What do you think?
Rate this book
Athena is a self-proclaimed bachelorette—it’s better that way—no one gets hurt. But when tragedy strikes, Athena realizes friendship and love is the only way she can pull through, and she must, for the first time in her life, risk opening her heart.
The Newport Ladies Book Club series is unique in that each Newport book is written from the point of view of a different woman in the book club. The first 4 books cover the same time period and the same book club meetings. But only with reading all 4 books, will you learn the whole story of each of the women and her full character journey. Think of it as a parallel series, not as a forward-moving series.
The Newport Ladies Book Club series is unique in that each Newport book is written from the point of view of a different woman in the book club. The first 4 books cover the same time period and the same book club meetings. But only with reading all 4 books, will you learn the whole story of each of the women and her full character journey. Think of it as a parallel series, not as a forward-moving series.
214 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2012
5 people are currently reading
638 people want to read
About the author
Heather B. Moore
165 books1,604 followersHeather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than ninety publications. Heather writes primarily historical and #herstory fiction about the humanity and heroism of the everyday person. Publishing in a breadth of genres, Heather dives into the hearts and souls of her characters, meshing her love of research with her love of storytelling.
Her ancient era historicals and thrillers are written under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes historical women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, and . . . speculative fiction under Jane Redd. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. Despite failing her high school AP English exam, Heather persevered and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in something other than English.
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact/
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Fans of Heather B. Moore
And yes, the Blog still lives: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Literary honors: 2020 Goodreads Choice Award Semi-Finalist, Foreword 2020 INDIES Finalist, ALA Best New Books - September 2020, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner.
Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.
Her ancient era historicals and thrillers are written under pen name H.B. Moore. She writes historical women's fiction, romance and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, and . . . speculative fiction under Jane Redd. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. Despite failing her high school AP English exam, Heather persevered and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in something other than English.
Please join Heather's email list at: HBMoore.com/contact/
Website: HBMoore.com
Twitter: @heatherbmoore
Instagram: @authorhbmoore
Facebook: Fans of Heather B. Moore
And yes, the Blog still lives: MyWritersLair.blogspot.com
Literary honors: 2020 Goodreads Choice Award Semi-Finalist, Foreword 2020 INDIES Finalist, ALA Best New Books - September 2020, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 4-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner.
Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
November 26, 2012
I have to be honest, Athena was probably the book I looked forward to reading the least. I didn't look forward to the idea of dealing with the death of her mother and she was honestly my least favorite character because of the way she was perceived in the previous novels. That being said, it was probably my favorite book in the series. In this book you learn more about Athena, and her struggles that she faces. Your heart breaks as she deals with the death of her mother, and her father having Alzheimer's.
Perhaps the thing I love the most about these books is that it has taught me more about perception. Things are said and done by members of the book club that you think you understand, but you really don't until you read each members personal story. It makes me think more about life, and how we shouldn't jump to conclusions about people without trying to learn more about them and their stories.
I'm hoping that we will see sequels to all these books, as there are many unanswered questions, and I want to see what happens with each member of the book club.
Great series!
Perhaps the thing I love the most about these books is that it has taught me more about perception. Things are said and done by members of the book club that you think you understand, but you really don't until you read each members personal story. It makes me think more about life, and how we shouldn't jump to conclusions about people without trying to learn more about them and their stories.
I'm hoping that we will see sequels to all these books, as there are many unanswered questions, and I want to see what happens with each member of the book club.
Great series!
November 19, 2012
I just finished the last installment of The Newport Ladies Book Club series: Athena. It grabbed me right from the first and I couldn't put it down. It was such a pleasant surprise to find that it was largely a romance novel, and just the kind I like, clean and sigh worthy.
Athena has avoided committed relationships like the plague and certainly isn't looking for one when a chance meeting starts a whirlwind relationship that she simply can't resist, no matter how often her mind tells her to put the brakes on. Every woman wants a Grey in her life and Athena is lucky enough to get one. Just when she's convinced he's the real deal and ready to jump in with both feet, an overheard conversation dredges up her worst relationship phobias and throws everything into question.
The end was satisfying, if a bit too quick. The writing is smooth and concise. All in all, a very nice end to the series. If you haven't picked up these books, you really should!
Athena has avoided committed relationships like the plague and certainly isn't looking for one when a chance meeting starts a whirlwind relationship that she simply can't resist, no matter how often her mind tells her to put the brakes on. Every woman wants a Grey in her life and Athena is lucky enough to get one. Just when she's convinced he's the real deal and ready to jump in with both feet, an overheard conversation dredges up her worst relationship phobias and throws everything into question.
The end was satisfying, if a bit too quick. The writing is smooth and concise. All in all, a very nice end to the series. If you haven't picked up these books, you really should!
November 28, 2012
I've had the opportunity to read and review this series from the very beginning and I have really loved it. It's such a great idea to have books that cover the same period of time, yet each from a different point of view. Each book tells the story of an individual while telling bits and pieces of the other women's stories as well.
Being a lover of clean romance myself, this book really brought in all the elements that I love. This book had more romantic aspects, and more kissing than the other books. :)
Athena has some major challenges thrown at her all at once. Like all the women in this series, she is trying to figure out how to deal with life's challenges while fixing the things in her life and character that she knows need fixing. Life is hard. No matter what your profession, religion, marital status or family make-up, life is hard. I love that this series brings all those elements into the books. These women band together, support each other and share a common love of books. It's awesome. Women everywhere will be able to connect with the characters in these books in some way or another.
In the end, I was proud of Athena. She dug deep and found what she needed to get through. She overcame her fears and let other in to help. It was a struggle, but she did it.
