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Liberty #5
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge
A savage rape on hallowed ground. Secrets buried for decades by the town’s most influential family.
Now Rennie Perini will learn the Great Oak’s secrets as construction begins at the Fagan mansion. She can’t afford to turn down a job that promises to stir up the long-buried guilt—and the passion—she shares with powerful Troy Fagan.
She’s already juggling the most important job of her career with her new responsibilities as a foster mother for young Walt and Emma Korchek. And there’s a hard, older man on the construction crew with eyes void of emotion—cold and killing. The secrets of his brutal past will pose a grave threat to the children in her care. Will she find the courage to face him?
Now Rennie Perini will learn the Great Oak’s secrets as construction begins at the Fagan mansion. She can’t afford to turn down a job that promises to stir up the long-buried guilt—and the passion—she shares with powerful Troy Fagan.
She’s already juggling the most important job of her career with her new responsibilities as a foster mother for young Walt and Emma Korchek. And there’s a hard, older man on the construction crew with eyes void of emotion—cold and killing. The secrets of his brutal past will pose a grave threat to the children in her care. Will she find the courage to face him?
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
745 people are currently reading
2164 people want to read
About the author
Christine Nolfi
22 books4,036 followersChristine Nolfi is the award-winning and bestselling author of seventeen novels. Look for her 2025 release, The Secret Library of Hanna Reeves.
Other works include her 2024 release A Heart Like Home; A Brighter Flame, selected by She Reads as a best book club pick and The Passing Storm, cited by Publishers Weekly as “Tautly plotted, expertly characterized, and genuinely riveting” and gold medal winner in general fiction, International Book Awards.
Earlier works include The Road She Left Behind, a top book club pick by Working Mother and Parade magazines; the award-winning Sweet Lake Series: Sweet Lake, The Comfort of Secrets, and The Season of Silver Linings; Second Chance Grill, highly recommended by The Midwest Book Review and Treasure Me, recognized by the Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge was cited by The Midwest Book Review as “Poignant and powerful, as much a saga of learning to survive, heal, and forgive as it is a chilling crime story, unforgettable to the very end.”
A native of Ohio, Christine now resides in South Carolina with her husband.
Other works include her 2024 release A Heart Like Home; A Brighter Flame, selected by She Reads as a best book club pick and The Passing Storm, cited by Publishers Weekly as “Tautly plotted, expertly characterized, and genuinely riveting” and gold medal winner in general fiction, International Book Awards.
Earlier works include The Road She Left Behind, a top book club pick by Working Mother and Parade magazines; the award-winning Sweet Lake Series: Sweet Lake, The Comfort of Secrets, and The Season of Silver Linings; Second Chance Grill, highly recommended by The Midwest Book Review and Treasure Me, recognized by the Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge was cited by The Midwest Book Review as “Poignant and powerful, as much a saga of learning to survive, heal, and forgive as it is a chilling crime story, unforgettable to the very end.”
A native of Ohio, Christine now resides in South Carolina with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
January 8, 2015
The Tree Of Everlasting Knowledge is my first novel by Christine Nolfi. It felt absolutely delightful to be so emotionally involved with the characters and the story from beginning to end.
A beautifully written family saga involving romance, family ties, heartache, abuse, forgiveness, page-turning suspense and unconditional love.
Christine Nolfi's talent for creating such a story is truly a gift!
A beautifully written family saga involving romance, family ties, heartache, abuse, forgiveness, page-turning suspense and unconditional love.
Christine Nolfi's talent for creating such a story is truly a gift!
November 4, 2025
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge didn't disappoint. In fact, it kept me up until 1:30 a.m. so I could finish it! Christine hooked me with her Liberty series, and I am enjoying my journey through the rest of her novels. She has a way of drawing me in and making me feel like a part of her books. Once again, a big "Thank you, Christine!!"
November 23, 2015
In the continuing Liberty series, the author introduces us to the Fagan family and gives her readers the back story on the Perini family. The two families are intertwined as family history,drama and romance play out.
As is usual with Ms. Nolfi's stories, the principal characters are women. Strong,loving women,often struggling for balance, and always easy for her readers to identify with.
Balance is not Rennie's forte. She has her hands full as she struggles to manage and grow her electrical contracting business. Working for handsome(and mercurial) Troy Fagan on his family's home expansion is a great opportunity but there is that little matter of their past history. Add to that being strong armed into taking on two foster children by her Mom, and there is a sure recipe for potential disaster.
I have enjoyed the Liberty series for a lot of reasons, but most for the author's ability to bring the town to life through it's citizenry. Every installment town blends a little of past characters while introducing the reader to families/individuals either new or mentioned in passing in previous story lines. I am hoping there will be more of Liberty's townspeople to read about very soon.
As is usual with Ms. Nolfi's stories, the principal characters are women. Strong,loving women,often struggling for balance, and always easy for her readers to identify with.
Balance is not Rennie's forte. She has her hands full as she struggles to manage and grow her electrical contracting business. Working for handsome(and mercurial) Troy Fagan on his family's home expansion is a great opportunity but there is that little matter of their past history. Add to that being strong armed into taking on two foster children by her Mom, and there is a sure recipe for potential disaster.
I have enjoyed the Liberty series for a lot of reasons, but most for the author's ability to bring the town to life through it's citizenry. Every installment town blends a little of past characters while introducing the reader to families/individuals either new or mentioned in passing in previous story lines. I am hoping there will be more of Liberty's townspeople to read about very soon.
August 7, 2012
This book is the definition of a page turner. It's one of those books that keeps you reading far past your bedtime and gets you negotiating if you can get a chapter in before work the next day. The plot is well rounded and follows multiple families and their intermingling circumstances. A woman fosters a pair of siblings under the pressure of her mother, a social worker, and is juggling that responsibility with running her 2 person electrical company on the biggest job it's ever taken. This job also happens to be with a family from her childhood that has it's own tragic past.
The book has a good amount of suspense and heat and all the characters are beautifully flawed, which I always love. I highly recommend adding this book to you "To Read" list. For me, it was a great relief from some of the more dreary historic fictions I usually gravitate towards. Mostly focused around family dynamics, with all of the positive and negatives that that can entail, it's a book almost anyone can relate to.
The book has a good amount of suspense and heat and all the characters are beautifully flawed, which I always love. I highly recommend adding this book to you "To Read" list. For me, it was a great relief from some of the more dreary historic fictions I usually gravitate towards. Mostly focused around family dynamics, with all of the positive and negatives that that can entail, it's a book almost anyone can relate to.
March 17, 2012
All I can say about this book and this author is that both are truly amazing. I'm not one that usually writes a review all the time for each book that I read unless I have something to say. But I was very honored to be given a chance to read this book early on and absolutely loved it. That is definitely saying something as I've come from a background of thinking that plain ol' regular fiction with just humans in it is boring. But I have to say Ms. Nofi really hit it out of the park for me with this particular story. I absolutely could not put it down from page one til the end.
What it's about: Normally I'd given a long drawn out spiel over what the story is over. But this time I will just have to say that this is a story about second chances, new beginnings, and most definitely coming to peace with your past. As so many of each of the characters in this story have to come face to face with their own realities and either let them define/break them or perservere and see life through to the other side. It's been ages since I've come across this kind of message in any book and makes me value this story all the more.
What I liked about it: How the author addressed so many different cultures in one book but none of them were belittled or stereotyped. That each character had great back story from the main characters down to the "villian". And lastly I loved the message about being able to define family in whatever way you wish to do so. That was the real icing on the cake for me.
What I didn't like about it: As with all books there is a good and a bad side to the story. But in this case the only downside was just the way in which one of the main characters handled personal and private information of another character I didn't like. As well as acting rather childish in regards to making what she was about well known to her boss. But overall this did not hold me back from enjoying the rest of the story and kept me intrigued enough to hope that she would grow out of this habit.
Who I would recommend it to: Absolutely everybody. I truly think this is a must read for those that are tired of the expected thrills and wonders of other genres. Or even jus bored with the genres they have been reading for years. This book is truly refreshing and a wonderful read to get lost in.
What it's about: Normally I'd given a long drawn out spiel over what the story is over. But this time I will just have to say that this is a story about second chances, new beginnings, and most definitely coming to peace with your past. As so many of each of the characters in this story have to come face to face with their own realities and either let them define/break them or perservere and see life through to the other side. It's been ages since I've come across this kind of message in any book and makes me value this story all the more.
What I liked about it: How the author addressed so many different cultures in one book but none of them were belittled or stereotyped. That each character had great back story from the main characters down to the "villian". And lastly I loved the message about being able to define family in whatever way you wish to do so. That was the real icing on the cake for me.
What I didn't like about it: As with all books there is a good and a bad side to the story. But in this case the only downside was just the way in which one of the main characters handled personal and private information of another character I didn't like. As well as acting rather childish in regards to making what she was about well known to her boss. But overall this did not hold me back from enjoying the rest of the story and kept me intrigued enough to hope that she would grow out of this habit.
Who I would recommend it to: Absolutely everybody. I truly think this is a must read for those that are tired of the expected thrills and wonders of other genres. Or even jus bored with the genres they have been reading for years. This book is truly refreshing and a wonderful read to get lost in.
