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Stardust
Shortly after burying her unfaithful husband, Georgia Peyton unexpectedly inherits the derelict Stardust motel from a distant relative. Despite doubts from the community and the aunt who raised her, she is determined to breathe new life into it. But the guests who arrive aren't what Georgia expects: Her gin-loving mother-in-law; her dead husband's mistress; an attractive but down-on-his-luck drifter who's tired of the endless road; and an aging Vaudeville entertainer with a disturbing link to Georgia's past.
Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxy to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the Stardust ever come true?
Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxy to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the Stardust ever come true?
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
35 people are currently reading
3294 people want to read
About the author
Carla Stewart
16 books152 followersCarla Stewart’s writing reflects her passion for times gone by as depicted in her first highly-acclaimed novel, Chasing Lilacs. Carla launched her writing career in 2002 when she earned the coveted honor of being invited to attend Guidepost's Writers Workshop in Rye, New York. Since then, her articles have appeared in Guideposts, Angels on Earth, Saddle Baron, and Blood and Thunder: Musings on the Art of Medicine.
In her life before writing, Carla enjoyed a career in nursing and raising her family. Now that their four sons are married and they’ve become empty-nesters, she and her husband relish the occasional weekend getaway and delight in the adventures of their six grandchildren.
Carla enjoys a good cup of coffee, great books, and hearing from you, her readers. You’re invited to contact her and learn more about her writing at www.carlastewart.com
In her life before writing, Carla enjoyed a career in nursing and raising her family. Now that their four sons are married and they’ve become empty-nesters, she and her husband relish the occasional weekend getaway and delight in the adventures of their six grandchildren.
Carla enjoys a good cup of coffee, great books, and hearing from you, her readers. You’re invited to contact her and learn more about her writing at www.carlastewart.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
October 4, 2011
My third novel coming in May, 2012!
June 1, 2012
I received this book from a Goodreads Giveaway. When I entered, I had no idea it was a faith based book. When I received it, and noticed it was, I was trepidacious. Although I have my own beliefs, I am not religious, and I do not care for others cramming their religion down my throat. If you are like minded, don't worry, this is not that book. This was a sweet book, with a nice little story. I appreciate the author's light hand. She could have been very heavy handed here, and she did not once fall into an overly sentimental storytelling, nor was her faith like a sledgehammer. This kind of book can easily have that, and I enjoyed her light touch. I wish all people's religious leaning were so honest and true to them, while being so subtle.
June 20, 2012
With the death of author Maeve Binchy yesterday, Twitter was awash with quotes from and about her books. One line from Ms. Binchy herself immediately made me think of this book: “I don't have ugly ducklings turning into swans in my stories. I have ugly ducklings turning into confident ducks.” Georgia Peyton is widowed, raising two daughters and nearly broke. With no experience as anything but a housewife, she sets out to remake the Stardust motel. Part of her transformation involves uncovering the secrets clouding her childhood and surrounding her husband's death. But it wasn't the ugly duckling or the mystery - although both are very good - that made this a five-star book on my list.
I was fascinated with the setting and the era. My family took a vacation each summer, usually to the mountains, and sometimes stayed in small, cabin-style motels similar to the Stardust. Though that would have been a decade later than the 1950's setting of the book, the giant chain hotels were yet to take over. Reading Stardust brought back some fond memories. It also introduced me to the polio epidemic.
Poliomyelitis was rampant in the U.S. in the first half of the twentieth century and reached it's height in the early 1950's, with over 50,000 cases in 1952. I've met several people who contracted polio as a child and were left with twisted or paralyzed limbs, and I've heard stories of iron lungs, but they were distant stories to me - something that happened to someone else before I was born. I had no idea of the fear that gripped communities where someone contracted polio or the torture of treatment in an iron lung. I recall, as a child, collecting and saving dimes in cardboard folders to be contributed to the March of Dimes, but had no clue why. Reading Stardust was an eye-opener for me, as well as a good story.
I'm recommending Stardust, both as a good read and as a history lesson. If you read it and become curious about the history of polio and it's effects on individuals and the nation, I recommend the Smithsonian Institute's site Whatever Happened to Polio? Both are fascinating reading.
I was fascinated with the setting and the era. My family took a vacation each summer, usually to the mountains, and sometimes stayed in small, cabin-style motels similar to the Stardust. Though that would have been a decade later than the 1950's setting of the book, the giant chain hotels were yet to take over. Reading Stardust brought back some fond memories. It also introduced me to the polio epidemic.
Poliomyelitis was rampant in the U.S. in the first half of the twentieth century and reached it's height in the early 1950's, with over 50,000 cases in 1952. I've met several people who contracted polio as a child and were left with twisted or paralyzed limbs, and I've heard stories of iron lungs, but they were distant stories to me - something that happened to someone else before I was born. I had no idea of the fear that gripped communities where someone contracted polio or the torture of treatment in an iron lung. I recall, as a child, collecting and saving dimes in cardboard folders to be contributed to the March of Dimes, but had no clue why. Reading Stardust was an eye-opener for me, as well as a good story.
I'm recommending Stardust, both as a good read and as a history lesson. If you read it and become curious about the history of polio and it's effects on individuals and the nation, I recommend the Smithsonian Institute's site Whatever Happened to Polio? Both are fascinating reading.
June 9, 2012
Reading this story makes me feel like I've made a new friend.
Georgia Peyton is a true southern gentlewoman; strong, yet open and kindhearted. She's gracious and generous, but not a pushover. What she gives, she does of her own choice. She quietly carries her hurts, longings, and betrayal, but remains loyal, regardless of whether or not it's deserved. The kindness she shows to her cheating dead husband's mother first comes from her instinctive sense of duty, but, as Georgia is challenged to dig deeper throughout this story, her care for Mary Frances comes from an untapped place in her core, borne out of compassion. I love this! I also admire the way her unconventional friendship with Ludi, the black woman from the bayou, begins so naturally. She slips it on like a favorite sweater, without regard to the constant censure of people in her life and community who can't see past color, fear, and bigotry.
