This was a little bit different. Rather than one story it was two. I feel as though the genre was a little misplaced here. I expected more of a mystery element to it. It was really sweet though. It did give good character backgrounds but I would’ve liked to have seen these a bit more developed than what they were. I felt like it was just lacking something. Maybe not the right read for me *shrugs*.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Williamshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Williams2022-03-18 09:23:452022-03-18 09:27:08Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Amanda Williams
Prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery series—for the first time ever under one cover.
An Appalachian Love Story is BELLA. Bella’s narrative begins more than fifty years ago, high in the Appalachian highlands. Join me on a journey through the Appalachian hills and hollers with Logan’s great grandmother, Norah, and Giovanni, a young Italian immigrant who makes his masterpiece—Bella, a hand-crafted violin with an unrivaled tone that is passed down through the generations. (novella).JAGGED DAWN: THE BEGINNING OF LOGAN Join Logan in the days leading up to the terrible accident that shatters her illusions and throws her into the unknown. Will she be a success or only a survivor? (a brief narrative).
I loved this story. I loved every page of it. Every chapter was exciting. This is my first book from this author and I can’t wait to read more from this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shadel Ayerbehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShadel Ayerbe2022-03-15 07:26:032022-03-15 07:26:03Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Shadel Ayerbe
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings (Logan McKenna Series)
I was drawn to this book by the cover which isn’t something normal for me. I don’t regret it one bit. I was moved by the back story of Logan’s family not realizing it at the time this was a prequel for a series.
I loved everything about Grandma Norah and her story. She didn’t have the easiest life but I imagine it was that way for a lot of young women there around that time.
Was there a connection due to the West Virginia roots? Maybe. My Daddy was born and raised in a tiny town in the hills tbough not nearly as remote and Logan’s Grandmother would about the same ages as Daddy.
The prequel has made me want to read this series and I fully intend to.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Robin Rankinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRobin Rankin2022-03-14 08:10:512022-03-14 08:10:51Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Robin Rankin
As a fan of the ‘Logan McKenna Mystery series’ I was intrigued to read these two companion stories, which are a prequel to the series. In the first novella the storyline is set in the Appalachian hills, over fifty years ago, and we are introduced to Logan’s great grandmother, Norah and Giovanni. Giovanni is a young Italian immigrant who is skilled at making hand crafted violins and he creates his masterpiece, Bella. Bella becomes a treasured family heirloom that is handed down through the generations and will eventually be given to Logan.
In the second short story, we are introduced to Logan but in a period of her life before that in the series. Logan’s storyline begins in the final days before the fatal accident where she will loose both her husband, and her comfortable illusions. This is the start of her reinventing herself and the beginning of her adventures. I was gripped by both wonderfully written stories and the descriptive narrative brought the settings vividly to life, especially that of the Appalachian hills.
Norah and Giovanni were likeable and relatable characters, and theirs was a real love story which I felt completely immersed in. The second storyline gives a much more in-depth backstory to Logan, which made me understand her character better, and therefore I feel more engaged with her. I look forward to reading more of Logan’s adventures as she investigates mysteries in future books in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-03-14 07:56:512022-03-14 07:56:51Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is two books in one containing Bella: An Appalachian Love Story and Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginning. These two books are prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery Series.
In Bella, we are taken back in time to 50 years prior to where Bella’s story first begins. In the Appalachian hills we meet Logan’s great grandmother Norah, and Giovanni, a young immigrant from Italy. Giovanni is a master artist crafting violins and it is he who creates Bella, a violin that is passed from generation to generation. Living life in the Appalachian mountains was not always easy but the family persevered and did what they could to survive off the land.
