my TBR pile should be dug out and dug into. Great review. 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
you must try one Dani!
kimbacaffeinate
I love those bits and pieces, thanks Bette!
Bette Lee Crosby
Kimba, thank you so much for this beautiful review. I think a lot of my characters are in some small way bits and pieces of people that I have met over the years and they stay with me. I am delighted that you enjoyed reading What Matters Most and honored that you chose to review it.
Bella's Shelf
Sounds awesome! My hubby is from Peru and if you go into the rainforest section there are many beautiful and scary tribes and cultures. One remote one STILL practices head shrinking!
Of course theres Manchu Pichu too.
I am jealous he comes From such a beautifully diverse place.
My ppl are from Germany, Ireland, Poland, there are awesome things about each of those too.
I am excited for this one. Sounds wonderful. I love to learn about cultures and see how the introduction of the evil white man influences them..lolz
Bella's Shelf
Machu Pichu. Darned auto correct . I hate it on my tablet!
Bella's Shelf
His Dad is Peruvian/Mom is like me, mixed European. His Dad’s family told a lot of stories, but they are city Peruvians. They aren’t from the mountains/rainforest where the culture and beliefs are more embedded and still practiced. The city is full of awesome culture but its obvious it has been city-fied. If that makes sense.
Next week is Fraterfest!
kimbacaffeinate
Wow thanks for sharing that Fran. I bet your hubby tells awesome stories. I am fascinated by different cultures, legends and beliefs as well.
kimbacaffeinate
hahaha. I know!! Did you know with Disqus you can edit your comments? It’s not like other systems where your spelling error or brain fart is forever displayed, you can just go in and change your comment by hitting edit.
Bella's Shelf
I tried to do it but on my tab it won’t scroll up and down once edit opens. IDK why. I bought akeyboard too. Never hook it up or use it.
kimbacaffeinate
darn 🙁
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Jenea, yeah not a big fan of the cover.
kimbacaffeinate
thanks for stopping by and checking it out Sam 🙂
Blodeuedd
That is such a cool story 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Blodeuedd 🙂
Tribute Books
Kimba, thanks for sharing this couple’s fascinating story with all of your lovely blog followers 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Welcome 😉 I have some pretty awesome caffeinated peeps!
Heidi
Well this is different and K am sure fascinating. I would love to know more about the prophecy and how it all played out, but not so much on the cannibalism.
kimbacaffeinate
Not into eating your neighbor huh?
Christy (Love of Books)
Oh this really sounds good! I love books like this, but haven’t read one in awhile.
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Christy 🙂
Kimberly
What a great guest post!it has me really interested in reading the book. I love books like this so I’m adding it to my wishlist.
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Kimberly!
Tanja
Yeah that’s true! I used to avid UF, but now I can’t stop reading them. I might try this one one day. 🙂
Jenea Whittington
What can I say, I am intrigued. Ancient prophecies are always fascinating and sometimes leaves you with goose bumps at what people believe. Cannibalism is right up there too. The cover is strange though. 🙂 Thanks for sharing this.
Jenea @ Books Live Forever
Sam
How very intriguing! While I must admit that the book most likely isn’t my type of read, it does sounds incredibly interesting. Thank you for sharing this post! 🙂
Michelle
This is pretty cool! I have not heard of this before. Thanks for sharing Kimba!
Question: Are you doing bloggiesta this weekend?
kimbacaffeinate
I like her books, they are quite clean though
Blodeuedd
Another HR author I want to read one day, there are just so many! 😉
kimbacaffeinate
thanks 🙂
bn100
Nice review. Sounds interesting.
kimbacaffeinate
hehehe
Dori
Oooh, I like the bad boy gone good for the right girl, especially in historicals.
kimbacaffeinate
hahaha!
Bella's Shelf
I saw this book advertised in one of my weekly magazines. I think its US WEEKLY. I said “THATS ON KIMBAS BLOG” to no one in articular..lolz..Thanks for the giveaway <3
kimbacaffeinate
me too 🙂
Veronica
I lvoe feisty, smart, female characters and this definitely sounds good!
kimbacaffeinate
you are welcome Brenda
Brenda Leon
Great review!! I love her books!! I can not wait to read this one as well. Historical romance is my favorite. I love going back in time, viewing time through their not modern eyes. When a book places me there and I forget my real time and place, it is a winner. Thanks for an opportunity to win!!
kimbacaffeinate
me too 🙂
Naomi Hop
Sounds like an interesting read. I really like the cover!!
kimbacaffeinate
hope the move goes well and maybe you will win it 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
thanks, I hope you enjoy it.