July 11, 2012
I received my copy of “The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge” through the Goodreads First Reads program, and I am very happy that I did.
This book is about a woman named Ourania who seems to have closed her heart and life to anything but work. She is an electrician, making her way fairly successfully in a “man’s world.” She takes on a job at the Fagan mansion, and she is then bombarded by many memories…most that still haunt her and that have made her the closed off person she is today. In her teens, she was friends with Jason Fagan, and had a very mixed love/hate relationship with his brother Troy (more hate than love…). One night their hate for each other turned into passion and they made love, both recognizing their true feelings for one another but never acting upon it. Several weeks later Jason was murdered, and as a result, Troy and Ourania never reconnected, and essentially their adult lives were shaped by that tragedy for which they both blame themselves.
In the meantime, while working at the mansion, Ourania becomes a foster mom to two children – Walt and Emma. They are sweet children who have been in an abusive home with their father, and their mother has passed away. They become attached to Ourania and she to them, as her heart begins to open up and see what she has been missing in her life. Seeing the way the children react to their father makes Ourania want to adopt the children…but will she be able to?
I don’t really want to write a spoiler, because this book deserves a read. It is full of interesting characters, situations, and hard choices. I definitely recommend this story to people who enjoy a little bit of mystery in their books, who enjoy eloquent writing and descriptions, and who want to read a story with a happy ending. I believe that this book is a great read and deserves more recognition, which I hope it will receive!
Thanks again to Christine and Goodreads First Reads for allowing me to receive, read and review this lovely book.
This book is about a woman named Ourania who seems to have closed her heart and life to anything but work. She is an electrician, making her way fairly successfully in a “man’s world.” She takes on a job at the Fagan mansion, and she is then bombarded by many memories…most that still haunt her and that have made her the closed off person she is today. In her teens, she was friends with Jason Fagan, and had a very mixed love/hate relationship with his brother Troy (more hate than love…). One night their hate for each other turned into passion and they made love, both recognizing their true feelings for one another but never acting upon it. Several weeks later Jason was murdered, and as a result, Troy and Ourania never reconnected, and essentially their adult lives were shaped by that tragedy for which they both blame themselves.
In the meantime, while working at the mansion, Ourania becomes a foster mom to two children – Walt and Emma. They are sweet children who have been in an abusive home with their father, and their mother has passed away. They become attached to Ourania and she to them, as her heart begins to open up and see what she has been missing in her life. Seeing the way the children react to their father makes Ourania want to adopt the children…but will she be able to?
I don’t really want to write a spoiler, because this book deserves a read. It is full of interesting characters, situations, and hard choices. I definitely recommend this story to people who enjoy a little bit of mystery in their books, who enjoy eloquent writing and descriptions, and who want to read a story with a happy ending. I believe that this book is a great read and deserves more recognition, which I hope it will receive!
Thanks again to Christine and Goodreads First Reads for allowing me to receive, read and review this lovely book.
April 2, 2016
I started reading The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge and The Mistress of the Art of Death at the same time fully expecting to prefer and finish the latter first.
Wrong. And I don't fully understand why that is.
I should have hated this book. I despise romance novels so the romance aspect should have been enough to send me screaming for the shredder. Where I like my story-telling to be direct and not too wordy (except for the brilliance that is The Secret Scripture), this book is very adjective-y.
All things considered, this book is nothing like the things I typically read. I should have hated it and refused to finish it. But I didn't. I liked it. A lot. Ms. Nolfi may not tell a story exactly the way I think I want to hear it but she certainly knows how to tell it in a way that makes me want to stay until the very end. Well done!
Wrong. And I don't fully understand why that is.
I should have hated this book. I despise romance novels so the romance aspect should have been enough to send me screaming for the shredder. Where I like my story-telling to be direct and not too wordy (except for the brilliance that is The Secret Scripture), this book is very adjective-y.
All things considered, this book is nothing like the things I typically read. I should have hated it and refused to finish it. But I didn't. I liked it. A lot. Ms. Nolfi may not tell a story exactly the way I think I want to hear it but she certainly knows how to tell it in a way that makes me want to stay until the very end. Well done!
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March 31, 2014A MUST READ!!!!!
This is an amazing work of literary fiction. Christine Nolfi has a way with words that just draws you into the story. The characters are extremely well developed and I felt like I knew them. The storyline is engrossing, well thought out, and fast paced. The women in this book are strong and yet with a soft side. They love with all their being.I loved this book,as I have loved all the books by this author. It takes a special kind of person to take you into a book like this. Christine Nolfi is a master storyteller of the highest caliber. If you love to read, as I do, then you must read all her works. I assure you that you will become a fan. I know I am,now and forever. Thanks for another amazing read. Buy it, read it, love it. Satisfaction guaranteed. Now, I can't wait till the next book comes out!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!
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This is an amazing work of literary fiction. Christine Nolfi has a way with words that just draws you into the story. The characters are extremely well developed and I felt like I knew them. The storyline is engrossing, well thought out, and fast paced. The women in this book are strong and yet with a soft side. They love with all their being.I loved this book,as I have loved all the books by this author. It takes a special kind of person to take you into a book like this. Christine Nolfi is a master storyteller of the highest caliber. If you love to read, as I do, then you must read all her works. I assure you that you will become a fan. I know I am,now and forever. Thanks for another amazing read. Buy it, read it, love it. Satisfaction guaranteed. Now, I can't wait till the next book comes out!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!
.
October 2, 2016
Troy Fagan was blessed to be born into wealth. His family owns and operates Fagan Orchards in Lincoln, Ohio. Troy, a man who loves his family and appreciates the family business, has stepped out on his own and operates a general contracting business. Ourania D’Andre is an electrician. She’s been hired to work on the renovations at the Fagan mansion. Unfortunately she and Troy have a history together, an unhappy history. Troy isn’t happy to have Ourania on this current project, but he’ll make do in order to keep his sister happy with the renovations, as long as Ourania doesn’t cause any trouble on the work site.
Trouble is just what Ourania has to deal with as her mother, a social worker, contacts her to become an emergency foster parent to two children, Walt and Emma Korchek. This is an additional stress that Ourania doesn’t need, especially since it requires her to be absent from the work site at crucial moments. But Lianna D’Andre doesn’t accept no for an answer, and Ourania becomes a foster parent to two young, traumatized and somewhat hostile children. As Ourania, Walt and Emma work on overcoming their differences and mistrust, they also come to respect one another. Just when it seems like things are going well, Ourania discovers a secret about Troy that could threaten his peace of mind and possibly threaten the welfare of all involved. Can she tell Troy the truth no matter the consequences? Troy also has secrets that relate to Ourania? Should he tell her the truth even though it may put more barriers to them ever having a relationship? Is it possible to forgive the past? How far is too far in an effort to protect these secrets and the past?
Ms. Nolfi has created a heart-stirring tale of love that overcomes many obstacles in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. This isn’t just a romance between a man and a woman; it’s also a romance between a woman and two children. Ourania may not be the typical mother-figure, but she grows to love Walt and Emma and is willing to do anything to protect them, no matter the cost. Walt and Emma learn to overcome their mistrust and show their affection toward Ourania despite their traumatic childhood. There are many stories woven into this story, and all seem to hinge on actions that took place under an ancient oak tree on the Fagan’s property, the proverbial “tree of everlasting knowledge.” All of the main characters have secrets they are keeping and these secrets are all divulged and dealt with in the story. Some of these secrets are life-changing and others are life-affirming. All of the primary characters are very well-developed and likable, with one exception. The secondary characters are also well-developed and provide excellent support to the story and for the primary characters. Some of the action is tragic and heart-wrenching, whereas other action is loving and heart-warming. All of the action is realistic and never too over-the-top. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a fast-paced read that provides warmth and laughter as well as moments that are close to being tear-jerking. I’ve actually read this story twice this year and thoroughly enjoyed it both times. Don’t expect this to be a light-hearted read, it isn’t, but hopefully you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
Original review posted on 10/6/2012 at The Book Diva's Reads: http://www.thebookdivasreads.com/2012....
Revised edition features several changes: Ourania D'Andre is now Rennie Perini (sister to Anthony Perini from Second Chance Grill and Lianna D'Andre is now Lianna Perini.
Trouble is just what Ourania has to deal with as her mother, a social worker, contacts her to become an emergency foster parent to two children, Walt and Emma Korchek. This is an additional stress that Ourania doesn’t need, especially since it requires her to be absent from the work site at crucial moments. But Lianna D’Andre doesn’t accept no for an answer, and Ourania becomes a foster parent to two young, traumatized and somewhat hostile children. As Ourania, Walt and Emma work on overcoming their differences and mistrust, they also come to respect one another. Just when it seems like things are going well, Ourania discovers a secret about Troy that could threaten his peace of mind and possibly threaten the welfare of all involved. Can she tell Troy the truth no matter the consequences? Troy also has secrets that relate to Ourania? Should he tell her the truth even though it may put more barriers to them ever having a relationship? Is it possible to forgive the past? How far is too far in an effort to protect these secrets and the past?
