The Day We Met

The Day We Met by Rowan Coleman

Claire writes in her memory book with an unsteady hand, knowing that this moment of lucidity may end at any time. The muddled "fog" inside her brain lifts for a while, so she seizes the opportunity to record precious memories for the family she will eventually leave behind. Once she was an aspiring writer. That was before her mind started to fade and gradually slip away. The pages of her unpublished book are tucked away in a room she no longer enters. Now she lives with fear and frustration in her inability to tell time or grasp the simplest of words  Just like her father, Claire suffers from early on-set Alzheimer's disease. There is no cure.

Claire is a determined, fiery, red-haired teacher with a temperament to match. Her stubborn, independent daughter, Caitlin, was born out of wedlock, and for years it was just the two of them facing life's hurdles alone. Then a much younger home contractor named Greg appeared at her door, and much to her surprise, Claire was like a giddy teenager in love. Now married and the parents of precocious Esther, Claire and Greg are a surprisingly happy couple until Claire begins to exhibit the symptoms of Alzheimer's.

History repeats itself when Caitlin reveals her own unplanned pregnancy. Claire reacts with a new sense of urgency, terrified that the Alzheimer's gene may be passed on for generations to come. Claire's Mum, often a thorn in her side, becomes the anchor her daughter needs. Much to Greg's dismay and sorrow, his wife looks at him as a stranger, unable to grasp the passion they once shared. As Claire deals with the total upheaval in her life, she finds that those she loves believe in her and will do anything to hold on to her memory.

British author Rowan Coleman wrote this touching novel based on her own life experiences. The novel wasn't born overnight, but evolved over a period of time in which Coleman contemplated the devastating effect dementia and Alzheimer's have on families. From that contemplation, Claire's story was created.

Anyone who has experienced the cruel effects of Alzheimer's disease on family will relate to this novel. In comparison to Still Alice, written in 2010, Coleman takes a different approach to the traumatic effects of this illness. Chapters of overwhelming sadness and grief are intermingled with humor and candid thoughts of a strong woman facing an uncertain future. Read through the tears to experience a superbly written book.

An emotional story about the bond between mothers, daughters, husbands, and wives; this book is a true celebration of life and love.

Twain's End

Twain's End by Lynn Cullen

"The man who does not read is no better than the man who cannot read"

Just one of the insightful quotes attributed to author and humorist Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. Beloved and admired by so many, his life story was immortalized on stage with esteemed actor Hal Holbrook portraying the icon.


Now historical author Lynn Cullen (Mrs. Poe, 2013)  reveals a distressing, little-known side of the famous writer.  According to her extensive research, (diaries, writings, and letters) he was a man riddled with flaws. Often cruel and demoralizing to anyone who crossed his path, his spoken words were vastly different than his illustrious words on paper.

The book concentrates primarily on the relationship between Clemens and his long-suffering assistant, Isabel Lyon (affectionately referred to as The Lioness). Beginning at age 25, she devoted seven years of her life to "The King".  She repeatedly endured his ridicule, bullying, taunts,and tantrums while secretly, longing for a more intimate and permanent relationship with him. Samuel led her to believe he had honorable intentions. But then he seemed to have a penchant for impressionable young women in general. Surrounded by young girls who worshiped him, they were flattered by his flowery words and subtle advances. In her heart, Isabel knew she was different somehow; that her undying devotion to him would result in marriage. How wrong her assumptions proved to be....

The years Isabel spent with Clemens included his ever-present wife, Livy. A sickly, tormented invalid, she exuded a certain "hold" over her husband.  Daughter Clara was unlucky in love and often sought Isabel's advice during troubled times. In an instant she could turn on her father's confidante, however, and treat her shamefully. Jean, the mentally ill daughter, was a constant source of concern, and it was Isabel who often soothed and comforted her, not her own father. In the end, Isabel's loyalty proved to be a fruitless endeavor.

Eventually, Isabel recognized the fact that life was passing her by. She married Ralph Ashcroft, the business manager that Clemens relied upon. The fury and wrath bestowed upon Isabel by Clemens and Clara after her marriage was unfathomable. In a 429 page tirade, the pair proceeded to denounce Isabel as" a traitor....and salacious slut".

Many might question why Isabel would tolerate such abuse over the course of their relationship.
It's certainly a valid response and one only she could answer. Isabel died at the age of ninety-four, still unwilling to speak candidly of the man she adored.

