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.
Review:
I didn't really know what to expect when I opened Scent of Lilacs. The back cover seemed interesting, but somewhat vague. What I found was delightful, amazing, and down to earth. Scent of Lilacs was intriguing, humorous, and overall a wonderful book.
The story is told mostly from thirteen year old Jocie's point of view. It was such a refreshing way of looking at the world - the problems of a thirteen year old, her view of adult problems, her wonderful simple belief in God, and her heartfelt prayers.
The story isn't a complex tale, but one that is familiar - a messy divorce, and all the after-effects. It was wonderful to see how Josie's father David dealt with what God had given him. Josie's "sister prayer" was beautiful - a child's hope of a returned sister. Tabitha, the prodigal sister, returned home with a secret, but was willing to look for help when she needed it.
The characters in Secnt of Lilacs were spectacularly written. Each character was their own story, and I was privileged to slowly learn about each one.
I can not rave enough about this book. Gabhart did a FANTASTIC job on this novel. The story and characters make this book a complete success.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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