Ms. Nolfi has created a heart-stirring tale of love that overcomes many obstacles in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. This isn’t just a romance between a man and a woman; it’s also a romance between a woman and two children. Ourania may not be the typical mother-figure, but she grows to love Walt and Emma and is willing to do anything to protect them, no matter the cost. Walt and Emma learn to overcome their mistrust and show their affection toward Ourania despite their traumatic childhood. There are many stories woven into this story, and all seem to hinge on actions that took place under an ancient oak tree on the Fagan’s property, the proverbial “tree of everlasting knowledge.” All of the main characters have secrets they are keeping and these secrets are all divulged and dealt with in the story. Some of these secrets are life-changing and others are life-affirming. All of the primary characters are very well-developed and likable, with one exception. The secondary characters are also well-developed and provide excellent support to the story and for the primary characters. Some of the action is tragic and heart-wrenching, whereas other action is loving and heart-warming. All of the action is realistic and never too over-the-top. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a fast-paced read that provides warmth and laughter as well as moments that are close to being tear-jerking. I’ve actually read this story twice this year and thoroughly enjoyed it both times. Don’t expect this to be a light-hearted read, it isn’t, but hopefully you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
Original review posted on 10/6/2012 at The Book Diva's Reads: http://www.thebookdivasreads.com/2012....
Revised edition features several changes: Ourania D'Andre is now Rennie Perini (sister to Anthony Perini from Second Chance Grill and Lianna D'Andre is now Lianna Perini.
March 13, 2012
I feel sort of unusually proud here. I read Christine's first book "Treasure Me" back when she was first trying to get the word out. One of my favorite things about Christine's style of writing, and one of the high points of that book, was her lovely ability to get a reader involved with the characters in her book. Not just "involved with." That's not strong enough. Maybe "in love with" is better. That was my favorite thing about "Treasure Me" and truly speaking, I think about one particular character from that book so often. The book is still with me many months after I've read it.
Back to being proud -- Christine contacted me and asked if I would like to review this book for her. I haven't been as involved in the book world as I once was but I was so tickled to be given the opportunity. I was hoping that Christine's ability to write rich characters hadn't changed, and I was hoping I would like this book as much as I did Treasure Me. (Before you ask, I have not read the second book in the Series, Second Chance Grill, but, I will remedy that soon!) I am beyond tickled to report that this author did not let me down. "Tree" is full of just as wonderful, vibrant characters as her first book. I am in love with this book as well!
Before I go on with my review, I think one thing about Ms. Nolfi's writing resonates with me: The message of family love and ties are strong in both books. Whether it is family that is created, or one that you are born into, family is definitely important to this author and she does her best at making her readers THINK about family. None of the cliche family stuff, just the everyday stuff that makes you think about what there is to family to appreciate and love. Personally speaking, I love that message.
With that being said and on to a more "review" type of review, "Tree" is the story of a woman, Ourania, who has landed a job working on a remodel of a mansion. There's a manly past/future tension and perhaps love interest? thing going on and there's a mystery that really piques the reader's interest. On top of everything, Ourania suddenly becomes the foster parent to two children, so now, she's a single working mother trying to make everything come together. It's an emotionally packed *real* feeling story. At the end, the answers to the mystery come together and you find yourself feeling so very happy that you read this lovely book. The characters are written in a way that you see their faults and their good points and all the titilating contradictions inbetween. You fall in love with them though. As with Treasure Me, the characters are definitely why you will love this book so much.
I am proud to have been asked to review this book, I'm proud to feel a little bit responsible for what will be a great career for this author and I'm proud that I read such a worthwhile and wonderful book. Pick it up and see if you don't agree with me. I'd love your feedback.
Back to being proud -- Christine contacted me and asked if I would like to review this book for her. I haven't been as involved in the book world as I once was but I was so tickled to be given the opportunity. I was hoping that Christine's ability to write rich characters hadn't changed, and I was hoping I would like this book as much as I did Treasure Me. (Before you ask, I have not read the second book in the Series, Second Chance Grill, but, I will remedy that soon!) I am beyond tickled to report that this author did not let me down. "Tree" is full of just as wonderful, vibrant characters as her first book. I am in love with this book as well!
Before I go on with my review, I think one thing about Ms. Nolfi's writing resonates with me: The message of family love and ties are strong in both books. Whether it is family that is created, or one that you are born into, family is definitely important to this author and she does her best at making her readers THINK about family. None of the cliche family stuff, just the everyday stuff that makes you think about what there is to family to appreciate and love. Personally speaking, I love that message.
With that being said and on to a more "review" type of review, "Tree" is the story of a woman, Ourania, who has landed a job working on a remodel of a mansion. There's a manly past/future tension and perhaps love interest? thing going on and there's a mystery that really piques the reader's interest. On top of everything, Ourania suddenly becomes the foster parent to two children, so now, she's a single working mother trying to make everything come together. It's an emotionally packed *real* feeling story. At the end, the answers to the mystery come together and you find yourself feeling so very happy that you read this lovely book. The characters are written in a way that you see their faults and their good points and all the titilating contradictions inbetween. You fall in love with them though. As with Treasure Me, the characters are definitely why you will love this book so much.
I am proud to have been asked to review this book, I'm proud to feel a little bit responsible for what will be a great career for this author and I'm proud that I read such a worthwhile and wonderful book. Pick it up and see if you don't agree with me. I'd love your feedback.
March 19, 2013
Life is complicated. An excellent novelist brings clarity to it. When I close the cover of a book for the last time, I want to feel better for the experience. I want a new understanding of the human condition. For me, Christine Nolfi's The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge delivered all of the above and then some.
This wonderful novel begins in the midst of several messy and complicated lives. Among them, a woman attempting to make her way in the man's world of construction, a boss with anger and control issues, two children made old before their time, hardened by abuse and the foster childcare system, and a family with a dangerous secret, living on borrowed time.
At the center of the story is a great oak tree that has seen the best and the worst of the people it surveys. And it is indeed a family tree as it holds the secret to the true lineage of the Fagans, the most powerful family in town.
Ourania D'Andre, attached to the tree by a youthful indiscretion beneath it, falls into the story as a young woman starting her own electrical contracting business battling against the prejudice of men who don’t want her involved in the massive construction project run by Troy Fagan. Her world is complicated by the adoption of two fearful and untrusting foster children. As she tries to manage these two difficult portions of her life, she discovers letters in the rubble of the construction that she knows have the potential to destroy the Fagan family and to end any hopes she has of making her company work. What will she do? And in the meantime, the children’s greatest fear is revealed and in a wonderful plot twist, the stories come together in a convincingly dramatic fashion.
In the end, we learn about the destructive power of family secrets. We learn about the pain of living in fear. We learn about self-sacrifice and the influence of love. We learn about lives upended and destabilized. We learn about patience and caring. We see regular people struggling with the rigors of life and learn along with them that not everything can be solved, but that we can be strong and rise above or learn to live with the not so perfect portions of our lives.
Nolfi’s The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge teaches without preaching and takes you on a roller coaster ride through your emotional repertoire. I highly recommend this very touching and illuminating story.
This wonderful novel begins in the midst of several messy and complicated lives. Among them, a woman attempting to make her way in the man's world of construction, a boss with anger and control issues, two children made old before their time, hardened by abuse and the foster childcare system, and a family with a dangerous secret, living on borrowed time.
At the center of the story is a great oak tree that has seen the best and the worst of the people it surveys. And it is indeed a family tree as it holds the secret to the true lineage of the Fagans, the most powerful family in town.
Ourania D'Andre, attached to the tree by a youthful indiscretion beneath it, falls into the story as a young woman starting her own electrical contracting business battling against the prejudice of men who don’t want her involved in the massive construction project run by Troy Fagan. Her world is complicated by the adoption of two fearful and untrusting foster children. As she tries to manage these two difficult portions of her life, she discovers letters in the rubble of the construction that she knows have the potential to destroy the Fagan family and to end any hopes she has of making her company work. What will she do? And in the meantime, the children’s greatest fear is revealed and in a wonderful plot twist, the stories come together in a convincingly dramatic fashion.
In the end, we learn about the destructive power of family secrets. We learn about the pain of living in fear. We learn about self-sacrifice and the influence of love. We learn about lives upended and destabilized. We learn about patience and caring. We see regular people struggling with the rigors of life and learn along with them that not everything can be solved, but that we can be strong and rise above or learn to live with the not so perfect portions of our lives.
Nolfi’s The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge teaches without preaching and takes you on a roller coaster ride through your emotional repertoire. I highly recommend this very touching and illuminating story.
June 21, 2012
It's a grand old oak tree that's famous for miles around. People believe that it's magic and lovers gather there in the full moon to receive it's blessing. What people don't know, is that the oak tree holds a dark secret or two.
Ourania is trying really hard to live up to the standards of her family. Getting her electrician business off the ground has come a long way. Her newest job, for the Fagan's, could lead her from residential to business prospects, so it's an important job. When her mother, head of child services, cons her into taking in a couple of emergency foster kids, Ourania might as well kiss her business good bye.
