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Guiding Emily #4

Down the Aisle: Book Four of the Guiding Emily Series

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When a cyberattack threatens to destroy Emily’s company, she does what she can to counter the threat. Her efforts, however, are thwarted until she’s promoted to oversee both her team and the cyber security group. With the company’s survival at stake and in her hands, she knows the one person she can turn to—Dhruv.

Meanwhile, work deadlines and family emergencies repeatedly interrupt Emily and Grant’s plans for a romantic weekend. Luckily, Zoe and Diedre are determined to keep things on track so they can become stepsisters. Eventually, a simple family wedding will hold a touching remembrance.

Join Emily and Garth as they walk down the aisle… Interview with the Author Have you always wanted to be a writer?
I'm an attorney and have done a lot of technical writing, but knew I wanted to write novels. I thought I'd find time when I retired. Fate stepped in, as it often does, and put me on this path sooner. I broke my neck in an auto accident and suffered from double vision for months. I couldn't read or watch TV, so I conceived the plot for my Rosemont series. Why did you decide to write a series?
I prefer television series to movies. The longer format of television allows for deeper character development. The same holds true for series fiction. I like to fall in love with a character or hate a character (but root for them to change their ways). I feel like Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi from Alexander McCall Smith's Ladies' Detective Agency series are old friends. I wanted to recreate that sort of connection in the Rosemont series. What other authors do you read or admire?
I'm a fan of women's fiction, women's sagas, romantic suspense, domestic suspense, crime fiction, and romance. I love Rosamunde Pilcher's later trilogy -The Shell Seekers, Coming Home, and September . Jan Karon's Mitford series creates an enchanting world, as does Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove. My Rosemont series is set in the current day, but I've tried to capture a feeling of camaraderie and connection (among the good guys) that takes us back to a slightly simpler time and place. What are your favorite books?
In addition to the works I've already mentioned, I adored A Man Called One, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, and A Long Way from Chicago. Who has had the greatest influence on your author life?
My dad--without question. He told me or read me a bedtime story every night of my childhood, often adding his own twists and turns to the plots or dialogue. He had an incredible, gentle sense of humor. He also wrote novels--who-done-its--when he retired. What are the high points of your author journey?
There are 3 things I hold very 1) hearing from readers--especially newly blind adults--that my Guiding Emilyseries has given then hope and provided comfort, 2) having my novella The Christmas Club made into a Hallmark Channel movie of the same name (2019), and 3) seeing my name on the USA Today Bestseller List. What of your own interests have you written about in the Rosemont series?
I love my home and all things related to cooking, gardening, decorating, and entertaining. I love
celebrating all of the seasons and I change my decor for Easter, 4th of July, fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring.

336 pages, Paperback

Published March 30, 2023

132 people are currently reading
1001 people want to read

About the author

Barbara Hinske

46 books1,395 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author Barbara Hinske is an attorney who recently left the practice of law to pursue her career as a full-time novelist. She inherited the fiction gene from her father who wrote mysteries when he retired and told her a story every night of her childhood. Barbara is the bestselling author of the beloved Rosemont series; the acclaimed Guiding Emily series; a collection of murder mystery thrillers in her "Who's There?" collection; and her sweet Christmas novellas The Christmas Club (adapted for the Hallmark Channel in 2019), Paws & Pastries, and No Matter How Far.

She and her husband share their own Rosemont with two adorable and spoiled dogs. She is besotted with decorating, entertaining, cooking and gardening. Now that her novel The Christmas Club has been made into a Hallmark Channel movie, she is completely star-struck and thrilled to have her work on the screen.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
Profile Image for Barbara Hinske.
Author 46 books1,395 followers
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February 1, 2023
I'm excited to bring you this fourth volume in the Guiding Emily Series, where Emily continues to live a vibrant life as a visually-impaired woman, meeting the challenges that present themselves to all of us. I've had such an incredibly enthusiastic response to this series from the community of visually-impaired people--especially newly-blind adults. I regularly receive emails telling me that I've accurately and honestly portrayed their experiences--and that I've given them hope.

My research for this series has made me aware of the isolation that the visually-impaired feel within the signed community--and of the misguided stereotypes that contribute to the 70% unemployment rate of eligible blind adults. This statistic is devastating and I'm committed to raising awareness of the extraordinary capabilities and strengths that blind people have developed in their daily lives.

A fun, fast-paced novel is an accessible way to do this. I hope you enjoy Down the Aisle.
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,113 reviews28 followers
March 17, 2023
This is such a good series and each new book gets better. I especially love the dogs and am a huge lab lover. It’s great to see how someone blind can enjoy a normal life with the proper tools and people in their lives who support them. The characters are all great; I’d love to be their neighbor and friend. Thanks to the author for allowing me to read an ARC.
Profile Image for Robin.
648 reviews23 followers
April 8, 2023
Book 4 of the Guiding Emily series. I really love how this book ended. Tied up all the questions but left a little so there could be a book 5 someday. Great series
27 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2023
I cannot praise this beautiful book highly enough. I've followed Emily and Garth since the first book and I thought THAT was inspirational and wonderful - but Barbara Hinske has outdone herself with this book.

