October 2 - A Gift Called Today

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

As a 20-year breast cancer survivor, I've learned that every day is a gift.

A cancer diagnosis has a way of changing your perspective. It teaches you to slow down, appreciate the present, and find joy in the moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Over the years, I've come to realize that the ordinary moments are often the most precious.

A quiet morning with a cup of coffee. A phone call from a loved one. A beautiful sunset at the end of the day. Laughter shared with friends. Time spent with family. These simple blessings have become some of life's greatest treasures.

My faith in God has made those moments even more meaningful. During the challenges, uncertainties, and fears that came with a cancer diagnosis, my faith gave me strength, comfort, and hope. It reminded me to trust God's plan, cherish each day, and find peace even when I didn't know what the future would hold.

Twenty years later, my heart is full of gratitude for the experiences, relationships, and memories that have filled my life. I've learned that happiness isn't always found in the big milestones. Often, it's found in the everyday moments that remind us how fortunate we are to be here. I see God's blessings in those moments every single day.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I celebrate survivorship, honor those who are no longer with us, support those currently facing their own journey, and give thanks to God for every day I've been given.

Today, I'm simply grateful. 💗

The Art of Mingling, Fourth Edition by Jeanne Martinet - Now Released

Publish Date: October 6, 2026

As a mom of five and a former pastor, I have spent a good portion of my life in rooms full of people. Church gatherings, school events, community functions, casual parties, and everything in between. Even with all that experience, I know how easy it is to feel socially worn down, out of practice, or just plain tired of small talk. I approached this book hoping for encouragement, practical kindness, or at least respectful guidance for navigating social spaces when energy and authenticity matter.

Unfortunately, this book delivered the opposite.

I was immediately put off by the author’s repeated suggestions to single out “wallflowers,” “party misfits,” and those deemed “socially challenged” as practice tools for improving one’s mingling skills. This framing is not only unkind, it is demeaning. The entire “Practice Your Mingle on a Wallflower” section reads as though people exist merely as social props for someone else’s self-improvement. That alone should have been removed in prior editions.

It only went downhill from there. The section on FIBBING suggests that you cannot be a good "mingler" unless you are willing to lie a little. That is a firm no for me. Encouraging dishonesty as a social lubricant undermines trust and authenticity. The so-called FLATTERY Entree is equally troubling, promoting insincere praise as a tactic rather than genuine interest. Add to that the casual reference to “repugnant occupations,” and the tone becomes outright offensive.

By the 20 percent mark, I had already encountered more than eight statements or concepts that felt condescending, manipulative, or morally tone-deaf. This book is marketed as self-help, but it reads far more like a philanthropic handbook for social climbers, one that prioritizes performance over people and strategy over sincerity.

Social skills do not need to be taught at the expense of compassion. Mingling does not require belittling others, lying, or treating human beings as practice exercises. For readers looking for respectful, thoughtful, and ethical social guidance, this book misses the mark entirely.

Is this a satire or is this or is this title just meant to be offensive?

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Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.

💗 20 Years for Me. 30 Years for My Mom. A Lifetime of Gratitude. 💗

I am proud to be a 20-year breast cancer survivor, and even more blessed to share that my mom is a 30-year breast cancer survivor. We are both living proof that early detection and advances in treatment save lives.

This month, I encourage everyone to take a moment and prioritize their health. Schedule your annual mammogram, perform regular self-exams, and pay attention to any changes in your body. Knowing your body and recognizing the signs can make all the difference.

Please also remind the people you love to do the same. Early detection saves lives, and a simple screening could be the reason someone gets many more years with their family and friends.

Let's honor survivors, remember those we've lost, support those currently fighting, and continue spreading awareness.

5-Minute Aesop's Fables by Ilanit Oliver - Now Released

Now Released

As a mom of five and now a grandma, I’ve read my fair share of children’s books over the years, and this one really feels special. It’s such a sweet and easy win, especially on those busy days when you still want to slow down and share a meaningful moment with your kids or grandkids. I love that each story truly only takes a few minutes, which makes it perfect for bedtime or even just a quick cuddle and read during the day.

The stories are simple and clear, but they still carry those classic lessons we all grew up with from Aesop. I appreciate how natural it feels when those messages come through. It never feels heavy or like you’re lecturing, just gentle reminders about kindness, honesty, and making good choices.

Honestly, this is one of those books I know I’d keep close by and reach for again and again, whether I’m reading to my own children or my grandbabies. It’s comforting, easy, and full of heart.

Perfect for families, classrooms, or anyone who loves short, thoughtful stories.

★★★★★

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This is an honest review.