Lark
I love Victoria Alexander for her blend of humor and romance! Great review, Kimba — I look forward to reading this book.
kimbacaffeinate
you are welcome
Carolyn Brown
Sounds like it would be an interesting read, especially with the chemistry between the two MC’s. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!
kimbacaffeinate
the banter was such fun
Lauren
Ooh from the sounds of your review I’m going to love Miranda and Win! I love historical romances, and especially ones with witty characters and delicious chemistry. Great review!
kimbacaffeinate
I only tried her in 2011 and am glad that I found her
kimbacaffeinate
we have 9 inches on the ground from a storm yesterday
Bella's Shelf
A book like this could of melted all that dang snow in front of my house Kim. We are free! We are free! 5 feet of snow last Friday until Wednesday. We were prisoners! We shoveled our way out of the street because there were no plows 😛 My arms almost fell off, I almost had passed out, but we did it. lolz.
Enough of my whining, right? We are ok and good to go now! I did get to read a few books 🙂 Missed ya Kim!
godan2
great title and witty characters always makes it fun
Danielle Chapman
Sounds like an interesting book by an author I actually have not heard of before! 🙂
GRgenius
Certainly curious and I love the scanned images of the documents! They really shared those with you? Uh-huh. I’m leaning more towards to bribery option… ^_^
kimbacaffeinate
good reasons and good luck Rin 🙂
Rin
YES! I really want to read Bronze Gods. There are 2 main reasons.
1) Steampunk!
2) I really loves Enclave/Outpost, so I’d love to read more Ann Aguirre, especially an adult book.
Brynna
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed and hey its Ann and Andres!!!
kimbacaffeinate
this tour was a blast 🙂 and different!
kindlemom1
I have seen this one around everywhere and it looks like such a good read. I think the little notes and messages on all the our stops is such a fun idea!
kimbacaffeinate
*snickers* I loved this tour it was fun and original 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Awesome Stacy good luck and I hope you get a chance to read this:)
Stacy T
I love steampunk, so this is right up my alley! I have read Enclave and it was one of the most surprising books that I read last year.
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed, I am looking forward to reading it:)
kimbacaffeinate
I love exploring and finding new genres and steampunk is a good one. good luck!
Elizabeth Bevins
I’d love to read this book! I have never tried steam punk fiction before. I’m eager to try it since I love to read! I need another genre to explore.
Thanks for the chance!
kimbacaffeinate
It was a blast Maji I am sorry to see it end:)
Maja (The Nocturnal Library)
Heh, he actually did get her a hat! Well, he IS a perfect gentleman, even if he is a bit… restless. :))
Thank you so much for being on the tour. I can’t believe this is the last stop, it’s been so much fun.
kimbacaffeinate
good luck Ren!!
Ren
Far before the book released, I’d know about Bronze Gods from Ann Aguirre’s tweets and I really love the cover. Right now I’m on steampunk read-a-thon and I always love a “whodunnit” type of story. Yes, pretty please pick me as winner 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
awesome Miki good luck to you:)
thegeekyblogger
You know, I am not a steampunk fan but I think I will eventually give this one a whirl 🙂 It intrigues me!
miki
i do want to read this because i discovered a love for steampunk and i loved what iread from this author so far
kimbacaffeinate
Good luck and I cannot wait to read this one myself. Wasn’t this a clever tour?
kimbacaffeinate
bwahaahaha, they have been fun Tanja and I am excited to read this, good luck!
Tanja
Ah you people are killing me with these posts. I’m really intrigued to read it and see if it’s as amazing as it sounds. Great post!
kimbacaffeinate
that is a wonderful idea Lynn!
Lynn
Because it sounds amazing and I loved Ann’s other series! I’m saving all these case files so that I can re-read them after I read the book. 😀
kimbacaffeinate
just admit it you are a cover whore like me..bwahahaha!