If you haven't had the chance to read these books yet (Oliva, Paige, Daisy or Athena), you should really give them a chance. Pick one up. You might just love them. :)
Being a lover of clean romance myself, this book really brought in all the elements that I love. This book had more romantic aspects, and more kissing than the other books. :)
Athena has some major challenges thrown at her all at once. Like all the women in this series, she is trying to figure out how to deal with life's challenges while fixing the things in her life and character that she knows need fixing. Life is hard. No matter what your profession, religion, marital status or family make-up, life is hard. I love that this series brings all those elements into the books. These women band together, support each other and share a common love of books. It's awesome. Women everywhere will be able to connect with the characters in these books in some way or another.
In the end, I was proud of Athena. She dug deep and found what she needed to get through. She overcame her fears and let other in to help. It was a struggle, but she did it.
If you haven't had the chance to read these books yet (Oliva, Paige, Daisy or Athena), you should really give them a chance. Pick one up. You might just love them. :)
November 6, 2012
Athena, by Heather B. Moore, is a thoughtful romance. Its heroine, a thirty year old woman entrepreneur has a policy of “non-entanglement” with past boyfriends. Athena does not intend to let any man dictate how she will live her life. She has perceived that her mother lives under her father’s thumb, and does not intend to live that way herself. During the course of the story, most of her perceptions undergo a kaleidoscopic shift, as she learns previously undiscovered truths about her father, her mother, and Grey, the man she has fallen in love with.
This story is a change for Moore, her first full-length contemporary novel, and she does a superlative job. Athena is a beautifully rounded character. I was drawn to her with such force that I wanted to read the book all at one sitting. Unlike heroines of most romances, she is multi-dimensional and she changes and develops in meaningful ways by pursuing paths that are not necessarily comfortable for her. She is always being surprised by life. I feel as though I have made a new friend, and I was very sorry when the book was over. I continue to think about Athena and the choices she made. To me, that is the very best sign of a well-written novel. I hope, were I in her position, that I would make the brave choices Athena made.
This story is a change for Moore, her first full-length contemporary novel, and she does a superlative job. Athena is a beautifully rounded character. I was drawn to her with such force that I wanted to read the book all at one sitting. Unlike heroines of most romances, she is multi-dimensional and she changes and develops in meaningful ways by pursuing paths that are not necessarily comfortable for her. She is always being surprised by life. I feel as though I have made a new friend, and I was very sorry when the book was over. I continue to think about Athena and the choices she made. To me, that is the very best sign of a well-written novel. I hope, were I in her position, that I would make the brave choices Athena made.
November 26, 2012
Athena is the fourth book in the side-by-side storytelling concerning the Newport Ladies Book Club (since all four novels take place over the same time period). The thing I liked about the series was that I could connect to each of the four characters. No, I'm not a woman, but that doesn't mean I can't share a connection.
With Athena, I think I shared the most. Ten years ago, I lost my mom to cancer. It wasn't exactly unexpected. But I see some parallels in my life to Athena's. Athena's mother was the glue that held her family together, in a similar fashion, so was mine. Athena gave up some things in life to take care of her ailing father. I, on the other hand, left my mission early to go home and help out my father. (There were other factors, but this is the relevant one.) Athena also never took care of herself. Sure, she enjoyed her job and had her workouts, but she didn't have anything else in her life. And that's not exactly a complete parallel, but there have been plenty of times in my life when I've ignored my own needs in favor of someone else's. Not recognizing my needs has caused me a lot of unnecessary grief until I finally see what's missing and how to fulfill that need.
Now, out of the four books, there have been a few supporting characters. Up until this book, Olivia's older natural daughter was my favorite and most interesting. But Grey, Athena's...uh...boyfriend?...sure...boyfriend because my favorite supporting character. A lot of guys dislike the sensitive guy in...well...anything. (I maintain that Edward Cullen is by far the most unreal guy in fiction.) Grey was a very sensitive character. However, he has a past that is delved into pretty decently in this book. Of course, I'd actually like to see a book about Grey.
So, this is a possible SPOILER!!!!!! so if you don't want to read any, go ahead and jump down to the "END SPOILER" point.
Athena learns a little about Grey's past. His father left his family when he was younger and his mother checked out of reality. Grey blamed his mother for what she did. And Grey apparently hated life enough to have attempted to slit his wrists in order to leave this world. Grey is very embittered with his mother throughout the book.
Grey also dated "project" women (for lack of a better term) as a way to cope with his mother's "checked out" status. But when he met Athena, he found someone who was different. She was a "project" in her own right, but a different project.
Athena was quite bothered by how much Grey disliked (and even distrusted) his own mother. Which I found ironic because while she was alive, Athena really wanted her mother to but out of her life more. It was only after Carmen died, that Athena appreciated her mother's presence. This was another parallel for me. Having lost my mother, I appreciated her more and projected that appreciation onto others. I even got put in my place once by a friend who had a strained relationship with her mother. It was less than a year after my mom died and she was complaining about her mother. I tried to express how she should be more appreciative of her mother. This friend reminded me how her mother and my mother weren't the same person. My friend's definition of "mother" was different than mine.
Something that interested me about Athena was that she played both the damsel in distress and the heroic chick toward Grey. He saved her time and again (in an emotional way) and when mention of Grey's past is brought up, she goes into this protector mode. Almost as if she wished she could go back to the past and protect Grey from his mother's depression.