In Jagged Dawn we are introduced to Logan, the great granddaughter of Norah, We find Logan in California just weeks prior to the accident that changes her entire world. Logan is left wounded from the accident and faced with an uncertain future. Her once comfortable life is thrown into a tailspin, and she is forced to change everything she has ever known. She must decide if she will just survive or find joy in her life again. Returning home, she finds her beloved violin Bella and starts playing her again. She also finds her sapphire blue 1958 Corvette and finds herself enjoying cruises down the highway in her Corvette. These are two things that she had left in her past but that she now finds that bring her comfort and joy.
Although these books were very different from one another they flowed beautifully together. Norah and Giovanni’s love story was beautiful, yet tragic. Logan’s story was tragic yet inspiring. Both books show exactly how resilient people can be after tragedy strikes. These books were beautifully written, and I look forward to reading more in the Logan McKenna Mystery Series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2022-03-14 07:55:072022-03-14 07:55:07Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
These two books are the prequels to the Logan Mckenna mystery series. Both books give us more of an insight into Logan’s life and her family history.
Bella is a beautiful story about how Logans great grandmother Norah met Giovanni. Giovanni is a very skilled man and makes beautiful creations. One of his creations ends up becoming a family heirloom that is passed down through the generations. This story is heartwarming and interesting to read about how life was in the past and how hard times were.
JAGGED DAWN- The second story catches up to present day and follows Logan’s life. In this story we live through her pain as she goes through the trauma of losing her husband. Through all the fear and grief we see signs of the Logan we know from the other stories as we see her strength and determination shine through.
Both these stories give us a better insight into Logan’s family history and explains in more detail the pain and trauma that was mention in the following stories when Logan progresses from music teacher to murder detective.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2022-03-14 07:54:202022-03-14 07:54:20Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kerry Carr
Two short stories bundled into one volume; these are prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery Series. The story of Bella, a beautifully crafted violin that becomes something of a family heirloom, is mainly told through the voices of Norah and Giovanni. We get to hear all about the bright and sad moments that led Norah and her family through a time when living a simple life meant struggling and persevering through whatever life threw your way. Woven through Norah’s story, we also learn about Giovanni, an Italian immigrant who would eventually come into Norah’s life and create Bella. Though the story of Bella was short, I felt like the magic of the Appalachians came through both narratives and breathed life into the tale. It was a beautifully written novella that had me smiling – if a little sadly – by the end. Jagged Dawn introduces Logan McKenna and sets the tone for what promises to be an intriguing mystery.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Gonzalezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Gonzalez2022-03-14 07:50:082022-03-14 07:50:08Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings (Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson
This isn’t the first book I’ve read by the author. The Logan McKenna Series is one of my favorite series. Getting to know the stories behind the series is amazing.
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story is about Logan’s great-grandmother and her great-grandfather. Norah and Giovanni are the ones who created Logan’s beloved violin, Bella.
The quote I chose for Norah is: “I wish I could give you those hours, those pine-filled nights on the porch, lightnin’ bugs dancin’ in the growin’ night, the air still soft with summer, but with fall’s sharp edge to it, stomachs full, washing up done, wood stove stoked, and Grandpa and me playin’ up the moon while Aunt Leila rocked content, smokin’ her pipe. But I was talkin’ about George, wasn’t I? Hard to keep the tellin’ on a straight path. There’s so much to tell.”
The quote I chose for Giovanni is: “Nothing, right away. One winter morning, a Signor Valerio, a well-known patron of the arts in Mantua, entered the shop, requesting a violin be made for a promising young musician he wanted to encourage, and in time for the city music festival at the end of the summer. The violin was to be of the best materials, made in the traditional way, and could only be trusted to Master Basso, of course! Time was of the essence and cost was of little concern.”
Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings is a story about what led up to the divorce. Her daughter is away in Africa and we get to see what Logan gets up to. We get to watch the downfall of her marriage and learn why she is the way she is.
The quote I chose for Logan is: “Nice to meet you, Jim, happy to be here. Jack just stepped out for a minute. I’m sure he’ll be right back. We should be ready to start the first session after lunch. We’ll get through the basic training this afternoon and tomorrow morning, and still leave time for troubleshooting and individual custom consults in the afternoon. Is one o’clock still a good time to start this afternoon?”