Georgia is a woman who shows patience and respect for others even when she doesn't agree with them, yet she still has plenty of room to grow. Her life has been fraught with unanswered questions and memories that eat at her sense of security. In this story, when the polio epidemic moves in closer to home and fear escalates, Georgia must make difficult choices that affect those she loves. In the midst of fear, confusion, and the unknown, she must keep her head and consider what's best in the long run for others, and to follow through by faith.
Through forgiveness and surrender, she finds the love and peace she seeks, and I love that. Faith is ironic that way, best tested and strengthened when the outcome is unknown. An example of this is seen in one major test of Georgia's strength and grace: the challenge and opportunity to help her dead husband's mistress. Georgia's courage and willingness to go the extra mile for others--whether or not they deserve it--is a powerful example of Christ-like, sacrificial love you can put your trust in.
Besides my friend Georgia, what I loved about this story is its subtle complexity. While a smooth, easy read (Carla Stewart's soft southern voice is like a soothing song), its layers are rich with real characters, each with their own unique strengths and flaws, right down to the children, who charm us with their childish moods and true childlike wonder. While simply captivating and entertaining, this story gently touches on some weighty topics such as infidelity, addiction and prejudice with the same grace and compassion we quickly come to love it its heroine.
This is such a beautifully told and engaging story, but it's also a subtle but powerful lesson in hope, redemption, love, loyalty and grace that you won't soon forget.
Georgia Peyton is a true southern gentlewoman; strong, yet open and kindhearted. She's gracious and generous, but not a pushover. What she gives, she does of her own choice. She quietly carries her hurts, longings, and betrayal, but remains loyal, regardless of whether or not it's deserved. The kindness she shows to her cheating dead husband's mother first comes from her instinctive sense of duty, but, as Georgia is challenged to dig deeper throughout this story, her care for Mary Frances comes from an untapped place in her core, borne out of compassion. I love this! I also admire the way her unconventional friendship with Ludi, the black woman from the bayou, begins so naturally. She slips it on like a favorite sweater, without regard to the constant censure of people in her life and community who can't see past color, fear, and bigotry.
Georgia is a woman who shows patience and respect for others even when she doesn't agree with them, yet she still has plenty of room to grow. Her life has been fraught with unanswered questions and memories that eat at her sense of security. In this story, when the polio epidemic moves in closer to home and fear escalates, Georgia must make difficult choices that affect those she loves. In the midst of fear, confusion, and the unknown, she must keep her head and consider what's best in the long run for others, and to follow through by faith.
Through forgiveness and surrender, she finds the love and peace she seeks, and I love that. Faith is ironic that way, best tested and strengthened when the outcome is unknown. An example of this is seen in one major test of Georgia's strength and grace: the challenge and opportunity to help her dead husband's mistress. Georgia's courage and willingness to go the extra mile for others--whether or not they deserve it--is a powerful example of Christ-like, sacrificial love you can put your trust in.
Besides my friend Georgia, what I loved about this story is its subtle complexity. While a smooth, easy read (Carla Stewart's soft southern voice is like a soothing song), its layers are rich with real characters, each with their own unique strengths and flaws, right down to the children, who charm us with their childish moods and true childlike wonder. While simply captivating and entertaining, this story gently touches on some weighty topics such as infidelity, addiction and prejudice with the same grace and compassion we quickly come to love it its heroine.
This is such a beautifully told and engaging story, but it's also a subtle but powerful lesson in hope, redemption, love, loyalty and grace that you won't soon forget.
May 17, 2012
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3.5 Stars
I'm new to Carla Stewart's books, as Stardust is the only one I've read of her novels so far. While the story was interesting, it never really grabbed by attention. Toward the end, though, it did get a little better as there was some mystery/suspense.
The romance between Peter and Georgia added a nice element to Stardust. I really liked Peter's character - he seemed like such a nice guy! A lot of the characters in Stardust I found to be really unique and that made reading it more enjoyable.
The ending was good, but I do wish there would have been a bit more closure to some things - specifically if someone survives or not.
While I did like Stardust, I don't plan on rereading it. I am eclectic in my reading, but I'm not a huge fan of books like this - where the husband has an affair, etc. If you like books that are similar to this, then you should definitely consider reading this book. :)
*I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
3.5 Stars
I'm new to Carla Stewart's books, as Stardust is the only one I've read of her novels so far. While the story was interesting, it never really grabbed by attention. Toward the end, though, it did get a little better as there was some mystery/suspense.
The romance between Peter and Georgia added a nice element to Stardust. I really liked Peter's character - he seemed like such a nice guy! A lot of the characters in Stardust I found to be really unique and that made reading it more enjoyable.
The ending was good, but I do wish there would have been a bit more closure to some things - specifically if someone survives or not.
While I did like Stardust, I don't plan on rereading it. I am eclectic in my reading, but I'm not a huge fan of books like this - where the husband has an affair, etc. If you like books that are similar to this, then you should definitely consider reading this book. :)
*I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
June 13, 2012
The book "Stardust" is about a woman named Georgia Peyton. After her husband, O'dell dies, Georgia is left with two girls and no income. After a few weeks of job hunting, Georgia finds out that she inherited the local motel, The Stardust. She gets there in earnest expectation only to find that all of the lodges are damaged! Now she thought her new-found dream of switching on the "No Vacancy" sign was ruined! All until one day, a man named Peter comes looking for an overnight stay. He ends up staying way longer to help Georgia clean up and rebuild! In Georgia's personal life, things aren't so sunny side up. Georgia finds a life insurance policy in her husband's work briefcase. To her great astonishment, it doesn't have her name on it. Back at the Stardust, business is going good until two things happen. First, she comes face to face with the receiver of her husband's insurance policy. Then, the polio epidemic of the 1960's hits her hometown, starting with the Stardust. More detail lies in the pages if the book "Stardust" by Carla Stewart.