Troy Fagan is in charge of the remodeling of his large family home. It's a difficult task that pulls out a large amount of person pain. The demolition of his beloved dead brother's room is enough to make him dread it, but the presence of the electrician, Ourania, makes it doubly hard. Given her past with his brother, the poor man can barely look at her without wanting to weep.
Will Troy and Ourania be able to work out their differences or move past previous pains and guilt? Is there a happy ending lieing for them under the grand old oak tree? Or are they truely cursed as they believe?
From the second I began reading this book, I couldn't stop. The characters are incredible and lifelike. They're well created and from the first paragraph I felt as if I knew them intimately. Their stories intertwine in such a delicious way. The heartbreak and pain that each suffers is only made tolerable by the fierce love that each is surrounded by. This is a well-written, fascinating read. You'll find it fast-paced and not bogged down with a bunch of unnecessary description.
Though I expected this to be a romance book, it really wasn't. For me, it was more about each character's personal journey for peace. The horror of some of the characters is portrayed in such a way that we aren't forced to watch, but we still feel the sense of terror that each character feels. Peppered with a few giggles here and there, this is a wonderful read for anyone who wants some entertainment with a little hope and faith on the side.
*Reviewed for Minding Spot
Ourania is trying really hard to live up to the standards of her family. Getting her electrician business off the ground has come a long way. Her newest job, for the Fagan's, could lead her from residential to business prospects, so it's an important job. When her mother, head of child services, cons her into taking in a couple of emergency foster kids, Ourania might as well kiss her business good bye.
Troy Fagan is in charge of the remodeling of his large family home. It's a difficult task that pulls out a large amount of person pain. The demolition of his beloved dead brother's room is enough to make him dread it, but the presence of the electrician, Ourania, makes it doubly hard. Given her past with his brother, the poor man can barely look at her without wanting to weep.
Will Troy and Ourania be able to work out their differences or move past previous pains and guilt? Is there a happy ending lieing for them under the grand old oak tree? Or are they truely cursed as they believe?
From the second I began reading this book, I couldn't stop. The characters are incredible and lifelike. They're well created and from the first paragraph I felt as if I knew them intimately. Their stories intertwine in such a delicious way. The heartbreak and pain that each suffers is only made tolerable by the fierce love that each is surrounded by. This is a well-written, fascinating read. You'll find it fast-paced and not bogged down with a bunch of unnecessary description.
Though I expected this to be a romance book, it really wasn't. For me, it was more about each character's personal journey for peace. The horror of some of the characters is portrayed in such a way that we aren't forced to watch, but we still feel the sense of terror that each character feels. Peppered with a few giggles here and there, this is a wonderful read for anyone who wants some entertainment with a little hope and faith on the side.
*Reviewed for Minding Spot
March 16, 2012
I really, really liked this book. It's the sort of book where you get so entranced in the various storylines that you don't realize how much time has gone by as you're reading the book. At first we're following the storyline of Ourania, an electrician who likes being on her own with no ties. Suddenly she becomes the guardian of two foster children. At almost the same time, she's thrust into confronting some painful subjects from the past and comes into contact with some information that could change the lives of those that's she's close to and those that she's not so close to. There's a lot going on in this story but the storylines are so well woven together that the book as a whole works really well.
The characters are really great. I really liked Ourania, the main character in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. She's tough but as we see in the book, she does have a soft and loving side; especially when it comes to Walt and Emma, the foster children that she takes in at the request of her mother, the head of the town's child protective services organization. She's a really unique character but I did find myself confused about some of her motives. I don't want to give anything away about this book (the twists and turns should stay a surprise) but when Ourania becomes the owner of some information about Troy, her boss on the job to renovate his family's grand home, she doesn't seem to hesitate too long to tell Troy. In this specific case, I'm not sure that it was Ourania's business to tell Troy, especially when her relationship with Troy is so rocky. At first it seems like Ourania is almost being mean to Troy in a way just because their relationship is so bad. Everything turns out okay but it just seemed strange that she jumped right in to sharing such startling news. I do wish that there had been more of an explanation.
The writing definitely helps to carry the story. Between the writing and a fantastic storyline with a good dose of twists and turns and you have a great book!
The characters are really great. I really liked Ourania, the main character in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. She's tough but as we see in the book, she does have a soft and loving side; especially when it comes to Walt and Emma, the foster children that she takes in at the request of her mother, the head of the town's child protective services organization. She's a really unique character but I did find myself confused about some of her motives. I don't want to give anything away about this book (the twists and turns should stay a surprise) but when Ourania becomes the owner of some information about Troy, her boss on the job to renovate his family's grand home, she doesn't seem to hesitate too long to tell Troy. In this specific case, I'm not sure that it was Ourania's business to tell Troy, especially when her relationship with Troy is so rocky. At first it seems like Ourania is almost being mean to Troy in a way just because their relationship is so bad. Everything turns out okay but it just seemed strange that she jumped right in to sharing such startling news. I do wish that there had been more of an explanation.
The writing definitely helps to carry the story. Between the writing and a fantastic storyline with a good dose of twists and turns and you have a great book!
September 12, 2014
Christine Nolfi, what can I say! This is the third book I have read written by Christine. I have one more left to read, I hope she's working on more books, as I don't think she can write fast enough for me now. After discovering her with reading Second Hand Grill, I moved on to another one of her books, then another. Each book is very different, but with one thing most in common, it sucks you in until everything around you doesn't exist, and let me tell you, I needed that. I was suffering the entire week with toothache, this was the only thing that took my mind off of the pain for a while.
I don't like giving spoilers for possible readers, I don't think its fair on the author or the reader. I can honestly say that you won't be disappointed with this read.
Ouriania is one of the main characters, I really loved her, she was loving, kind and so grew to love the children she was fostering, she worked hard. Knowing the Boss from of old kept her in a awkward position, then learning of secrets that she should inform her boss off made me wonder if she was doing the right thing, but I could see the author was right in allowing this to happen.
The conclusion of the book left me with my mouth open, I really didn't see the ending coming and how it all rounded up, amazing. I've very enthusiastic about this book, and cannot 'gush' more that I am!!!
***this book was gifted to me by the author for an honest review****
I don't like giving spoilers for possible readers, I don't think its fair on the author or the reader. I can honestly say that you won't be disappointed with this read.
Ouriania is one of the main characters, I really loved her, she was loving, kind and so grew to love the children she was fostering, she worked hard. Knowing the Boss from of old kept her in a awkward position, then learning of secrets that she should inform her boss off made me wonder if she was doing the right thing, but I could see the author was right in allowing this to happen.
The conclusion of the book left me with my mouth open, I really didn't see the ending coming and how it all rounded up, amazing. I've very enthusiastic about this book, and cannot 'gush' more that I am!!!
***this book was gifted to me by the author for an honest review****
August 11, 2012
I enjoyed The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, even though there were some slow parts. There were a couple of sections of the book I skimmed because I wanted to catch up to the action. I really like Ourania as a character and her demeanor. She came across to me as one that doesn’t mence words. She’s a head strong business woman that knows what she wants. Troy was annoying to me at times. I wanted him to just say outright what he wanted instead of beating around the bush. My heart was tugged by the children Emma and Walt that was placed into the care of Ourania. I have strong convictions against child abuse and would have liked to seen more done to Buck, the abuser, than his final demise. The Fagan’s and all their money couldn’t hide the family secrets that came to light throughout the book. Very interesting plot line with some unexpected revelations.
I did enjoy the book; even though I had my suspicions on where the ending was going. Although, I had kind of figured that was going to be the final outcome I was glad it ended how it did. This book in some ways reminded me of the VC Andrews series.
I give the book only 4 stars instead of 5 because although I did really like it; the slow spots and my prediction of the end took away one star.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
I did enjoy the book; even though I had my suspicions on where the ending was going. Although, I had kind of figured that was going to be the final outcome I was glad it ended how it did. This book in some ways reminded me of the VC Andrews series.
I give the book only 4 stars instead of 5 because although I did really like it; the slow spots and my prediction of the end took away one star.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
December 1, 2015
First off I have to say I put off reading this book for two reasons: (1) For some reason I didn't like the title, I still don't...(2) When I read the synopsis it starts off by saying..."A savage rape..." Now if I know ahead of time I usually don't read stories that involve rape. However, Ms. Nolfi interwove it into the story, but, didn't get graphic with it. (It was not in your face with every little detail.)
So, after I faced up to my idiosyncrasies and settled down to actually reading the book I found it interesting. It had a bit of mystery, intrigue, and just the right amount of light romance to keep me interested and turning the pages. All-in-all I found it an enjoyable read and awarded it 4 "Old Oak Tree" stars.
This is not the first book I've read by Christine Nolfi, I've read all of the Liberty books in this series, and found them all entertaining in their own sort of way. Even though this is a book in a series, it is still a stand alone book.
This book is a part of my Kindle library.
So, after I faced up to my idiosyncrasies and settled down to actually reading the book I found it interesting. It had a bit of mystery, intrigue, and just the right amount of light romance to keep me interested and turning the pages. All-in-all I found it an enjoyable read and awarded it 4 "Old Oak Tree" stars.
