From the
very first line, I knew this would be a novel I would fall in love with. I did
that and so much more.
There are so many elements to this
story that I loved. A woman with a hidden past, she doesn’t even want to
confront, finds herself in the last place she ever wanted to be. And she just
might be falling in love
.
The writing is so incredibly strong.
The characters grow from the very first page. Subtle twists to the plot keep
the story always moving forward. And I wasn’t sure to expect with each new
chapter.
It’s the kind of novel I *love* to
read. Dialogue that zings, characters that have so much growth to make, but as
a reader, I can’t help loving them anyway. A plot that makes a reader so eager
to know how it all ends, and yet writing that makes me to want to stop and just
savor every word.
In short, I really didn’t want it to
end.
Katie Ganshert may be a debut author,
but this novel does not read like a debut. Surely she has been holding out on
us and there is a published backlist. And yet there is just enough room to grow
in her writing, that I know the next book will be even better.
It’s that kind of book. Women’s
fiction/romance fans…this book will become your new best read. It’s making my
2012 best list. Easy!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks
to the author for an advance copy to review.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
More about the novel...
A young architect at a prestigious Chicago firm, Bethany Quinn has built a life far removed from her trailer park teen years. Until an interruption from her estranged mother reveals that tragedy has struck in her hometown and a reluctant Bethany is called back to rural Iowa. Determined to pay her respects while avoiding any emotional entanglements, she vows not to stay long. But the unexpected inheritance of farmland and a startling turn of events in Chicago forces Bethany to come up with a new plan.
Handsome farmhand Evan Price has taken care of the Quinn farm for years. So when Bethany is left the land, he must fight her decisions to realize his dreams. But even as he disagrees with Bethany’s vision, Evan feels drawn to her and the pain she keeps so carefully locked away.
For Bethany, making peace with her past and the God of her childhood doesn’t seem like the path to freedom. Is letting go the only way to new life, love and a peace she’s not even sure exists?
To read the first chapter for free, click here.
Would you please consider rating my review? Your email is only needed to ensure that the same person a ccidently rates a review more than once and it won't be spammed. (and you'll be entered to win a copy of Katie's book from her publisher. ;-))
Thank you so much for this awesome review, Casey! I'm SO thankful you enjoyed the story!!
ReplyDeleteKeep writing, Katie. I really had no doubt that I would love your novel and can't wait until book two!
DeleteI'm reading Katie's book right now -- which is challenging, since I'm on deadline. Katie has a real way with words and I'm having a hard time putting the book down.
ReplyDeleteBoo to deadlines while trying to finish great books! Katie's book is totally worth savoring. So savor away!
DeleteI loved Katie's book as well!! You're right, Casey, it didn't feel like a debut novel. I can't wait for the next one!
ReplyDeleteYou and I should uncover that hidden backlist! ;-)
DeleteCASE ... couldn't agree more, my friend, and I am not typically a women's fiction reader, but Katie had me by the throat from start to finish. You said, "Katie Ganshert may be a debut author,but this novel does not read like a debut." That is the God's truth, and I feel so blessed and privileged to have had the chance to endorse a book this well done!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
Isn't it a hidden treasure that you just want to unwrap a dozen more times? I know I do. I need to buy a finished novel now. :-)
DeleteI LOVED this book. Loved it. Katie is an amazing writer with an amazing message.
ReplyDeleteVery, very true, Lindsay! I can't to see what she does with book 2 and seeing characters introduced here in book 2.
DeleteJulie's endorsement is on the cover!! It's awesome!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read them. I love reading endorsements!
DeleteI LOVED this story. :) As you say, the strides the characters need to and do make doesn't prevent you from feeling a connection to them from the very first. I know readers are going to love this story. :)
ReplyDeleteVery well said, Erica and couldn't agree with you more. It's hard to do, kudos to Katie!
DeleteErica is a HUGE reason this is even releasing!! She took me under her wing, kindly ripped it apart when the story was very very ugly, and helped me put it back together again. She's awesome!
DeleteCan't wait to read it! Great review, Casey. :-)
ReplyDeleteIt will totally be worth the wait!
DeleteAwesome review and, I too, loved Katie's book!
ReplyDeleteWho won't? :-))
DeleteCasey, I love your reviews. I feel strongly that I can pick up any book that you recommend. This one sounds great! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi Casey,
ReplyDeleteGreat review! I've heard nothing but great things about Katie's book. Can't wait to get my hands on it!
P.S. Congrats on your semi-final in the Genesis! So thrilled for you!
Cheers,
Sue
I loved Katie's book. It's a powerful story that moved me deeply. I highly recommend it.
ReplyDeleteWould love to read this book!
ReplyDeletermaney@firstarpchurch.org