Summer of Joy

Summer of Joy
Ann H. Gabhart
Revell Publishers
2014
Fiction

For Jocie Brooke, the summer of 1964 certainly was eventful, but it's nothing compared to what's coming to Hollyhill, Kentucky, and the Brooke family next. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy the relationships that everyone thought were so strong. Two people--one thought to be gone for good and the other no one's ever heard of--are making their way to the small town. And it promises trouble for everyone.

This complex and beautifully written story is the perfect conclusion to The Heart of Hollyhill series. With true-to-life family drama, refreshing humor, and characters readers have come to love like dear friends, "Summer of Joy" will delight Gabhart's fans.

I love the Hollyhill series. I read them back when they first came out in 2008 so I'm delighted they're out again. Gabhart writes with such light and ease in this series. Jocie is a hoot and incredibly likable. Her dad and his relationship with his significant other almost steal the story away. The mystery and intrigue in the book will keep your attention and you'll want to keep reading. A sweet, easy read with just enough sass to give it depth. Thanks Revell for republishing this series!

My thanks to Revell Publishers for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my real and honest review. 

The Scent of Lilacs

The Scent of Lilacs
Ann Gabhart
Revel Publishing
Publication date: Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Before Ann H. Gabhart became well-known for her much-loved Shaker novels, she wrote three poignant novels centered on the loveable Jocie Brooke and her family, who lived in 1960s small-town Kentucky. Once named as one of "Booklist"'s Top Ten Christian Novels and now featuring a brand new cover, "Scent of Lilacs" is poised to capture the hearts of new readers everywhere. Life-changing events rarely happen here, and when they do, they are few and far between. But for Jocie Brooke and her family, they happen all at once. Jocie has questions that need answers. As she digs into her family's past, she finds a whirlwind of discoveries, and everything begins to change. In the end, will Jocie find the answers everyone so desperately needs, or will her questions lead to truths that were better left uncovered? 

Combining unforgettable characters, true-to-life struggles, and the perfect dose of humor and nostalgia, this riveting story takes readers through the universal experiences of true love, new life, and renewed faith. With a beautiful new cover, "Scent of Lilacs" is poised to capture the hearts of readers everywhere.

I'll admit I had a hard time getting into this one. It started out a little slow and clunky for me. However, I stuck with it and I'm glad I did. Gabhart is an excellent storyteller and her books have yet to disappoint me. Joice is a fun character and that you'll fall in love with almost immediately. Her dad has his own tragic air about him and I quickly found myself rooting for him as we'll. The  secrets are intense and the story will capture you as event begin to unfold. You'll enjoy the journey of discovery and healing so beautifully portrayed in this book. 

My thanks to Revell Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.