Some of the things I liked about the book? There were a lot! I really liked how Carla Stewart made the characters believable. In some of the fiction books i read, the characters aren't believable at all! I also like how you got attached to the characters in your own special way. For me, the conflict and emotion were the things that kept me reading. Can't wait to read you other books, Carla! :)
Some of the things I liked about the book? There were a lot! I really liked how Carla Stewart made the characters believable. In some of the fiction books i read, the characters aren't believable at all! I also like how you got attached to the characters in your own special way. For me, the conflict and emotion were the things that kept me reading. Can't wait to read you other books, Carla! :)
May 10, 2012
I love a good historical read and before I talk about the book itself I have to say the history in this one knocked me out of the park! Stardust was a truly amazing riveting book. Georgia Payton goes through quite a bit of growth as a character in this story, she looses a husband, uncle, gains a property, gains some unlikely friends. Finds out the answers to some secrets burning in her mind and through it all does so with grace and poise.
I mentioned before I love a good historical read and the history that drew me in here was the March of Dimes. My blogging partner and baby girl C was a premature baby so I've worked with the MOD frequently. But now I get to see their initial cause up close and personal. The descriptions of life at the beginning of a polio outbreak, the treatments use and most especially the Iron Lung really drew me in to this story. I love learning as I read a book I consider great entertainment! This story really tops off the charts with some many facets and great writing!
I mentioned before I love a good historical read and the history that drew me in here was the March of Dimes. My blogging partner and baby girl C was a premature baby so I've worked with the MOD frequently. But now I get to see their initial cause up close and personal. The descriptions of life at the beginning of a polio outbreak, the treatments use and most especially the Iron Lung really drew me in to this story. I love learning as I read a book I consider great entertainment! This story really tops off the charts with some many facets and great writing!
September 14, 2012
I picked this novel up on a whim at the library as a result of my not wanting to read crime/supernatural/war/chick lit fiction that particular day (leaving this book as the best option). I hadn't been expecting much from it since I try to stay away from heavy drama in novels and thought this would be just another hard-luck tale with little redemption. As it turned out, Stardust surprised me. I got sucked into the narrative (excellent storytelling!) and felt myself relating to the main protagonist, Georgia, even though our lives are very different. I loved the history portrayed in the story - it's set during the polio epidemic in the 1950s - and I appreciated how the drama wasn't "fast and furious" but still remained compelling enough that I finished the 300-page book in about three sittings. Even better, it's a clean story that didn't insult my intelligence as a reader. A refreshing novel.
October 22, 2012
Oh my goodness. I LOVED this book. Interestingly enough, this is not a genre I typically read, however, I won Carla's book and therefore I read it. And am I ever glad I did. Carla's voice is so lyrical and true. Her characters face life with decision and determination, even when the odds of happiness seem stacked against them. The whole time I read this, I wanted to BE at the Stardust, taking up one of the little cottages, sipping sweet tea while listening to the songs of the South. Thank you for opening my eyes to a new "slice of life," Carla!
Read
September 25, 2012"Stardust" is a delightful journey to the bayou country of east Texas in 1952. Georgia Peyton is a strong character, unafraid of hard work, who tells her story with a vivid Southern voice. The terrifying unknowns of polio add a unique tension to the story. If you enjoyed "The Help", you'll love "Stardust"!
July 4, 2012
An eclectic cast of characters, a setting as rich as any character, the fascinating historical backdrop of the polio epidemics in the early 1950s, and Carla Stewart's lyrical writing make Stardust a winner of a novel.
September 14, 2013
Well done!! Great writing! Natural plot developments! Great ending. Interesting to learn more about polio. What a terrible time..
April 11, 2012
In Stardust we travel back to the 1950’s.
Georgia’s husband has left her for another woman. After two months his body is found in the swamp. Now she’s a widow and she needs to take care of her two daughters alone.
Georgia was raised by an aunt. Her parents left her at the Stardust motel when she was 3 years old. Her aunt doesn’t want to tell her the reason why her parents left her there.
While growing up Georgia often found refuge in the Stardust. Paddy and Doreen ran the place and loved her like a daughter. When Paddy dies he leaves the Stardust to Georgia. Doreen tells her that the answer to her past is hidden in the Stardust.
Her aunt doubts that she can run the place as a stand-alone-mother. Besides it’s dangerous for a woman alone to run a highway motel.
Soon her mother-in-law comes to live in one of the cabins. Then a stranger –Peter- comes to the Stardust and asks for a job. Peter is helping Georgia with repairs. Georgia grows to like him and people start talking behind her back.
Then a pregnant woman and her young daughter come to the Stardust. The woman is sick and needs to go to the hospital. While she’s there Georgia takes care of the woman’s daughter. But then Georgia finds out who the woman is...
Can she forgive the woman for ruining her life?
And when she finds out the truth about her parents, can she forgive her aunt for keeping the truth from her?
Peter gets a phone call from a woman and needs to leave immediately. Is there another woman in his life, or will he come back for her?
Can Georgia let go of her hurtful past and focus on a new life with the people she loves in the Stardust?
Carla Stewart knows how to make you feel at home with her characters! A well written novel!
I’m looking forward to Carla’s next book.
Georgia’s husband has left her for another woman. After two months his body is found in the swamp. Now she’s a widow and she needs to take care of her two daughters alone.
Georgia was raised by an aunt. Her parents left her at the Stardust motel when she was 3 years old. Her aunt doesn’t want to tell her the reason why her parents left her there.