This is not the first book I've read by Christine Nolfi, I've read all of the Liberty books in this series, and found them all entertaining in their own sort of way. Even though this is a book in a series, it is still a stand alone book.
This book is a part of my Kindle library.
November 14, 2013
Omg what an absolutely fantastic book. This is my third book by Christine. As much as I loved all 3 this is my favourite.
There is so much more to this book than what the description said.Twice while reading this book I found myself putting down my kindle & thinking I can't read anymore. I was so involved with the characters I was afraid of what was going to happen next. After the second time I put my kindle down I txt my reading buddy Sue & told her what this book was doing to me. I've got a feeling she will be reading this soon.
Reading is my passion. I'm on lots of Facebook pages where they recommend books that put you through so many emotions. None I've read lately have done that to me until I read this book. Read it. You won't be disappointed.
I am so proud & privileged that this fantastic author allowed me to read this book in return for an honest review.
I've only one more book left to read of hers so I hope she is busy writing another fantastic read.
There is so much more to this book than what the description said.Twice while reading this book I found myself putting down my kindle & thinking I can't read anymore. I was so involved with the characters I was afraid of what was going to happen next. After the second time I put my kindle down I txt my reading buddy Sue & told her what this book was doing to me. I've got a feeling she will be reading this soon.
Reading is my passion. I'm on lots of Facebook pages where they recommend books that put you through so many emotions. None I've read lately have done that to me until I read this book. Read it. You won't be disappointed.
I am so proud & privileged that this fantastic author allowed me to read this book in return for an honest review.
I've only one more book left to read of hers so I hope she is busy writing another fantastic read.
March 31, 2014
This is an amazing work of literary fiction. Christine Nolfi has a way with words that just draws you into the story. The characters are extremely well developed and I felt like I knew them. The storyline is engrossing, well thought out, and fast paced. The women in this book are strong and yet with a soft side. They love with all their being.I loved this book,as I have loved all the books by this author. It takes a special kind of person to take you into a book like this. Christine Nolfi is a master storyteller of the highest caliber. If you love to read, as I do, then you must read all her works. I assure you that you will become a fan. I know I am,now and forever. Thanks for another amazing read. Buy it, read it, love it. Satisfaction guaranteed. Now, I can't wait till the next book comes out!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!
This book is like a beautiful work of art. You will love and appreciate it for a very long time.
This book is like a beautiful work of art. You will love and appreciate it for a very long time.
July 27, 2012
The woman at the center of this story, Ourania, is as strong and stubborn as she is beautiful, with her "whiskey-colored eyes." And she wears a workman's toolbelt, with hammers and other tools hanging from her hip, and happens to the best electrician within a three-county area.
The author weaves a tortured story of rape and brutality and love and redemption involving Ourania and the other characters in this small Ohio town. When they speak to each other, it's like fireworks going off. Their feelings are bottled up so deep, you know an explosion is coming.
Each time I thought I knew what was going to happen, the story surprised me with another twist. The ending was beautiful and horrifying and, ultimately, just right. I read another book by the same author, Treasure Me, and now I'm well and truly hooked.
The author weaves a tortured story of rape and brutality and love and redemption involving Ourania and the other characters in this small Ohio town. When they speak to each other, it's like fireworks going off. Their feelings are bottled up so deep, you know an explosion is coming.
Each time I thought I knew what was going to happen, the story surprised me with another twist. The ending was beautiful and horrifying and, ultimately, just right. I read another book by the same author, Treasure Me, and now I'm well and truly hooked.
November 23, 2012
I enjoyed this book a lot. It had the prefect blend of love and danger.
The characters were well developed. They were flawed and realistic. I found that I really liked them because of that. I enjoyed the way they interacted and the way their relationships evolved.
I really liked the story itself. I liked the flow and the timing of key revelations. I really didn't want to put it down and was anxious to pick it back up again when I had to. I was very satisfied with the ending.
Kudos to you, Christine, on a well-crafted book. I look forward to reading more from you.
The characters were well developed. They were flawed and realistic. I found that I really liked them because of that. I enjoyed the way they interacted and the way their relationships evolved.
I really liked the story itself. I liked the flow and the timing of key revelations. I really didn't want to put it down and was anxious to pick it back up again when I had to. I was very satisfied with the ending.
Kudos to you, Christine, on a well-crafted book. I look forward to reading more from you.
November 27, 2015
OMG! What an AWESOME Book! YOU MUST READ IT! It is a great addition to the Liberty series. A very well written fast paced book that will draw you in from the very beginning. It will have you wondering what will happen next. A very hard book to put down. My trouble was finding the time to read.
The characters are amazing and all work so well together. They will have you feeling like you are right there in Liberty,Ohio with them. I don't want to ruin the effect the story will have on you by telling you the story line.
BUY THE BOOK TODAY! You will not be sorry.
The characters are amazing and all work so well together. They will have you feeling like you are right there in Liberty,Ohio with them. I don't want to ruin the effect the story will have on you by telling you the story line.
BUY THE BOOK TODAY! You will not be sorry.
August 21, 2014
Nolfi is a wonderful writer. Her stories are an amazing interweaving of characters, plot and setting. Above all, her work always emphasizes the incredible powers of love and family.
July 3, 2012
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge
Christine Nolfi
The lives of so many people can change with the stroke of a clock or the strike of a match. Knowledge is power and sometime what we learn about another person when revealed can do more harm than keeping what we’ve learned secret. Within this novel there are many layers, many intricacies and many webs that once pulled back, opened up and released will not only change the dynamics of a wealthy family but fragility of its structure. Facing your past and reliving it will either strengthen a person or destroy them. Ourania D’Andre is a strong willed, smart, no holds barred woman determined to make her mark. Winning the bid on an electrical contract for the Fagan family was a definite coo for Ourania. But, not everyone assigned to the project and working on the mansion’s renovations welcomed her. First, there is Troy, the one person whose path she prefers not to cross for more reasons than one. But, in charge of this project and much to his chagrin, he is as you might say stuck with Ourania since his sister hired her and refuses to allow him to find another electrician. The Fagan’s run and operate a multi-million dollar orchid business which also ships produce all of the United States. The company has made each member of the family quite wealthy. Troy departed the family business to work on the renovations, which eventually would rekindle his memories of his deceased brother and his murder 15 years ago. Jason Fagan would once again come between Troy and Ourania as their pasts would be revealed, secrets and lies told, deceits and cover-ups no longer hidden as I review The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge by author Christine Nolfi.
Spearheading the renovations Troy is a hardnosed boss and tolerates not distractions, delays or deviations from his work schedule. But, when Ourania is late several times, missing an important meeting confronting
Their son Troy had left the family business to work in construction and he was working on the renovation for his family. Troy is feeling anxious about the renovations due to the part of the house that they were renovating was his teenage brother, Jason's room. Jason had been murdered fifteen years ago. Men often have their own prejudices when working with woman and some of the tradesmen or sub contractors resented her being awarded the contract and have no trouble letting her know it. But, as the author allows the reader to get to know her better we learn she is not one to back down no matter what.
Children face difficulties everyday it is part of growing up. But, no child should ever withstand the beatings, berating and abuse of an adult. Emma and Walt are two lost souls who find themselves sent to live with Ourania until their father goes through anger therapy or the social worker and the courts send them back. Lianna D’Andre, Ourania’s mother manages and runs Jobs and Family Services and makes sure that the children whose cases come to her are placed in safe care and in good homes. Lianna goes before many state judges championing the causes of these abused children and hopefully bringing the issue to light in the media. When Lianna asks Ourania to take in Walt and Emma she declines knowing that it might jeopardize her job with the Fagans. But meeting them and realizing their needs she agrees. Accepting these children in her home and learning their past, trying to cope with a difficult employer and what secrets she is about to uncover would create more than just tension and the need for her to chuck down more antacids. But, within the massive walls and structure secrets are hidden, lies that not have been revealed will be as Ourania finds something as powerful as Pandora’s box and what she unleashes will definitely not be hope.
Jason Fagan was murdered and no one has been in his room ever since. During the renovations the contractors have to break into Jason’s bedroom and working in their Ourania finds a box containing letters. These letters open up many questions that she wants answered and some lead back to Troy, his mother and hers too. But, first the author tells the story of Emma and Walt and their life with their father in a sad flashback that will bring chills down your spine. Added to that she recounts the history of the letters, who wrote them and the relationship of the writer to one of the Fagan family.
The Great Oak Tree that stands tall has secrets of its own. As we meet more of her family we come to love Uncle Gino and Bess. They add flavor and definitely humor to the story as they bond with both children. The tree stands tall and people believe it to have magical powers. When a full moon comes about lovers gather there to receive it’s blessing. But, the tree has its own deep dark secrets too? Ourania has an assistant named Squeak who brings his dog to the site. But, one mason injured him and the culprit will link two parts of the story together and bring to light what happens when the system does not really look long and hard at an abusive parent. As the truths unfold and the layers blend together what happens will not only change Troy’s life but the two foster children too. The secrets in those letters revealed as Ourania shares their contents with him. Another life is intertwined with his and the truth behind an incident that happened many years before would link the Fagans with someone they would choose to forget. As the judge does not see the light, the truth and the children are returned to the their father. What will Troy and Ourania do to save these two from harm? Why would they intervene and what power does the Great Oak Tree have and what secrets lie beneath its tall branches?
