Hamilton continues to surprise me in the best possible way. I’ve enjoyed several of her books to date and love how versatile she is skipping between genres. This story is filled with fantastic characters and just a truly touching story line. This book cements Hamilton’s addition to my must read list. If she writes it, I’m buying.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Lovelacehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Lovelace2020-08-26 23:10:212020-08-26 23:10:21Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Heather Lovelace
Oh, how I loved this book. I love historic fiction. I loved Troy by David Gemmell, and all Rick Riordan books. Any historic fiction entices me because more than the plot and the characters itself, it gives an insight into a culture which existed and flourished centuries before our times. We understand their way of living, their beliefs, their traditions, customs, rituals and their practices. There are many who attempt to write historic fiction, but despite having the setting, their plot gets lost in the complex shades of the characters. This book does not fail in that aspect. Though the characters are in plenty and each character has multiple layers, the background runs concurrently to paint the Hittite empire, present day-Turkey vividly to the eyes of the reader. It was a little difficult to remember the characters (there are many), the king, his many wives, his offspring and other descendants of the royal family. The story revolves around a charioteer who seeks to solve the mystery behind the accident of his father. What is visible to the eye is not always the truth. The truth is hidden deep under layers and layers of treachery and deceit. The mystery runs through out the book, it is hard to suspect the culprit till the very end. Overall, for historic fiction fans like me, it is a great read !
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2020-08-26 21:34:192020-08-26 23:03:58The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Anantha Rusum
Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton is a great story about 3 people who all find themselves thrown together as they try to figure out “what next”. This book is an insightful and interesting read. For me this was all about the characters. They all had such differing experiences and yet still all found themselves at the same place, all a little bit lost. The way the author has written their stories really draws you in. They are so relatable which I think just makes them even better to read about. Cynthia Hamilton is such a diverse author as well. Every book I have read by her has been different but great. This book is no exception at all. I would love to know whah happens to these characters after the end of the book and the fact that I am still thinking about them now shows just how much they capture your attention. This is a brilliant book and one I would highly recommend.
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 Baker2020-08-26 15:28:552020-08-26 15:44:16Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Kerry Baker
This was an amazing and emotional read. It was heartbreaking and inspiring reading Ruths story. It follows the story of Ruth who has always been a independent and strong women.
As she gets older and suffering from Alzheimer’s she finds life getting harder. Her daughter Cynthia supports her and doesn’t want to put her mum into a home. Upon searching through some old photographs they bring up question about Ruth in her younger years.
Cynthia wants to know who her mum actually is. The person she was and the things that happened in her life to make her the person Cynthia knows and loves. With Ruth memory failing Cynthia needs to dig through her memories and keepsakes to discover her mums past.
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 Carr2020-08-26 13:40:032020-08-26 15:02:30Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Kerry Carr
Alligators in the Trees is such a wonderful story from the ever-talented Cynthia Hamilton. I have read many of Ms. Hamilton’s books now and she never ceases to amaze me by how versatile a writer she is. From mysteries, to romance, powerful non-fiction, and even humorous chick-lit- she masters them all. Ms. Hamilton’s clever and creative stories never fail to cast their spell on me, easily pulling me in and keeping me engrossed from beginning till end. I really didn’t know what to expect going into this book- the title was intriguing but really didn’t give too much away. Even after reading the blurb, I still wasn’t sure that I would be blown away by the story. Of course, I knew it would be a ‘good’ read- because Ms. Hamilton wrote it, but I still had my reservations. But boy-oh-boy did she show me- I should never have doubted her for even a second. This was brilliant, the story captured me right from the get-go, and I couldn’t believe how easily I became invested in the story and the wonderfully quirky, interesting, and strangely endearing characters. This is what I would class as a character study story- a character driven plot woven around the lives of three mismatched, struggling characters who all happen to end up at the same grungy diner, for different reasons. Little do they realise that ending up at the grimy dive that is ‘Frank’s Diner’ will impact them far more than they ever imagined. Prolific poetry writer Priscilla Vanderpool took on a job waitressing at Franks as a way of avoiding challenging herself, taking risks, or expecting too much from her life. Her fears have held her back for such a long time. Waitressing is merely a means-to-an-end for her- as she basically stumbled into the job and stayed because she didn’t have anywhere else to be. Philip Glessner had a thriving architectural firm and a stellar reputation, until one of his buildings collapsed thus throwing his well-ordered world into chaos- drowning him in a bottomless pit of debt and a mountain of legal woes. It was pure chance that led him to the diner, looking for a place to hide out from pushy reporters. That was months ago, but he returns daily, not for the food- but because he’s developed a crush on Priscilla. So, while his world falls apart, his business fails, and his wife tries to squeeze him dry- Phillip finds some solace in Priscilla’s steady and calm demeanour. Then we meet Tobias Jordan, the reclusive, aging, world-weary, former Rockstar who’s desperately trying to recapture his mojo and recreate his former success. Hiding out from the paparazzi, he ducks into the diner to find a quiet moment to focus his thought and maybe write some new lyrics. But what he never expected was to find a muse there, in the form of Priscilla, who unknowingly ignites his creativity and inspires new songs. What Ms. Hamilton has managed to create is a beautifully balanced story- with a focus on character development, but not at the expense of the intriguing story that she engineers so beautifully. This story may seem simple, but it is deceptively complex- with many layers, a high degree of detail, a few surprises to keep things unpredictable, and all so vividly descriptive- including the song lyrics that pepper the story and add extra interest. All the elements are cleverly choreographed into quite an impactful read, which I certainly didn’t wasn’t anticipate- making this all the more memorable. A true unexpected pleasure, and another glistening gem to add to Ms. Hamilton’s crown.