Blodeuedd
Well I am shallow and the cover looks cool so that is the first reason 😀 And more have followed
kimbacaffeinate
I will be reviewing in July/Aug and cannot wait..i love steampunk too and the tour has been so cool.
kimbacaffeinate
*raises eyebrow and looks around for possible ears* Borrowed, we B-o-r-r-o-w-e-d them. I so agree this is a no brainer, good luck and enjoy!
Heather
After reading these letters and case files you guys “stole” it is apparent that the relationship between Mitkani and Ritsuko is going to be entertaining on it’s own. Add to that steampunk elements, angry women(jilted), various criminals, magic….how can you miss? It’s a no brainer! I must read it! Whether I win a copy or buy it. (there goes my book buying ban).
kimbacaffeinate
I am looking forward to reading it too, Kim, good luck!
Turning the Pages
I absolutely loved her Razorland series and I’m really looking forward to reading this book that she penned with her husband 🙂 It looks like it’s going to be a really good read!
kimbacaffeinate
agreed it was different:)
Toni
It seems like a really cool tour. You get to post investigative documents and such. How awesome!
kimbacaffeinate
oh heck yes it does, I love steampunk when it’s done properly.
kimbacaffeinate
I loved that one too!
kimbacaffeinate
Wasn’t it fun and enjoy the book!
Lark
That second document sold me — too funny! This is a great tour. Thank you for the giveaway! And the book is definitely going on my TBR list right now.
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, I have a review scheduled this summer 🙂
Heidi
Ha Ha… the documents are getting funnier as they go. Mikansi is really fun. I hope you are reading this one soon, Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
Loved it Ann and will participate again anytime it was delightful!
candacerobinson
I’m really loving this tour, it’s so fun and fits the book so well! I’m reading the book now but had to pause to get some others read. Hopefully tomorrow I’m able to finish it up. I’m really loving it though!
thegeekyblogger
I tend to lose the story in the gadgets. I think steampunk is something I enjoy more on screen than reading. I do love the covers though and OUTFITS!
kimbacaffeinate
ooh you haven’t read a good one then 🙁
kimbacaffeinate
I love steampunk too good luck Donna:)
Donna
I would love to read it, I just found steampunk and am excited to have found another genre!
kimbacaffeinate
I feel ya, i will be reviewing this sometime in July or August
Christy (Love of Books)
Haha- you are naughty bloggers. I want to read this, but you know how it is. Hell, I’ve had Enclave since it came out and haven’t read it yet. -sigh-
kimbacaffeinate
this has been a cool tour Carmel and good luck!
Carmel
This sounds pretty cool! I love the documents and YES I do want to know more. Thanks for the chance! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
good luck I like the cover too!
Timitra
I would love to read Bronze Gods because I’m intrigued by the premise of it and also cause I love the cover!
kimbacaffeinate
wasn’t this a great tour, I like the chemistry too!
Lauren
I’m really loving this tour and these notes! The chemistry between these two is adorable. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Maybe this will be the one, I enjoy them when they are well done 🙂
Jennifer Bielman
I am so intrigued. I need to find a steampunk book I like.
kimbacaffeinate
I hope you like it, good luck!
kimbacaffeinate
Awesome to hear you are enjoying it and lucky friend!
kimbacaffeinate
I completely agree, good luck!
kimbacaffeinate
I agree, I will be reviewing over the summer and cannot wait!
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed and so far the reviews have been wonderful, good luck!
Barbed1951
Oh yes, I want to read Bronze Gods! I’ve adored everything of Ann Aguirre’s that I’ve read and I’m looking forward to seeing how the addition of her husband Andres makes the story even more exciting. I love steampunk and I’m glad Ann and Andres have decided to write a story in that genre.
kimbacaffeinate
Have fun, so wish I was going and heck yes this looks so good, maybe you will win it!
Pabkins
Because its steam punk duh! and it sounds kick ass! I would have nabbed it by now but bah had to pay for BEA airfaire and hotel…had to SO cut down on spending this month LOL
kimbacaffeinate
That is cool, good luck Lekeisha!
Lekeisha Thomas
Yes, definitely want to read this! A Twitter follower of mine got me into reading steampunk novels. I’ve been hooked ever since.
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed, i will be reviewing it this summer!
