Project and content management for Contemporary Authors volumes
WORK TITLE: The Things We Knew
WORK NOTES:
PSEUDONYM(S):
BIRTHDATE:
WEBSITE: http://www.catherinejwest.com/
CITY:
STATE:
COUNTRY: Bermuda
NATIONALITY:
Lives in Bermuda and Ontario, Canada. * http://www.catherinejwest.com/media/
RESEARCHER NOTES:
PERSONAL
Born in Bermuda; married; children: two.
ADDRESS
CAREER
Writer.
AVOCATIONS:Growing orchids and roses; dogs.
AWARDS:INSPY for Romance, and Silver Medal, Reader’s Favorite Awards, both 2011, both for Yesterday’s Tomorrow.
WRITINGS
SIDELIGHTS
Catherine West is an award-winning author of inspirational novels. She grew up in a Christian household in Bermuda and tries to relate her faith in her stories. Her first three novels were self-published through Amazon’s CreateSpace, and the next two were published by major publishing houses.
Hidden in the Heart
In West’s first novel, Hidden in the Heart, Claire goes in search of her birth mother when everything around her begins to fall apart. Her adoptive mother has died of cancer, and Claire has suffered several miscarriages. She turns to drugs and alcohol and contemplates suicide. But with her marriage on rocky ground and her father unwilling to talk about her adoption, she leaves everything behind in a search for the woman who gave birth to her.
A Jersey Girl Book Reviews Web site contributor called the book “a beautifully written story that will simply stir your soul.” A reviewer on the Melina’s Book Blog wrote: “This story is filled with so many likable characters. Great job.”
Yesterday's Tomorrow
West’s next book, Yesterday’s Tomorrow, takes place in 1967, during the height of the Vietnam War. Kristin Taylor is a reporter who gets sent to cover the war in the field. This is Kristin’s dream assignment, as it allows her to follow in her reporter father’s footprints. It also serves another purpose, however: her brother Teddy is serving in the army in Vietnam, and Kristin hopes that she will be able to keep an eye on him. She is teamed with photographer Luke Maddox, and together they capture the sights and truths of what the soldiers on the ground are experiencing.
A Jersey Girl Book Reviews Web site contributor called Yesterday’s Tomorrow “a beautifully crafted novel that easily draws the reader in, captivating them as they get lost in the story while experiencing the sights, sounds, smells and turmoil of Vietnam.” A reviewer on the Passion for Pages Web site wrote: “I can honestly say I was surprised by this book. From the first page, the author had me hooked with her voice, and her story-line. And that’s saying something, especially since the book is set in Vietnam during the Vietnam War.”
Bridge of Faith
In Bridge of Faith, Julia Connelly returns to her home in Vermont after twelve years in an abusive relationship. Reid Wallace is a reporter whose successful life has fallen apart, and he too has returned home to Vermont. Julia and Reid were once in a relationship that ended suddenly when Reid abandoned her only two months into their marriage. Meeting again, they are forced to confront the past and look to the future.
A Buzzing about Books Web site reviewer liked the “flawed” characters and wrote: “Their dramatic story is real, gritty, and filled with emotion. Catherine West has skillfully woven a complex love story.” Australasian Christian Writers Web site contributor Catherine Hudson commented: “I found these characters compelling and likeable with an electric attraction that made you want to shift time and sort out their issues for them. … I recommend this book as the story and characters are compelling and the story themes powerful.” And a Relz Reviewz Web site contributor said very simply of the book: “Bridge of Faith engaged my emotions, mind, and faith.”
The Things We Knew and The Memory of You
The Things We Knew is a story based on secrets. Lynette Carlisle lives with and cares for her aging father on Nantucket. Twelve years earlier, her mother died and her family promptly fell apart. Her four older siblings left the island with no intentions of returning. But each one eventually returns, dragging behind them much baggage. Meanwhile, Lynette’s neighbor, on whom she has had a crush for years, knows more about Lynette’s mother’s death than he is letting on. To reveal the truth, though, could destroy his own family.
A reviewer on the Reading Is My Superpower Web site called the book “rich with healing and honesty and hope. It is a novel that will hold you captive until you’ve finished the last word and one which will linger in your heart long after.” On the Inspy Romance Web site, reviewer Carol Moncado said that West “does a masterful job weaving a bit of suspense in, leaving you guessing until the very end.” A Publishers Weekly reviewer wrote: “Dysfunctional families are the irresistible hook of many novels, and West manages the central tensions well.”
