Being a mystery/thriller fan, I sometimes like to take a break to read something more soothing to my spirit. While heartache, loneliness, and despair aren’t soothing, it’s the redeeming qualities of these emotions that sooths and heals.
The latest release by author Karen Jones Gowen, LIGHTING CANDLES IN THE SNOW, brings all these emotions into play for a rewarding story.The story focuses on Karoline London and what she encounters during and after her six year marriage dissolves. Her ex-husband, Jeremy, has an addiction and she later learns he also has past secrets that have affected his life.
From the opening chapter where Karoline tries to prop-up her marriage, the author weaves a realistic story filled with the hopes and dreams of life together to the realization of promises crushed.
As Karoline’s marriage falls apart and she struggles to pick up the pieces, raw emotions are exposed. The love and support of Karoline’s sister and brother-in-law is a double-edged sword. Karoline appreciates them being there, but they can’t really understand. They have a loving marriage and seven kids. She has an ex and no children to love.
Gowen mixes the elements of divorce, Karoline’s feelings of self-worth, dating, and family into a story you won’t be able to put down. From heartache to hope, from trauma to triumph, Gowen has created a story that will bring you to tears and then lift your spirits with laugh-out-loud moments.
LIGHTING CANDLES IN THE SNOW is a feel-good story of human nature overcoming hardships to find happiness. It’s filled with a dose of faith, hope, romance, family, and love. An added bonus is delicious surprise recipes at the end of most chapters.
The characters are well-developed and likable. The dialog flows smoothly and at a steady pace with an unexpected ending. It’s a delightful read.
Author Karen Jones Gowen's website is http://karenjonesgowen.com/
Lighting Candles in the Snow by Karen Jones Gowen, WiDo Publishing, @2012, ISBN: 978-1-937178-22-2, Paperback, 286 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure - An eBook of this story was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
Do you enjoy books that lift your spirits? Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a great Monday and remember to share a book with a friend.
I love feel-good stories. This one sounds wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds interesting. Yep, I like stories that lift the spirits.
ReplyDeleteMason - This one sounds like a very empowering story. We all have heartache; it's what you do with it and about it that count.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I really prefer to read mysteries, I did like this book as well.
ReplyDeleteHey, I know that author!
ReplyDeleteMason, Thank you so much for this wonderful review!!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Mason and Karen .. I'm looking forward to reading (and first buying!) Lighting Candles in the Snow - it does sound a a great read. That cover - I love too ..
ReplyDeleteCheers Hilary