Trish Hannon
I haven’t read any steampunk books yet. I’m fascinated by them though and this seems like a good place to start.
kimbacaffeinate
Good luck Anita and I hope you discover you enjoy Steampunk as much as I do 🙂
Anita Yancey
I would like to read it because it really sounds good, and I have never read a Steampunk novel before. I would love to try this one. Thanks for this chance.
kimbacaffeinate
oh yeah Shamara the book cover whore in me drools every time I see it!
kimbacaffeinate
It does look delicious, good luck and I hope you read it regardless!
ALMENDRA
i want to read because i read a lot of review about the book and … it look very good .. and then i decied that i would read … I need to read jijij and the cover look great .. the guy .. mmmm delicous
kimbacaffeinate
I agree, this was a fun tour.
kimbacaffeinate
I cannot wait to read it and share my thoughts in July!
kimbacaffeinate
Good luck Ana, I will reviewing this in early July and cannot wait!
Ana
I would love to read this one, just checked it on GR and saw it has GREAT reviews. Would definitely want to check it out, I’m so curious why everyone likes it:)
kimbacaffeinate
you are welcome Ina and good luck!
Ina M.
I wouldn’t enter this giveaway if I hadn’t wanted to read Bronze Gods! ^_^ It caught my interest quite a while ago – supernatural, magic and steampunk sounds like an awesome combination, and one that’s right up my alley! Many thanks for the uber-cool giveaway! ^_^
Ladybug Literature
Naw, I am just in it for the freebies? I am totally kidding. This book just recently got added to my TBR list on Goodreads. The buzz word “steampunk” was what got it instantly added and having the author be A.A. Aguirre was what kept it there. The cover looks very Sherlockian so… win!
kimbacaffeinate
good luck to you Filia!
Filia Oktarina
I want read Bronze Gods because this book was catch my eyes when i see it, and i love steampunk genre, so i am really curious with this book. 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Ha..you crack me up and heck yes to Steampunk and Holmes!!
Jenea Whittington
Love the cover on this. I happy you connected with the characters and enjoyed this. Great review. 🙂
Darlene's Book Nook
I’m glad to see you really enjoyed this one! I enjoy Showalter as well, and I’m on a bit of a zombie kick so this one is on my Wishlist! Thanks for the giveaway!
Melissa (Books and Things)
This is so full of WIN! 🙂 Love that you got the marriage one. That was too funny! Isn’t being a part of this tour so much fun? 😀
Melissa (Books and Things)
Like HP for the younger set. Might work for some cousins I know that are just too young for it. I might also suggest it to my mom who read the first 4 HP books in one week. 😀 Might have to check it out. 😀
sstogner1
I love it when an author comes up with a new twist on an old idea. And this cover is to die for! I haven’t read Gena before (I know, right?!) thanks for the giveaway
Erin F
thanks for the great review and giveaway! I really want to read this book now 🙂
Erin F
Sounds fantastic! Thanks for the great review 🙂
Melissa
Ooooo, I love Ann’s books. Amazingly done. And I want to see how Andres and her work together. But this sounds so much my kind of read. 😀 So many elements here I love, and well…Steampunk! LOL!
Melissa
Hmm, I do enjoy my magic and witches. I’ve not read many lately, but are fun. 🙂 Thank you!
Melissa
Oh I should join, but I don’t know what the month will bring with kiddo and sports. Great challenge though. 🙂 Best of luck!
Michelle
Awesome review Kimba! I’m not really sure what to think about this one…I want to read it but then again I don’t. It sounds like it would be a fun read, but something is kind of holding me back.
Carmen B.
Sounds like a unique portrayal of zombies! Thanks for pointing out that it’s not really a retelling though – I wasn’t aware of that, or that it’s set in the present/’normal’ world from what it seems like? The characters sound awesome though! I also like that you said the novel pushes the YA boundary. Great review, and thanks for the giveaway 🙂
Michelle
I think this idea is super cool! I don’t have very many friends with e-readers but this is certainly a cool idea for gifts and possibly even giveaways in the future. Thanks for sharing with us Kimba! I’m going to keep this in mind.
Pnrurbfantasyreviews
I haven’t read The Hunt, yet, so I skimmed your review. It looks like another winner for you! I’m going to check this series out! Fab. review!!
