Damn, Nora… that was good. ~ Sheila
Arden Bowie has worked part-time in a bookstore for years and is so excited to not only have written her first book, but also to have her first book signing. While the attendance is a lot of supportive friends and family, there are also many people unknown to Arden as well. Definitely what you could call a successful event.
Dustin, an inspiring writer himself, is among those in attendance. Arden sees him as she once was, eager to put words to paper and during the signing offers him some advice on finding a mentor or a writing group.
Then Dustin shows up at Arden’s next signing.
And the next.
Each time Dustin inquires about getting together and talking about writing and giving him tips, Arden politely declines. Her life is full of helping her best friend Zoey with her wedding planning and her move to Oregon, and Arden does not have time for anything extra. But Dustin’s continuous showing up wherever Arden is leads to a quick cup of coffee together – Arden, hoping this will be enough to get him to move on.
But for Dustin, it’s not enough. Angry with Arden for constantly blowing him off, when clearly there is a connection there, yet he sees her having time to go out to dinner with friends… is infuriating. Dustin decided enough is enough, and he shows up unannounced one night at Arden’s home, busting in and assaulting her; Arden barely escapes with her life.
Now Dustin is in jail for 5 years. Arden has to make decisions about what is next for her life and how to feel safe knowing the clock is ticking the days down to Dustin’s release…
And she is not the only one counting down the days….
So… sidebar. I won a grant for $400 to use towards Honey Bee/ Butterfly/Bird-friendly Minnesota Native plants… thus the picture above. 🙂
This is the audio I listened to during my hours of prepping the ground, adding black dirt, planting, and mulching.
And – it was an excellent choice.
Admittedly, I have some old fan favorites of Nora Roberts. The Three Sisters trilogy will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart – as well as one of my all-time favorite characters (Mia) in a book. It’s not often that years later I can talk about a book and remember the characters’ names – but that trilogy – I can talk about it like I read it yesterday
Anyhoo – I digress.
I don’t read a lot of Roberts anymore; however, this title and synopsis had my attention. Can Nora Roberts write a psychological thriller? Turns out – yeah, she can.
You had me at bookstore would be a true statement…you had me at an author stalker as well.
This book was fabulous; while not a romance reader by any means, the light romance that happens in this book is perfect. Not giving too much away – I loved Arden’s strong character while at the same time being able to be vulnerable (rightfully so) after her attack. These characters are people who I want as my friends- my neighbors (NOT Dustin)
There is so so so much to love about this book – but you do not need to take my word for it – read it. And let me know.
And please please please let it be a movie.
Rated: 5 out of 5 – I really liked it!
Read Author Before: Of course
Read Author Again: Of course
Where Read: Audio working in my yard
Bookclub Worthy: YES Please! I think the amazing evolution of Nora Robert – her complete diversity in what she writes under her name as well as her pen name are discussion worthy – AND so is this book.
Topics of discussion – Dustin’s craziness, if we have ever known someone like that that just does not get reality, Arden’s strength, the home she makes for herself, the awesome neighbors
Hard topics – the attack, mental health, recovery
Food for discussion – Cafe food (Sandwiches – good ones), Coffee, wine, Fun bakery items, fresh baked bread, pastas…) Good ol home cooking.
Book Journey 