Helpful Score: 3
This was a new author for me. I was impressed. She has written more books - all related to the same characers - but this is the first book of the "Country Road Chronicals". I am just starting the 2nd in this series "Rachels Prayer". I will definately be reading her first 3 novels - Julia's Hope, Katie's Dream and Emma's Gift. I assume those first 3 books will set the basis for the series I am now reading. Altho this series reads well on its own, the first 3 books would probably give you more depth into each character.
This is a light read, no foul language, no overt sexual content. Good family story - has love, heart ache, strife - good solid writting. This family pulls you in and keeps you involved.
Could also be a good book for young adults - lessons could be learned, especially if read at the same time as an adult and discussed afterwards.
This is a light read, no foul language, no overt sexual content. Good family story - has love, heart ache, strife - good solid writting. This family pulls you in and keeps you involved.
Could also be a good book for young adults - lessons could be learned, especially if read at the same time as an adult and discussed afterwards.
Angie B. (angjay) reviewed Rorey's Secret (Country Road Chronicles, Bk 1) on + 122 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Kelly begins the new Country Road Chronicles trilogy with this novel, catching up with the Wortham and Hammond families on their Illinois farms seven years after Emma's Gift ended. Most of the Depression-era story takes place over two days, in which Thelma Hammond goes into labor, Franky Hammond gets into a mysterious fight, Rorey Hammond behaves strangely and the family barn burns downby accident?wounding Samuel Wortham. There's enough material here for a compelling story, but the overall effect is mediocre, as Kelly endlessly recites each day's incidents. (One recurrent theme: toddler Georgie pulling pans out of the kitchen cupboard.) While the characters face some challenging circumstances and hint at the questions those unearth, Kelly fails to mine the depth of these situations, resulting in a predictable story. The narrator switches every chapter, and the narrative voices are similar enough to lead to confusion. However, the strength of the small community of family and friends is refreshing, and Kelly picks up the pace toward the end to finish on a high note. Fans of the characters will appreciate the story's continuation, as will those looking for a simple, faith-affirming read.
Rhea L. (gramrhea) reviewed Rorey's Secret (Country Road Chronicles, Bk 1) on + 44 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
4th book of a series and another wonderful read! Leisha Kelly is a wonderful author/storyteller!
Emily T. (emmydawn) reviewed Rorey's Secret (Country Road Chronicles, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
hard to get into and stay with