Book Swoon
Hi Kimba. The Sorority sound good to me, I love Paranormals too.
Here is my link for this weeks The Book Swoon’s WOW
Tanya M
I love these quick, faster than it takes to brew a cup of coffee reviews! Great idea and glad you found a perfect escape this week.
Tonyalee
Er, confession post. 😛
Tonyalee
Busy week for you, huh? 🙂 I’m looking forward to your discussion post!
Danielle Chapman
Sounds like a very interesting read… Thanks for the review!
Danielle Chapman
Oooh! What neat picks! I had not come across these books before! 🙂
Barbara Walker
It’s sexist of me, but lately I have a difficult time reading this genre of book with only male MCs. I think romance has ruined me. 🙂 I like that it’s a continuing series though and there are some elements that I’d like in more of a mystery/suspense book. Interesting.. Great review, I’m glad you mostly enjoyed it!
karina
OMG, Kimba! Fab review and rating! 🙂 So excited to read Prey now (reserved it in my library as soon as they get it).
Barbara Walker
I’m not young enough to keep picking up these series’ that I haven’t already started along with everything new I buy. lol It sounds really good though and you make me want to!! Why can I picture you hopping around, twitching and making noise while reading this? 😀 Awesome review, chica!
Pnrurbfantasyreviews
Miss you 🙁 Feel better, already!!
Pnrurbfantasyreviews
I just received How To Misbehave and look forward too the seemingly “fun” sexy story. Thanks for sharing, muffin!
Debbie Haupt
One of my favorite houses is Kensington, thanks for the post. The novel I’m most waiting for are two due out this summer one by Ben H Winters who’s first in the trilogy just won an Edgar award for Best Original PaperBack and Mark Lawrence’s Emperor of Thorns.
deb
karina
I will sign-up, Kimba, but I won’t be able to update my progress weekly I think as I’ll be away. Still it will be a perfect time to clean up my shelves again this year! Have a lovely week, darling and enjoy both your reads! 🙂
karina
Gorgeous book haul, Kimba! I kind of like the look of Starstruck but have no idea what the book is about 🙂 Ashes on The Waves is also on my wishlist, so I’ll be keeping an eye out for your review. Enjoy all! 🙂
Bea
I loved both those books so much. I keep stalking NetGalley for the next one. 😀
Bea
That would be great if they did! That would make it so much more useful.
Bea
I remember hearing about this; it seems like a really great idea and it sounds like it was fairly easy to use.
Bea
Dang, you had a great week! I’m glad the book finally arrived. I can’t believe you’re wearing flip flops, you crazy woman. 😀
Tanya Davis
Wow, you have quite a haul there. I thought about the Take Control meme, but there are so many goodies coming out in March that I am too excited to wait to read!
Tanya @ Rantings of a Reading Addict
Shelley Romano
Great choices! I’m definitely hoping that Kensington sends me these as well. If not, we can hope they put these up on NG!
Andrea
I’ve heard a really good things about Ruthie Knox’s books. I’ll have to give one of these a try!
SweetMarie83
I haven’t heard of either of these books but I hope you enjoy them, and I hope you’re feeling better! <3
~Marie @ Ramblings of a Daydreamer
TributeBooks
Very cool, Kimba! I hope one day they open up their program to small, indie publishers as well.
kimbacaffeinate
this was/is a fun series, it is all YA, but one I am anxious to continue, it is a fast easy read.
Kathleen Ann Coleman
Okay, here we go! 🙂 I’m going to be wearing the dress on the cover of The Mephisto Covenant, bringing Criminy Stain from Wicked As They Come as my date and riding that scooter from Flirting In Italian. (Let’s hope I don’t catch frostbite! That’s gonna be COLD!) Want to see the covers and read all the details? click here! I can’t wait to see what everyone else comes up with. <3
Kathleen Ann Coleman
Your picks leave me with three thoughts:
1. I want to read Skylark.
2. Why is Cinder still sitting here unread?
3. Gah! How did I forget to put This Is Not A Test on my list?! I loved it *and* I got to have it signed by Courtney Summers last month.