In The Memory of You, Natalie Mitchell has to return to the family winery in Sonoma, California when her beloved grandfather suffers a heart attack. But going back is not easy for Natalie. Thirteen years earlier her twin sister died in a car accident, and Natalie vowed never to return to Sonoma. Upon arriving, however, she reconnects with her former crush, Tanner Collins. Their relationship is now strained, but as time goes on Natalie realizes that her regrets and her guilt are holding her back, leading her to a deeper faith in her spirituality. A Publishers Weekly reviewer remarked: “In this inspiring, emotionally astute story, West does an exquisite job depicting the complexity and messiness of overcoming trauma.”
BIOCRIT
PERIODICALS
Publishers Weekly, May 9, 2016, review of The Things We Knew, p. 54.
ONLINE
Australasian Christian Writers, https://australasianchristianwriters.blogspot.com/ (June 18, 2015), review of Bridge of Faith.
Buzzing about Books, https://buzzingaboutbooks.com/ (March 2, 2017), review of Bridge of Faith.
Catherine West Home Page, http://www.catherinejwest.com (March 2, 2017).
Inspy Romance, http://www.inspyromance.com/ (August 6, 2016), Carol Moncado, review of The Things We Knew.
Jersey Girl Book Reviews, https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot.com/ (April 3, 2013), review of Hidden in the Heart; (July 13, 2013), review of Yesterday’s Tomorrow.
Melina’s Book Blog, http://www.melinathereader.com/ (April 12, 2013), review of Hidden in the Heart.
Overweight Bookshelf, http://www.overweightbookshelf.com/ (May 2, 2011), review of Yesterday’s Tomorrow.
Passion for Pages, http://apassionforpages.blogspot.com/ (July 16, 2013), review of Yesterday’s Tomorrow.
Publishers Weekly Online, http://www.publishersweekly.com/ (January 23, 2017), review of The Memory of You.
Reading Is My Superpower, http://readingismysuperpower.org/ (July 5, 2016), review of The Things We Knew.
Relz Reviewz, http://relzreviewz.com/ (March 2, 2017), review of Bridge of Faith.*
Catherine West is an award-winning author who writes stories of hope and healing from her island home in Bermuda. Her first novel, Yesterday’s Tomorrow, released in 2011 and won the INSPY for Romance, a Silver Medal in the Reader’s Favorite Awards, and was a finalist in the Grace Awards. Catherine’s second novel, Hidden in the Heart, released in September 2012, was long listed in the 2012 INSPY’s and was a finalist in the 2013 Grace Awards. Catherine’s latest novel, Bridge of Faith, is now available on Amazon.
When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. She and her husband have two grown children. Catherine’s next novel, The Things We Knew, releases July 2016, through Harper Collins Christian Publishing. Catherine loves to connect with her readers and can be reached at Catherine@catherinejwest.com
You’ll find my official bio on my Media page but here’s the lo-down.
A Few Facts
Bermuda Beach
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Bermuda.
I actually don’t like sand. It’s scratchy and sticky and stays on your skin for days – yeah, sand and I have issues.
I live on an island, but I hate to fly. Unfortunately, if I want to go anywhere, I don’t have a choice, so I grin (or grit my teeth), and bear it!
I love roses and orchids and I try to grow both. I like gardening but I need to keep it simple.
View More: http://sarahe.pass.us/photographs-for-print
I love dogs. Growing up, I had two wonderful mutts, Mickey and Muffie (can you tell I was born to be a writer?), then once I married and had my own kids, we made Border Collies our dog of choice. Because I needed more to do… Noah keeps me busy, still energetic at 7 years, and he is my third child!
I love the lake. We have a cottage in Northern Ontario, and this is where I hide out every summer, with the loons, chippies, squirrels, raccoons and the occasional bear. 10413414_10152254682020899_6981860196556611025_n
Family
I’m madly in love with the man of my dreams, and this year we celebrate THIRTY YEARS of marriage! How is that even possible? Good times, bad times and crazy times, but what incredible blessings we’ve been given along the way. We have two awesomely talented children – our son is a musician, and the second half of an amazing duo called The Western Den, his girlfriend being the other half. Our daughter is a photographer, with a growing clientele here in Bermuda and we love looking at shots from Sarah E Photography! Her husband is a firefighter, and we’re so proud of him too. My Dad and step-mom live close by in Bermuda, so we see them a lot. My sister and her family live in the US and I love visiting with them.