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 Hayes2020-08-25 21:35:552020-08-25 22:35:23Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Angela Hayes
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I love Cynthia Hamilton. This book was so unlike anything I’ve read from her, I wasn’t sure how I would feel. The raw emotion portrayed in this book was heartwarming. It made for a fantastic read. I loved learning how a writer can go from one genre to another without any transition. It was flawless just as her other books are. This is a phenomenal story that is mostly factual but written as fiction as the way she writes. I can not wait for another book from Cynthia Hamilton- bring. It on.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Meg Tyrrellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMeg Tyrrell2020-08-25 20:42:222020-08-25 22:34:42Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Meg Tyrrell
This book served as a love letter to the author’s mother’s life and it’s so beautifully written as she makes her mother human. A human and mother I could relate to. As a nurse, we know how the disease affects others but not quite sure how a person’s life was until we look into their life stories and this book paints a vivid picture Ruth left behind. I would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to take a trip back in time, especially women who want to know how to overcome so much while balancing being mothers and in relationships. Great read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Faith Jacksonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFaith Jackson2020-08-25 19:24:332020-08-25 22:31:49Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Faith Jackson
This is not my first book by this author, it is one of my favorites by her. I enjoyed being pulled into the story right from the beginning. This is a romance story that will leave you believing or not believing if opposites attract and if some people just fall in love faster than others. This is a well written story that has characters that brought the story to life. I had no problems connecting with them. They kept me turning pages fast just wanting to see what would happen next. This is a story about Allison and Jake. Jake is a man who has been married seven times. He feels that he is unlucky in love but then he meets Allison. She is a journalist that convinces her editor to let her write an article on why there is such a compulsion to saying “I do”. When she gets to his ranch will she realize that there is more to Jake than first meets the eye? As she learns his views on life and marriage, it starts making her question her own life. What will happen with these two is up to you to read this book. You won’t regret picking this up, I didn’t. It was a great story that I enjoyed. I highly recommend this book.
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 Wagner2020-08-25 16:22:142020-08-25 16:22:14Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Bobbi Wagner
While history was not my favorite genre, I have learned to really like them. I like to see history through other people’s eyes. In this book N.L. Holmes took to the past. The plotline held my interest and I found myself flying through the pages. There had to be hours of research to make the story seem real. The characters are fully developed and connectable. The story is about a young charioteer who saw his father and grandfather in an accident that was more than just an accident. Will good and evil be discovered or will they remain hidden? Can the charioteer deal with what is happening around him? You will have to read the book to find out the answers to these questions.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Fishhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Fish2020-08-25 15:30:222020-08-25 16:14:48The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Erica Fish
Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) By Cynthia Hamilton 5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) by Cynthia Hamilton. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Allison Tyler and Jake Sorenson. When Allison decides to explore the reason that some people keep falling in love and then out of love, she can’t think of a better example than Jake. Jake is a man who doesn’t see his marriages as failures even when they have all ended in divorce. It seems as if Jake is making all the same mistakes over and over. What does Allison learn from her time interviewing and questioning Jake? Read this book to find out. This is an amazing story that will have your emotions going up and down the entire time you are reading it. I grew to care about Jake and Allison with every chapter that I read. I enjoyed the bantering/interactions between them, even the ones that had them at odds with each other. There are additional characters that are introduced, and I enjoyed reading about the part that they play in the story. The author does a wonderful job of making both the storyline and that characters come alive on the pages. Don’t miss out on an intriguing and entertaining story that is hard to put down until you have read the ending. I highly recommend reading it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laura Furutahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLaura Furuta2020-08-25 01:56:062020-08-25 15:54:33Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Laura Furuta
The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes is a historical mystery fiction story where lies and secrets, murder and political espionage, danger and acts of war are the name of the game. NL is passionate and clearly well researched in the genre that each story is written, and she paints a vivid picture. The Lightning Horse is a slow cosy read that transports the reader to a different time and world and way of life.