Along the Infinite Sea

Along the Infinite Sea by Beatriz Williams

Europe 1936 collides with swanky Palm Beach 1966 to set the stage for the final chapter in the lives of the effervescent Schuyler sisters. The focus now is on Pepper, the youngest and most volatile of the three women. This historical fiction novel is filled with romance, unbridled passion, and mystery. If you haven't read the books leading up to Pepper's adventures, no worries. This one can stand alone.

Pepper Schuyler sighs with satisfaction as she examines the sleek, black Mercedes in front of her. What a stroke of luck, finding this abandoned, valuable vehicle in the garage at her family's Cape Cod estate. Some anonymous buyer is willing to pay a great deal of money for this vintage beauty. That will secure Pepper's future, uncertain as it may be. As she stares down at her swollen, distended belly, she feels an overwhelming burst of love for her unborn child. How could a beautiful, self-assured woman like herself from a prominent ( but dysfunctional) family wind up in such a predicament? Maybe falling in love with a married, high-profile politician wasn't a wise thing to do, but with cash in hand, she can put her problems behind her....

For Annabelle Dommerich, the 1936 Mercedes is more than just an engineering masterpiece.  It's a symbol of the astounding events that shaped her life in the 1930's. She is more than willing to pay handsomely for resurrected memories. Feisty, stubborn Pepper Schuyler doesn't know the history behind the car, and Annabelle plans to keep it that way. The two women become comrades over a gleaming automobile.  Annabelle slowly offers guidance and support to this unsuspecting renegade. She takes Pepper on a trip to a small town off the coast of Georgia, surmising that a powerful man is determined to make claims on Pepper's child.  At the same time, Annabelle comes face to face with her own secrets from long ago. Secrets like a clandestine affair with a Jewish lover, and a royal title bestowed upon her from marriage to a high-ranking German officer. Two incredibly strong women, years apart in age, yet with so much in common. Determined to survive.

If you choose to explore the history of the Schuyler sisters, check out Tiny Little Thing and The Secret Life of Violet Grant.  Also recommended is  A Hundred Summers reviewed on this blog in September 2013; it's another engaging historical romance with characters that appear in the author's other novels.

Thoroughly entertaining, the saga of Pepper Schuyler and Annabelle Dommerich is sure to appeal to the hopeless romantic in all of us.

God Whispers Nudges, Fudges, and Butterfly Moments

God Whispers
Nudges, Fudges, and Butterfly Moments
by Liz Thompson

We've all had those moments, that "gut" feeling when it comes to making decisions, whether they be big or small. The subtle whisper, the slight nudge, all could be God's way of leading us in a new direction. Listen and the rewards may be worthwhile.

For those that believe in chance, this may not be the book for you. For those who believe in the power of a Greater Being, I would encourage you to read the words of the many followers who have heard the whispers from Him in their hearts and souls.

This book is a compilation of stories, short essays and poems written by those who have experienced overwhelming peace and joy from recognizing what they believe is an inner voice leading them through both the good and bad times in life. The "butterfly" moments in our lives can occur at any age; times when we break out of our cocoons to finally realize our full potential. They often happen unexpectedly when we think that life has passed us by. The encouraging and moving words of those who have found an inner strength from their faith is uplifting and reassuring. Overcoming obstacles and forgiving ourselves and others are themes reiterated throughout this inspirational book.  

This is the second book written by author Liz Thompson, a columnist featured in 23 suburban newspapers across the Columbus, Ohio area.  I reviewed her first book  Day by Day  in August, 2015, which described her struggles and challenges in overcoming progressive hearing loss. Much like that book, this second one offers spiritual hope and guidance to those who believe in a higher power. Filled with biblical passages and personal testimonials and quotes, I found myself reading a few pages at a a time to contemplate the thought-provoking material.

Listen closely for the "whispers" and savor the "butterfly" moments. 

See Me

See Me by Nicholas Sparks

Colin Hancock is painfully aware that he's been given a second chance at life. His explosive, volatile temper has cost him dearly, both personally and professionally.  Estranged from parents that defended him years ago when he was a rebellious teenager, he realizes how much they sacrificed by coming to his rescue until they could take no more.  But now he's determined to turn his life around. He has an opportunity to redeem himself by going back to school and releasing his frustrations and anger in a less destructive way. The promise of prison isn't just an idle threat. Law enforcement is watching his every move.

Then one rainy night, he meets a striking, raven-haired beauty named Maria Sanchez on a deserted highway. The connection he feels after their first encounter continues in the days to follow. As their relationship grows, Colin learns that he isn't the only one with demons from the past. Maria is also struggling to forget and move on from a terrifying experience as an assistant district attorney in Charlotte, N.C. Yet she has the nagging feeling her nightmare is far from over.