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Treasures That Last by Ginger Chapman

Matthew 6:20

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. (NIV)

Black Friday

There is a day called "Black Friday." I believe that is correctly named. It is a day when we are encouraged to buy "treasures" on this earth that we do not necessarily need and that might even put us in debt.

Some people wait for hours to buy their "treasures." Some people get into fights over "treasures." We listen to our sinful nature saying, "I want it. I need it. It's mine."

Black is a color often associated with mourning. Perhaps we should mourn the loss of our hard-earned money being replaced by "treasures" that will break, wear out, be stolen, or end up sitting unused in a storage shed.

The "Black Friday" I am most familiar with is the one three days before Easter. It is the day Jesus died a horrible death on a Roman cross and was placed in a borrowed grave. He did this for you and me so that our relationship with God could be restored and we could be reborn into the life God originally intended for us.

On that "Black Friday," I mourn my sinful nature and the fact that God had to go to such an extreme, sending His only Son into a sinful world to die for us and take upon Himself our sins.

It is interesting that Thanksgiving Day precedes "Black Friday." I sometimes think the order should be reversed because I am so very thankful for God's grace and His willingness to sacrifice His Son for me.

Yet I quickly turn my mourning into joy as I celebrate the resurrection of God's Son and the new life, I have in Him.

By Ginger Chapman

Little Kids, Big Smiles

 

Two Turtles by Kiah Thomas - Now Released

Publish Date September 15, 2026

This beautiful story completely won my heart from the very first page. Two Turtles by Kiah Thomas is a gentle yet powerful read that explores competitiveness, working together and problem resolving.

Thomas does a wonderful job building characters that feel real and relatable, allowing readers to connect with their struggles, growth, and bond. The pacing is steady and thoughtful, giving each moment space to breathe and resonate.

The writing style is clear making it an easy yet meaningful read. It is also a wonderful read aloud book, easily encouraging thoughtful conversation and connection, whether shared with children, students, or a group setting. There is a warmth in the storytelling reflecting on the importance of companionship, understanding, and perseverance.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

★★★★★

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Soulful Sanctuaries Cultivating Sacred Spaces by Janaki Sandy Gaal - Now Released

Now Released

I enjoyed this book and found it to be such a rich, thoughtful read. It’s not a quick or light book, it is very informative. It’s one you take your time with, reflect on, and maybe even come back to again. It blends gardening with mindfulness and spirituality in a way that feels very intentional and meaningful.

As a gardener, my absolute favorite part was the recipes. I loved the idea of using what you grow to create something beautiful and delicious. It added such a rewarding, hands on element and really inspired me to think about my own garden in a new way.

This book also came at the perfect time for me. I’ve mainly focused on vegetables, but I’ve been wanting to branch more into flowers. The rose sections especially are incredibly detailed. You can tell how much knowledge and research the author has, and if you’re even a little curious about roses, there is so much to learn here.

I also appreciated the deeper approach the book takes. It’s about more than just gardening; it’s about creating a space that feels peaceful and personal. While it is definitely a more immersive read, I found that to be part of its charm.

Overall, this was a beautifully written, informative, and inspiring book that I really appreciated. It made me want to slow down, spend more time in my garden, and explore new ways of growing.

Thank you to The Collective Book Studio and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★

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Splish by DK Ryland - Now Released

Release Date September 15, 2026

This book is such a delight from start to finish. Splish is clever, playful, and pure fun, the kind of story that instantly pulls kids in and keeps them laughing. It is perfect for reading aloud, with a rhythm and silliness that make kids giggle and want to hear it again right away.

The language is simple but smart, and the humor really lands with young listeners. You can tell it was written with children in mind, especially those moments when they love to shout, laugh, and join in. It feels like the kind of book that quickly becomes part of the bedtime routine or story time favorite stack.

This is absolutely one of those books kids ask for again and again. It is joyful, engaging, and just plain fun. A guaranteed hit for little readers and the grown ups reading along. Easily FIVE stars.

★★★★★

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I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez

Sloan is still trying to find her footing after a devastating loss, and my heart went out to her from the very beginning. When a runaway dog unexpectedly leads her to Jason, their connection starts in the most unlikely way and slowly grows into something meaningful.

I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold through text messages, phone calls, and visits. It felt natural, like two people genuinely getting to know each other while carrying the weight of their own struggles. Their conversations were funny and sweet, but there was also a lot of honesty and vulnerability between them.

Sloan's grief remained a constant part of her story, and I appreciated that it wasn't treated as something she could simply move on from once romance entered the picture. Her journey felt real, with good days, bad days, and plenty of setbacks along the way. Jason brought warmth and support into her life, but he wasn't perfect either, which made their relationship feel more authentic.