View More: http://sarahe.pass.us/photographs-for-print
Faith
I grew up in a Christian home. We went to church every Sunday. I believed in God and I knew who Jesus was, but I didn’t understand the need to surrender my life to Him. The summer I was fifteen, I returned home after two years at boarding school in England. I wasn’t sure where I was going in September, but I knew I couldn’t go back to England. I hated it and I just wanted to be home. My friend invited me to go on a Young Life trip with her, and my parents thought I should. There, in the beautiful surroundings of Saranac village in upstate New York, I met Jesus. I also met the man who would become my husband. Funny how that works, huh? Some thirty odd (and some of them have been extremely odd 🙂 ) years later, I’m still learning how to fully surrender to Christ, and my faith is continually evolving and growing.
I could go on and on, but suffice to say, life is good and I’m loving it!
QUOTED TEXT: Dysfunctional families are the irresistible hook of many novels, and West manages the central tensions well.
The Things We Knew
Publishers Weekly.
263.19 (May 9, 2016): p54.
COPYRIGHT 2016 PWxyz, LLC
http://www.publishersweekly.com/
Full Text:
The Things We Knew
Catherine West. Thomas Nelson, $15.99 trade paper (352p) ISBN 9780718078102
West (Yesterday's Tomorrow) brings to life a familiar plot centered on memories of past family trauma papered over by
secrets. In presentday Nantucket, Mass. Lynette Carlisle, youngest of five siblings, is carrying the family's burden,
caring for her aging father as their home decays. She struggles with unclear, disturbing recollections from the day of
her mother's death. Nicholas Cooper, her nextdoor neighbor and longtime crush, adds romantic tension and his own
family issues as Lynette's siblings slowly straggle back to their childhood home, each bringing some weighty baggage.
Reckoning and reconciliation ensue as the Carlisles uncover and acknowledge truths about the past and present and
assume responsibilities. West is a good painter of atmosphere, making the foggy past ever so slightly sinister. The
Carlisle family probably has one troubled child too many, diluting the story and requiring too many quick resolutions
of underdeveloped plot threads and characterizations. But dysfunctional families are the irresistible hook of many
novels, and West manages the central tensions well. Agent: Rachelle Gardner, Books & Such. (July)
Source Citation (MLA 8
th Edition)
"The Things We Knew." Publishers Weekly, 9 May 2016, p. 54. General OneFile, go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?
p=ITOF&sw=w&u=schlager&v=2.1&id=GALE%7CA452883340&it=r&asid=73aed0c9291a9d89ca5ba4c04c532d66.
Accessed 5 Feb. 2017.
Gale Document Number: GALE|A452883340
QUOTED TEXT: story rich with healing and honesty and hope. It is a novel that will hold you captive until you’ve finished the last word and one which will linger in your heart long after.
Book Review: The Things We Knew by Catherine West
July 5, 2016 Carrie Catherine West, Christian, contemporary, romance 25
book review RIMSP
about the book
After her mother’s death twelve years ago, Lynette Carlisle watched her close-knit family unravel. One by one, her four older siblings left their Nantucket home and never returned. All seem to harbor animosity toward their father, silently blaming him for their mother’s death. Nobody will talk about that dreadful day, and Lynette can’t remember a bit of it.
But when next-door neighbor Nicholas Cooper returns to Nantucket, he brings the past with him. Once her brother’s best friend and Lynette’s first crush, Nick seems to hiding things from her. Lynette wonders what he knows about the day her mother died and hopes he might help her remember the things she can’t.
But Nick has no intention of telling Lynette the truth. Besides the damage it might cause his own family, he doesn’t want to risk harming the fragile friendship between him and the woman he once thought of as a kid sister.
As their father’s failing health and financial concerns bring the Carlisle siblings home, secrets begin to surface—secrets that will either restore their shattered relationships or separate the siblings forever. But pulling up anchor on the past propels them into the perfect storm, powerful enough to make them question all they ever believed in.
goodreads button RIMSP
GENRE: Contemporary Fiction, Christian Fiction
PUBLISHER: Thomas Nelson
RELEASE DATE: July 12, 2016
PAGES: 352
“Sometimes it was easy to forget her mother had been dead twelve years.”
Catherine West’s latest novel The Things We Knew is one of those books that gripped me from the first page to the last, and when I had finished the last word I sat and soaked it all in.
The Things We Knew book reviewThe Things We Knew is blessed with a whole cast of compelling characters with strong personalities, the best and the worst of family in all its ragged glory. And while I was – of course – drawn to the relationship between Lynnie and Nick, perhaps the character that lodged the deepest in my heart is Gray. Lynette’s brother Gray, the troubled rock star, is at times in the story both the strongest and the weakest member of the family. As a matter of fact, that could be said about each of the Carlisle siblings. All of them harboring secrets, all of them fighting their own separate battles – emphasis on separate – but each one gets a moment where they stand strong for the others. Or in spite of the others. But Gray stayed with me, possibly because out of all the siblings I believe he is the deepest thinker and as such his scenes were some of the most touching and the most heartbreaking. I would love to see him get his own story at some point. Perhaps a prequel or even a follow-up novel?