END SPOILER
I liked that Grey was human. In Olivia, her husband is only a jerk because he feels betrayed and is trying to hide what betrayals he's faced. In Daisy, her husband was just selfish (enough said there). In Paige, she found Mr. Really-Good-And-Still-True, but she chose the other "men" in her life (her innocent sons). In Athena, she has a man that is human. That expresses his pain and sadness and anger and past, something that isn't "macho". Of course, I think men in generally need to be better at stating who they are and not what society dictates "should" be shared. In modern western society, it seems that men aren't supposed to have feelings, aren't supposed to have emotional pains. And I'm glad Heather Moore wrote a character that broke that stereotype.
So, in the end, I really did like Athena. It was very well written in my opinion. I'm glad I got the opportunity to review this series.
With Athena, I think I shared the most. Ten years ago, I lost my mom to cancer. It wasn't exactly unexpected. But I see some parallels in my life to Athena's. Athena's mother was the glue that held her family together, in a similar fashion, so was mine. Athena gave up some things in life to take care of her ailing father. I, on the other hand, left my mission early to go home and help out my father. (There were other factors, but this is the relevant one.) Athena also never took care of herself. Sure, she enjoyed her job and had her workouts, but she didn't have anything else in her life. And that's not exactly a complete parallel, but there have been plenty of times in my life when I've ignored my own needs in favor of someone else's. Not recognizing my needs has caused me a lot of unnecessary grief until I finally see what's missing and how to fulfill that need.
Now, out of the four books, there have been a few supporting characters. Up until this book, Olivia's older natural daughter was my favorite and most interesting. But Grey, Athena's...uh...boyfriend?...sure...boyfriend because my favorite supporting character. A lot of guys dislike the sensitive guy in...well...anything. (I maintain that Edward Cullen is by far the most unreal guy in fiction.) Grey was a very sensitive character. However, he has a past that is delved into pretty decently in this book. Of course, I'd actually like to see a book about Grey.
So, this is a possible SPOILER!!!!!! so if you don't want to read any, go ahead and jump down to the "END SPOILER" point.
Athena learns a little about Grey's past. His father left his family when he was younger and his mother checked out of reality. Grey blamed his mother for what she did. And Grey apparently hated life enough to have attempted to slit his wrists in order to leave this world. Grey is very embittered with his mother throughout the book.
Grey also dated "project" women (for lack of a better term) as a way to cope with his mother's "checked out" status. But when he met Athena, he found someone who was different. She was a "project" in her own right, but a different project.
Athena was quite bothered by how much Grey disliked (and even distrusted) his own mother. Which I found ironic because while she was alive, Athena really wanted her mother to but out of her life more. It was only after Carmen died, that Athena appreciated her mother's presence. This was another parallel for me. Having lost my mother, I appreciated her more and projected that appreciation onto others. I even got put in my place once by a friend who had a strained relationship with her mother. It was less than a year after my mom died and she was complaining about her mother. I tried to express how she should be more appreciative of her mother. This friend reminded me how her mother and my mother weren't the same person. My friend's definition of "mother" was different than mine.
Something that interested me about Athena was that she played both the damsel in distress and the heroic chick toward Grey. He saved her time and again (in an emotional way) and when mention of Grey's past is brought up, she goes into this protector mode. Almost as if she wished she could go back to the past and protect Grey from his mother's depression.
END SPOILER
I liked that Grey was human. In Olivia, her husband is only a jerk because he feels betrayed and is trying to hide what betrayals he's faced. In Daisy, her husband was just selfish (enough said there). In Paige, she found Mr. Really-Good-And-Still-True, but she chose the other "men" in her life (her innocent sons). In Athena, she has a man that is human. That expresses his pain and sadness and anger and past, something that isn't "macho". Of course, I think men in generally need to be better at stating who they are and not what society dictates "should" be shared. In modern western society, it seems that men aren't supposed to have feelings, aren't supposed to have emotional pains. And I'm glad Heather Moore wrote a character that broke that stereotype.
So, in the end, I really did like Athena. It was very well written in my opinion. I'm glad I got the opportunity to review this series.
December 8, 2012
Athena is the last book that takes place during the same time-frame as the first three books.All four books were written as a parallel series, not as a forward-moving series.They cover the same book club meetings and events in all four books. This last book is probably the most different from the other three. The main reason is that main character Athena kept to herself a lot more than the other characters in this series. While reading the other books, the reader could get the impression that Athena is cold and not truly interested in the book club. This is so far from the truth as you read this fourth book. Athena has a lot going on in her life. She is single, runs her own company and is very conflicted about getting married and having a family. Her Mother wants her to marry a nice, Greek boy and stay at home to have babies and take care of her man...just like she did in her life. Athena has been very critical of her parents and their marriage, but events happen that change her life. She meets a new man, very different than the man she has been dating previously. A death in the family and a major life decision make Athena face some of the harshest trials that life can bring.
I read Athena in about 12 hours. I was completely taken in with Athena's story. Heather Moore's expertise as a writer shows as she develops this character. The growth arc that Athena takes is so huge as she makes decisions that not only change her life, but those she loves. This book truly brought full circle the stories of the four women in this series. It felt so satisfying to finish this book and feel that sense of completion. The next four books in the series will be about four other book club members in a new time frame. Each of the authors will take on this new writing challenge.
I highly recommend Athena! This story is full of heart-wrenching moments, friendship at it's finest, and a love story that made me cheer, moan and melt. How is that for a combination? Athena's romance with Grey, the book store owner, has turned out to be one of my favorites for 2012.If you haven't started this series, pull out the tissues, reserve several hours to yourself and get ready to be pulled into the world of The Newport Ladies Book Club. You will find women of strength, strong friendships and stories that will make you look at your own life in new ways.
I read Athena in about 12 hours. I was completely taken in with Athena's story. Heather Moore's expertise as a writer shows as she develops this character. The growth arc that Athena takes is so huge as she makes decisions that not only change her life, but those she loves. This book truly brought full circle the stories of the four women in this series. It felt so satisfying to finish this book and feel that sense of completion. The next four books in the series will be about four other book club members in a new time frame. Each of the authors will take on this new writing challenge.