An ending so gripping and riveting you won’t stop reading until you find out the dramatic ending as you fall in love with Walt, Emma and an entire cast of characters that are real, genuine and definitely quite special. As Troy learns a hidden truth he begins to understand his connection to Walt and Emma. Government agencies do not always protect the children and return them to abusive parents. The issues of both sexual, rape and physical abuse are brought to light in many flashbacks seen through the minds of both Walt and Emma and one other character. What is the end result? In order to come to peace with the past both Ourania had to face the truth in the present. The guilt they both carried for Jason’s death needs to be released before they can move ahead with their own lives. An ending that will surprise the reader and a family that learns that secrets need to be told and lies can only hurt if not revealed. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge has secrets within its tall trunk and love and forgiveness within each of its branches. Knowledge is powerful and the power of forgiveness and love even more. This is one great novel that educators, guidance counselors, family and social workers should read. Children are precious and no one should endure abuse. Let’s give this book: FIVE SPECIAL GOLDEN BRANCHES FILLED WITH LOVE FOR EMMA AND WALT
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Christine Nolfi
The lives of so many people can change with the stroke of a clock or the strike of a match. Knowledge is power and sometime what we learn about another person when revealed can do more harm than keeping what we’ve learned secret. Within this novel there are many layers, many intricacies and many webs that once pulled back, opened up and released will not only change the dynamics of a wealthy family but fragility of its structure. Facing your past and reliving it will either strengthen a person or destroy them. Ourania D’Andre is a strong willed, smart, no holds barred woman determined to make her mark. Winning the bid on an electrical contract for the Fagan family was a definite coo for Ourania. But, not everyone assigned to the project and working on the mansion’s renovations welcomed her. First, there is Troy, the one person whose path she prefers not to cross for more reasons than one. But, in charge of this project and much to his chagrin, he is as you might say stuck with Ourania since his sister hired her and refuses to allow him to find another electrician. The Fagan’s run and operate a multi-million dollar orchid business which also ships produce all of the United States. The company has made each member of the family quite wealthy. Troy departed the family business to work on the renovations, which eventually would rekindle his memories of his deceased brother and his murder 15 years ago. Jason Fagan would once again come between Troy and Ourania as their pasts would be revealed, secrets and lies told, deceits and cover-ups no longer hidden as I review The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge by author Christine Nolfi.
Spearheading the renovations Troy is a hardnosed boss and tolerates not distractions, delays or deviations from his work schedule. But, when Ourania is late several times, missing an important meeting confronting
Their son Troy had left the family business to work in construction and he was working on the renovation for his family. Troy is feeling anxious about the renovations due to the part of the house that they were renovating was his teenage brother, Jason's room. Jason had been murdered fifteen years ago. Men often have their own prejudices when working with woman and some of the tradesmen or sub contractors resented her being awarded the contract and have no trouble letting her know it. But, as the author allows the reader to get to know her better we learn she is not one to back down no matter what.
Children face difficulties everyday it is part of growing up. But, no child should ever withstand the beatings, berating and abuse of an adult. Emma and Walt are two lost souls who find themselves sent to live with Ourania until their father goes through anger therapy or the social worker and the courts send them back. Lianna D’Andre, Ourania’s mother manages and runs Jobs and Family Services and makes sure that the children whose cases come to her are placed in safe care and in good homes. Lianna goes before many state judges championing the causes of these abused children and hopefully bringing the issue to light in the media. When Lianna asks Ourania to take in Walt and Emma she declines knowing that it might jeopardize her job with the Fagans. But meeting them and realizing their needs she agrees. Accepting these children in her home and learning their past, trying to cope with a difficult employer and what secrets she is about to uncover would create more than just tension and the need for her to chuck down more antacids. But, within the massive walls and structure secrets are hidden, lies that not have been revealed will be as Ourania finds something as powerful as Pandora’s box and what she unleashes will definitely not be hope.
Jason Fagan was murdered and no one has been in his room ever since. During the renovations the contractors have to break into Jason’s bedroom and working in their Ourania finds a box containing letters. These letters open up many questions that she wants answered and some lead back to Troy, his mother and hers too. But, first the author tells the story of Emma and Walt and their life with their father in a sad flashback that will bring chills down your spine. Added to that she recounts the history of the letters, who wrote them and the relationship of the writer to one of the Fagan family.
The Great Oak Tree that stands tall has secrets of its own. As we meet more of her family we come to love Uncle Gino and Bess. They add flavor and definitely humor to the story as they bond with both children. The tree stands tall and people believe it to have magical powers. When a full moon comes about lovers gather there to receive it’s blessing. But, the tree has its own deep dark secrets too? Ourania has an assistant named Squeak who brings his dog to the site. But, one mason injured him and the culprit will link two parts of the story together and bring to light what happens when the system does not really look long and hard at an abusive parent. As the truths unfold and the layers blend together what happens will not only change Troy’s life but the two foster children too. The secrets in those letters revealed as Ourania shares their contents with him. Another life is intertwined with his and the truth behind an incident that happened many years before would link the Fagans with someone they would choose to forget. As the judge does not see the light, the truth and the children are returned to the their father. What will Troy and Ourania do to save these two from harm? Why would they intervene and what power does the Great Oak Tree have and what secrets lie beneath its tall branches?
An ending so gripping and riveting you won’t stop reading until you find out the dramatic ending as you fall in love with Walt, Emma and an entire cast of characters that are real, genuine and definitely quite special. As Troy learns a hidden truth he begins to understand his connection to Walt and Emma. Government agencies do not always protect the children and return them to abusive parents. The issues of both sexual, rape and physical abuse are brought to light in many flashbacks seen through the minds of both Walt and Emma and one other character. What is the end result? In order to come to peace with the past both Ourania had to face the truth in the present. The guilt they both carried for Jason’s death needs to be released before they can move ahead with their own lives. An ending that will surprise the reader and a family that learns that secrets need to be told and lies can only hurt if not revealed. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge has secrets within its tall trunk and love and forgiveness within each of its branches. Knowledge is powerful and the power of forgiveness and love even more. This is one great novel that educators, guidance counselors, family and social workers should read. Children are precious and no one should endure abuse. Let’s give this book: FIVE SPECIAL GOLDEN BRANCHES FILLED WITH LOVE FOR EMMA AND WALT
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
March 1, 2025
Secrets
××××Goodreads winner recipient of e-copy ××××
This story will grab your attention and run away with your mind. You will not want to put it down until all the scenarios running through your head are verified! All that happened long ago comes full tilt and the kindness and love of a couple transform the life of a child.
××××Goodreads winner recipient of e-copy ××××
This story will grab your attention and run away with your mind. You will not want to put it down until all the scenarios running through your head are verified! All that happened long ago comes full tilt and the kindness and love of a couple transform the life of a child.
March 17, 2012
I give 4-4.5 stars to The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge by Christine Nolfi, a story of contemporary--perhaps with a hint of literary--fiction. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge has so much in it to read for. Christine layers on multiple storylines, each weaving closer to each other and building to a thrilling ending.
Her novel follows two main characters who are connected by a tragedy in their past, two people trying to move forward, but ever reminded of what's happened. Ourania is contracted by Troy Fagan for a renovation of the family's mansion. Ourania's mother, Lianna, thrusts two in-need siblings under her wing for emergency foster care because Emma and Walt's surviving parent, Buck, has mistreated them. Troy is a man who's lost his brother, who's had a secret past with Ourania, and he hasn't spoken to her for years because of their past. Now they're working together and things only get stickier.
Things unravel--Ourania struggles to cope with Emma and Walt, Troy's under pressure at the mansion with construction--until Ourania and Troy unwittingly realise there's still passion between them. Ourania grows closer to the children, but issues continue to arise between her and Troy. Tension also rises from Buck's threats, Ourania's struggle to cope with her job, the children's needs, and her growing feelings for Troy.
When things come together, it's a heart-pumping race to the finish.
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge shows the heart-breaking story of two siblings who've been mistreated and scarred. I grew to love these children and it was obvious that Christine writes with honesty. This is what makes empathising with them an inevitable journey. Ourania and Troy are two strong-willed people that have a bond beyond physical and romantic nature. I found myself rooting for their relationship, and as the story progresses it's hard to not feel invested in the outcome. Do they forgive and make up? Will they never make it over their past?
I can't describe the ending in any other way than: why didn't I see it coming!? Christine plots this novel with care, yet writes it so eloquently so when the novel ends, you feel like a goose for not realising earlier. The best thing is this novel thrills and shocks, but not without reasoning that's setup from the beginning.
I must admit, however, that there were editing issues. I thought some POVs were unnecessary because it's hard caring for a perspective told via a non-main character. There were also a couple of scenes midway through the novel that were confusing and stilted. Other small-scale sentence issues are present but they're not detrimental to the story. The ending certainly was a redemption that pushed these issues down the so-called "importance" factor.