…his thoughts drifted toward things he’d learned as a child. Faith. Mercy. Grace. Things he’d forgotten until recently.
The intricacies of The Things We Knew are unpacked layer by layer as Catherine West feeds us just the right amount for us to absorb before offering a bit more. She doesn’t sugarcoat the dysfunction but there is light on every page. Emotions run high, tensions run high, and regret runs high. But faith and mercy and GRACE run higher still.
the things we knew quoteAnd that is the exquisite beauty of Catherine West’s latest novel. While neither faith nor mercy nor grace come easy for the Carlisle siblings, these ARE the things they knew before their family became so fractured, their own lives so dysfunctional. These are the things they slowly come to know again.
Bottom Line: The Things We Knew is more than a story of family drama to tug at the heartstrings. It’s more than a mystery to unwrap. It’s more than a romance to savor. It’s more than a masterfully written piece of fiction. It is, in fact, all of those … but it is also a story rich with healing and honesty and hope. It is a novel that will hold you captive until you’ve finished the last word and one which will linger in your heart long after. This should be on everyone’s summer reading list! Or fall reading list! Or MUST READ SOON reading list. Or all of the above! Keep some tissues handy, but be prepared to smile and even laugh too. Most of all, be prepared to fall in love with Nantucket, with the Carlisle family, and with Catherine West.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
My Rating: 5 stars / Fantastic!
KissingBook Level: 3 / may forget to breathe on occasion
QUOTED TEXT: does a masterful job weaving a bit of suspense in, leaving you guessing until the very end.
Review: The Things We Knew by Catherine West
August 6, 2016 by Carol Moncado
Cathy West TTWK Review
I adore Cathy West and was so excited for her when she announced her contract with Harper Collins Christian Publishers!!! Of course, I volunteered to be on her street team/reviewers list! As such, I did receive a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. So I asked if I could feature her new contemp romance here on InspyRomance. We went back and forth on what it should be about, but finally, I just decided to tell you a bit about the book! When my family and I embarked on a 9.5 hour /cough/11 hour/cough/ road trip, I knew I had to read Cathy’s book! Unsurprisingly, I loved it! I hope you do too!
I was not shocked to learn Cathy is a fantastic storyteller. From the beginning, she sucked me in, transporting me to Nantucket, a place I’ve only dreamed of visiting.
I adored Lynnie – a young woman trying to find her place in this world, when her world is crumbling down around her. Her house is, quite literally, and her life as well – her father’s ailing health, her siblings’ lack of involvement, and the “boy next door” who was practically (but not quite) her older brother, and his seeming willingness to toy with her affections. Her siblings, with one exception (a missionary to Africa), all have problems of their own that have prevented them from seeing what’s going on at home – or given them the excuse to ignore them anyway.
Nicholas is wonderful, though he does give off some seemingly contradictory signals. He and Lynnie’s older brother, his BFF, had a falling out five years earlier. He’s going to do what he can to help, but… will it be enough? Or will Lynnie’s memories overwhelm all of them?
Cathy does a masterful job weaving a bit of suspense in, leaving you guessing until the very end. While I would adore a sequel, her next book doesn’t revisit the Carlisles. However, there is enough resolution to everyone’s story arcs that it doesn’t necessarily NEED one.
Overall rating: 8.5 out of 10 stars (and for me, who rarely gives 9s and hardly EVER 10s, that’s pretty fantastic :))
I loved reading about Nantucket!! What’s your favorite place to be transported to while reading?
519k+FIn0pLWhen their tragic past begins to resurface, can he help her remember the things she can’t?
After her mother’s death twelve years ago, Lynette Carlisle watched her close-knit family unravel. One by one, her four older siblings left their Nantucket home and never returned. All seem to blame their father for their mother’s death, but nobody will talk about that tragic day. And Lynette’s memory only speaks through nightmares.
Then Nicholas Cooper returns to Nantucket, bringing the past with him. Once Lynette’s adolescent crush, Nick knows more about her mother’s death than he lets on. The truth could tear apart his own family—and destroy his fragile friendship with Lynette, the woman he no longer thinks of as a kid sister.
As their father’s failing health and financial concerns bring the Carlisle siblings home, secrets surface that will either restore their shattered relationships or separate the siblings forever. But pulling up anchor on the past propels them into the perfect storm, powerful enough to make them question their faith, their willingness to forgive, and the very truth of all the things they thought they knew.