While growing up Georgia often found refuge in the Stardust. Paddy and Doreen ran the place and loved her like a daughter. When Paddy dies he leaves the Stardust to Georgia. Doreen tells her that the answer to her past is hidden in the Stardust.
Her aunt doubts that she can run the place as a stand-alone-mother. Besides it’s dangerous for a woman alone to run a highway motel.
Soon her mother-in-law comes to live in one of the cabins. Then a stranger –Peter- comes to the Stardust and asks for a job. Peter is helping Georgia with repairs. Georgia grows to like him and people start talking behind her back.
Then a pregnant woman and her young daughter come to the Stardust. The woman is sick and needs to go to the hospital. While she’s there Georgia takes care of the woman’s daughter. But then Georgia finds out who the woman is...
Can she forgive the woman for ruining her life?
And when she finds out the truth about her parents, can she forgive her aunt for keeping the truth from her?
Peter gets a phone call from a woman and needs to leave immediately. Is there another woman in his life, or will he come back for her?
Can Georgia let go of her hurtful past and focus on a new life with the people she loves in the Stardust?
Carla Stewart knows how to make you feel at home with her characters! A well written novel!
I’m looking forward to Carla’s next book.
July 26, 2012
This book was from an era that I love reading about but don't often find books written during. I love the "Ozzie & Harriett" time when Ladies dressed like ladies and men acted like Gentlemen! Where families were real and spent time together. Had picnics and played ball, went for walks, Sunday drives and Drive in Movies!
This book is from that time...but tells one of the sides of that time that was a hidden and "taboo" part of that time. I don't want to give away the story but Carla does a wonderful job of writing about a part of the period that was very real and sad. Yet very resilient! I love her characters!! She does such a wonderful job of making everyone come to life and come right off the page! I just wanted to meet Luli and could almost reach out and touch each of the children!
A wonderful book about not perfect people who learn to live with each other and what God has given them!
This book is from that time...but tells one of the sides of that time that was a hidden and "taboo" part of that time. I don't want to give away the story but Carla does a wonderful job of writing about a part of the period that was very real and sad. Yet very resilient! I love her characters!! She does such a wonderful job of making everyone come to life and come right off the page! I just wanted to meet Luli and could almost reach out and touch each of the children!
A wonderful book about not perfect people who learn to live with each other and what God has given them!
July 7, 2012
Georgia Peyton's life is full of grief when her former husband is found washed up on the Bayou shore. From grief and despair readers will watch Georgia triumph has she battles the opening of the Stardust motel, polio disease and scares, and the battle to allow herself to love of a good man in Peter again. I loved this heartwarming read by Carla Stewart. The reader will quickly fall in love with fun and quirky characters and well as with the fun filled Southern sayings. My appreciation to Net Galley for this wonderful read.
April 20, 2017
This book had that good old country feeling where people either talked about each other or took care of one another. Stardust was a place where Georgia loved on those that needed the love even though she had trouble figuring out her own life. I enjoyed but the ending bordered on too much sweetness and happily ever after. If we could give half stars this book would be 3 1/2 stars.
July 27, 2018
A delightful story with all kinds of life lessons in it. Such as how to handle grief and disapointment, both for your sake as well for those around you. Georgia was a lovely lady.
June 3, 2012
This was a super great book. I really enjoyed it. Stardust was a very different book from what I normally read, the paranormal genre, but when I can find a good fiction book that is “realistic,” I usually love it, though that is rare for me.
While reading Stardust I really wanted Georgia to stop getting the shaft all the time and almost all of it relating to her dead, cheating husband! I am not sure I could have acted the way she did, taking care of her MIL and the kids of her husband’s mistress. No way.
The book had a ton of plot twists that kept me highly entertained and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. The revelation at the end was the most startling and I didn’t see it coming until right before it was revealed. Very, very awesome!
I loved the romance in Stardust and I liked Georgia’s “down- on- his- luck” drifter from the very start. I loved how Georgia took chances, but also took care of her kids. I loved that Georgia didn’t treat Ludi and her kids like everyone else wanted her to, instead she treated them like they were family, even though that was very uncommon during that time period.
Overall, this was a great book, it made me laugh, cry, get angry, and fall in love with the characters. It is not a deep book, but one that I truly enjoyed. I will definitely read other books by the author, Carla Stewart.
Stardust has a nice happy ending, but not the exact ending that one would easily guess in the beginning. There is no swearing, violence, or sex, but it does have romance. Stardust is the perfect book for a summer read, or really an anytime read.
I am not sure I would recommend this book to young kids since there is talk about how Georgia’s husband was a cheater, which could be a difficult subject for younger kids, but it would be perfectly appropriate for kids in like 11th grade and up, though it is primarily written for adults.
I received this book as an ARC. I do not get paid to review books; I do so in order to assist you in recognizing books that you might enjoy.
Please read more of my reviews on my blog: sarahereads(dot)wordpress(dot)com
While reading Stardust I really wanted Georgia to stop getting the shaft all the time and almost all of it relating to her dead, cheating husband! I am not sure I could have acted the way she did, taking care of her MIL and the kids of her husband’s mistress. No way.
The book had a ton of plot twists that kept me highly entertained and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. The revelation at the end was the most startling and I didn’t see it coming until right before it was revealed. Very, very awesome!
I loved the romance in Stardust and I liked Georgia’s “down- on- his- luck” drifter from the very start. I loved how Georgia took chances, but also took care of her kids. I loved that Georgia didn’t treat Ludi and her kids like everyone else wanted her to, instead she treated them like they were family, even though that was very uncommon during that time period.
Overall, this was a great book, it made me laugh, cry, get angry, and fall in love with the characters. It is not a deep book, but one that I truly enjoyed. I will definitely read other books by the author, Carla Stewart.