The book has an all round happy feel, despite the issues that Emily suffers with her work. I found myself cheering for Druv ... getting slightly angry at times on the character's behalf because of how they were treated.

Barbara writes in such a way that the reader is instantly brought into the story. I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this book and read it in one sitting. It was that good! I simply couldn't put it down. You will need tissues and the ending is wonderful - I hope there will. be another in the series.

Emily, Garth and Dhruv are inspirational characters. They spring to life off the page almost as fully fledged people. I didn't so much READ the book as WATCH it. The writing was so good that the whole story came to life. It was lovely to reconnect with all my favourite characters.

I'm trying not to give any spoilers so I'll leave it there - all I will say is you NEED to read this book. I have to add that someone extremely close to me is losing their sight and she told me that this series has taken away her fear of how things will be when that does happen.

I'm going to go back and read all the other books as well now.
Profile Image for JoAnne.
3,156 reviews32 followers
April 13, 2023
Down the Aisle picks up where the last book in the Guiding Emily series left off. I was drawn in immediately and was immersed totally into the story. There are computer issues with the company's viability at stake and once again Emily and her team are all in to help solve the problem and prevent it from ever happening again. But it's hard to be effective or solve a problem when the one in charge circumvents them every way he can. When will management realize?

We learn more about the characters as well as their strengths and weaknesses. There are multiple stories being told and they are woven together nicely. There is a good flow and the story is quick-paced with romantic touches throughout. I loved how we learned of Emily's guide dog's thoughts and how much closer Zoe and Diedre got. I enjoyed reuniting with so many of the characters we've previously met. Once again the pets played a role in the telling of the tale. Although there's a happy ending with the hoped for happily ever after there are some loose ends when the story ends. I can only hope that means we'll be back in San Francisco with Emily, Grant, Zoe and Diedre and the rest of their friends and families once again.
1,078 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2025
In the fourth installment in this series, Emily becomes the center of joined teams at work and a joined family at home. Meanwhile, her friend Gina experiences the early challenges of motherhood, and Stephanie struggles with an unexplained illness. Zoe and Deirdre contin-every to grow close, and the guide dogs Garth and Biscuit demonstrate what canine professionalism looks like.
Some of the transitions between chapters (like 36 and 37) are a little confusing because of quick writing that doesn't clarify changes in time, and the dialogue is still problematic. It's also irritating to always read about Garth's "working harness" when most people just say "harness."
This is a book (and a series) for traditionalists. Every girl gets paired up with a man and can't wait to start having babies. Every girl also loves shopping, sweets, flowers, beautiful clothes, jewelry, and going to the spa. Still, readers will probably want to find out how the author resolves a few loose strands in the story, and the final book in the series is just the place to satisfy that craving.
488 reviews
July 26, 2023
I was sad to learn this is the last of this series. I’ve love all four books! In this book, Emily and Druv both get promotions. Druv and Stephanie go on their dream vacation. There are hints that possibly Stephanie is pregnant but Stephanie reassures everyone she’s unable to get pregnant. Gina has her baby. Emily and Grant babysit baby Alex as Gina’s Dad has a heart attack. Caring for Alex ,Emily finds out she is more than capable to care for a baby. . The biggest surprise is Grant proposes to Emily in a very unusual way and with a humungous diamond. He finds a dream home in which they will get married in. Martha gets in touch with the recipient of Emily’s father’s heart to ask if he would walk Emily down the aisle. The two girls take over planning the wedding. The wedding will take place in the new house and Rhonda will be the officiant.
The book ends with the hint that Sylvia (Grant’s mom) and Tom (heart recipient) may get together.
The book has nothing but happy events! I hope there will be a book #5!
844 reviews40 followers
March 14, 2023
There is only one thing I don’t love about these books and that is when it ends. I cannot wait till the next one is ready to read! Emily is so awesome. She is strong and the way she sticks up for folks is what we should all do. Wish I had had a boss like her. Garth is still my favorite. I love him so much. His thoughts crack me up sometimes. There is not a main character who is not wonderful and caring. Course if you want a jerk or two just to keep things interesting, you may find one of those also. The story line is very realistic and you may relate to some of the happenings. I’m totally ready to see what happens next in the lives of these beautiful people. I received an ARC of this book, but my opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Barbara.
1,610 reviews23 followers
March 23, 2023
Emily and Dhruv finally get the recognition they deserve for their efforts in countering a cyberattack on the company they work for. No thanks to a higher up with no people skills and his own agenda. Emily and Grant have been trying, without success, to have a romantic weekend alone. Gina and Craig are preparing for the arrival of their baby. Zoe and Diedre are becoming quite the young entrepreneurs. Stephanie is feeling a little under the weather.