QUOTED TEXT: In this inspiring, emotionally astute story, West does an exquisite job depicting the complexity and messiness of overcoming trauma.
* The Memory of You
Catherine West. Thomas Nelson, $15.99 trade paper (320p) ISBN 978-0-7180-7876-8
The Memory of You
BUY THIS BOOK
In her fifth novel, West (The Things We Knew) builds a complex, relatable story of faith, hope, and recovery in the aftermath of great tragedy. On the brink of having another emotional breakdown, Natalie Mitchell is bullied by her father (who is also her boss) into taking a leave of absence to check up on her ailing grandfather, Hal, as he recovers from a heart attack in Sonoma, Calif. But as comforting as Sonoma once was for Natalie, it also brings back terrible memories of the car accident that took the life of her sister 13 years before. Instructed by her father to find a way to close Hal’s struggling winery, Natalie defiantly plans to find a way to keep the business open. Upon arriving, she reconnects with her former crush Tanner Collins, the son of Hal’s ex-housekeeper, who is now the vintner at the winery. In the beginning, their relationship is strained and harsh, with Tanner unable to fully trust Natalie to fight to keep the winery open, and Natalie unable to get over bad memories of their teenage relationship. But the closer they get to each other, the harder it becomes for Natalie to avoid her guilt and run away from regrets—a struggle that brings her into deeper spiritual faith. In this inspiring, emotionally astute story, West does an exquisite job depicting the complexity and messiness of overcoming trauma. Agent: Rachelle Gardner, Books & Such Literary (Mar.)
QUOTED TEXT: flawed ... their dramatic story is real, gritty, and filled with emotion. Catherine West has skillfully woven a complex love story
Review: Bridge of Faith
28
APR
Bridge of Faith 3-DBridge of Faith by Catherine West
Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/1AbSnpY
Two lives taken down different roads – one enduring love – one shot at starting over. If only they believed in second chances..
Julia Connelly is finally free from twelve long years in an abusive relationship. Now able to live the life she’s longed for, Julia takes her two children back home to Vermont, hoping for peace and healing. The last person she expects to see is the man she eloped with at eighteen—who then abandoned her two months into their marriage, with little explanation. .
When an assignment in the Middle East ends in tragedy, popular news correspondent, Reid Wallace, returns to his hometown seeking answers and peace of mind. .
Confronting his past was not in the plan. .
Now he’s asking different questions. Like why the only woman he’s ever really loved still mesmerizes him. Why the haunted expression she wears reaches right into his soul. .
And why her twelve year-old son looks just like him. .
They say you can’t go home again. Sometimes you don’t have a choice.
BOF graphic (5)
Thoughts:
Bridge of Faith is a compelling story! When I started reading this book, I intended to read just a few chapters before bed. However, I soon found myself reading into the night and wanting to know how the story would unfold.
Julia Connelly and Reid Wallace are flawed characters and their dramatic story is real, gritty, and filled with emotion. Catherine West has skillfully woven a complex love story that I thoroughly enjoyed. I certainly look forward to reading more from this talented author!
I appreciate the opportunity I was given to read a complimentary copy of Bridge of Faith and share my honest opinion.
QUOTED TEXT: I found these characters compelling and likeable with an electric attraction that made you want to shift time and sort out their issues for them. ... I recommend this book as the story and characters are compelling and the story themes powerful.
Thursday, 18 June 2015
Book Review ~ Bridge Of Faith by Catherine West
Review by Catherine Hudson
I received Bridge of Faith as a gift from Andrea Grigg, who knows my love of difficult topics handled well in a fictional setting.
The book opens with a hook that sets up the rest of the story:
He only needed to survive one more day.
Reid Wallace’s comfortable, successful life as the attractive journalist and TV reporter is blown apart, and he finds himself back in his small home town of Bridgewater, despite self assurances he would not return. Here he is forced to face past mistakes, the old Reid — and whoever the new Reid will be. The reason for all this personal introspection and day by day living quickly becomes clear. Julia Hansen.
Julia has returned to Bridgewater with a survival story of her own and the cost has been high—one that continues to take its toll on new relationships, her family, and her two children. Julia and Reid must be in the same physical location—even talk to one another—to get to the bottom of their secrets and grievances.
Something they both loathe, and want to do. Talk about tension.
I found these characters compelling and likeable with an electric attraction that made you want to shift time and sort out their issues for them. I had no trouble turning the page, hoping for healing and the release of truth that they both needed. At each turn it seems almost impossible that these two damaged individuals will find the courage to recover from their past traumas and find a future.