Stardust has a nice happy ending, but not the exact ending that one would easily guess in the beginning. There is no swearing, violence, or sex, but it does have romance. Stardust is the perfect book for a summer read, or really an anytime read.
I am not sure I would recommend this book to young kids since there is talk about how Georgia’s husband was a cheater, which could be a difficult subject for younger kids, but it would be perfectly appropriate for kids in like 11th grade and up, though it is primarily written for adults.
I received this book as an ARC. I do not get paid to review books; I do so in order to assist you in recognizing books that you might enjoy.
Please read more of my reviews on my blog: sarahereads(dot)wordpress(dot)com
May 25, 2012
When O’Dell Peyton’s body washes up in the East Texas bayou, his wife Georgia knows that her cheating husband really has gone for good. Left to raise two daughters with no source of income, Georgia is trying to find an alternative to moving in with Aunt Cora when she unexpectedly inherits the Stardust tourist cabins. Georgia eagerly takes on the project of restoring the Stardust to its former glory, propelled by her childhood memories. Room 5 of the Stardust was the last place Georgia saw her parents before they abandoned her, leaving her to be raised by Aunt Cora.
As the story progresses, we meet more characters from Mayhew (where Georgia lives) and Zion (the colored settlement on the other side of the bayou), and we see that “people, we’re all connected even when it doesn’t seem like we are”, just like the local legend of the cypress knees that connect the trees up and down the bayou.
Some authors feel the need to practically hit the reader over the head with their research. Stardust is obviously well researched and feels historically accurate, but I never felt that I was being preached at or lectured to. By halfway through I was thanking God for the medical advances over the last half century that mean I never have to worry about my children getting polio. The novel is also a fascinating insight into the lives and attitudes of Southerners towards 'colored' people in 1950's Texas.
Stardust is written in the first person from Georgia’s point of view, with a voice that is immediately engaging. This is lovely story, well-plotted and beautifully written story of secrets and forgiveness, set in the backdrop of the 1952 polio epidemic and the March of Dimes, a national charity dedicated to supporting polio victims and eradicating the dreaded disease. Reading Stardust was an unexpected pleasure. Recommended.
Thanks to Faithwords and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
As the story progresses, we meet more characters from Mayhew (where Georgia lives) and Zion (the colored settlement on the other side of the bayou), and we see that “people, we’re all connected even when it doesn’t seem like we are”, just like the local legend of the cypress knees that connect the trees up and down the bayou.
Some authors feel the need to practically hit the reader over the head with their research. Stardust is obviously well researched and feels historically accurate, but I never felt that I was being preached at or lectured to. By halfway through I was thanking God for the medical advances over the last half century that mean I never have to worry about my children getting polio. The novel is also a fascinating insight into the lives and attitudes of Southerners towards 'colored' people in 1950's Texas.
Stardust is written in the first person from Georgia’s point of view, with a voice that is immediately engaging. This is lovely story, well-plotted and beautifully written story of secrets and forgiveness, set in the backdrop of the 1952 polio epidemic and the March of Dimes, a national charity dedicated to supporting polio victims and eradicating the dreaded disease. Reading Stardust was an unexpected pleasure. Recommended.
Thanks to Faithwords and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
May 16, 2012
Stardust is a really sweet story that is full of faith, forgiveness and love. Stardust is a motel that has cozy cottages and they bring back fond memories for Georgia (love the name). She is willed the motel when someone in her family that she loves dies. Georgia wants to start fresh after losing her husband who was unfaithful to her and also to provide for her two daughters.
She gets many offers of help to repair the old place and it comes alive again. This story is just rich with characters, beautiful scenery and delightful places to find.
This is my first book by Carla Stewart and I really enjoyed it. She is a brilliant story teller.
In Stardust one adventure after another happened until I was glued to my seat to see how everything could/would turn out. Was there any way possible that Georgia could ever be happy again? Could she forget being abandoned time and time again? Why does everyone leave her?
I loved how her character changed through the story. How she grew as a person and took on responsibility, but then turned everything over to God.
I was very intrigued and you will also to find out how things will work out when Georgia’s guests are first her mother-in-law who likes to drink too much; her dead husband's mistress; a good-looking, but broke drifter who's tired of always traveling and a older Vaudeville entertainer.
How very interesting Stardust is and you will enjoy how everything turns out and lots of it is quite surprising. I recommend this book for your reading pleasure and know you will love it.
I received my free copy from Sarah Reck at Faith Words/HachetteBookGroup, for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
She gets many offers of help to repair the old place and it comes alive again. This story is just rich with characters, beautiful scenery and delightful places to find.
This is my first book by Carla Stewart and I really enjoyed it. She is a brilliant story teller.
In Stardust one adventure after another happened until I was glued to my seat to see how everything could/would turn out. Was there any way possible that Georgia could ever be happy again? Could she forget being abandoned time and time again? Why does everyone leave her?
I loved how her character changed through the story. How she grew as a person and took on responsibility, but then turned everything over to God.
I was very intrigued and you will also to find out how things will work out when Georgia’s guests are first her mother-in-law who likes to drink too much; her dead husband's mistress; a good-looking, but broke drifter who's tired of always traveling and a older Vaudeville entertainer.
How very interesting Stardust is and you will enjoy how everything turns out and lots of it is quite surprising. I recommend this book for your reading pleasure and know you will love it.
I received my free copy from Sarah Reck at Faith Words/HachetteBookGroup, for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
March 4, 2012
In Stardust we travel back to the 1950’s.
Georgia’s husband has left her for another woman. After two months his body is found in the swamp. Now she’s a widow and she needs to take care of her two daughters alone.
Georgia was raised by an aunt. Her parents left her at the Stardust motel when she was 3 years old. Her aunt doesn’t want to tell her the reason why her parents left her there.
While growing up Georgia often found refuge in the Stardust. Paddy and Doreen ran the place and loved her like a daughter. When Paddy dies he leaves the Stardust to Georgia. Doreen tells her that the answer to her past is hidden in the Stardust.