The music career element added another layer of complexity. The travel, attention, and demands on Jason's time created challenges that felt believable and gave their relationship obstacles to work through.

There were a few times when I wanted the characters to be more open with each other because some misunderstandings seemed to drag on longer than necessary. Even so, I could understand where both of them were coming from emotionally.

This story made me laugh, made me tear up, and kept me invested in Sloan's journey from beginning to end. More than anything, it felt like a story about learning how to carry grief while still allowing yourself to hope, heal, and love again.

★★★★

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Avoiding Distractions by Ginger Chapman

Matthew 6:6

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (NIV)

Distractions

I put the water into the coffee maker and the grounds in the holder.  There was a commotion outside and I went to investigate.  When I got back, I discovered I didn’t put the mug under the maker and coffee was everywhere.  At least it was a 1-cup coffee maker.  Distractions are dangerous things.  That is why we are told to go into our room, close the door and pray.  We need a place, at least once a day, where we can talk with our Father without any distractions.  Distractions keep us from listening fully.  We pray throughout the day, but we pray during distractions and hearing is filtered by those distractions.  We need a time every day when we can hear clearly what God would tell us.  Try to set one place in your home that is free from any distractions (people, electronics, needed attention to cleaning, etc.)  and spend some time every day without any distractions talking and listening to the One Who knows you best and loves you the most.

By Ginger Chapman

 

Today we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

At this sacred place, the sound of flowing water serves as a quiet reminder of the thousands of innocent lives taken too soon and the families forever changed by that tragic day. We honor the courage of the first responders, the resilience of a nation, and the strength of those who continue to carry the memories of their loved ones.

May we never forget the lives, the stories, and the sacrifices. May we continue to choose unity, compassion, and hope in the face of adversity.

9.11.2001

Bad Dates Club by Mary Newnham - Now Released

Now Released

Bad Dates Club by Mary Newnham was a messy, very real look at modern dating, but it did not totally win me over. I really liked the friendship between Maddie and Violet more than romance, and honestly, that was the heart of the book for me. Their dynamic felt natural, funny, and relatable, especially with all the awkward dates, bad decisions, and “why are we like this?” moments along the way.

The book has charm, and some parts made me smile because they felt so true to the chaos of dating in your 30s. I also appreciated that it focused a lot on female friendship, personal growth, and figuring out what you want instead of just chasing romance.

That said, it took me quite a while to get into (over halfway), and the pacing felt a little uneven at times. Some scenes were really entertaining, while others just didn’t land as well for me.

★★★

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides - A Review

I never became as interested in the murder as I was in Alicia herself.

There's something unsettling about a character who refuses to explain herself when everyone expects her to. The more people talked about Alicia, the more I wanted to hear from her instead.

Theo's role in the story pulled me in right away. I found myself paying close attention to him, even in small moments that didn't seem important at the time. Looking back, those were some of my favorite parts of the book.

What kept this at four stars for me was the distance I felt from the characters. I was interested in them, but I wasn't emotionally attached to them.

By the end, I found myself thinking back through earlier chapters and seeing certain scenes differently than I had the first time.

For me, the strongest part of the book wasn't what happened. It was watching how information was shared, withheld, and interpreted by different people.

★★★★

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The Perfect Spot by Susana Torrubiano illustrated by Luisa Vera - Now Released

Now Released

As a mom of five and now a grandma to two, I have read more picture books than I can count, and this one truly made me pause and smile in the sweetest way. From the very first page, it just feels calm and inviting, like it is gently reminding you to slow down and really look.

I love how much there is to discover on every single page. It is one of those books where little eyes can wander and find something new each time you open it. I found myself lingering, pointing things out to my grandkids, and even noticing new details the more we went back to it. That is always a sign of a special book to me.

The illustrations are just beautiful. They are clear, crisp, and so thoughtfully done. Everything feels intentional and clean while still giving you so much to explore. As a former educator, I really appreciate how visually engaging it is without feeling overwhelming. It naturally invites conversation, curiosity, and those sweet little moments of connection while reading together.

This is absolutely one I will keep in our rotation. It feels cozy, meaningful, and full of little details that make reading time extra special. Honestly, it is just as enjoyable for the grownups as it is for the kids.

★★★★★

Huge thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

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Peace from the Inside Out by Gina Prosch - Now Released

Now Released

As a Christian mom of five and a grandma to two, I love this book. It offers such an important lesson that children truly need. It gently explores something we all struggle with, learning how to stay in control and understand big emotions.

