Starting over or just being out on your own for the first time can be a huge step. The books I have to tell you about today deal with these issues in very different ways.
First up I have CHASE: A NOVEL, all about a young woman on her own making her way in the world and the problems she encounters. Second, I have THE GOOD LUCK GIRLS OF SHIPWRECK LANE. This is about two women starting over - one isn’t crazy about the change, while the other can’t wait to make it happen. Both of these stories are debut novels. Can’t wait to see what these new authors come up with next.
CHASE: A NOVEL by Jill Knapp Zitron
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be young, single and living in New York City, author Jill Knapp Zitron gives you an ideal in her debut novel, CHASE.The story follows the life and loves of 23-year-old Amalia Hastings for a brief time in her quest for happiness. Amalia believes she’s happy. She is getting the education she wants at NYU, she has a gorgeous apartment, great friends, and a handsome boyfriend, Nickolas, who treats her amazingly.
But things begin to change and Amalia isn’t so sure she’s completely happy. Her classmate Michael catches her attention and she realizes she has feelings for him. As she prepares for a lengthy summer trip, she’s dumped by Nickolas, who has suddenly lost all feelings for her. Amalia has to find what truly makes her happy as she struggles for balance in her life.
The author illustrates how living in the city can effect one’s behavior and attitude, along with the relationships they encounter. Zitron has created energetic, likable characters dealing with life’s real problems.
Zitron’s vivid descriptions places the reader in the middle of New York City’s hustle and bustle. She draws the reader in as she captures the flavor of the city and its people. She blends friendship, love, and learning to overcome heartache into a well-balanced story.
Enlightening and entertaining, CHASE is a fun read with lovable characters.
Author Jill Knapp Zitron’s website is http://www.jillknappzitron.com/wp/.
Chase: A Novel by Jill Knapp Zitron, Published by Jill Knapp Zitron, @2013, ISBN: 978-0989608008, Paperback, 212 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure - A digital copy of this book was sent to me by a book promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
THE GOOD LUCK GIRLS OF SHIPWRECK LANE by Kelly Harms
Who hasn’t fantasized about winning a dream home fully furnished? For Janie Brown of Cedar Falls, Iowa, winning the HomeSweetHome Network’s dream house in Maine is a life changer and eye opener.Narrators Suehyla El-Attar and Reay Kaplan do an excellent job bringing the delightful characters to life. Their cadence pulls you in and holds you spellbound as the story unfolds. Their vocalizations enhance the author’s writing.
Janine “Nean” Brown knows winning the house is her destiny. It’s her chance to escape the long line of drunk and abusive boyfriends, crappy jobs and finally be someone others won’t look down their noses at. Hearing her name called, Nean does what she has to and strikes out to claim her new life.
Across town Janine “Janey” Brown discovers her zany great-aunt Midge has entered her in the contest. It’s Midge’s way of trying to help Janey ease back into the world of the living. After the film crew leaves, Janey and Midge pack up and head to Christmas Cove, Maine, to their new home.
Arriving at the dream house, Janey and Midge discover Nean is already there believing she won. When the real winner is decided, lies will be told in order for all to remain in the house. As the lives of the trio intersect and they each branch out into the small community, they discover they’ve won much more than a dream home. They find the power of food, the joy of friendship, and what makes a family.
Author Kelly Harms has created zany and memorable characters in her heartwarming debut novel. The characters are well-developed and realistic as they deal with real life and personal demons. Aunt Midge - strong, cantankerous, loving - will stay with you long after the story ends.
The story flows smoothly as it switches back and forth from Janey to Nean. It moves at a steady pace filled with humor and heart wrenching moments. It will have you crying from laughter one moment and then from a heartbreaking twist the next.
THE GOOD LUCK GIRLS OF SHIPWRECK LANE is an enchanting story celebrating the power of good food, friendship, family and new possibilities. This charming tale explores what home and family is all about.
Author Kelly Harms’ website is http://kellyharms.com/
The Good Luck Girls of Shipwreck Lane by Kelly Harms, Performed by Suehyla El-Attar and Reay Kaplan, Brilliance Audio, @2013, ISBN: 978-1480536920, Unabridged, 9 Discs, Listening Time: 10 Hours and 20 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
I appreciate you taking time to stop by today and visit. Have you ever dreamed of winning a home like the Janies did? Where would your dream home be located? Would it be anything like the one on Shipwreck Lane?
Mason - Those both sound as though they really explore the way people need to dream and feel they can start over and move on. Thanks for sharing.
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