Her aunt doubts that she can run the place as a stand-alone-mother. Besides it’s dangerous for a woman alone to run a highway motel.
Soon her mother-in-law comes to live in one of the cabins. Then a stranger –Peter- comes to the Stardust and asks for a job. Peter is helping Georgia with repairs. Georgia grows to like him and people start talking behind her back.
Then a pregnant woman and her young daughter come to the Stardust. The woman is sick and needs to go to the hospital. While she’s there Georgia takes care of the woman’s daughter. But then Georgia finds out who the woman is...
Can she forgive the woman for ruining her life?
And when she finds out the truth about her parents, can she forgive her aunt for keeping the truth from her?
Peter gets a phone call from a woman and needs to leave immediately. Is there another woman in his life, or will he come back for her?
Can Georgia let go of her hurtful past and focus on a new life with the people she loves in the Stardust?
Carla Stewart knows how to make you feel at home with her characters! A well written novel!
I’m looking forward to Carla’s next book.
Georgia’s husband has left her for another woman. After two months his body is found in the swamp. Now she’s a widow and she needs to take care of her two daughters alone.
Georgia was raised by an aunt. Her parents left her at the Stardust motel when she was 3 years old. Her aunt doesn’t want to tell her the reason why her parents left her there.
While growing up Georgia often found refuge in the Stardust. Paddy and Doreen ran the place and loved her like a daughter. When Paddy dies he leaves the Stardust to Georgia. Doreen tells her that the answer to her past is hidden in the Stardust.
Her aunt doubts that she can run the place as a stand-alone-mother. Besides it’s dangerous for a woman alone to run a highway motel.
Soon her mother-in-law comes to live in one of the cabins. Then a stranger –Peter- comes to the Stardust and asks for a job. Peter is helping Georgia with repairs. Georgia grows to like him and people start talking behind her back.
Then a pregnant woman and her young daughter come to the Stardust. The woman is sick and needs to go to the hospital. While she’s there Georgia takes care of the woman’s daughter. But then Georgia finds out who the woman is...
Can she forgive the woman for ruining her life?
And when she finds out the truth about her parents, can she forgive her aunt for keeping the truth from her?
Peter gets a phone call from a woman and needs to leave immediately. Is there another woman in his life, or will he come back for her?
Can Georgia let go of her hurtful past and focus on a new life with the people she loves in the Stardust?
Carla Stewart knows how to make you feel at home with her characters! A well written novel!
I’m looking forward to Carla’s next book.
May 18, 2012
This is a story about a woman who lost her husband (he died shortly after he abandoned her and their children) and inherits an old motel, called Stardust. It is her chance to change her life and get a new beginning.
Carla Stewart’s writing is easy to read and she puts a steady pace in the narration that makes you never feel bored or never feel like skipping pages to get to the “action”. Each chapter is very objective and it tells a important part of the story (no fillers at all).
She also created very interesting and believable characters. She managed to not demonize or sanctify anyone. Even the people that do some "bad" things are shown as regular people who makes mistakes, like it is in real life.
I enjoyed seeing the changes that the characters went through. I don’t intend to give away any spoilers, so let me just say that there are lessons for us there. There are lessons about love, forgiveness, the importance of family ties, the problem with keeping secrets, just to mention a few.
As I read, I kept thinking what a great amount of research Carla must’ve done to be able to work with all the details about the time period (the 1950's) and the polio outbreak. Her details are so rich and they help involve the reader in the story.
Stardust is the kind of fiction book that I like the most: a very well written and beautiful story that entertains us and teaches us important life lessons.
--
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
Carla Stewart’s writing is easy to read and she puts a steady pace in the narration that makes you never feel bored or never feel like skipping pages to get to the “action”. Each chapter is very objective and it tells a important part of the story (no fillers at all).
She also created very interesting and believable characters. She managed to not demonize or sanctify anyone. Even the people that do some "bad" things are shown as regular people who makes mistakes, like it is in real life.
I enjoyed seeing the changes that the characters went through. I don’t intend to give away any spoilers, so let me just say that there are lessons for us there. There are lessons about love, forgiveness, the importance of family ties, the problem with keeping secrets, just to mention a few.
As I read, I kept thinking what a great amount of research Carla must’ve done to be able to work with all the details about the time period (the 1950's) and the polio outbreak. Her details are so rich and they help involve the reader in the story.
Stardust is the kind of fiction book that I like the most: a very well written and beautiful story that entertains us and teaches us important life lessons.
--
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2012
Secrets are sometimes hidden waiting to be surfaced as acceptance can lie close to the horizon.
Mayhaw Texas in 1952 is home to Georgia Peyton's family. Her husband O'Dell passes away suddenly leaving alot of unanswered questions about his current affairs. When a document is found by Georgia nestled amongst O'Dell's belongings another name is listed in the space where hers should be occupied. The choices she has for her and her daughters grow more narrow with little income coming in for support.
The Stardust, a haven of sought after cottages beckons it's guests among the Bayou.
When destiny presents itself in the form of a down on his luck drifter landing on the front steps of The Stardust with a guitar and a smile, decisions concerning Georgia's present and future must be made. For her sake and those of her family will acceptance of the past fill her or will bitterness hold her heart firmly?
I loved this southern novel complete with landscape, dialogue drawl and way of life. A very well written novel that stars comfortable and realistic characters who seem like old friends. The storyline held my interest and I found it hard to put down and at the end, most unforgettable. The author has a way of telling a story that the reader can easily relate to, maybe seeing themselves or others they know contained within the pages. I found the overall message to be inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I will recommend this book to others. Thank you to FaithWords and Netgalley for the ARC for my review.