The writing style had slight deviations and there were some short, sharp scenes of unusual lengths, but this did not detract from my enjoyment and I was still drawn into the story. The black moments for this couple were many, but the depth of plot and character meant that I was eager to finish the book. Near the end I encountered one last black moment from Julia that looked set to derail the romance, one that frustrated my suspension of disbelief as a reader and somewhat lessened my enjoyment of an otherwise fantastic ending.
Overall I recommend this book as the story and characters are compelling and the story themes powerful.
Thanks Andrea for another great read.
QUOTED TEXT: Bridge of Faith engaged my emotions. mind, and faith.
Bridge of Faith by Catherine West
Bridge of FaithSynopsis:~
Two lives taken down different roads – one enduring love – one shot at starting over. If only they believed in second chances.
Julia Connelly is finally free from twelve long years in an abusive relationship. Now able to live the life she’s longed for, Julia takes her two children back home to Vermont, hoping for peace and healing. The last person she expects to see is the man she eloped with at eighteen—who then abandoned her two months into their marriage, with little explanation.
When an assignment in the Middle East ends in tragedy, popular news correspondent, Reid Wallace, returns to his hometown seeking answers and peace of mind. Confronting his past was not in the plan. Now he’s asking different questions. Like why the only woman he’s ever really loved still mesmerizes him. Why the haunted expression she wears reaches right into his soul. And why her twelve year-old son looks just like him.
They say you can’t go home again. Sometimes you don’t have a choice.
My take:~
Compelling and authentic, Catherine West’s contemporary romance, Bridge of Faith, drew me in from the first sentence and held my attention to the final page. Catherine’s characters are engaging, as much for their frailties and failures, as for their more appealing traits. The impact of Reid Wallace’s choices, both personal and professional, have caused him to question his own self-worth and driven the woman he loved into a decade of pain and abuse. As Reid and Julia face the consequences of their decisions, wrestle the simmering attraction that has never died, and attempt to manage the damaged emotions of an unruly pre-teen son, a story of forgiveness, hope, and mercy unfolds. Addressing issues of family violence, war, and PTSD, Bridge of Faith engaged my emotions. mind, and faith. I would have liked more pages given to Reid’s ongoing battle with PTSD, but I’m probably nitpicking! Keep a lookout for Catherine’s books – she is an author you want on your shelves!
With thanks to the author for my review copy
QUOTED TEXT: a beautifully written story that will simply stir your soul.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Hidden In The Heart by Catherine West (Book Review / Kindle Fire Contest Giveaway
In association with Litfuse Publicity Blog Tours, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host the virtual book tour event for Hidden In The Heart by author Catherine West!
Hidden In The Heart by Catherine West
Publisher: OakTara Publishing
Publication Date: September 15, 2012
Format: Paperback - 248 pages / Kindle - 540 KB
ISBN: 1602903298
ASIN: B00A9WGM7Y
Genre: Women's Fiction
BUY THE BOOK: Hidden In The Heart
AMAZON
BARNES & NOBLE
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Litfuse Publicity Blog Tours.
Book Description:
Everything Claire wants seems to be beyond her reach…
After losing her mother to cancer and suffering a miscarriage soon after, Claire Ferguson numbs the pain with alcohol and pills, and wonders if her own life is worth living.
Adopted at birth, Claire is convinced she has some unknown genetic flaw that may have been the cause of her miscarriage. She must find a way to deal with the guilt she harbors. But exoneration will come with a price. With her marriage in trouble and her father refusing to answer any questions about her adoption, Claire begins the search for her birth mother. For the first time in her life, she really wants to know where she came from. But what if the woman who gave her life doesn’t want to be found?
For all those who have loved, experienced loss, and lived life’s roller-coaster.
Hidden in the Heart has been nominated for a 2013 Grace Award and is on the long list for an INSPY award.
My Book Review:
Hidden In The Heart is a poignant tale of loss, hope, forgiveness, and redemption. Author Catherine West weaves a powerful story about adoption, family, and a young woman's emotional journey in search of her birth mother. The author weaves an intricate fictional story based loosely on her own adoption experience.
Written in the third person narrative, the reader follows Claire Ferguson's emotional journey of self-discovery and healing. Claire is a grown adoptee whose life is in a mess after the death of her adoptive mother and suffering a miscarriage. Unable to come to terms with her grief and move forward in her life, Claire turns to alcohol and pills. She blames herself for her miscarriage and wonders if she has a genetic flaw that has contributed to the miscarriage. To get the answer, she has to find her birth mother, but when her adopted father won't provide the information or identity of her birth mother, Claire sets out on a journey with only one clue to find her.