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Kimblehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Kimble2022-03-14 07:49:552022-03-14 07:49:55Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson-Review by Amanda Kimble
Both of these stories included in this book are prequels to the life of Logan. In Bella-An Appalachian Love Story we read the background of Logan’s great grandmother, Norah and the struggles and hardships she faced in the Appalachian country. We also meet Giovanni, an Italian immigrant and his gift for creating beautiful violins. Reading the back history was helpful as we moved into Jagged Dawn, the story of Logan’s beginnings.
Logan finds out some of her family history and is gifted a beautiful violin. She rarely has time to play anymore with all the demands of work and married life. She’s asked to take over the training for a specific company and questions the request since her husband did the vast majority of the family training. On the way home, tragedy strikes this family. Will Logan ever be the same again? Will she ever make beautiful music on her family heirloom again?
I enjoyed both of these stories. I was attracted to this story because of the cover as well as my love for music. I’ll be checking out more of this author’s work as I’d like to read even more of Logan’s story!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2022-03-14 07:42:122022-03-14 07:42:12Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Julie Johnson
This was an interesting story! It is my first by this author and both stories included in this book are prequels to the author’s Logan McKenna Mysteries Series, so I thought this was a good place to start! I really enjoyed the opportunity to get to know the characters and their stories before diving into the series! Both stories are well written with Bella: An Appalachian Love Story taking you back in the past and introducing you to Logan’s grandmother and her story and Jagged Dawn especially helps to build the character of Logan and what she has gone through.
Overall I would recommend these stories and I cannot wait to begin reading the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarah Devereauxhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah Devereaux2022-03-14 07:37:272022-03-14 07:37:27Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Sarah Devereaux
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I have to say this story plot was interesting and the Characters where strongly written with little quirks and all.
Bella story begins 50years ago high in the hills of Appalachian we follow Logan’s great grandmother, Norah, and Giovanni, a young Italian immigrant, who creates his masterpiece, a hand-crafted violin named Bella with unparalleled sound that accompanies each generation that follows. Logan McKenna is battered and wounded, after tragedy and now she is struck into an unknown future. Logan isn’t just a survivor she is thriving driving down the Pacific Coast Highway in her gleaming, sapphire-blue ’58 Corvette rediscovering her love for music playing her beloved Bella. Come read Logans story and discover the mysteries of Bella and the Appalachian hills…. Tracy
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tracy Mandersonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTracy Manderson2022-03-12 15:19:502022-03-12 15:19:50Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tracy Manderson
I really loved this combination novella. I enjoyed getting to know Norah’s story and Bella’s history. So romantic and tragic. I also enjoyed getting to know Logan. The McKenna women seem to have strength written in their DNA. I also loved sweet Giovanni. Poor guy couldn’t get a fair shake. I am new to this series so I don’t know yet what characters we will see again but I loved seeing William. Both younger and older, he was a delight. The little bit that I got to see made me want to know more about these people. I could read a whole book about any one of these characters. I am fully prepared to devour the Logan McKenna series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00La Toya Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLa Toya Lewis2022-03-12 07:15:542022-03-12 07:15:54Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by La Toya Lewis