I highly recommend Athena! This story is full of heart-wrenching moments, friendship at it's finest, and a love story that made me cheer, moan and melt. How is that for a combination? Athena's romance with Grey, the book store owner, has turned out to be one of my favorites for 2012.If you haven't started this series, pull out the tissues, reserve several hours to yourself and get ready to be pulled into the world of The Newport Ladies Book Club. You will find women of strength, strong friendships and stories that will make you look at your own life in new ways.
November 27, 2012
Athena arrives in my mailbox like a gift. I don’t even force myself to wait to begin reading. This is like catching up with old friends or a terrific talk-fest with good people I know who will share with me another side to the story. Let me at it.
Athena is a puzzle of a woman. She seems well-ordered and efficient, working as she does from her Newport apartment with the terrific view, making an independent decent living by keeping her online magazine afloat. Her first conflict is a breakup with her photographer that she has sort of dated coupled with a date her mother pressures her into going out with a “nice Greek boy.” She doesn’t seem to really connect with any of the men in her life, until she meets Grey who comes, we discover, with an issue of two of his own.
The catalyst in this story—as we already know from the first three books in the series—is the death of Athena’s mother in a car accident. As Athena picks up the pieces of her life she takes on the added difficulty of caring full time for her aging father who is struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. Her well-ordered life spins out of control as she wrestles with real challenges and sorrows and, frankly, matures into a woman that has much to give and more depth than we thought.
Award-winning writer Heather Moore has crafted a character with depth and growth to spare. She uses a light touch with the pain and sorrow that necessarily surrounds the situation but lets us also feel the depth of Athena’s conflict as she wrestles with her own Greek tragedy surrounding her mother’s untimely death. Enter the bookclub and the books they examine together.
Concepts from the discussions help the main character’s growth. I like that. Even though we have looked at these books in the three previous volumes of this series I stay eager to see what Athena’s thoughts and understandings will be. In fact, I looked back in my notes with some previous questions I had and found one of them answered in this book. I find that careful attention to detail immensely satisfying.
So, with another winner in Athena, we are on to the next four books in the series, and to the next four months in their lives. Thank you, Athena, Paige, Daisy, and Olivia. We are eager to get to know your other friends, Ruby, Shannon, Ilana, and Victoria. Long live the Newport Ladies Book Club!
Athena is a puzzle of a woman. She seems well-ordered and efficient, working as she does from her Newport apartment with the terrific view, making an independent decent living by keeping her online magazine afloat. Her first conflict is a breakup with her photographer that she has sort of dated coupled with a date her mother pressures her into going out with a “nice Greek boy.” She doesn’t seem to really connect with any of the men in her life, until she meets Grey who comes, we discover, with an issue of two of his own.
The catalyst in this story—as we already know from the first three books in the series—is the death of Athena’s mother in a car accident. As Athena picks up the pieces of her life she takes on the added difficulty of caring full time for her aging father who is struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. Her well-ordered life spins out of control as she wrestles with real challenges and sorrows and, frankly, matures into a woman that has much to give and more depth than we thought.
Award-winning writer Heather Moore has crafted a character with depth and growth to spare. She uses a light touch with the pain and sorrow that necessarily surrounds the situation but lets us also feel the depth of Athena’s conflict as she wrestles with her own Greek tragedy surrounding her mother’s untimely death. Enter the bookclub and the books they examine together.
Concepts from the discussions help the main character’s growth. I like that. Even though we have looked at these books in the three previous volumes of this series I stay eager to see what Athena’s thoughts and understandings will be. In fact, I looked back in my notes with some previous questions I had and found one of them answered in this book. I find that careful attention to detail immensely satisfying.
So, with another winner in Athena, we are on to the next four books in the series, and to the next four months in their lives. Thank you, Athena, Paige, Daisy, and Olivia. We are eager to get to know your other friends, Ruby, Shannon, Ilana, and Victoria. Long live the Newport Ladies Book Club!
December 10, 2012
The Newport Ladies Book Club series (http://thenewportladiesbookclub.blogs...) is such an interesting, unique concept in publishing: a series of novels, each written by a different author and telling the story of one of the women in a book club. The book club ladies begin the stories as strangers, but their love of reading and need for connection with each other drives their friendships.
ATHENA is the last of the initial four books (following OLIVIA, DAISY and PAIGE, which were released earlier this year). Next year, the four authors (Annette Lyon, Josi Kilpack, Julie Wright and Heather Moore) will release another four novels featuring the other women in the book club.
Athena is an independent woman, the owner and publisher of a travel magazine. She doesn’t need a man—she’s successful in her own right. She tends to push away boyfriends when they get too close. She has seen how her mother has been dominated by her husband and children, and doesn’t want to be subservient to anyone. She starts dating Grey, but won’t let herself fall for him.
But then Athena’s mother is killed in a car wreck, and she comes to realize how much her mother meant to everyone. She learns that her father—now suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease—wasn’t dominating her mother but was protecting her and keeping the family together. Athena throws herself into caring for her ailing father to honor her mother’s memory.
As her father’s condition deteriorates, Grey is more and more of a support for Athena, and she eventually realizes that she can love a man without losing her identity.
Heather B. Moore’s writing is by turns funny, sad and poignant. I had tears in my eyes reading about Athena’s ailing father: “What did my father dream about? Did he know my name when he slept?” And Grey: handsome and kind, handyman, cook, and owner of a bookstore—swoon!
