Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Scent of Lilacs by Ann H. Gabhart - REVIEWED


About the Book: (from Revell Publishing)

After the summer of 1964, life for Jocie Brooke will never be the same.
Life-changing events rarely happen in quiet Hollyhill, Kentucky, and when they do, they are few and far between. But for young Jocie Brooke and her family, they happen all at once during the humid summer of 1964. Though on the surface things are just fine, it seems like everyone in Jocie’s life has something they’re not saying, something they’re hiding from her-and from themselves. As Jocie digs into her family’s past, she stirs up a whirlwind of discoveries. Will she find the answers everyone so desperately needs? Or will her questions lead to truths better left hidden?
Combining unforgettable characters, true-to-life struggles, and the perfect dose of humor and nostalgia, this riveting story from bestselling author Ann Gabhart explores the very essence of new life and love.
“Gabhart’s compelling characterization serves up a juicy slice of life in a small town where little is as it seems. Jocie’s conversational voice and quirky sense of humor are a delight.”-RT Book Reviews
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, Words Spoken True, The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.
My Thoughts:

“’With God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26.  But that’s the key, child.  Only with God.  Only with God.  We have to put our trust in Him.”  (p. 203)  Aunt Love

But nobody is all good or all bad.  Just remember that.”  (p. 259)  Dad

She no longer wanted to know the truth.  And that scared her most of all.” (p.333)  Joicie

Okay, readers.  Get a box of tissue out and prepare for your heart to be changed!  The transformation will take place as you walk alongside Jocie Brooke and her family in the Summer of 1964.  Truly, Ann Gabhart has written one of the most poignant coming-of-age stories I’ve ever read!  I laughed, I cried (and cried some more), and just thoroughly enjoyed time in Hollyhill, Kentucky! 

All of the characters in this story are true-to-life and folks you will feel comfortable spending time with.  As a matter of fact, you will come to love them in a very real way.  The struggles they face are timeless and will resonate in your heart like the thunder that rolls across the county toward the end of the story. They face personal storms in their hearts and souls, and each must face the fears that lie beneath the storm that springs from that fear. It’s not easy.  Not always pretty.  But the truth that you will embrace by the time you reach the final page….very worth the journey!

Ann Gabhart – BRAVO!!!  This is truly an most excellent story!!  I hope I will spend more time among the residents of Hollyhill, Kentucky!

About the Author:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel SisterWords Spoken TrueThe OutsiderThe BelieverThe SeekerThe Blessed, and The Gifted. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.

1 comment:

Ann H Gabhart said...

My publisher sent me the reviews that you and others have done for Scent of Lilacs. When I saw your blog, I just had to tell you how much I liked the background. So vibrant and alive with all those books flying around. While I'm here, I'll also thank you for your kind review. Reviewing books is not the easiest thing in the world to do and I always appreciate those of you who do read and review books.