I really enjoyed both of the stories in this set. Both of them were well written and quite emotional to read. I enjoyed getting to know more about the characters and more about Logans background. The first book Bella is about Logan’s Great-Grandmother Norah and Giovanni and their story was really sweet to read, I enjoyed being transported back in time to read about their lives. In Jagged Dawn we come back to Logans life and follow her story for a while as she mourns the loss of her husband. These two stories start before the Logan McKenna Mysteries series begins and I would highly recommend reading them.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2022-03-11 09:49:322022-03-11 09:49:32Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Katie Matthews
This is two prequels in one, to a series of books so I would recommend that you be aware of that before starting at least. They are both beautiful novels and wonderfully vivid reads that will set you up beautifully for the Logan McKenna Mystery books. I loved the sweet and heartwarming story of Norah and her violin in the first book and how that tied the gorgeous cover into the book. She is so relatable and I just loved everything about her. This book was deeply rooted in history and storytelling and I felt like I was taken on the most unique history lesson but in the most unique way. In book two we learned the background of Logan McKenna, who is the Great Granddaughter of Norah. How cool huh! The violin also plays more into this one as well. I really liked how the books were separate but not. I look forward to seeing if we will be getting more in this series of books or not, fingers crossed for the more!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2022-03-10 14:48:452022-03-10 17:58:57Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Liz Vrchota
Two stories in one book. These are prequels to the Logan McKenna series. I enjoyed learning about Logan’s background in both stories. I now plan to read the Logan McKenna series from start to finish.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Paula Sayershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPaula Sayers2022-03-08 07:37:282022-03-08 07:37:28Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Paula R Sayers
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author. This prequel combo was beautifully written. Learning about Bella’s origin and how it got to Logan was an exciting and emotional journey. The McKenna women are strong and resilient. I now have to go read all of the other books. The author is great at creating a world you can get lost in. I highly recommend this book
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amber Howardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmber Howard2022-03-07 07:18:592022-03-07 07:18:59Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Amber Poole
I was late to the party on this one and I’m most grateful for grace ❣️ I’m a firm believer in things happen for a reason and even with my books I believe I read them when I’m meant to and I read this later than I was supposed to because I believe it can at the right time , a time when my heart needed comfort , it felt like I was sitting at Norahs feet and listening to her story of how Bella came about and how Logan came to have the honour of having Bella .
Now this book is made of 2 books and while I’d love to honour each one in it’s entirety they really flow , go hand in hand and I’m so grateful I had this chance to experience it this way ….
In Bella I met Giovanni and I teared up more than once at the injustice some folk have to endure because of another’s greed but there’s always a silver lining and Giovanni eventually lives his dreams out with Norah and Elsie .
The way Giovanni describes how a he or even his “ teacher”!made a violin made me hungry to hear it’s beautiful sound and having played the violin myself for many years I actually had goosebumps on a few occasions! I think that’s where my love of classical music started , in any case I could hear the music in my minds eye and this story about Bella was so beautifully written ❣️
So I finished off Bella on a sad but beautiful note and I’m curious to learn more about Logan and thankfully all I had to do was turn the page to continue on my journey into “Jagged Dawn”
Logan is married to Jack who seems to enjoy his clients and liquor more than her and I had to try and keep an open mind and not take an instant dislike to the man , so be warned 🤞but there’s their daughter Amy , who’s independent and taking a gap year on a year long internship as an assistant to a photographer traveling through the African continent!
Then my blood runs cold while they’re at Antonio’s but it seems I was a little hasty and just as I catch my breath I near but have a panic ….poor Logan , I didn’t think I could read any further for all the tears and again I was treated for pushing through and now I’m just hungry for more !