This novel is honest in its story about love and adoption, relationships and secrets. The novel's journey twists up and down until it grabs hold of you and you'll get less and less sleep as you head toward the ending. I recommend this read to anyone who values children, honesty, care for others, and love. Oh, and for those who relish a dark past.
--A must read--
Her novel follows two main characters who are connected by a tragedy in their past, two people trying to move forward, but ever reminded of what's happened. Ourania is contracted by Troy Fagan for a renovation of the family's mansion. Ourania's mother, Lianna, thrusts two in-need siblings under her wing for emergency foster care because Emma and Walt's surviving parent, Buck, has mistreated them. Troy is a man who's lost his brother, who's had a secret past with Ourania, and he hasn't spoken to her for years because of their past. Now they're working together and things only get stickier.
Things unravel--Ourania struggles to cope with Emma and Walt, Troy's under pressure at the mansion with construction--until Ourania and Troy unwittingly realise there's still passion between them. Ourania grows closer to the children, but issues continue to arise between her and Troy. Tension also rises from Buck's threats, Ourania's struggle to cope with her job, the children's needs, and her growing feelings for Troy.
When things come together, it's a heart-pumping race to the finish.
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge shows the heart-breaking story of two siblings who've been mistreated and scarred. I grew to love these children and it was obvious that Christine writes with honesty. This is what makes empathising with them an inevitable journey. Ourania and Troy are two strong-willed people that have a bond beyond physical and romantic nature. I found myself rooting for their relationship, and as the story progresses it's hard to not feel invested in the outcome. Do they forgive and make up? Will they never make it over their past?
I can't describe the ending in any other way than: why didn't I see it coming!? Christine plots this novel with care, yet writes it so eloquently so when the novel ends, you feel like a goose for not realising earlier. The best thing is this novel thrills and shocks, but not without reasoning that's setup from the beginning.
I must admit, however, that there were editing issues. I thought some POVs were unnecessary because it's hard caring for a perspective told via a non-main character. There were also a couple of scenes midway through the novel that were confusing and stilted. Other small-scale sentence issues are present but they're not detrimental to the story. The ending certainly was a redemption that pushed these issues down the so-called "importance" factor.
This novel is honest in its story about love and adoption, relationships and secrets. The novel's journey twists up and down until it grabs hold of you and you'll get less and less sleep as you head toward the ending. I recommend this read to anyone who values children, honesty, care for others, and love. Oh, and for those who relish a dark past.
--A must read--
September 18, 2022
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge
This is the fifth book in this series and it is a good story about a man and woman that loved when young and then the foster children she took in turned out to be related
This is the fifth book in this series and it is a good story about a man and woman that loved when young and then the foster children she took in turned out to be related
May 2, 2012
Ourania hasn't been back to the mansion since her best friend Jason died so many years ago. Now here she is, standing before his brother Troy, about to start on a job that could potentially make a name for herself and her new business. If all goes well, she will be putting in a bid for the new Fagen plant on the very same property, which would be really huge for her. But things go from bad to worse on the first day and her job is threatened. Oh yeah, that plant job is looking more further and futher away.
Troy can't believe Ourania is actually standing before him on the job. He still thinks her as beautiful, but has a strict 'No dating employees' rule and just the sight of her reminds him of Jason. Crash, his lead man, is trying desperately to get her to step down from the job, but the stubborn girl is not budging. Yep, same Ourania. These next couple months should be fun.
In The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, Nolfi tells a story of a horrific past and a tortured present. This story is one of forgiveness for many of the characters and the road back to it is not an easy one. Guilt is so heavy in their lives that forgiveness is a faraway dream. Could everything that has led to these moments actually be a curse that was set into motion one night long ago under the Great Oak?
Ok, gonna be honest here, I really wasn't looking forward to reading this one. I think because I have been reading so much lately, trying to catch up, I felt kinda burned out. And the thought of having to read another book for another review made me feel sorta blah. But once I started I was transported into Nolfi's world, I could actually smell apples in the orchards. Her writing is so beautifully done, it's like you feel every emotion running through the book, the good and the bad.
Nolfi's characters are extremely endearing, I fell for them and just wanted to hug them up and tell them it would all be ok. Well, except for one character...he was just plain evil. But the others, yeah they were great. I thought the banter between Troy and Ourania was hilarious. The girl can hold her own and wasn't shy about it. I mentioned probably a hundred times before I love romance in my reads, this story had some, not overdone, but it was just right for the book.
The plot was fabulous, absolutely fabulous. I enjoyed how the author would reveal bits and pieces at just the right time. And how the past would sneak in to tell it's story. It's like I was watching a movie and you know how the screen will get sorta fuzzy to show you it was going back to a different time...that's the image I would get. Would love to see The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge as a movie, and I think after you read it, you would too. (Yeah, we need to make this happen, Nolfi. Oooh time to start thinking of possible casting?! lol)
Thank you, Christine Nolfi for a chance to read your beautiful story. I hope to read more of your work someday.
Troy can't believe Ourania is actually standing before him on the job. He still thinks her as beautiful, but has a strict 'No dating employees' rule and just the sight of her reminds him of Jason. Crash, his lead man, is trying desperately to get her to step down from the job, but the stubborn girl is not budging. Yep, same Ourania. These next couple months should be fun.
In The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, Nolfi tells a story of a horrific past and a tortured present. This story is one of forgiveness for many of the characters and the road back to it is not an easy one. Guilt is so heavy in their lives that forgiveness is a faraway dream. Could everything that has led to these moments actually be a curse that was set into motion one night long ago under the Great Oak?
Ok, gonna be honest here, I really wasn't looking forward to reading this one. I think because I have been reading so much lately, trying to catch up, I felt kinda burned out. And the thought of having to read another book for another review made me feel sorta blah. But once I started I was transported into Nolfi's world, I could actually smell apples in the orchards. Her writing is so beautifully done, it's like you feel every emotion running through the book, the good and the bad.
Nolfi's characters are extremely endearing, I fell for them and just wanted to hug them up and tell them it would all be ok. Well, except for one character...he was just plain evil. But the others, yeah they were great. I thought the banter between Troy and Ourania was hilarious. The girl can hold her own and wasn't shy about it. I mentioned probably a hundred times before I love romance in my reads, this story had some, not overdone, but it was just right for the book.
The plot was fabulous, absolutely fabulous. I enjoyed how the author would reveal bits and pieces at just the right time. And how the past would sneak in to tell it's story. It's like I was watching a movie and you know how the screen will get sorta fuzzy to show you it was going back to a different time...that's the image I would get. Would love to see The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge as a movie, and I think after you read it, you would too. (Yeah, we need to make this happen, Nolfi. Oooh time to start thinking of possible casting?! lol)
Thank you, Christine Nolfi for a chance to read your beautiful story. I hope to read more of your work someday.
August 19, 2012
Christine Nolfi was the very first author to ever request a review from me when I started this blog; after I read and loved her debut, Treasure Me, I immediately agreed to read and review her second novel, The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, when she approached me about it. Although a good year passed in between when I read her first novel, and when I eagerly read this one, the effect was the same once I started Tree: I immediately fell all over again for Christine's writing and her way of creating characters that feel at once familiar, like old friends.
Main characters Ourania and Troy crackled with their own individual personalities, as well as their barely contained sexual tension. It was at once clear that there was something unresolved between these two, and as I read more, and began to like and care for both of these tormented characters, their pasts became clearer, and my heart went out to each of them. Throughout Tree, we're given glimpses through a dual POV into both Troy and Ourania's thoughts and motivations, and we see both sides of their tangled story. Still dealing - poorly - with their shared loss of a loved one, both Troy and Ourania have taken equally dangerous paths in their life, which has led them both to become deeply unhappy. I wanted to alternately hug and shake each of them for being so dense at times, yet so intuitive at others.
Nolfi effortlessly built layer after layer upon the foundation she laid early on in Tree; with her easy to follow, easy to love writing style, she weaves several character's stories into one another, yet does so in a way that never feels too tangled. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is many things: a romance, a mystery, a social commentary on the foster system and how it works and does not work at times, a mystery, and a moral lesson. What I loved best were the relationships: Ourania and Troy, Troy and his parents, Ourania and her foster children, sweet Walt and broken Emma, Ourania and Troy's sister. All of the characters, even the minor ones, were definitely well developed and stood out strongly in my mind, even after finishing Tree!
Christine Nolfi kept me guessing at various plot twists, which I applaud. Tree had so much going on, but not in a cluttered way - it was definitely a well-rounded mystery, thriller, and romance all at once. As the pages grew numbered, my heartbeat increased, and I found myself genuinely scared for the characters, as past secrets came to life to threaten them in present day. And at Tree's end, although everything was wrapped up a bit too neatly for my taste (my only real complaint), this novel is still emotionally satisfying in many ways!
Main characters Ourania and Troy crackled with their own individual personalities, as well as their barely contained sexual tension. It was at once clear that there was something unresolved between these two, and as I read more, and began to like and care for both of these tormented characters, their pasts became clearer, and my heart went out to each of them. Throughout Tree, we're given glimpses through a dual POV into both Troy and Ourania's thoughts and motivations, and we see both sides of their tangled story. Still dealing - poorly - with their shared loss of a loved one, both Troy and Ourania have taken equally dangerous paths in their life, which has led them both to become deeply unhappy. I wanted to alternately hug and shake each of them for being so dense at times, yet so intuitive at others.