Hope the holiday season has been good to you and that the new year is even better! 🙂
artsy musings
Can you believe that I haven;t even read a single book on this list except the one you haven’t read (Pushing the Limits). Ugh I feel bad! But I seriously want to read most of the books you mentioned especially Partials and The Darkest Minds. Woot.
Check out my End of Year Book Survey post.
Sana @ artsy musings of a bibliophile
Beckie
Thank you Kimberly for hosting such a fun event. 🙂 I had a lot of fun.
GRgenius
Wow, sounds great. Definitely makes my upcoming read of it much more anticipated. Thanks for the share!
Tanja
I haven’t heard of this author before but well I don’t like woman’s fiction so it’s logical. I’m more of YA reader and I never enjoy these kind of books. I’m glad you enjoyed it though. Great review 🙂
Blodeuedd
Honestly I am a bit eh on this one
kindlemom1
This sounds like a great realistic read! I don’t think I have heard of this author before so I am glad you brought her to my attention. I like reads like this one every now and then.
Jenny
I love when I find books that really resonate with me, and depict situations I’ve gone through or experiences I’ve had, it just makes me want to hug the book close to my chest and never leg go. So glad this book was that in part for you since you’ve had to move away from friends and family Kimba! Beautiful review as always:)
Kristin Clifton
I always wondered what readers considered as “women’s fiction” and now I totally know!!! I usually steer clear of realistic fiction but I can totally see how this one really got ya (and pulls other readers in). Everyone can surely relate to this hubby and the wife’s plans to derail him. Humor is always good 🙂
Jenea Whittington
The author is new to me. It’s funny how we plan our lives out as we are growing up, only for them to change. This sounds like a good read. Wonderful review.
Andrea
This author is new to me, and it’s easy to see why you enjoy her books. You were clearly pulled so completely into the story, and that is great.
Thanks for the recommendation!
candacerobinson
This sounds pretty great. I don’t much (any?) books with older people (like my own age or older) but this sounds like one I could connect with too.
Melissa (Books and Things)
I love a book that you just identify with! Oh and poor clueless Clay. LOL This does sound like a fun one to just enjoy.
Heidi
Moving is the worst. I think we can all relate to that. I agree Bette’s characters are realistic and relatable for sure. Thanks for sharing!
Debbie Haupt
Thanks Kim I’m always looking for good women’s fiction
Trish Hannon
Sounds lovely, sometimes a great women’s fiction is a nice change of pace from YA, NA, thriller, dystopia, etc. It can be so easy to connect with the characters. A new author for me but one I’d love to try someday,
Diana Leigh
It’s always good to weave some humor into the serious life lessons. Great review!
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Diana, and I agree we all need humor
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Trish, and you know me I love to mix things up in all categories!
kimbacaffeinate
I really like this author, my favorite book by her is Spare Change
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Heidi:)
kimbacaffeinate
hahaha…yep Clay was clueless
kimbacaffeinate
I think if the characters are fleshed out you can find something in them to connect with..I am forty *cough* something and read YA, NA and adult..and can usually find something.
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Andrea I enjoy this authors realistic approach.
kimbacaffeinate
isn’t that the honest to goodness truth..if I only knew then what I know now!
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Kristen, woman’s fiction covers an array of topics and they tend to be realistic,and sometimes thought provoking..they can be funny, sad, etc
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Jenny:)
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Ali, I know you like to mix things up too when it comes to reading
kimbacaffeinate
honestly that is ok…we can’t love them all:)
kimbacaffeinate
thanks Tanja, while this might not be the book for you, I encourage you to try different genres in all the age groups. I use to loathe contemporaries. Seriously! and now I love them..LOL
kimbacaffeinate
ooh I look forward to reading your thoughts on it. Have you read any of her other books? I loved Spare Change
GRgenius
Nope. This will be my first venture. ^-^
Christy (Love of Books)
This is something I would have read in a heartbeat year ago, but now I have to be in just the right mood. It sounds lie a wonderful book though.
kimbacaffeinate
I agree, these are books I like to mix in around all of my other genres and usually they are a mood read for me too:)
kimbacaffeinate
I read everything and like to mix it up, I am so glad you like her books too:)
laura thomas
I’ve read all of Bette’s books and her characters and situations are so genuine and touch my heart. I am mostly a horror reader, but I do love charcter driven stories of all genre.