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi2022-03-01 21:30:472022-03-01 21:30:47Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Heidi Sturgess
This is a series that I absolutely love, and each book adds to it. So to get a chance to see how it all started was something I could not pass up. I was hooked on these short stories from the moment I started reading. Although both were quick reads I was drawn into was drawn ino each story and could not stop reading. I love the way this author creates such additive stories. Her books all have a great flow about them, developed perfectly with amazing characters. This was a great way to continue a series I have come to love.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2022-03-01 21:24:172022-03-01 21:24:17Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kerry Baker
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings are the two prequels in the Logan McKenna Mystery series by Valerie Davisson. Even though these tow books are part of the Logan McKenna Mystery series, they are quite different from the mysteries I was expecting. They are more like women’s fiction with a strong emotional component. This is two stories in one. The first, Bella, takes us way back in time (50+ years) and introduces us to Norah, who is Logan’s great-grandmother; and how she meets Giovanni, the Italian immigrant who hand crafts a beautiful violin, Bella, which goes on to become the family heirloom. A sweet and interesting story. The second story Jagged Dawn comes forward in time to Logan, but set before Shattered (Book One in the series). Again, this story is more of a women’s fiction- with emotion and drama. It follows Logan through the loss of her husband and into an unknown future, following as Logan picks up the pieces to find a way to move on. Another interesting story that gives us a little more insight into Logan’s character, as well as her background story to the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-03-01 07:43:422022-03-01 07:43:42Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings (Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Angela Hayes
This book truly takes you through the emotions with the characters! I haven’t felt this connected to a book in a really long time, and its nice to not be able to put it down. I enjoy knowing there is more to come as it is nice to look forward to your next read. This book will make you smile, make you cry and leave you wanting more. Its fantastic!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kay Striteskyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKay Stritesky2022-03-01 07:33:112022-03-01 07:33:11Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings (Logan McKenna Series) Review by Kay Stritesky
5 Stars Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson I’m completely blown away by these wonderfully written stories, both prequels for my favorite series The Logan McKenna Mystery Series. Both of these stories pulled me in from the beginning and I literally blocked put the outside world. I was so drawn to the characters and the story that went along with them. This author is one of my favorites and every book is my favorite. The first story we read about Logan’s great grandmother and about a violin that gets passed down several generations. My emotions were all over the place with this one. Loved it. The second is a short story that places us right before Logan’s world is shattered and its fast paced and just hard to put down as the first story. I highly recommend reading this book it’s definitely worth the time I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2022-02-28 07:55:062022-02-28 07:55:06Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
Beautiful love story of two people that found each other. This one kept me wanting more and it was a fast read. Captivating in all areas, will not disappoint you one bit. The author does a great job of inviting you into this story. Looking forward to reading more and more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ninahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNina2022-02-27 11:35:422022-02-27 11:35:42Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Nina Maes
These are two beautiful stories full of hope and heartfelt emotion that you won’t want to miss. I really enjoyed the world that the author creates as she is setting up the background for the series. These are two different stories that meld together seamlessly. The author has a way of creating such vivid pictures with her words that you become totally immersed in the story. I was swept away by the depth of connection between Norah and Giovanni and the beautiful family history woven throughout. Both of these stories have amazing characters in them that had me hooked from the very first page and very eager to delve into the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elenahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElena2022-02-26 07:50:182022-02-26 07:50:18Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson-Review by Elena Tobar
Two stories in one, both prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery series. Bella: An Appalachian Love Story, I loved reading about the hardships of a time so long ago. Being raised by her grandfather, which I can relate to as my grandmother raised me, Norah, finds happiness in the things her Aunt Leila taught her medicinally and her grandfather taught her musically. To be given a gift of a $7.00 violin from the Sears catalog was an amazing for Norah. I loved the way the story went from past to present, giving so much background and history. Jagged Dawn: Logan’s beginnings, we meet Logan McKenna, the great granddaughter of Norah. Can Logan fight through all the ups and downs and have some new beginnings? And what is in the mysterious package? I love the strong characters in these two prequels and cling to the fact that we can prevail through anything.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Packardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Packard2022-02-25 16:58:362022-02-25 18:49:50Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Angela Packard
This book has two beautiful stories full of hope and inspiration. Both characters face challenges yet they both overcome. The details are described in such a way that a clear picture just forms in your head. The stories are well written. The characters are so beautiful done (very relatable). You just can’t stop the stories once you start. I highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-02-25 11:44:022022-02-25 18:42:17Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Shelly Kittell
I began these wonderful stories and it was so amazing, and perfect that I finished it in one sitting. Both stories were full of amazing characters, love, dreams, hope, and sacrifice. The writing was just purely amazing the author did such a wonderful job capturing their audience and taking us on an emotional ride through her story. While the two stories were connected, they were also both unique in their own way. But in the long run they both flowed together beautifully and naturally, so if your looking for a great new author to try or a new story to read then pick this one up today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2022-02-25 10:07:572022-02-25 10:07:57Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Stephanie nicole
I can say without hesitation that I most certainly shed a couple tears during the love story of Norah, and Giovanni, and the connection that can only be shared by those with familial ties. I have experienced a couple of great losses within the last couple years and felt the emotions that this author wanted to convey on an even higher level. The artistry she includes within her writing style to allow the reader to fall deep into the Appalachian hills, the scenery described, and the lifestyle all hit the mark for me, and I couldn’t put it down.