Nolfi effortlessly built layer after layer upon the foundation she laid early on in Tree; with her easy to follow, easy to love writing style, she weaves several character's stories into one another, yet does so in a way that never feels too tangled. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is many things: a romance, a mystery, a social commentary on the foster system and how it works and does not work at times, a mystery, and a moral lesson. What I loved best were the relationships: Ourania and Troy, Troy and his parents, Ourania and her foster children, sweet Walt and broken Emma, Ourania and Troy's sister. All of the characters, even the minor ones, were definitely well developed and stood out strongly in my mind, even after finishing Tree!
Christine Nolfi kept me guessing at various plot twists, which I applaud. Tree had so much going on, but not in a cluttered way - it was definitely a well-rounded mystery, thriller, and romance all at once. As the pages grew numbered, my heartbeat increased, and I found myself genuinely scared for the characters, as past secrets came to life to threaten them in present day. And at Tree's end, although everything was wrapped up a bit too neatly for my taste (my only real complaint), this novel is still emotionally satisfying in many ways!
October 21, 2013
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge begins with a hook (a line that grabs one’s interest), and the reader’s curiosity is stirred immediately.
Our main character, Ourania (whose name I’m never sure I am correctly pronouncing – and I do ‘hear’ the words even as I read along silently) is a strong single woman, who owns and operates her own electrical contracting business. She bids on – and is accepted for – a challenging job that places her directly in the path and life of a man she once knew. Then her life gets really complicated.
Because of her mother’s work in family services, she gets pulled into foster parenting – and not of one child but of two troubled siblings. As if her job’s stability isn’t precarious enough already, things start heating up between her and the man who hired her, she feels threatened by dominating male presence on the job site, and her private life gets more complicated as she has to deal with the young children’s issues when she knows little about parenting. Besides all that, the children’s safety is at risk and she must somehow protect them although they resent her.
Does this intrigue you so far? Read on.
There is this ancient tree, a tree that – if given the ability – could reveal secrets that would boggle one’s mind. Besides its being a private meeting place for people over the years, some of them romantic interludes, there had been a savage, brutal act committed there decades before. We learn with Ourania what an impact this one site had and will have on her life, along with other shocking information she struggles to handle.
Not wanting to give away any more of the story, I will say that Christine Nolfi wrote an interesting, gripping, yet tragic tale. The way she connected everyone works well. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a painful story to read, while being a hopeful one through which love winds its way.
What doesn’t work for me is the repetitive lusting after one another
… but that’s my personal preference; it seems to be what many people want to read. I also found it unnecessary to repeat the explanation of one person we never meet except in the characters’ telling and thinking. Once or twice is fine, I believe the reader will remember from there.
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a title I wondered about until I got into the story. Although it was difficult to read in places because of the rawness of human nature being exposed, I found it harder to NOT read this book. If you enjoy a little romance interwoven with suspense, mystery, and drama, I believe you will like Christine Nolfi’s The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge from its beginning page to its dramatic end.
Our main character, Ourania (whose name I’m never sure I am correctly pronouncing – and I do ‘hear’ the words even as I read along silently) is a strong single woman, who owns and operates her own electrical contracting business. She bids on – and is accepted for – a challenging job that places her directly in the path and life of a man she once knew. Then her life gets really complicated.
Because of her mother’s work in family services, she gets pulled into foster parenting – and not of one child but of two troubled siblings. As if her job’s stability isn’t precarious enough already, things start heating up between her and the man who hired her, she feels threatened by dominating male presence on the job site, and her private life gets more complicated as she has to deal with the young children’s issues when she knows little about parenting. Besides all that, the children’s safety is at risk and she must somehow protect them although they resent her.
Does this intrigue you so far? Read on.
There is this ancient tree, a tree that – if given the ability – could reveal secrets that would boggle one’s mind. Besides its being a private meeting place for people over the years, some of them romantic interludes, there had been a savage, brutal act committed there decades before. We learn with Ourania what an impact this one site had and will have on her life, along with other shocking information she struggles to handle.
Not wanting to give away any more of the story, I will say that Christine Nolfi wrote an interesting, gripping, yet tragic tale. The way she connected everyone works well. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a painful story to read, while being a hopeful one through which love winds its way.
What doesn’t work for me is the repetitive lusting after one another
… but that’s my personal preference; it seems to be what many people want to read. I also found it unnecessary to repeat the explanation of one person we never meet except in the characters’ telling and thinking. Once or twice is fine, I believe the reader will remember from there.
The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge is a title I wondered about until I got into the story. Although it was difficult to read in places because of the rawness of human nature being exposed, I found it harder to NOT read this book. If you enjoy a little romance interwoven with suspense, mystery, and drama, I believe you will like Christine Nolfi’s The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge from its beginning page to its dramatic end.
August 5, 2012
Small town secrets revealed
Small towns are havens for buried secrets and forbidden passions. A town in Ohio was no different for the prominent and wealthy Fagan family. Living in a mansion on a thousand-acre estate, Fagan’s Orchard shipped produce and condiments across the Midwest, and was the main setting for The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. Located on the estate was an oak tree, referred to locals as The Great Oak Tree. If the tree could talk, what secrets it would tell.
The Fagan’s were renovating the mansion to accommodate their pregnant daughter. Troy Fagan was the head of operations on site and the person who did the hiring. Ourania D’Andre was an independent contractor who submitted a bid for the job. There was major conflict between the two, because
Troy’s brother had been murdered. They both blamed themselves. The relationship strengthened as they worked through the guilt they harbored.
Troy and Ourania kept the story intrigue alive. Childhood bullying festered into adulthood. Both holding secrets, it took unpredictable circumstances to finally forge a healthy relationship.
Leading separate lives, Ourania became a foster mother to two bi-racial children, as she continued her career as an electrical contractor. Troy was the black sheep of the family choosing to work in construction instead of Fagan Orchards. He reluctantly accepted Ourania’s bid for the electrical work on the mansion, because his sister, Dianne, liked the beautiful and successful Ourania.
Working together, secrets were exposed, and forbidden passions surfaced. The Great Oak Tree revealed countless secrets, some beyond comprehension. To mention them, in my review, would spoil the story for readers.
The Great Oak Tree served as a symbol for hope and redemption. Christine Nolfi did an extraordinary job writing The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge with this in mind. It also served as a subtle way to teach lessons in forgiveness.
Events in the story are brilliantly written with compassion and understanding. The subject matters are as diverse as the characters. The good vs. the bad, the beautiful vs. those lacking physical attributes, adoption, domestic violence, multi-cultural families, fighting the system, hate, love, trust, death, rape, and lies. Christine Nolfi proved to master her skill by describing the human elements factor in depth in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge.
I recommend The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, by Christine Nolfi, to readers who enjoy stories about real life situations. We can use the opportunity to reflect on our own life.
Small towns are havens for buried secrets and forbidden passions. A town in Ohio was no different for the prominent and wealthy Fagan family. Living in a mansion on a thousand-acre estate, Fagan’s Orchard shipped produce and condiments across the Midwest, and was the main setting for The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge. Located on the estate was an oak tree, referred to locals as The Great Oak Tree. If the tree could talk, what secrets it would tell.
The Fagan’s were renovating the mansion to accommodate their pregnant daughter. Troy Fagan was the head of operations on site and the person who did the hiring. Ourania D’Andre was an independent contractor who submitted a bid for the job. There was major conflict between the two, because
Troy’s brother had been murdered. They both blamed themselves. The relationship strengthened as they worked through the guilt they harbored.
Troy and Ourania kept the story intrigue alive. Childhood bullying festered into adulthood. Both holding secrets, it took unpredictable circumstances to finally forge a healthy relationship.
Leading separate lives, Ourania became a foster mother to two bi-racial children, as she continued her career as an electrical contractor. Troy was the black sheep of the family choosing to work in construction instead of Fagan Orchards. He reluctantly accepted Ourania’s bid for the electrical work on the mansion, because his sister, Dianne, liked the beautiful and successful Ourania.
Working together, secrets were exposed, and forbidden passions surfaced. The Great Oak Tree revealed countless secrets, some beyond comprehension. To mention them, in my review, would spoil the story for readers.
The Great Oak Tree served as a symbol for hope and redemption. Christine Nolfi did an extraordinary job writing The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge with this in mind. It also served as a subtle way to teach lessons in forgiveness.
Events in the story are brilliantly written with compassion and understanding. The subject matters are as diverse as the characters. The good vs. the bad, the beautiful vs. those lacking physical attributes, adoption, domestic violence, multi-cultural families, fighting the system, hate, love, trust, death, rape, and lies. Christine Nolfi proved to master her skill by describing the human elements factor in depth in The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge.
I recommend The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, by Christine Nolfi, to readers who enjoy stories about real life situations. We can use the opportunity to reflect on our own life.
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