Mayhaw Texas in 1952 is home to Georgia Peyton's family. Her husband O'Dell passes away suddenly leaving alot of unanswered questions about his current affairs. When a document is found by Georgia nestled amongst O'Dell's belongings another name is listed in the space where hers should be occupied. The choices she has for her and her daughters grow more narrow with little income coming in for support.
The Stardust, a haven of sought after cottages beckons it's guests among the Bayou.
When destiny presents itself in the form of a down on his luck drifter landing on the front steps of The Stardust with a guitar and a smile, decisions concerning Georgia's present and future must be made. For her sake and those of her family will acceptance of the past fill her or will bitterness hold her heart firmly?
I loved this southern novel complete with landscape, dialogue drawl and way of life. A very well written novel that stars comfortable and realistic characters who seem like old friends. The storyline held my interest and I found it hard to put down and at the end, most unforgettable. The author has a way of telling a story that the reader can easily relate to, maybe seeing themselves or others they know contained within the pages. I found the overall message to be inspiring and I was challenged in my faith. I will recommend this book to others. Thank you to FaithWords and Netgalley for the ARC for my review.
May 8, 2013
Title: STARDUST
Author: Carla Stewart
Publisher: Faithwords
May 2012
ISBN: 978-1455504282
Genre: historical / women’s fiction
Shortly after burying her unfaithful husband, Georgia Peyton unexpectedly inherits the derelict Stardust motel from a distant relative. Despite doubts from the community and the aunt who raised her, she is determined to breathe new life into it. But the guests who arrive aren't what Georgia expects: Her gin-loving mother-in-law; her dead husband's mistress; an attractive but down-on-his-luck drifter who's tired of the endless road; and an aging Vaudeville entertainer with a disturbing link to Georgia's past.
Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxy to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the STARDUST ever come true?
I’ve read a couple of Ms. Stewart’s books and they are all different. STARDUST starts out with the almost mandatory death (in historicals) of Georgia’s unfaithful husband. STARDUST is impeccably written, I couldn’t find any fault there (not that I was looking) but I never did completely connect with the characters.
The story is slow moving, easy to put down, but that’s okay. Sometimes it’s good to read a slow book instead of one that you race through and are left wanting more. STARDUST leaves you contemplating what you read, thinking about it long after you close the pages of the book. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $13.99. 320 pages.
Author: Carla Stewart
Publisher: Faithwords
May 2012
ISBN: 978-1455504282
Genre: historical / women’s fiction
Shortly after burying her unfaithful husband, Georgia Peyton unexpectedly inherits the derelict Stardust motel from a distant relative. Despite doubts from the community and the aunt who raised her, she is determined to breathe new life into it. But the guests who arrive aren't what Georgia expects: Her gin-loving mother-in-law; her dead husband's mistress; an attractive but down-on-his-luck drifter who's tired of the endless road; and an aging Vaudeville entertainer with a disturbing link to Georgia's past.
Can Georgia find the courage to forgive those who've betrayed her, the grace to shelter those who need her, and the moxy to face the future? And will her dream of a new life under the flickering neon of the STARDUST ever come true?
I’ve read a couple of Ms. Stewart’s books and they are all different. STARDUST starts out with the almost mandatory death (in historicals) of Georgia’s unfaithful husband. STARDUST is impeccably written, I couldn’t find any fault there (not that I was looking) but I never did completely connect with the characters.
The story is slow moving, easy to put down, but that’s okay. Sometimes it’s good to read a slow book instead of one that you race through and are left wanting more. STARDUST leaves you contemplating what you read, thinking about it long after you close the pages of the book. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $13.99. 320 pages.
December 21, 2016
1950's Texas Motel near the Bayou. Such a sweet read. Since finishing this I've found out it's classed as a 'Christian' read, if I'd known that before starting I might have been a bit leery of it. I've got beliefs but I'm not religious and I try to steer clear of anything that might be a bit preachy. That kind of stuff just rubs me up the wrong way. I didn't get preachy with this book though, I just got a lovely, sweet story.
The narrator Georgia is a recent widow and she hasn't had an easy life, she was abandoned as a child, married young to a womaniser and is now in sole charge of two young daughters and has inherited a run-down motel complex. Add to that the polio epidemic, her late husband's mistress and her children, a difficult mother in law, a little bit of romance and money worries and it all makes for a really interesting story. It touches slightly on racial prejudices but as with everything in this book it's handled in a way that is touching and heartwarming.
I really liked this story and I might overlook the 'Christian' tag from now on as this is a great ambassador for the genre. Georgia is such a lovely person and I really enjoyed reading about her. The ending wasn't brilliant and although there were a couple of things I would have liked more closure for, overall it was a good read.
Note: I received a free copy of this title from the publisher.
The narrator Georgia is a recent widow and she hasn't had an easy life, she was abandoned as a child, married young to a womaniser and is now in sole charge of two young daughters and has inherited a run-down motel complex. Add to that the polio epidemic, her late husband's mistress and her children, a difficult mother in law, a little bit of romance and money worries and it all makes for a really interesting story. It touches slightly on racial prejudices but as with everything in this book it's handled in a way that is touching and heartwarming.
I really liked this story and I might overlook the 'Christian' tag from now on as this is a great ambassador for the genre. Georgia is such a lovely person and I really enjoyed reading about her. The ending wasn't brilliant and although there were a couple of things I would have liked more closure for, overall it was a good read.
Note: I received a free copy of this title from the publisher.