Hidden In The Heart is a compelling story that grabs the reader by the heartstrings from the beginning and doesn't let go until the final word has been read. Author Catherine West delves into the powerfully emotional subjects of adoption, alcoholism and depression in a realistic and thoughtful way, she engages the reader to follow along with Claire as she goes in search of her identity and the closure she needs to heal her heart. The story takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride with enough drama, issues, and twists and turns that keeps them riveted and turning the page. This is not an easy story to read, you can't help but feel for Claire, her story draws upon the reader's empathy and compassion that has them feeling the full gamut of emotions.
With a realistic cast of characters who have flaws and are easy to relate to; engaging and witty dialogue and interactions; and a storyline that masterfully describes the variety of relationship dynamics of family, self-identity, and the ability to get through difficult and often traumatic life experiences with love, faith, hope and forgiveness; Hidden In The Heart is a beautifully written story that will simply stir your soul.
RATING: 5 STARS *****
REVIEW: YESTERDAY’S TOMORROW BY CATHERINE WEST
MAY 2, 2011
Book Description
She’s after the story that might get her the Pulitzer.
He’s determined to keep his secrets to himself.
Vietnam, 1967
Independent, career-driven journalist Kristin Taylor wants two things: to honor her father’s memory by becoming an award-winning overseas correspondent and to keep tabs on her only brother, Teddy, who signed up for the war against their mother’s wishes. Brilliant photographer Luke Maddox, silent and brooding, exudes mystery. Kristin is convinced he’s hiding something.
Willing to risk it all for what they believe in, Kristin and Luke engage in their own tumultuous battle until, in an unexpected twist, they’re forced to work together. Ambushed by love, they must decide whether or not to set aside their own private agendas for the hope of tomorrow that has captured their hearts.
A poignant love story set amidst the tumultuous Vietnam War.
My Review
A harrowing and affecting debut novel that throws you head first into the catastrophic reality of the Vietnam War both in the field and on the homefront. Cathy introduces us to the untold stories that permeate wartime. This is an era in the world’s history that we can not escape or ignore because it set the ground work for where we are today as a society.
The rhythm and flow of the narrative takes the reader from extreme action-packed highs, to insightful and suspenseful twists and turns, through to contemplative and heart-wrenching moments. Cathy’s writing engages all of your senses and transports the reader so that they are immersed in the congested and sweltering streets and exotic and terrorizing jungle of Vietnam. These characters will burrow themselves into your heart as their stories began to unravel and they have to reacclimatize to a life juxtaposed by what they experienced in Vietnam. The romantic elements were an added treat that adds to the complexity and richness of this story.
This is a book that you have to experience to fully appreciate it. I can throw out pages and pages of superlatives and never get close to describing how much I was touched by this book. Cathy is the fresh voice that modern historical inspirational fiction has been waiting for, especially with the brave undertaking of such a pivotal and controversial point in history. This story is for the reader that craves intelligent, mature and substantial storylines. Put her on your reader radar because this debut novelist is just getting started!
Rating: 10/10
QUOTED TEXT: a beautifully crafted novel that easily draws the reader in, captivating them as they get lost in the story while experiencing the sights, sounds, smells and turmoil of Vietnam
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Yesterday's Tomorrow by Catherine West (Book Review)
In association with Litfuse Publicity, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host the virtual book tour event for Yesterday's Tomorrow by author Catherine West!
Book Review
Yesterday's Tomorrow by Catherine West
Publisher: OakTara
Publication Date: March 15, 2011
Format: Paperback - 288 pages / Kindle - 665 KB / Nook - 552 KB
ISBN: 160290278X
ASIN: B00A9OCAQY
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction / Romance
BUY THE BOOK: Yesterday's Tomorrow
AMAZON
BARNES & NOBLE
GOODREADS
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Litfuse Publicity.
Book Description:
She's after the story that might get her the Pulitzer.
He's determined to keep his secrets to himself.
Vietnam, 1967.
Independent, career-driven journalist Kristin Taylor wants two things: to honor her father's memory by becoming an award-winning overseas correspondent and to keep tabs on her only brother, Teddy, who signed up for the war against their mother's wishes. Brilliant photographer Luke Maddox, silent and brooding, exudes mystery. Kristin is convinced he's hiding something.
Willing to risk it all for what they believe in, Kristin and Luke engage in their own tumultuous battle until, in an unexpected twist, they're forced to work together. Ambushed by love, they must decide whether or not to set aside their own private agendas for the hope of tomorrow that has captured their hearts.
A poignant love story set amidst the tumultuous Vietnam War.