If you like a story where fiction meets historical mystery, then give this one a shot.
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 Bishop2020-08-24 04:36:012020-08-24 09:14:20The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop
Do some people fall in love more often than others?
Opposites attract, but can they ever hold?
Are some people incapable of learning from their mistakes?
These questions haunt journalist Allison Tyler-Wilcox after meeting Jake Sorenson at his sister’s wedding. Despite his seven divorces, Jake considers himself uncommonly lucky at love. Baffled by his sanguine attitude—and his offhand suggestion that she could be the next Mrs. Sorenson—Allison talks her editor into letting her explore the compulsion some people have when it comes to saying “I do”.
As soon as she arrives at Jake’s 1,500-acre ranch in rural Oregon, Allison realizes she has misjudged him, underestimating his appeal to the opposite sex and his worldliness in general. Despite his multiple divorces—and his current dubious relationships—Jake maintains his marriages weren’t failures even though they ended. During muleback rides and impromptu tango dances, Jake shares with level-headed Allison his unique philosophy on life and love, leaving her confused for the first time about her own marriage, her ideals, and her feelings for the roguish mule breeder.
Cynthia Hamilton turned to writing while fighting a mystery illness that went misdiagnosed for nine years. Forgetting that she couldn’t write if her life depended on it, she wrote her first book in secret, just in case it didn’t amount to anything. Nineteen years later, she has written twelve books and published ten of them. She writes general fiction and mystery-suspense novels, as well as some non-fiction. “Once Upon A Lyme…A Tale of Two Journey” documents her harrowing odyssey through late-stage Lyme disease and the unexpected upside of becoming a writer. The Patience of Karma—her latest novel—is the fifth book in her Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Lucky-cover-remake-v16-scaled.jpg1200800itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-24 00:01:592021-02-17 10:58:11Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) by Cynthia Hamilton
The Lightning Horse is the first book in the Empire at Twilight seriesby N.L Holmes. This is my second book from Ms. Holmes, and the one thing I love about her books is the historical detail she manages to infuse into her stories. As with the other book of Ms. Holmes that I have read, the authors passion for history is evident in her writing. This passion certainly added to my enjoyment of the story. I love ancient history- and Ms. Holmes seems to know this subject incredibly well- but I imagine a lot of meticulous research, blood, sweat, and tears also went into the creation of this book. The story is a fascinating blend of fiction and historical fact woven into quite an intriguing piece of work. This time, the story is set in the Hittite period, which the author does a great job of recreating and bringing to life. The story is a slow building cozy mystery, with a little drama for added interest. So, if you love ancient history, original stories with interesting characters and settings, cozies, and crime fiction- then you will probably want to grab a copy of this book. Happy Reading!
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 Hayes2020-08-23 11:13:262020-08-23 12:05:47The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Angela Hayes
Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton
This is the first book I’ve read by the author and I’ve got to say that I really enjoyed this. This won’t be the last book I’ll read by Hamilton.
This follows Cindy in her mom’s journey. She goes through her mother’s things to find who her mom was in the past. This hit close to home as a family member went down the same path Ruth did.
Ruth can no longer remember anything of who she once was. Finding herself over the years has stopped as she depends on her kids. Her past is no longer there and there are days she doesn’t know who she is. The quote I choose for Ruth is: “Do you see those trees right there? Would you believe, every day when I walked to school, I’d walk right by those trees…and here they are!”
I do highly recommend this for anyone who loves an emotional read.