ATHENA is the last of the initial four books (following OLIVIA, DAISY and PAIGE, which were released earlier this year). Next year, the four authors (Annette Lyon, Josi Kilpack, Julie Wright and Heather Moore) will release another four novels featuring the other women in the book club.
Athena is an independent woman, the owner and publisher of a travel magazine. She doesn’t need a man—she’s successful in her own right. She tends to push away boyfriends when they get too close. She has seen how her mother has been dominated by her husband and children, and doesn’t want to be subservient to anyone. She starts dating Grey, but won’t let herself fall for him.
But then Athena’s mother is killed in a car wreck, and she comes to realize how much her mother meant to everyone. She learns that her father—now suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease—wasn’t dominating her mother but was protecting her and keeping the family together. Athena throws herself into caring for her ailing father to honor her mother’s memory.
As her father’s condition deteriorates, Grey is more and more of a support for Athena, and she eventually realizes that she can love a man without losing her identity.
Heather B. Moore’s writing is by turns funny, sad and poignant. I had tears in my eyes reading about Athena’s ailing father: “What did my father dream about? Did he know my name when he slept?” And Grey: handsome and kind, handyman, cook, and owner of a bookstore—swoon!
December 3, 2012
Athena is book 4 of the Newport Ladies Book Club. Like the other books (Olivia, Daisy & Paige) they follow the same time period, but they don’t have to be read in order to understand the series or characters.
At first, I found the book a little slow and hard to get into the story line, but realized the character herself, Athena, is “boring” at first because she has allowed her life and schedule to be the same thing day after day. She works alot so she rarely has any opportunities to do anything else. When she decides to make some changes in her life, like joining a book club and reading books based on a strangers (Grey) recommendation, the book gets more interesting.
I also liked that this book seemed to have less of the other characters involvements (probably because Athena kept more to herself) so you don’t read a lot of events that are mentioned in the other 3 books of the series. In other words, you don’t feel like you are reading one of the other books all over again.
I liked that this book showed Athena’s struggles to change and to understand her parents’ marriage and illnesses. I can’t even imagine trying to take care of a sick parent, especially one that could be violent or not even remember you!
Heather Moore did a wonderful job of expressing Athena’s emotions and struggles. Although I couldn’t relate to Athena’s experiences like I could with some of the other characters, the book itself and the emotions was very well written!!
I cannot wait to read the other set of 4 books, to be released in 2013. The other set of books will not cover the same time period, so the characters we have come to love in the first 4 books will be mentioned and we will see how their lives have changed!!
At first, I found the book a little slow and hard to get into the story line, but realized the character herself, Athena, is “boring” at first because she has allowed her life and schedule to be the same thing day after day. She works alot so she rarely has any opportunities to do anything else. When she decides to make some changes in her life, like joining a book club and reading books based on a strangers (Grey) recommendation, the book gets more interesting.
I also liked that this book seemed to have less of the other characters involvements (probably because Athena kept more to herself) so you don’t read a lot of events that are mentioned in the other 3 books of the series. In other words, you don’t feel like you are reading one of the other books all over again.
I liked that this book showed Athena’s struggles to change and to understand her parents’ marriage and illnesses. I can’t even imagine trying to take care of a sick parent, especially one that could be violent or not even remember you!
Heather Moore did a wonderful job of expressing Athena’s emotions and struggles. Although I couldn’t relate to Athena’s experiences like I could with some of the other characters, the book itself and the emotions was very well written!!
I cannot wait to read the other set of 4 books, to be released in 2013. The other set of books will not cover the same time period, so the characters we have come to love in the first 4 books will be mentioned and we will see how their lives have changed!!
February 11, 2013
4.5 stars.
Athena is the fourth book in the Newport Ladies Book Club series, and it was my favorite. I didn't relate to Athena as much as Paige (the main character of the last book), but I could relate enough that it was a good escape. I really enjoyed the way her story was written-her realistic life had plenty of downs, but I think what I liked most about it was that it wasn't a downer.
The importance of the friendships gained through the book club was more subtle in Athena than in the other books in the series, but I liked that. Sometimes it's those little kind thoughts and deeds from friends that really help us pull through the tough times in our lives.
The romance in Athena was great. The relationship comes on fairly quickly due to some tragic events, but over the novel it is proven to be solid.
You can read more about the Newport Ladies Book Club Series here, and Athena can be purchased on Amazon, Deseret Book, and Seagull Book.
*I received a copy of Athena in exchange for a review.
Athena is the fourth book in the Newport Ladies Book Club series, and it was my favorite. I didn't relate to Athena as much as Paige (the main character of the last book), but I could relate enough that it was a good escape. I really enjoyed the way her story was written-her realistic life had plenty of downs, but I think what I liked most about it was that it wasn't a downer.
The importance of the friendships gained through the book club was more subtle in Athena than in the other books in the series, but I liked that. Sometimes it's those little kind thoughts and deeds from friends that really help us pull through the tough times in our lives.
The romance in Athena was great. The relationship comes on fairly quickly due to some tragic events, but over the novel it is proven to be solid.
You can read more about the Newport Ladies Book Club Series here, and Athena can be purchased on Amazon, Deseret Book, and Seagull Book.
*I received a copy of Athena in exchange for a review.
November 20, 2012
I think this was the best of the series. I worried before I read it that I wouldn't like it as much as Athena seemed to be in the background in the other 3 books and I didn't know how she would fit in with a book all her own. And she really didn't have as much interaction with Olivia, Daisy, and Paige as they seemed to with each other in the other books, but she did interact well with the book club when it was mentioned and I enjoyed delving into her view of the book club. I also really liked Athena as a character, I seemed to connect to her better than the other 3 ladies. While I enjoyed all 4 stories, I just seemed to connect more with Athena's story or maybe her personality.