Maria is starting over in  her hometown of Wilmington, surrounded by loving family and friends. Nevertheless, the panic attacks still surface every time she thinks of the menacing threats aimed at her by a disgruntled relative of the slain woman she represented. When it appears that this crazed individual is intent on carrying out his vendetta, Maria turns to Colin for his unconditional support. She finds herself drawn to this man who often frightens her with his unconventional ways, but at the same time, makes her feel safe and secure. Can he save her from the devious mind that is determined to destroy all that is precious to her?

Die-hard Nicholas Sparks fans will undoubtedly enjoy this latest release, all 482 pages. Others may be disappointed. In a dynamic move, Sparks deviates from his signature writing style to create a story that is bolder and less heartrending than his previous books. Suspense and mystery are added to romance.  Perhaps the author's personal life may have precipitated the challenge of writing a novel that enters new territory. In any case, the likability of these vulnerable, flawed characters in See Me will be up to the reader. Sparks still maintains his unheralded success as a gifted writer; this one could also become a motion picture.

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"See me as I see you..." There's a new purpose and vision from best-selling Nicholas Sparks this time around.

The Gilded Life of Matilda Duplaine

The Gilded Life of Matilda Duplaine by Alex Brunkhorst

Author Alex Brunkhorst unveils her first novel with a flourish. She combines old Hollywood glamour with the innocence of pure, naive love. The result is a charming, captivating story that readers will savor long after the last page.

Reporter Thomas Cleary is a lucky man. After a controversial stint in Manhattan, he's landed a plum newspaper job at the L.A. Times. His first assignment is an interview with Lily Goldman, the daughter of deceased Joel Goldman, the legendary and formidable Hollywood mogul and studio head. The affable and humble Thomas is an immediate hit with the beautiful people, and he soon finds himself immersed in a world of opulence, wealth, and grandeur. Lily introduces him to the sultry, alluring actress Carole Partridge and her writer husband, the easy-going, Charles. He meets stars at every lavish, resplendent party he attends. When he shakes the hand of  David Duplaine, indisputably the hottest producer of box-office hits in Tinseltown, he is truly intimidated. Suddenly, he is thrown into a life that dreams are made of, and he finds himself relishing each and every moment.

Then Thomas makes a startling discovery one evening alone while visiting the secluded grounds of David's estate. A winsome, fascinating young beauty named Matilda apparently lives a lonely but privileged existence there. She's never ventured off the property in her twenty years of being alive. Shrouded in mystery, Thomas and Matilda form an extraordinary bond. After numerous clandestine meetings, the couple decide to escape the estate. Lily agrees to help. They travel to an abandoned home in Hawaii that once belonged to her father, the powerful Joel Goldman. While on this lush, tropical island, Thomas begins to see subtle changes in Matilda.; changes that make him question his devotion to her. Becoming more and more suspicious of Matilda's upbringing, Thomas begins his own investigation, unearthing clues left behind in the Hawaii home. He gradually uncovers startling lies and deceit about the young woman who has stolen his heart. Can they survive what he has discovered?

Refreshing and soothing. this novel takes a most unlikely scenario and turns it into a magical love story, one that you will enjoy watching unfold.

And you can write your own ending......

   

The Murder House

The Murder House by James Patterson and David Ellis

It's known as the Murder House, this sprawling, Gothic mansion located at 7 Ocean Drive in the Hamptons. The locals walk by with curious stares and hushed whispers. Years ago, a crippling, uncontrollable fire killed the couple trapped inside, with no reasonable explanation for the blaze. The structure was rebuilt. Now an influential Hollywood producer and his mistress are found murdered in the same cursed location by the sea.

Detective Jenna Murphy is back in the Hamptons, working for her Uncle Langdon, the Chief of Police. It's a big change from her ill-fated law enforcement career in Manhattan. This latest
high-profile crime puts Jenna at the center of a complicated investigation in the land of luxury. As she delves deeper and deeper into the case, she realizes that the police may be accusing the wrong man of the crime. The brutality and horror of the past meets the present. Detective Murphy is getting far too close to unraveling the mystery.  She just may be the next unfortunate victim.

If you need a James Patterson "fix", put this one on reserve. The legendary writer and his partner have created a raw,  heart-pounding, suspense- thriller full of intrigue and uncertainty. So many possible suspects, you'll have lingering doubts about each and every one of them. His trademark easy-to-read chapters make this a wise choice if you are looking for a spicy read on a chilly October night by the fire.