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 Kimble2020-08-21 17:55:152020-08-21 21:20:56Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Amanda Kimble
The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) By N.L. Holmes 5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes. It is a story that had me hooked from the very beginning and I was turning pages to find out what happens next. It is a book that is exciting and enjoyable to read. The story has wonderful characters to read about. I liked the main character who is a young Hittite charioteer. He finds his life and family changed after a chariot accident. After it is revealed that what happened was sabotage, he becomes determined to find out what the saboteur is. Will he succeed? Read this book to find out. This story takes you back in time and to another land. The author does a wonderful job of making both the storyline and the characters come alive. I felt like I was right there with them. There are twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. Don’t miss out on an intriguing and exciting story that you won’t be able to put down until the final page. I highly recommend it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laura Furutahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLaura Furuta2020-08-19 15:39:032020-08-19 15:48:19The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Laura Furuta
I enjoyed this story. This is a story of chance meeting and fate stepping in. This is one of my favorite stories from this author. I found this story to be well written with characters that make the story easy to read and engaging. This is a story about three people who all live in New York and end up meeting each other at Frank’s Diner. How will fate interfere in each of their lives? I enjoyed how they each have their own story but yet fate brought them together for a reason. I also enjoyed watching them grow throughout the story and become the strong characters they are. I won’t say too much about this as I highly recommend reading this book to find out. Find out why fate brought a waitress, architect and a rock star together.
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 Wagner2020-08-18 07:19:552020-08-18 07:19:55Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Alligators in the Trees By Cynthia Hamilton 5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. It is a book that has amazing characters and had my emotions going up and down the entire time I was reading it. I loved reading about the characters of Tobias Jordan, Philip Glessner, and Priscilla Vanderpool. Each of them has a starring role in this book and the author does an amazing job in making them come alive on the page. Their stories and how their lives intersect kept me turning pages wondering how it all would come out in the end. I found myself caring about Tobias, Philip, and Priscilla with each chapter that I read and wanted them to find happiness. There are moments of sadness as well as touching moments in this story. The three main characters find themselves reflecting on their lives and also sharing their stories. Don’t miss out on a story that grabs your attention from the beginning. It is an intriguing and entertaining tale. I highly recommend it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laura Furutahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLaura Furuta2020-08-16 16:12:322020-08-17 05:16:51Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Laura Furuta
I enjoyed this historical story. The characters brought the story to life and kept the story engaging. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more from them. This is a well written story that kept me turning pages and pulled me in right from the beginning. The story was easy to read and interesting. The story is about a charlot accident that killed a young man’s family. What will happen when he goes after finding the killer? Sometimes things are not what they seem, what happens next you will need to read this great book to find out. I highly recommend this book.
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 Wagner2020-08-16 14:13:042020-08-16 14:13:04The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Frank’s Coffee Shop on Manhattan’s Lower East Side becomes a safe haven for Tobias Jordan, a paparazzi-phobic 90s rock star, drawn to the obscurity of the dingy hole-in-the-wall, and Philip Glessner, a disgraced architect, who ducks inside to elude a posse of blood-thirsty reporters. What keeps both coming back is their waitress, Priscilla Vanderpool, who becomes an improbable paragon of virtue to the shell-shocked Philip, and an unwitting muse to gifted and jaded Tobias. But neither man sees her as she really is: a philosophical hard-luck case with a quick wit and a twenty-year habit of penning insightful and haunting lyrics that no one has ever heard.
Alligators in the Trees—a line from one of Priscilla’s songs—symbolizes the bugaboos that lurk in the minds of all three characters: in Tobias, the fear he’s lost his talent, and that his string of model-mistresses will be the downfall of his soul; in Philip’s guilt-ridden conscience as he struggles with the collapse of his most touted building and the prospect of losing custody of his daughter if he doesn’t meet his estranged wife’s demands; in Priscilla, the fear of actually making a decision about her life instead of always taking the path of least resistance. Fate intervenes and forces all three to act on their true desires.
Cynthia Hamilton turned to writing while fighting a mystery illness that went misdiagnosed for nine years. Forgetting that she couldn’t write if her life depended on it, she wrote her first book in secret, just in case it didn’t amount to anything. Nineteen years later, she has written twelve books and published ten of them. She writes general fiction and mystery-suspense novels, as well as some non-fiction. “Once Upon A Lyme…A Tale of Two Journey” documents her harrowing odyssey through late-stage Lyme disease and the unexpected upside of becoming a writer. The Patience of Karma—her latest novel—is the fifth book in her Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/image001.jpg608405itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-13 13:48:032020-08-27 14:26:25Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton
When a young Hittite charioteer discovers that the chariot accident that killed his father and maimed his grandfather was sabotage aimed at the king, he sets out to find the killer. Facing the loss of everyone he holds dear, he learns that good and evil are often not what they seem, and he must struggle to adjust to a new identity.