The Alzheimer's aspect was also a connection, as my grandpa suffered with it. I think all patients deal with Alzheimer's differently, as we never saw any violence from my grandpa, so that was something new for me to learn about.
I liked Grey and how Athena's relationship with him developed. For some reason that I can't quite pinpoint, it reminded me of my feelings towards my husband.
I'm kinda sad this series is at an end. I really enjoyed it. I tend to shy away from overly LDS books, feeling they can be too sappy or something, but I liked that this series focused on women from different religions and different walks of life, and how that can translate into real life in today's world. An enjoyable series told from different perspectives so that the stories, in my opinion, while intersecting at the book club meetings, were new in each book.
The Alzheimer's aspect was also a connection, as my grandpa suffered with it. I think all patients deal with Alzheimer's differently, as we never saw any violence from my grandpa, so that was something new for me to learn about.
I liked Grey and how Athena's relationship with him developed. For some reason that I can't quite pinpoint, it reminded me of my feelings towards my husband.
I'm kinda sad this series is at an end. I really enjoyed it. I tend to shy away from overly LDS books, feeling they can be too sappy or something, but I liked that this series focused on women from different religions and different walks of life, and how that can translate into real life in today's world. An enjoyable series told from different perspectives so that the stories, in my opinion, while intersecting at the book club meetings, were new in each book.
November 30, 2012
Accused of being a workaholic and hermit, Athena takes that as a challenge to change some things in her life. First and foremost to read a book other then her magazine. That's when she meets Grey (Owner of a little bookstore). He brings new insight into Athena's world. With her Mother's passing and now having to take care of her ailing father, will she muddle through somehow by herself, or will she let others in, who are willing to help her drastically changing life?
I loved this fourth addition from the Newport Ladies Book Club! I learned so many new things about Athena, and was pleased with the outcome! Each book held something great. I can most relate to Athena being close to her age. I loved seeing her relationship grow with the other ladies and how supportive they all are for each other, even though they didn't know each other at first. I have never heard of the books that they read in the book club (except for the last (The Help) that they actually didn't start to read yet) but I enjoyed how each book had an impact on each reader. I may need to read those books now.
This isn't the end of the Book Club series. Keep a look out for the next 4 books, which will come out at different times next year. With all new point of views from Ruby, Shannon, Ilana, and Victoria. We of course have met these women in this first set of 4 already out. It will be fun to see what they all have to share in their own lives.
Pick up Olivia, Daisy, Paige, and Athena today and get caught up!
I loved this fourth addition from the Newport Ladies Book Club! I learned so many new things about Athena, and was pleased with the outcome! Each book held something great. I can most relate to Athena being close to her age. I loved seeing her relationship grow with the other ladies and how supportive they all are for each other, even though they didn't know each other at first. I have never heard of the books that they read in the book club (except for the last (The Help) that they actually didn't start to read yet) but I enjoyed how each book had an impact on each reader. I may need to read those books now.
This isn't the end of the Book Club series. Keep a look out for the next 4 books, which will come out at different times next year. With all new point of views from Ruby, Shannon, Ilana, and Victoria. We of course have met these women in this first set of 4 already out. It will be fun to see what they all have to share in their own lives.
Pick up Olivia, Daisy, Paige, and Athena today and get caught up!
May 2, 2017
First line:
""Three! Four! Five! Six!" My class chanted in unison, but it sounded more like we were just grunting."
Athena was another great book in the Newport Ladies Book Club. Athena is a smart, and sassy, businesswoman with a successful online business. She worked hard to get where she is and she feels happy. Everythings going well. Until the convenient boyfriend wants more from her and accusses her of not being well-rounded. This leads Athena to buy a book to prove she still reads. While in a local bookstore she's introduced to two things that will change her life: the bookstore own and a bookclub.
In Athena's personal life, she's worried about her father who has dementia and her mother as the caregiver. When a tragedy strikes, Athena must rely on other's for help and support, a hard choice for independant Athena.
I enjoyed the romance in this book! :)
I also liked how Athena's perceptions changed throughout the book, in every aspect of her life: romance, family, friends, work etc. Athena is a well-rounded character, very enjoyable to read, even in the hard times.
Rating: PG
S: No
V: No
L: No
Liked:
Romance
Hard choices
Disliked:
Nothing
""Three! Four! Five! Six!" My class chanted in unison, but it sounded more like we were just grunting."
Athena was another great book in the Newport Ladies Book Club. Athena is a smart, and sassy, businesswoman with a successful online business. She worked hard to get where she is and she feels happy. Everythings going well. Until the convenient boyfriend wants more from her and accusses her of not being well-rounded. This leads Athena to buy a book to prove she still reads. While in a local bookstore she's introduced to two things that will change her life: the bookstore own and a bookclub.
In Athena's personal life, she's worried about her father who has dementia and her mother as the caregiver. When a tragedy strikes, Athena must rely on other's for help and support, a hard choice for independant Athena.
I enjoyed the romance in this book! :)
I also liked how Athena's perceptions changed throughout the book, in every aspect of her life: romance, family, friends, work etc. Athena is a well-rounded character, very enjoyable to read, even in the hard times.
Rating: PG
S: No
V: No
L: No
Liked:
Romance
Hard choices
Disliked:
Nothing
December 19, 2012
I liked Athena. I appreciate how the characters are developed. After reading Daisy (another in the series) I wondered how different authors would describe overlapping events. I like that each character is written by a different author, and it feels like each character as their own style, its a genius idea. I am so impress that the authors could accomplish this.
The stories occurred around each other, but you don't need to read one book to read another. I don't think you need to read them in any order either.