My Book Review:
Yesterday's Tomorrow is a hauntingly poignant story that transports the reader to the Vietnam War with an emotional tale of love, loss, faith, hope, family and friendship. In her debut novel, author Catherine West weaves a powerful and spellbinding tale written in the third person narrative that follows the journey of journalist Kristin Taylor, when she travels to Vietnam in 1967 to cover the war in the field, following in the footsteps of her beloved father, while also keeping an eye on her younger brother Teddy, who is serving in the Army. While there Kristin is partnered with photographer Luke Maddox, and together they go into the war zones and capture the real truth of what the soldiers are experiencing during the war.
Rich in vivid details and descriptions, the reader is transported to Saigon and to the outlying villages where the crack of gunfire and explosions of landmines is gritty and raw, it simply takes your breath away. Amidst the chaos, confusion and violence, Kristin and Luke find each other, their banter is a welcome relief from the tension and harsh reality of war. The development of their love story is tender, yet also has suspenseful twists and turns that keeps the pages turning. The complexity of their spiritual and emotional journey brings pieces of Vietnam home with them, their lives will never be the same.
Yesterday's Tomorrow is a beautifully crafted novel that easily draws the reader in, captivating them as they get lost in the story while experiencing the sights, sounds, smells and turmoil of Vietnam, coupled with complex characters who faced heart-wrenching decisions, while finding hope, faith and love during a very emotional and traumatic time in history.
Yesterday's Tomorrow is a compelling and thought-provoking story that is a must read, it is a story that will resonate with you for a very long time.
RATING: 5 STARS *****
QUOTED TEXT: All that said, I can honestly say I was surprised by this book. From the first page, the author had me hooked with her voice, and her story-line. And that's saying something, especially since the book is set in Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2013
A Writer's Review of “Yesterday's Tomorrow" by Catherine West
{My Review}
This definitely wasn't my typical read. But as always, I'm usually trying to branch out past "my favorite" authors and publishers hoping to find something new and spectacular. I don't usually end up doing that, which ends up driving me right back to those tested, tried and true authors who I know will not disappoint.
I've never read a book published by OakTara Publishing-- and part of that is because I am somewhat of a book snob. I don't want to be, you see... and that's why I'm constantly looking for books to change my mind about small market publishers and the like who will contract books directly with authors instead of literary agents. I'm usually disappointed. But then again--and I blame my editor-like, perfectionist, writer's brain--I've come to the point in which I can clearly acknowledge that even the "best" and most popular publishers sometimes publish rubbish I can hardly stand because of poor writing or lack of editing.
All that said, I can honestly say I was surprised by this book. From the first page, the author had me hooked with her voice, and her story-line. And that's saying something, especially since the book is set in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. For some reason, in my mind, it doesn't seem like a particularly good idea to base a book in the 1960's--but that might be because that decade always seemed to be so filled with such awful happenings for the history of America (not that I was there, or even a twinkle in my parents' eyes at the time).
I really enjoyed the main characters, Kristen Taylor and Luke Maddox, as well as the assuage of minor characters they interacted with along the way.
There were teeny-weeny things along the way involving scene-structure and dialogue that I noticed only because my brain is geared toward editing, but beyond that, the story was quite enjoyable. Any normal, everyday reader looking for a good book will enjoy Catherine West's Yesterday's Tomorrow.
QUOTED TEXT: This story is filled with so many likable characters. Great job
FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013
Review of Hidden in the Heart by Catherine West
About Hidden in the Heart:
Everything Claire wants seems to be beyond her reach...
After losing her mother to cancer and suffering a miscarriage soon after, Claire Ferguson numbs the pain with alcohol and pills, and wonders if her own life is worth living.
Adopted at birth, Claire is convinced she has some unknown genetic flaw that may have been the cause of her miscarriage. She must find a way to deal with the guilt she harbors. But exoneration will come with a price. With her marriage in trouble and her father refusing to answer any questions about her adoption, Claire begins the search for her birth mother. For the first time in her life, she really wants to know where she came from. But what if the woman who gave her life doesn't want to be found?
Hidden in the Heart has been nominated for a 2013 Grace Award and is on the long list for an INSPY award.
Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jyIxz
My Review:
This book made me feel really good. It had such a happy ending after the way it started out. Clair is Christmas shopping and runs into and old friend who tells her she has found her birth parents and suggest that , since Clair is also adopted she should search for her also. Claire is still reeling from several recent losses and has turned to alcohol and prescription drugs for comfort. She and her husband have separated. When she takes a trip to Maine, she finds a lot more that she bargained for. She finds out that GOD really is there for her and that he make ever thing happen for a reason.
I was so happy for Claire; I would love to read more about her and to find out what is in store for her bright future. This story is filled with so many likable characters. Great job Catherine West.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.