A heartwarming story that pulls at the heartstrings about changes, new beginnings, big surprises, lots of emotion, and a HEA. You might get a lump in your throat and want some tissues nearby in a couple of spots.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Barbara Desman.
2 reviews
April 6, 2023
The characters in Barbara Hinske’s novels quickly become my friends. So, I was very happy to be reunited with Emily’s friends and family and her guide dog, Garth in the fourth book in the Guiding Emily series. Hinske’s books are like curling up in a soft throw and eating gingersnaps with a cup of tea. Don’t get me wrong, there are bumps along the way that have you anxious for some of her characters and, if you’re like me, shedding some tears of sorrow and joy. But when you’ve read the last line, you will be satisfied and longing to be in their company again. I highly recommend all of the books in this series as you will not only have a beautiful reading experience but you will gain a real appreciation for the challenges and successes of a blind person navigating this sighted world.
73 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2023
This latest addition to the Guiding Emily series continues the story of Emily Main, her guide dog Garth, and their friends and family. There are challenges ahead as well as significant life events, as the title suggests.

I’ve appreciated the way the author has developed the main character, Emily, in what seems like a very realistic and respectful way. She’s certainly living a full, satisfying life with the help of her guide dog and support network.

As a dog lover, I’ve also enjoyed the special bond between Emily and Garth and love the chapters written from the dog’s perspective!

A heartwarming, easy-to-enjoy read.
Profile Image for Pam Fleming.
1,055 reviews
April 6, 2023
A great addition to the Guiding Emily series. The story is told from the perspective of two characters, Emily who work in computer security, and her guide dog Garth. Emily, blinded in her honeymoon, divorced her first husband and has worked hard to be an independent blind woman. She serves as a mother to Zoe, who she began to care for, after the death of Zoe’s grandmother. Emily’s relationship with her boyfriend Grant deepens in the story. On the work side of her life, Emily works with her co-worker Dhruv to overcome a cyberattack on the company’s computer system

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
17 reviews
April 8, 2023
Whenever I find a new book by Barbara Hinske, I grab it. This series about newly blinded Emily and her guide dog Garth is warm and enlightening. It is best to read the books in order so you can watch Emily's path from a frightened, newly blinded woman to a successful businesswoman and loving adoptive mother. She faces new challenges when her company is hacked for ransom but she and her brilliant friend Dhruv are able to work together despite bumps along the way. And her fiancé Grant is also there as they are about to begin their life together. I particularly getting the perspective of her loyal guide dog whose comments are priceless.
886 reviews6 followers
November 5, 2024
I found this book really interesting as I have all the other books in the series. It's grate following emilie's story as she adjusts to losing her site. Grant is a lovely guy and really takes Emilies lack of vision into account. Zoe and Deadra are amazing as they have been since the start. I love the way Zoe and Emily have developed such a strong relationship and then we have Druve and Stephanie who have also been fantastic supporting characters. Emily has been through a lot however it'sg grate to see how she embraces new chalenges and learns from the experience. I'm looking forward to reading book 5 when it arives on Audible.
161 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2023
Down the Aisle

Another great chapter in Emily Main's life. We meet up with old friends and meet a few new ones. Emily and her friend Dhruv have a cyber security problem at work. Despite roadblocks, they keep working to solve it. Romance is in the air for Emily. This story moves along at a fast pace and is just a joy to read.
I received a Advance Reader Copy and devoured it. If you haven't read the previous three books in this series, you should. The story builds with each book. You won't be sorry. I highly recommend this series and every other book Barbara Hinske writes.
4,536 reviews38 followers
April 7, 2023
Down the Aisle is a clean, heartwarming romance with a tad of suspense. I was completely drawn into the story and did not put it down. I find Emily to be amazing. I especially loved the part where she went toe to toe with Howard over recognizing Dhruv's work. I enjoy the chapters from guide dog Garth's point of view. For me the best part of this book was the wedding with the girls as wedding planners, the home owner's attending and the inclusion of Norman. I highly recommend this well written book - even if you have not read another in the series!
729 reviews1 follower
April 12, 2023
Wonderful!