As for the plot itself, I like how Athena goes about her need to change. It isn't really a man, or her mom, but sort of a compilation of things all happening in quick succession. I love that one letter from her father immediately changes her perspective on life and how she treats him. The only sad part was that I wish that topic was developed a bit further. I understand that she found out some information, but its very vague and non descriptive for something that is that involved in the plot. I guess I like the nitty gritty details rather than the innuendo.
The stories occurred around each other, but you don't need to read one book to read another. I don't think you need to read them in any order either.
As for the plot itself, I like how Athena goes about her need to change. It isn't really a man, or her mom, but sort of a compilation of things all happening in quick succession. I love that one letter from her father immediately changes her perspective on life and how she treats him. The only sad part was that I wish that topic was developed a bit further. I understand that she found out some information, but its very vague and non descriptive for something that is that involved in the plot. I guess I like the nitty gritty details rather than the innuendo.
December 29, 2012
I love this series, each book delving into a certain character who belongs to a book club. In this one, Athena is exposed and I found I really actually liked her! In the other books, the glimpses I got of her left me with the impression that she's very standoffish and not easy to know or like. She seems to be a perfectionist and is very rigid. This book left me with a completely different feeling about her. Yes, she does start out that way, but the reasoning as to why goes into more depth. And I could understand why!
Athena is Greek and has a mother who wants her to follow after those traditions. She won't allow herself to love and let anyone into her life. When her boyfriend challenges her to change her workaholic, rigid ways, she does, and gets surprising results. She had a very strict, almost mean, father, but he know has Alzheimer's and doesn't even know who she is. When her mother suddenly dies, Athena is left with guilt and tries to become her Father's caretaker. Grey and her new book club friends are her saving graces.
Content: some kissing. Clean!
Athena is Greek and has a mother who wants her to follow after those traditions. She won't allow herself to love and let anyone into her life. When her boyfriend challenges her to change her workaholic, rigid ways, she does, and gets surprising results. She had a very strict, almost mean, father, but he know has Alzheimer's and doesn't even know who she is. When her mother suddenly dies, Athena is left with guilt and tries to become her Father's caretaker. Grey and her new book club friends are her saving graces.
Content: some kissing. Clean!
November 21, 2012
I just finished reading Athena, book 4 in the Newport Ladies Book Club series and I liked it! Author Heather B. Moore compelling captures the different facets and struggles Athena faces as a single woman trying to make her way in a successful career while dealing with the expectations of her mother who longs to see her settled with a nice, stable Greek man. And if dealing with her mother is not enough pressure, Athena struggles with the emotional loss she feels because of her father’s Alzheimer’s disease and the misunderstanding she has about her parents’ obvious unequal relationship.
Despite her family turmoil, Athena discovers books and Grey, a man who gradually changes her perception of men, all thanks to a dare from her boyfriend Karl. Books become Athena’s lifeline as she joins Ruby’s book club and connects with women who care about her, especially when tragedy happens and guilt follows. Moore’s honest, straightforward style draws us into Athena’s life and lets us share her heartaches and happiness, and the power women have to make a difference in other women’s lives.
Despite her family turmoil, Athena discovers books and Grey, a man who gradually changes her perception of men, all thanks to a dare from her boyfriend Karl. Books become Athena’s lifeline as she joins Ruby’s book club and connects with women who care about her, especially when tragedy happens and guilt follows. Moore’s honest, straightforward style draws us into Athena’s life and lets us share her heartaches and happiness, and the power women have to make a difference in other women’s lives.
December 7, 2012
It is not often I can read a book that touches the sweetness and kindness of the human heart and soul. This book seemed to pull together all of the previous books written so far. I have read all of them and the women in the book club seemed more real, likeable, human, and someone I would like to be friends with. I felt this episode revealed the little acts of everyday kindness and the consequences as a result. I especially liked the agony Athena experiences and the journey she makes to self realization that she is worthy and capable of a fulfilling life. Where was Gray when I needed him years ago? This was a caring and deserving man. His past flaws are what made his constancy such a joy to read about. Actually I want more of Athena and Gray! I can hardly wait to find out the background stories for the rest of the Book Club. Hurry please!
January 18, 2013
I like the book club theme in this series. I only wish I'd known what books the ladies would be reading and discussing ahead of time because reading their conversations made me want to go read those books!
What I love about this series is the way you get to see these women from different backgrounds and lifestyles come together. You see them move past the first impressions they made about each other, create deeper relationships, support each other, and learn from each other. The characters are each going through something very real and relatable, and each of the stories made me want to keep reading. While I didn't personally relate to each character, it was easy to feel compassion and admiration for these women. The authors did a great job of making the books real but also hopeful. I'm excited to see there will be more books coming.
What I love about this series is the way you get to see these women from different backgrounds and lifestyles come together. You see them move past the first impressions they made about each other, create deeper relationships, support each other, and learn from each other. The characters are each going through something very real and relatable, and each of the stories made me want to keep reading. While I didn't personally relate to each character, it was easy to feel compassion and admiration for these women. The authors did a great job of making the books real but also hopeful. I'm excited to see there will be more books coming.
January 8, 2013
This book was one that I had a hard time putting down. There was so much that paralleled my life. It was almost like reading my own personal journal. It kept me on the edge of my seat through so much of it that my hands would start to ache. No, it's not a thriller or horror story, but it was that intense for me. I have loved each of the books in this series. I love the way that each of the four different authors have intertwined their book's characters with each of the other books characters. I also enjoy the way that each character relates and supports the others. There is something in each book for each reader to relate to. Keep up the great writing you four. Can't wait to read the next four books and the reunion book. If have taken something away from each of the books that I can apply to my own life.
