Addie Mayberry left her job as a head librarian to open a children’s bookstore and she’s turned it into something magical. When 8-year old Bella Barrett wanders into the store, she and Addie develop an immediate bond. Her father, Drew Barrett, a highly successful surgeon, recently relocated to Shadow Creek, returning to his hometown to try and salvage his daughter’s childhood, which had been devoid of any meaningful parental attention. His marriage ended miserably with his ex-wife not even wanting shared custody of their child.
Don’t be fooled by the light-hearted cover as this story is steeped in serious issues. Drew’s neglect of his daughter was real and he’s working hard to turnaround that relationship. Addie had an extremely difficult childhood, the subject of cruel bullying for years and the target of a hypercritical and insensitive mother. That damage left indelible scars to her self esteem but not to her wonderful spirit. Her relationship with Bella is just heartwarming and goes a long way in guiding Drew’s sincere intentions in the right direction. Of course, it was inevitable that they’d be drawn to each other but theirs was an uneasy road.
I really loved this story as it dealt with some very tough issues not easily resolved. Bella was adorable and I liked how her innocence provided Drew a light towards a path to forgive himself and Addie a sense of self worth. Every story in this series deals with meaty issues and this was no different. I didn’t want this one to end.
Book Info
- Release Date: November 12, 2018
- Series: Shadow Creek, Montana #6
- Page Numbers: 141
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(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
Blue Mood Café 
Excellent review Jonetta! Sounds really good. So glad you enjoyed!!
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Thank you, Lindsay! This reads more like contemporary fiction.
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You’re right the cover is deceiving! Good review!
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Thank you, Diane! The publisher (Entangled: Bliss) produces sweet romances so the cover reflects the brand. However, while there are sweet moments and no steamy romance, the story is weighty. Thank goodness I discovered this author years ago and know her stories are substantive.
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Wonderful review, Jonetta! It sounds like this was a more than worthwhile read with plenty of depth and from a favorite author of yours, too.
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Thanks, Jennifer! That it was.
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Oh wow, yeah the cover doesn’t touch on the depth. I like stories with character growth. This sounds good, Love you review!
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Thank you, Kim! This was really very good.
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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Lovely review!❄️✨
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🎄Yes, it is! Thank you, Berit.
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Lovely review, Jonetta! It’s great when you don’t want a book to end.
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Thank you, Marialyce! It most certainly is. I wanted more but it truly was just enough💕
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Well I’ve only just read the beginning of the series but I’m glad to hear each book tackles some issues rather than just a fluffy romance. I need more plot these days beyond the romance. Thanks for the review. Anne – Books of My Heart
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You’re welcome, Anne. Every book in the series deals with serious topics.
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Aww, love when I don’t want a book to end! Lovely review ❤
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Thank you, Holly!
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This sounds like a great story and one that I would really enjoy. Wonderful review Jonetta. I like when there are tough issues thrown in to deal with, it makes the books more interesting.
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Thanks, Carla! That’s exactly why I love this series. Every book tackles difficult issues.
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