N.L. Holmes is an archaeologist who has taught ancient history and humanities at the college level for many years. She is the author of eight novels set in the Bronze Age. With her husband, she splits her time between Florida and northern France.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-10 14:16:282021-02-15 12:01:31The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes
As fiercely independent Ruth struggles to stay self-reliant at the age of 86, each day brings her closer to an event that will alter her life forever. While her author daughter shifts through Ruth’s possessions prior to her move into a skilled nursing facility, she discovers a previously unseen photo from 1949 and realizes how little she knows of her mother’s life.
As Alzheimer’s continues to warp Ruth’s once sharp mind, she can no longer shed any light on the past. Yearning to know who her mother was as a person in her own right, the author painstakingly reconstructs Ruth’s life from photos, letters, public records and firsthand memories.
What emerges is a portrait of a bright, beautiful woman who is propelled through decades of broken promises and heartache, bouncing from one ill-fated relationship to the next, but always staying strong, always surviving. Through a timeline going back sixty years, the author gleans a much better understanding of the woman she had known only as Mom.
Though I was always an ardent reader, I was convinced I couldn’t string sentences together if my life depended on it. Fortunately for me, when I was looking for something creative I could do from bed—if my mystery illness progressed to that point—I decided to try my hand at it. No pressure, no expectations. I didn’t tell anyone what I was up to. I just wanted to see if I could string sentences together and tell an interesting story.
I remembered a quote by Hemingway, “Write about what you know.” With this mandate, I chose the time spent living with my husband in the French Quarter of New Orleans as the backdrop for my story. I typed out my first two paragraphs on my forty-third birthday. I finished that book on my next birthday, and started my second the same day. I now consider those my “practice books”.
As my still-nameless illness progressed, I continued running the family business and continued to write. Nine years after my symptoms began, I finally received a correct diagnosis: Lyme disease, and more specifically, late-stage Lyme, because it had been allowed to progress untreated for so long.
Though the pain was almost unendurable, I clung to my writing like a life preserver. It allowed me to crawl up inside my head, out of my body, giving me brief respites from the vast array of pains.
Though I would never wish this disease on anyone, I can honestly say I am grateful for the path my life took, for it gave me the gift of writing. I now have nine published books, all of which have special significance for me. I write general fiction, mysteries and some nonfiction.
Once Upon a Lyme: The Tale of Two Journeys, is the detailed account of the path my mystery illness led me down as I sought help from over two-dozen doctors, and the gift of writing that was the unexpected upside of being so hopeless ill.
Finding Ruth was inspired by a previously unseen photograph of my mother taken when she was nineteen. I found it as I was going through her things prior to her move into a skilled nursing hospital. That gorgeous photograph of her looking so happy and full of promise made me realize how little I knew about her life before I came along. Because Alzheimer’s has taken away all her memories, I painstakingly reconstructed her life from public records, thousands of photographs, and what my brother, sister and I could remember. The message in the tribute to my mom is Ask while you have the chance.
As of this writing, I have just completed the fourth book in the Madeline Dawkins mystery series. I’m still in love with writing and I still squeal with joy to think that I’ve written eleven books and self-published nine of them. If there is a message in this, it’s Never discount what you are capable of achieving.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Finding-Ruth-cover-for-Amazon-scaled.jpg1200800itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-05 14:10:452021-02-22 10:14:23Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton
This is a story about a twelve-year-old girl Grace, whose only friends are the spooky sweet ghosts including her cat, Midnight. She starts enjoying the company of the ghosts till one day she finds out the reason why there are so many ghosts around her. There is a spell which was cast on these people three hundred years ago, which turned them into ghosts. Grace realizes that she has magical abilities and she is the one who is destined to break this spell. But breaking it comes with its own consequences, she will lose everyone who is near and dear to her, including Midnight. Will Grace succeed in her effort forms the plot of the story. It is a sweet and a spooky story, especially meant for teens and middle grade students. When I read this book, I was reminded of this movie Casper, which is about a sweet little ghost which befriends a girl in the castle. This book is similar to the movie. It brings forth the emotions of Grace, her courage, determination and her turmoil all described really well. There are all types of ghosts, some friendly, some grumpy, and each character is unique. It is a fast paced, fun read with a spooky element in it. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2020-06-22 22:37:102020-06-23 08:23:59Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Anantha Rusum
Grace’s Ghosts was an excellent fast read. I sat down with this book and completely finished it within 1.5 hours. While this book is targeted towards young teenagers (middle school), as an adult, I loved this book too! Grace’s character building was excellent. You immediately feel connected to her and feel her emotions as they occur, as if they were your own. This story has many twists that leave you shocked until the very end. I would love to follow Grace on another adventure soon!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00TaKeisha McCroskeyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTaKeisha McCroskey2020-06-22 22:31:242020-06-23 06:34:56Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by TaKeisha McCroskey