August 9, 2016
This book was a quick and simple read. It had a "down-home" easy going setting and overall feel that appeals to me. It wasn't exactly a southern novel which generally is my preference but the setting was East Texas. I think the overall story was interesting and although it moved along slowly not so slow that it became stagnate. I found the characters believable, a tiny bit quirky but not so much so that made them illogical. My one character criticism was that I found the main female was a bit too good natured and easy going. Some very major upheaval was going on in her world but she remained a little too calm and without anxiety than I find believable. This book is published by Faith Words and as you'd expect it is a book based in the Christian Faith. However, I can wholeheartedly say the Christianity was far from overpowering. It was in no way "preachy" or over the top. In fact, the Christianity was interspersed within the dialogue and fit the story, setting, and era. People in this day and time and part of the country simply talk like this. It felt normal everyday life to me. Please don't let the fact this is published by a Christian publisher make you shy away, unless you're a staunch atheist and even the mention of something as simple as " I'll pray for you" sends you into a tizzy.
December 3, 2012
New author for me Carla Stewart writes "Stardust"
This title makes me think of many things when I see it, finding out it is the name of an old long forgotten place where folks stopped for a respite along the highway and many lives had been changed in its time, was not what I expected at first glance...
Carla weaves a story of long ago and brings it forward releasing the truth from its secrets kept hidden many years. I enjoyed reading of this simpler time and of the lives of Aunt Cora and Georgia.
Georgia has a husband die and in the aftermath must decide how she and her girls will live and support themselves. She inherits "The Stardust" and decides to bring it back to life and do just that.
A Reverence for the past and a keen eye for interesting characters, Carla tells a wonderful story and you will love the journey as well as the final destination. Come along and meet O'Dell with his good ole boy charm-Georgia who married him when she found she was in the "family way"-Aunt Cora who raised Georgia from a small child-Catfish.Merciful and Ludi who live far into the woods behind the Stardust, Mary Frances, so many characters who will come into your heart and make you remember an earlier way of living.
This title makes me think of many things when I see it, finding out it is the name of an old long forgotten place where folks stopped for a respite along the highway and many lives had been changed in its time, was not what I expected at first glance...
Carla weaves a story of long ago and brings it forward releasing the truth from its secrets kept hidden many years. I enjoyed reading of this simpler time and of the lives of Aunt Cora and Georgia.
Georgia has a husband die and in the aftermath must decide how she and her girls will live and support themselves. She inherits "The Stardust" and decides to bring it back to life and do just that.
A Reverence for the past and a keen eye for interesting characters, Carla tells a wonderful story and you will love the journey as well as the final destination. Come along and meet O'Dell with his good ole boy charm-Georgia who married him when she found she was in the "family way"-Aunt Cora who raised Georgia from a small child-Catfish.Merciful and Ludi who live far into the woods behind the Stardust, Mary Frances, so many characters who will come into your heart and make you remember an earlier way of living.
September 30, 2012
One woman's journey towards moving on and forgiving.
Georgia Peyton is in the 1960's left who is left a widow by her cheating husband. Georgia then inherits motel, called Stardust, that need more than a few improvements . And she get more than a few interesting guests, for instance her mother-in-law and her dead husband's lover.
Will Georgia ever be able to forgive those who have wronged her?
It's been a long time since I've read a book told in a first person-second person, conversational tone, and I must say that it's something I really enjoy, and Ms. Stewart did it wonderfully.
I really enjoyed this book with it's many interesting characters, and the realistic way it dealt with how hard it is to forgive those who have cut you to the bone, especially when they aren't being very forgivable. I guess the only thing that I didn't like was how the story didn't seem to be progressing as quickly as I would have liked, but otherwise a great book.
Overall, a well written story, with a sweet romance, about a journey towards forgiveness.
I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks
Georgia Peyton is in the 1960's left who is left a widow by her cheating husband. Georgia then inherits motel, called Stardust, that need more than a few improvements . And she get more than a few interesting guests, for instance her mother-in-law and her dead husband's lover.
Will Georgia ever be able to forgive those who have wronged her?
It's been a long time since I've read a book told in a first person-second person, conversational tone, and I must say that it's something I really enjoy, and Ms. Stewart did it wonderfully.
I really enjoyed this book with it's many interesting characters, and the realistic way it dealt with how hard it is to forgive those who have cut you to the bone, especially when they aren't being very forgivable. I guess the only thing that I didn't like was how the story didn't seem to be progressing as quickly as I would have liked, but otherwise a great book.
Overall, a well written story, with a sweet romance, about a journey towards forgiveness.
I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks
April 15, 2012
Stardust by Carla Stewart
**Note I received an ebook from Netgalley from the publisher, Faithwords.
Georgia Lee Peyton lives in Mayhaw, Texas. The town in which she has spent her entire life. Georgia's husband has recently left her with two small children. She is not sure if he is just on an extended sales trip or gone forever. Georgia Lee Peyton's life changes with one discovery, her husband's washed up body. Georgia takes that life alternating event and makes a decision that changes her life in a series of twists and turns.
Ms. Stewart writes the characters in such a way that you instantly begin to empathize with them. The story is full of twists and turns which leads the reader to wonder what will happen next. The historical setting gives the story a canvas in which the characters interact.
This story was a page turner for me. It kept me waiting to see what would happen next to poor Georgia. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a plot-based, yet light story with some character development. I now need to go back and read the other books Ms. Stewart has written.
**Note I received an ebook from Netgalley from the publisher, Faithwords.
Georgia Lee Peyton lives in Mayhaw, Texas. The town in which she has spent her entire life. Georgia's husband has recently left her with two small children. She is not sure if he is just on an extended sales trip or gone forever. Georgia Lee Peyton's life changes with one discovery, her husband's washed up body. Georgia takes that life alternating event and makes a decision that changes her life in a series of twists and turns.
Ms. Stewart writes the characters in such a way that you instantly begin to empathize with them. The story is full of twists and turns which leads the reader to wonder what will happen next. The historical setting gives the story a canvas in which the characters interact.
This story was a page turner for me. It kept me waiting to see what would happen next to poor Georgia. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a plot-based, yet light story with some character development. I now need to go back and read the other books Ms. Stewart has written.
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