It shares such an important lesson that children truly need, learning how to recognize, process, and respond to their emotions in a healthy way. It gently steps into something we all struggle with, staying in control and making sense of big feelings.

It is hard enough as adults to navigate what we are feeling, so I especially appreciated how honestly this story shows that it is even harder for children who do not yet have the words for it. This book has such a good lesson in it that kids need to see. It reminds them that emotions are not something to hide or feel ashamed of, but something to understand.

One of my absolute favorite parts was how the child described what she was physically feeling, and the mother helped give those feelings names. That moment felt so real and so powerful. It models exactly what children need, someone patient enough to help them connect what is happening inside their bodies to words they can understand. That kind of guidance builds confidence, self-awareness, and emotional strength that will stay with them.

I thought the entire story was brilliant in the way it handled such a big concept with gentleness and clarity. It opens the door for important conversations in such a natural, approachable way. This is not just a one-time read for us. We will absolutely be rereading this on repeat to help instill core values through everyday situations.

Books like this are truly a gift because they go beyond storytelling and help shape a child’s emotional foundation in the most caring and thoughtful way.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts are my own.

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James 4:17

James 4:17

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. (NIV)

Omission

When we ask God to reveal sins we need to confess, be forgiven, and repent by choosing not to repeat them we fail to remember that there are also sins of omission.  Sins of omission are opportunities we have missed where God was going to do or say something through us.  God is bigger than our omission and will bless someone else who is willing to listen and act. But we, through our omission, are the ones who have missed a blessing.  Asking God to reveal to us the things we have missed during our day is a way to sharpen our hearing.  Let us practice listening, confessing the omissions He reveals to us, and put more action in our lives for God to bless others through us.

By Ginger Chapman

Love Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood - A Reveiw

This was my favorite Ali Hazelwood book so far. I enjoyed her earlier novels, but this one felt more natural and less dependent on the same character patterns that sometimes show up in her books.

Elsie was easy for me to understand. She's a people-pleaser who spends so much time becoming whatever others need that she loses sight of what she actually wants. Watching her slowly figure that out was what made the story work for me. Her struggles felt recognizable, even when the academic setting was far removed from everyday life.

I also liked that the romance wasn't driven entirely by misunderstandings. There was tension between Elsie and Jack, but it came from real issues, different perspectives, and professional complications rather than endless miscommunication.

The physics and academic politics were more interesting than I expected. I don't usually pick up a romance hoping to learn about university hiring practices, but the behind-the-scenes competition and frustrations added another layer to the story.

Elsie's growth felt as much like a story about finding her own voice as it did a romance.

★★★★½ 

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Consider the Night Sky Jennifer Grant Julianna Swaney - Now Released

Now Released

As a grandma to two and a mom of five, and with my background as an educator, this book absolutely won my heart. I’ve read a lot of children’s books over the years, but this one feels extra special. It turns a simple moment like looking up at the stars into something meaningful, peaceful, and quietly educational without ever feeling like a lesson.

This book just naturally opens the door to conversation. It’s not something you simply read and move on from. You find yourself pausing, taking it in, and wondering a little longer. The soft, flowing words combined with those gorgeous, dreamy illustrations create such a warm, cozy feeling, more like sharing a quiet moment than reading a structured story. It’s the kind of book that gently slows everything down in the best possible way.

As a former educator, I always appreciate when a book teaches without announcing that it’s teaching. This one does that so well. Storytime becomes learning time, and the kids don’t even realize it. They’re soaking in wonder, curiosity, and even a bit of science just by being present in the moment.

And as a grandma, I treasure how it creates connection. It’s perfect for bedtime, for quiet evenings, or even just a reset during a busy day. It reminds me that some of the best learning happens in those calm, shared moments.

This is one of those books I know I’ll keep reaching for again and again. It’s gentle, meaningful, and just plain lovely. 

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Shilo and the Not-So-Scary Girl Above His Bed by Kristin and Montell Jordan - Now Released

Now Released

Shilo and the Not-So-Scary Girl Above His Bed by Kristin and Montell Jordan is such a sweet, playful picture book. I loved the fun twist on the monster-under-the-bed idea, and the bright illustrations make it even more charming. 

The rhyming makes it a fun read-aloud, and the gentle message about courage, faith, and facing fear comes through in a warm, kid-friendly way. This would be a really cute pick for families wanting a story with heart.

I received an advance review copy through NetGalley, and all opinions are my own.

★★★★★

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It’s Almost Time for . . . Thanksgiving! by Maisha Oso - Now Released

Now Released

This is a sweet and engaging picture book that captures the excitement of preparing for Thanksgiving. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life, adding warmth and charm to every page and helping young readers stay connected to the story. The sense of family, anticipation, and tradition comes through clearly and feels cozy and relatable.

One part that may lead to thoughtful conversations is the visit to pick out a live turkey to eat for dinner. For some kids, seeing their food as a living animal before it becomes part of the meal could feel uncomfortable or confusing. This naturally opens the door for families to talk about where food comes from in an age-appropriate way.

Even with that, the overall tone remains light and cute, making it a nice seasonal read that balances fun with a bit of real-world awareness.

★★★★

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I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

An Undersea Adventure Helen Brown - Now Released

Now Released

This was such a fun, interactive find and seek book that kept me engaged page by page. Each spread is filled with colorful underwater scenes and hidden items to search for, with answer keys included right there, which made it easy and satisfying to check everything as I went.

Reading this had an extra personal layer for me since my son is in the Navy and used to be on a submarine. That connection made the underwater theme even more special, and I found myself appreciating the ocean details a little more.

The illustrations are vibrant and detailed, and I liked how each page encouraged us to slow down and really look. It’s the kind of book you can pick up anytime, whether you want something relaxing or a quick challenge.

This was a solid four-and-a-half-star experience for me (rounded to five) as a light, engaging activity book with a creative ocean theme.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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The Obsession by Nora Roberts - A Review

Growing up as the daughter of a serial killer would be enough to define most people, yet she spends the entire book refusing to let that happen. I was far more interested in watching her build a life on her own terms than I was in solving the mystery.

I especially enjoyed the chapters focused on her home renovation projects. There was something satisfying about watching her transform a neglected house into something beautiful while also trying to create a future that felt safe and stable. Those parts gave the story a grounded feeling that balanced the darker subject matter.

The suspense develops in the background for much of the book, which worked for me because it gave the characters room to breathe. I liked getting to know the people around Naomi and seeing her gradually lower the walls she had every reason to keep up.

The book is longer than it needed to be in places, and I found myself wishing a few sections had been tightened up. Even so, I never felt tempted to put it aside because I wanted to see where Naomi's life would take her.

Naomi was determined to create something good from circumstances she never chose. That part felt more memorable than any of the twists.

★★★★

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The Peace of His Presence by Ginger Chapman

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Peace

I can’t imagine living without the Holy Spirit living in me.  Life would be extremely depressing and lonely.  He is always with me to comfort me.  He is always with me to give me wisdom and direction.  Any time I want to talk, He listens.  Any time I want to listen, He talks to me.  He doesn’t use audible words, but the inner voice is so very real, it might as well be audible.   If you haven’t learned to hear His voice, ask Him to teach you to listen.  Immersing yourself in the scriptures, the Holy Bible, is a good beginning.  As we become more familiar with the recorded words, we become more familiar with the sound of His voice and what He says to us.  

He is always there.  He never leaves us alone.  Be it in quiet or a din of noise around us, He is there to speak with us.  Notice I said “with” us not “to” us.  He wants to fellowship with us.  He wants to hear us, but He also wants us to hear Him.  I pray you do hear Him.  If not, I pray you will give Him an opportunity to speak to you.  He is already speaking to you.  You only need to listen.  Let’s be sure to start each day listening then continue to listen throughout the day, always taking time to respond to what He says to us.  This is the way to the greatest, deepest peace beyond all understanding.  Peace is with us in all circumstances.  God’s peace which truly transcends all understanding. 

By Ginger Chapman

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah - A Review

This wasn't one of those Kristin Hannah books that immediately jumped into my list of favorites. I've read several of her novels that affected me more deeply. Even so, I don't regret spending time with this one.

What I remember most is Alaska. Not because of the scenery, but because I kept thinking, "I could never do this." The long winters, the isolation, the constant preparation just to make it through another season... it made my everyday problems seem pretty minor. Life there felt hard in a way that's difficult to imagine if you've never experienced it.

My heart hurt for Leni. She spent so much of the book trying to make sense of the adults around her and adapt to situations that would overwhelm most people. More than once I wished someone would simply put her first.

This is not a comfortable story. There were scenes that made me angry, scenes that made me sad, and a few that had me wishing the characters would make different choices. People don't always do the sensible thing, though, and that's part of what made them feel real.

I did think the book was longer than it needed to be in places. There were moments when I was ready for the story to move ahead. Still, I wanted to see how things would turn out for Leni, and she was the reason I stayed emotionally connected to the book.

While this isn't one of my top three Kristin Hannah books, I can completely understand why so many readers love it. For me, Leni's story was the heart of the novel, and she's the character I was still thinking about after I closed the book.

★★★★

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