I really enjoyed reading Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson. A young girl named Grace has a best friend Midnight, who happens to be a ghost. All of Grace’s friends are ghosts but she really doesn’t mind, anything is better than the kids at school. Grace finds out that her town, Tansy, is under a curse. If Grace figures out how to break the curse she could risk losing Midnight and all of her friends. I loved this book because I feel that it could speak to a lot of kids around Grace’s age. Many kids have a hard time fitting in and Grace shows how to embrace being different. All the characters were really likable, especially Grace, the story line was well developed, and as an adult I was kept interested throughout the whole story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kayla Interdonatohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKayla Interdonato2020-06-22 19:37:402020-06-22 21:59:58Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Kayla Interdonato
Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson is a fast paced paranormal story for older kids about 10 – 12ish but having said that I enjoyed it. Stephenie has given us an original story where there are magic, ghosts, secrets and curses and a best friend who is a cat. It is fun, witty and spooky and thoroughly enjoyable, as we take a twisty journey along with Grace as she works with her ghostly cohorts to get to the root of the problem in town.
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 Bishop2020-06-20 19:41:502020-06-20 21:51:29Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is the first book I read by Risa. I was hesitant because it’s listed as a children’s book but I enjoyed it. The mystery that surrounds it is interesting but remains a mystery until the end. It’s well-written and a very well-developed idea. Plenty of emotion with just as much realism. You’ll have to read to get to know Rocky and his story. But you’ll be as Enchanted as I was!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Raylene Greenhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRaylene Green2020-06-18 22:46:592020-06-19 07:25:37Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Raylene Green
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is her debut book and the story of a young boy who has lost his father but all may not be as it seems. The story is engaging and deals with sensitive issues which Risa has done well. This tale evoked emotions from laughter to tears as we struggle along the way and go on this adventure with Rocky and his friend as they look into the mystery of his father’s disappearance. Even though the story is aimed at a younger audience I still found myself invested in the outcome.
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 Bishop2020-06-18 22:12:272020-06-19 07:24:26Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Jenni Bishop
“One dead father. One lying mother”. Twelve year old Rocky overheard his Mum admit that the story she had told him of his fathers death was a lie. Rocky does not know how he can trust her following that revelation. Then soon after his fathers funeral a ‘For-Sale’ sign appears in front of their house, a house full of memories of his dad. Having moved house and having to start at a new school, Rocky suddenly hears the voice of his father, who is insisting that he return to his old town for answers, but can you take advice from a dead person? Rocky then makes a new friend in Olive who offers to be Rocky’s assistant sleuth and help him discover the truth. Rocky and Olive then go on a journey of risks, eavesdropping and snooping all to discover the truth about his father and find out why his mother lied. This is a contemporary mystery with an interesting storyline and great characters in Rocky and Olive. Both of the main characters were likeable and relatable and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. It had me hooked from the start and I found it an emotional story, and one I felt fully immersed in whilst reading.
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 Gordon2020-06-18 12:00:462020-06-18 12:04:50Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I have this really annoying habit of underestimating or even by passing books aimed toward a younger audience when in reality they have been some of the best books I’ve read. Swallowed by a Secret is certainly a 5 star book that falls into this category. This book has everything, including the ability to make me cry, harder than I would like to admit. The characters, though young, (I mean the main character is thirteen) were really fantastic. I struggle to find the words to describe this book, I want to say heavy, but that isn’t it. The author did a great job navigating through delicate subjects in a captivating, well written way. This was the first book read by this author and it will most certainly leave a lasting impression. Impressed is an understatement.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Felicia Bateshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFelicia Bates2020-06-18 11:02:242020-06-18 11:39:42Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Felicia Bates
5 Star Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is my first read and I can honestly say it won’t be my last. This story is aimed for ages nine to thirteen but can be read by older kids and adults as well. What an emotional journey this story takes us on. I found myself unable to put it down once I started reading. Rocky is a twelve year who has lost his father and is now moving and switching schools. He overhears his mom telling the truth about what happened to his dad . Rocky and his friend Olive set out to find the secret. Find out what happens next in this must read .I can’t wait to read more.
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 Daughenbaugh2020-06-17 23:56:292020-06-18 08:32:15Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
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