Jagged Dawn brought to light this authors ability to really make you feel the main characters, their hopes, and wants, and dreams, and understand what a person will do and what they can withstand when they MUST. It ended a little abruptly, in turn, however, makes me want to read more! To me, both novella and the short story expressed hope, want, need, love, care, and understanding, as well as an independence of the characters that is both admired and envied. I have yet to read any of her other written works, but very much look forward to doing so soon. Looking for a quick, emotion-filled read? Pick this up, I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as I did.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00AimstoReadhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAimstoRead2022-02-25 07:50:042022-02-25 07:50:04Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Amy Brennan
What could be better than two stories in one book and both prequels to one of my favourite series the Logan McKenna Mystery series. Bella: An Appalachian Love Story is a beautiful story about a woman named Norah who is an ancestor of Logan, her great grandmother. She lives in North America where Appalachian culture is known for its literature and music. Giovanni is an immigrant from Italy, who moves to the area. When the two meet it creates beautiful music for the two. Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings is a very short story which tells of tragedy and Logan’s beginnings. Through this tragedy she learns to rediscover the beauty that comes from the greatest gift in her life and that she can survive. Both tales tell the story of love and loss, hope and beauty, pain and suffering, strength, and survival. Reviewed by @jennadb
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2022-02-23 22:47:592022-02-23 22:47:59Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites by her yet. I am always excited when I pick up one of her books. I know that I am in for a great story that is hard to put down. I enjoy how she pulls me into her stories from the beginning. This book is no different. These are well written stories that have characters that are not only connectable but make their stories pop. They kept the story engaging and made it entertaining to read. This is a book that has two prequel stories for my favorite character Logan. She is a strong character that just makes the stories for me. They are fast paced and kept me coming back for more. In the first story we get to see Logan’s great grandmother and a violin that gets passed down from generation to generation. The second book takes us to the place days before Logan’s life is shattered. I really enjoyed each story and seeing a little bit more about Logan. This is a great pick up and so worth it. I highly recommend this book and this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2022-02-23 07:58:022022-02-23 07:58:02Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Bobbi Wagner
I had just began tis book today, and I finished both beautiful and moving stories in just one sitting. I was so moved, I was a violin player before, so this one really spoke to me at first glance. I did not expect my heart to feel so much as I read. Both stories impacted me, in more than one way.
For me in the account of both stories, I moved by the overalls story on both. Both involved a hope and a dream, and as well, a love like no other.. I found both came with a lot of love and a lot of sacrifice. I really connected with the characters in both stories. The author had woven a story on both accounts that gives feelings, emotions, and that impact you would only hope to gain from reading a story. I f finished both and I felt so much, I wanted more, I loved the writing technique and how the author drew me in and held me, and played a song on my own heart strings as I read. Beautiful written words, truly flowed throughout my reading. I thank this author for this beautiful gift they created. Loved this book!
The two stories, were both different but yet connected and flowed ever so perfectly. I was moved and felt I was watching a musical act that is best felt from within your heart. Loved this book, and loved the author. Highly recommend this book and author. I will for sure be reading more by this gifted author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorrene Huismanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorrene Huisman2022-02-21 15:09:592022-02-21 15:09:59Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Lorrene Huisman
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