What a wonderful series! It's amazing to learn about guide dogs and their training along with the recipient who will forever be grateful for learning how to handle the dog and what is expected. This series followed how Emily felt with the loss of her sight and learning to navigate on her own and then with the guide dog. It was an especially insightful story. I'm sad it's over with because I have trouble letting go of the characters I have met. I wonder if the author has that problem too? Thanks Barbara Bundle for the entertainment.
26 reviews
May 2, 2023
I loved the whole series -- all the books were special to read but maybe this last one was my favorite. There was so much more family togetherness as the two daughters were becoming best friends and sisters and the mothers were already on the way there. You will understand my comment more as you read the book. I LOVED how a boss actually fought for her employee and won and got an insipid but high-ranking and non-team player fired. You will see this high-ranking and non-team player in
Book 3 as well, and remember that leopards don't usually change their spots.
27 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2023
Really good, heartfelt series of books

I liked how the author really detailed the characters and meshed them together. The novels were very well written and I did not discover one misspelling or grammatical error, which is remarkable. Some books are so full of both that it interrupts my train of reading. Congratulations to an excellent writer and editor. The books were well researched, with great details about living blind, technology, and living and working in the real world. I laughed as much as I cried. Highly recommend for good, quality reading.
346 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2023
So happy together... Words of a beautiful song and sets the tone

Grant & Emily are perfect for each other and the love they share with their girls and their families is what joy is. I love how MS Hinske incorporated organ donation into the story. This is a very special organization to me and an expression of love in the most intimate form. How she went into detail of the feelings both Emily & Sylvia felt upon meeting the recipient of their loved one's heart expressing the gratitude of this gift.
76 reviews
April 6, 2023
Satisfying, with some surprises!

It's so good to read a series where characters are allowed to change and grow. Catching up with Emily and Garth also includes changes in other characters' lives--changes which impact Emily's life, too. As implicated by the title, Emily is getting married, and that path is not always bumpless or without stresses. I hope this is not the last in the series, but it's been a really good journey if it is!
27 reviews
April 6, 2023

Barbara Hinske has done it again in book four of the Guiding Emily Series, Down the Aisle. It’s full of intrigue as Emily and Dhruv help investigate the cyber attack on the company, while planning her wedding to Grant. It’s heartwarming, romantic and blends two families together and tells the story through her guide dog Garth’s perspective. It’s an easy, enjoyable read. I give it 5 stars! I highly recommend this book!
9 reviews
April 7, 2023
I totally enjoyed Down the Aisle and an opportunity to revisit with the cast of characters! We are introduced to a new character too, who I hope will reappear in the next installment, if one is planned. The cover is phenomenal! Just look into Garth’s eyes and his smile, just like a Labradors! Makes me wish I could hear what our pet female Labrador, Riley thinks about our household shenanigans! You just can’t go wrong with any of Barbara Hinske’s books!
Profile Image for Carol Ardeeser.
96 reviews1 follower
April 9, 2023
As Emily and Dhruv work to combat a cyberattack at their company they are thwarted by the director in another city but things work out as they work together to implement Dhruv's plan.
They solve the attack problem and still deal with other personal matters. Another heartwarming story and happy ending for Emily, Garth, and Grant with the help of family members. These books are so down to earth and full of inspiration!!!
Profile Image for Eileen Vernor.
265 reviews5 followers
May 6, 2023
I love this series!

It is such a joy to read these stories of Emily and Garth. They have helped me understand what it’s like to navigate the world without sight, particularly difficult for one who was born sighted. The author’s character development is great, each person has multi dimensions and surprising features. Can’t wait to read what comes next as Emily, Garth and Grant build their new life together!
Profile Image for Julie.
20 reviews4 followers
March 5, 2023
What a wonderful continuation of Emily’s story with her guide dog, Garth! It’s nice to see good people get the recognition they deserve and how some things in life come full circle! If you’ve read the first three books in the series, you won’t be disappointed with this one either. Thank you to the author and her team for the chance to read this ARC copy!!
Profile Image for Paulette.
983 reviews23 followers
March 12, 2023
This fourth book in the series of Guiding Emily is whirlwind reading experience. From a cyber attack to a special wedding, the Author Barbara Hinske brings alive the wonderful story of Emily and her seeing eye dog, Garth along with their devoted family and friends. I enjoyed this delightful book and this review of the arc given to me by the author is my own opinion.
72 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2023
This is the fourth book in the series and the first that I read. I really enjoyed this book with all the interesting characters and loving relationships. Emily is blind, and I love her guide dog Garth, and their relationship. Emily has a great support group, and an ongoing romance with Grant. This couple is so endearing, and they end up getting married.
13 reviews
April 10, 2023
Book 4 of the Guiding Emily series was an exciting as Emily , and Dhruv embark on a mission to find a cyber attacker whose asking a ransom .
So much for a romantic weekend , or is it ?
Will Emily and Grant make it happen . Oh then there’s two daughters on a mission to make it happen ! Garth has the best seat of all !!
Barbara Hinske has done it again !! 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Patricia.
71 reviews
August 4, 2023
A Perfect Ending!

A perfect ending to a beautiful series filled with amazing characters! I look forward to reading all about Emily’s and Grant’s new baby (or babies). Please don’t stop now, Barbara; there must be more to this story! I also look forward to the movie version and hopefully the TV series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews

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