November 22, 2012
This portion of The Newport Ladies Book Club was the book I feared to read. After meeting Athena in the other 3 books I was afraid to experience her mom passing away unexpectedly and the responsibility of caring for her dad. The sweet romance took me off guard and was a pleasant balance as Athena re-defined herself. I would recommend this book. Paige is still my favorite, but Athena brought me peace and rejuvenation at every chapter. I felt a break from the world and prepared to face my every day life. And Athena reminded me to let people into my life. Reading this book was well worth my time.
November 30, 2012
Athena was a much-loved "can't put down" read for me. I connected with her and her struggles to find a healthy balance between work, family, and love. After she learns to rely on the strong support system surrounding her, she sets herself up for a much more fulfilled and healthy life. I was surprised that we didn't hear as much about the Book Club in this one, but I was actually glad that we didn't have to hear the details of the book club goings-on for the fourth time. I loved the ending, but felt that it ended too abruptly. Would have loved to had it more drawn out with additional detail. I would love to see a sequel to Athena. I would like to see what happens with her next!
December 14, 2012
Did Not Disappoint!!!
So glad the authors of the Newport Ladies Book Club series came up with this idea! When reading the other books, I didn't connect with the Athena character as much as the others, but this book by Heather Moore about Athena was so enjoyable I couldn't put it down. The depth of insight into the different characters is very rewarding as told through the words of four different authors. That's what makes this series unique. This story is emotionally satisfying and left me anxious for more. Highly recommended!!
So glad the authors of the Newport Ladies Book Club series came up with this idea! When reading the other books, I didn't connect with the Athena character as much as the others, but this book by Heather Moore about Athena was so enjoyable I couldn't put it down. The depth of insight into the different characters is very rewarding as told through the words of four different authors. That's what makes this series unique. This story is emotionally satisfying and left me anxious for more. Highly recommended!!
December 30, 2012
I just finished "Athena" and was very pleasantly surprised. I have read the other 3 books in this series and had already picked out my favorite characters of the ladies in the book club. About half way through this book I realized that Athena would be my new favorite!
I loved the depth of her character and I loved the way the author wove Athena's story into the storyline of the other books without letting it feel repetitive.
I'm really looking forward to what (or who) comes next in this great series. But I'm also hoping for a continuation of Athena and her story.
I loved the depth of her character and I loved the way the author wove Athena's story into the storyline of the other books without letting it feel repetitive.
I'm really looking forward to what (or who) comes next in this great series. But I'm also hoping for a continuation of Athena and her story.
January 5, 2013
This is one of a series of books that explores the ladies who come together as strangers in a new book club. The other books are DAISY and OLIVIA. Each book is written by a different author, so each seems to reflect the personality of it's main character in a different way. The books explore the personal lives of the women and their interaction with each other as they become friends. The stories are not intellectually challenging, but they are enjoyable and prompt consideration into the fact that we rarely understand the underlying motivation for human behavior . . . even our own.
April 3, 2013
This is the last book in the series and it makes me sad, I have loved reading about this group of ladies who came together to form a book club. No one knew anyone else when the story started but they became good friends who helped each other in their times of crisis. Each of the books was written by a different author and told the story for 4 differnt points of view. Someone should write a book about Ruby, whose idea the book club was. Very enjoyable stories about real people with real problems that are all made bearable by having friends to rally around you and give you strength!
May 11, 2013
My Mormon Ladies book group is reading a collaborative effort by four Mormon women novelists who are friends. Each has written a stand alone novel about the separate members of The Newport beach Ladies Book Club. Each are in the same time period, and at the same place, but from each of the separate woman's point of view. I think it is an intriguing and, yes,- novel -idea. There is no particular order. I like "Athena" which is about a young, successful woman of Greek descent who is going through a critical time in her life. I am curious to read the others.
December 7, 2012
I enjoyed learning more about Athena...she has seemed more absent and mysterious in the other three novels. She didn't really interact much with Daisy, Olivia, and Paige outside of the book club. As it turns out, she had more of a relationship with Ruby, so that made me look forward to getting to know Ruby better whenever her book comes out.
Life events really caused Athena to have to take a good look at herself and make positive changes. I related to her in this way.
Life events really caused Athena to have to take a good look at herself and make positive changes. I related to her in this way.
November 17, 2012
This was an outstandingly well-written book on one of the ladies of the Newport Ladies' Book Club series.
The reader was successfully drawn into the thoughts and feelings that Athena experiences.
The story never lags.
The looses she experiences, her priorities which go through changes, the value she puts into
life and love fluctuates also. Many will relate to some of the challenges she experiences which changes the way she thinks and has always done.
I cannot wait for the next book!
The reader was successfully drawn into the thoughts and feelings that Athena experiences.
The story never lags.
The looses she experiences, her priorities which go through changes, the value she puts into
life and love fluctuates also. Many will relate to some of the challenges she experiences which changes the way she thinks and has always done.
I cannot wait for the next book!
December 7, 2012
This is the third book in this series that I have read (Olivia and Daisy were previous reads), but Athena is my favorite so far. I was really drawn in to the difficulties Athena had to face and barriers that she had created to protect herself emotionally. Through the challenge of a boy friend she initiated reaching beyond her expected norm and started making some changes in her life, mostly the important one of letting other people into her life.
January 11, 2013
This is officially my favorite of all four books. I have not really read any of Heather Moore's books so this is my first glimpse into her mind. She is a fantastic author. This is not just a story about Athena, but a story about the love between a husband and a wife, and the truth about the obstacles we put in our own way in life. If you read no other books in this series, read this one. Moore will be on my short list from now on.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews