Bee

Insufferable characters

Reviewed: 09-15-24

I liked another of this author’s books quite a lot. I can’t fault this book for its writing. It is not a bad book. My problem is that I cannot stand Isabella and her insufferable, selfish, waspish ways. I also didn’t realize this book came before the other book I read. I don’t usually have a problem with that, but encountering horrible Dunraven again and adding Isabella has caused me to give it up in the middle.

Surprisingly, this virtual voice narration doesn’t bother me. I’ve had other books that sounded like a robot was reading. This narration is not at all unpleasant.

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Poignant story

Reviewed: 09-14-24

Willa Cather, is of course, a lovely spinner of stories with beautiful and thoughtful descriptions.

I returned to this book without remembering anything about it. I was left unsatisfied, but that is because stories that weave over many years often leave me feeling that way. I don’t think anyone should give this a miss. It is worth the read, for sure.

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Quilting, Christmas, Friendship and Redemption.

Reviewed: 11-11-20

If you love this author's Elm Creek Quilt books you will love this one. If you are starting with this book, it can stand alone. There are chapters nearly identical to some in past books so you won't miss pertinent information. They don't take away from the enjoyment if you have read the previous books.

It is a lovely presentation of the camaraderie, love and quilting history that spans years, yet all comes together at Elm Creek Manor for a successful Christmas boutique.

I wasn't disappointed. Christina Moore 's narration is always wonderful.

It is a book that celebrates the season, friendship and quilts.

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Historical fiction done well

Reviewed: 10-12-20

The author obviously did her research. The book is a poignant look at an often forgotten part of the US.

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the narrator tell the story.

The author weaves a tale of heartbreak, love, strength and persistence. It is captivating. I didn't want to stop listening.

I rarely give 5 star reviews, but this book deserves all five and maybe more.

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Fun, inspiring and real. Anyone can do it.

Reviewed: 05-04-20

The author has a good balance between what was great about her hike and what wasn't. She has a good deal of fortitude and a way with words that is appealing.

I am not sure the narrator matched the author's written voice, however she was quite easy and pleasant to listen to and detracted in no way from the story.

It is a good book for inspiring females that they can do it.

And a great warning about always paying attention to your pee funnel.

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Raw, real and compelling

Reviewed: 05-03-20

I wonder how well matched the narrator's voice is to the author's voice. That aside, this is a wonderful account of an amazing person, who believes hersemf to be mundane, recounting a journey that is, quite frankly, epic.

An amazing listen and likely an even better read.

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Very good listen

Reviewed: 02-22-20

This book keot me engaged the whole time. I already love the narrator, but she did an astounding job with this book.

The mystery, twisted up relationships and ghost story kept me on the edge.

I usually predict the endings of books, but I did not completely predict this one.

It is a good ghost story. Worth a listen.

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Good story, very difficult

Reviewed: 06-14-19

The narrator was great. I didnt have any problems listening to her and she portrayed the.characters well.

The story was upsetting, that is the nature of the story, but definitely a trigger warning for many people with several different types of trauma.

I liked the character arcs and the plot was interesting throughout. There wasn't a part when I thought it dragged.

all in all 4 stars.

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1 person found this helpful

Good description of depression. VERY PREACHY end.

Reviewed: 02-21-19

I was rapt during the author's story. He described his struggle well, and without a load of self pity. Struggling with depression is difficult. Most authors do well describing it without self pity, but some don't. I can't describe mine without feeling like a whiner.

The problem I found, was his preachy ending. I understand that many people don't want to medicate. I know many people are against it. There are people who can combat depression without it. BUT many people do benefit and come back from the brink because they find the right medication. He postulates that we don't understand the physical part of the disease and therefore ought not medicate it. This is not entirely true.

I agree, therapy is important and I don't personally believe in taking medication but not seeking therapy. I am constantly flabbergasted by individuals who suffer from depression and yet preach to others against medication. If you TRULY understand the suffering, then don't discount a method that works for others because you don't need it and can come out the other side without it.

Another preachy part is him talking about quitting alcohol and weed. First, he calls weed a stimulant. It is not. It is a depressant, like alcohol. So, he is spreading misinformation. Aside from that he talks about friends who want a person to come partake again, when said person has found abstinence a positive change. He says, "they know it's wrong". Here he's assuming that it is wrong for everyone. Then he says tbey dont want you to quit. Well, true, nobody wants to lose something they enjoy doing with friends. True some are abusing and don't want a friend to take a higher road. Still, a person can communicate this with some modicum of grace towards others.

He redeems himself in the end by insisting he's not an expert and his suggestions are only that, suggestions. And, the suggestions are not bad.

All in all, the story is good and I was happy to listen until the end, when it became the cliche lecture about how medication is bad.

Worth the listen. But beware the end if you're in the middle of a difficult time. His suggestions can be helpful. You may find everything he says will help your deoression, but rwmeber it's not the only way. Find yours.

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3 people found this helpful

Love this book.

Reviewed: 06-23-18

I have always loved stories about toys coming to life. This one doesn't disappoint. The character interactions are engaging and real. The story is whimsical. It's fun, while also touching upon the subject of bullies.

Highly recommend this book as well as the others in the series.

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