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The Living Room
When success and even love are not enough, you need a miracle…
Daniel Clay has good looks, money, and a rising career as a New York investment advisor. Meanwhile, his personal life is barren of love and family. But when a distant relative dies and leaves him a house in England, Daniel embarks on a life-changing journey—toward love and his soul’s awakening.
He meets and falls in love with Claire, a children’s palliative care nurse. With her help, he opens his home and heart to comfort young patients in their final days. As Claire tends to the children in a beautiful glassed-in room overlooking the sea, Daniel prays for miracles. Just when his prayers are answered, a mysterious illness strikes him down and relentlessly drains away his life. With no hope for a cure, Daniel holds fast to a deep secret that he can never reveal. And now, he needs a miracle of his own.
*Now Available in Paperback from: http://www.TheLivingRoomStory.com
Kindle Version Available at:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Living-Room...
Daniel Clay has good looks, money, and a rising career as a New York investment advisor. Meanwhile, his personal life is barren of love and family. But when a distant relative dies and leaves him a house in England, Daniel embarks on a life-changing journey—toward love and his soul’s awakening.
He meets and falls in love with Claire, a children’s palliative care nurse. With her help, he opens his home and heart to comfort young patients in their final days. As Claire tends to the children in a beautiful glassed-in room overlooking the sea, Daniel prays for miracles. Just when his prayers are answered, a mysterious illness strikes him down and relentlessly drains away his life. With no hope for a cure, Daniel holds fast to a deep secret that he can never reveal. And now, he needs a miracle of his own.
*Now Available in Paperback from: http://www.TheLivingRoomStory.com
Kindle Version Available at:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Living-Room...
- GenresRomance
155 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
3 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
Bill Rolfe
1 book7 followersLate one night back in July 2002, I fell asleep and had a dream. It was unlike any dream I had before, or since. It was like watching an extended movie, and it ended with instructions for me in the rolling credits. I awoke in shock and glanced at the clock next to my bed, only to discover what seemed like hours of sleep had only been a few minutes.
I got up, sat at my desk and spent the rest of the night writing everything down. Never having written anything before, I took the next few weeks to follow the instructions from the dream – share the story in a novel.
After a few months of being inspired by the story, but at the same time feeling overwhelmed with the project, I put it away. However, I couldn’t forget it.
Now, after more than nine years of struggling with the process and battling against my own self-doubt, I’m ready to share the story.
“The Living Room” was my dream.
- Bill Rolfe
I got up, sat at my desk and spent the rest of the night writing everything down. Never having written anything before, I took the next few weeks to follow the instructions from the dream – share the story in a novel.
After a few months of being inspired by the story, but at the same time feeling overwhelmed with the project, I put it away. However, I couldn’t forget it.
Now, after more than nine years of struggling with the process and battling against my own self-doubt, I’m ready to share the story.
“The Living Room” was my dream.
- Bill Rolfe
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 13, 2012
A book about miracles, subtle romance but lots of heartwarming little encounters.
This book is very well written and it tells the story of an arrogant jerk (that's my first impression of him and by the end of the book I can't remember why I thought so!), Daniel, who is a workaholic and finally decided to take a big step forward to change his routine lifestyle.
Inheriting a house in England, he flew over and met Claire, the pediatric nurse. It was love at first sight for them. When Claire noticed the beautiful room he has, she decided to persuade him into volunteering it for the terminally ill children from the hospital.
The story shows how Daniel grew into a man with emotions and how he changes from a cold attitude to actually caring for the sick child in his home.
I did feel the trauma and sadness that washed over Daniel when one of the child he was particularly close to had passed away. It was such a sad scene.
Miracles happened and some people might not believed that such things could happened in reality, but I do. I have personally encountered such a miracle few years back when my grandmother's heartbeat stopped. Everyone prayed to God and asked him to keep her with us because we can't bear to lose her. Miraculously, after a few minutes, her heartbeat came back and she lived for another good 3 years before she finally left us.
This book had made my memories came alive and I believed that the miracles in this book is perfectly portrayed.
Note: I have received the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book is very well written and it tells the story of an arrogant jerk (that's my first impression of him and by the end of the book I can't remember why I thought so!), Daniel, who is a workaholic and finally decided to take a big step forward to change his routine lifestyle.
Inheriting a house in England, he flew over and met Claire, the pediatric nurse. It was love at first sight for them. When Claire noticed the beautiful room he has, she decided to persuade him into volunteering it for the terminally ill children from the hospital.
The story shows how Daniel grew into a man with emotions and how he changes from a cold attitude to actually caring for the sick child in his home.
I did feel the trauma and sadness that washed over Daniel when one of the child he was particularly close to had passed away. It was such a sad scene.
Miracles happened and some people might not believed that such things could happened in reality, but I do. I have personally encountered such a miracle few years back when my grandmother's heartbeat stopped. Everyone prayed to God and asked him to keep her with us because we can't bear to lose her. Miraculously, after a few minutes, her heartbeat came back and she lived for another good 3 years before she finally left us.
This book had made my memories came alive and I believed that the miracles in this book is perfectly portrayed.
Note: I have received the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2018
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The intent behind this story was really nice. And it is a very sweet story. But, there's a lot that's lacking, which made it difficult for me to connect with it.
Daniel is a workaholic who has trouble maintaining relationships. But he inherits a house from an unknown uncle who lived in England. He gets there, tries to fix up the house, and injures himself, having to go to a hospital. There he meets a beautiful nurse, who cares for terminally ill children.
Their relationship progresses way too quickly and they magically fall into bed one night, and "make love into the night"
The language in the story is so forced and stilted as it is. When I got to this "sex scene" (It's so awkwardly written that I don't know if I would call it that) I groaned and had to read it out loud to my husband to explain my reaction. Even he agreed it was awkward.
Daniel and Claire are spending all of their possible time together, and calling each other "dear" and "sweetheart," without any actual emotional development between the two of them.
Their are some happenings at the house involving the terminally ill kids that are a nice touch to the story, but unrealistic. I won't spoil it for others, though. But I will say that had this twist figured out with about 50 pages left in the book.
I didn't feel any emotional connection to any of these characters, even with the serious subject matter. Because of this, the ending was entirely too campy for me. Everything wrapped up in a neat little bow.
Nice concept, and I appreciate the idea behind it, but the story is unrealistic and seriously lacking in character development.
The intent behind this story was really nice. And it is a very sweet story. But, there's a lot that's lacking, which made it difficult for me to connect with it.
Daniel is a workaholic who has trouble maintaining relationships. But he inherits a house from an unknown uncle who lived in England. He gets there, tries to fix up the house, and injures himself, having to go to a hospital. There he meets a beautiful nurse, who cares for terminally ill children.
Their relationship progresses way too quickly and they magically fall into bed one night, and "make love into the night"
The language in the story is so forced and stilted as it is. When I got to this "sex scene" (It's so awkwardly written that I don't know if I would call it that) I groaned and had to read it out loud to my husband to explain my reaction. Even he agreed it was awkward.
Daniel and Claire are spending all of their possible time together, and calling each other "dear" and "sweetheart," without any actual emotional development between the two of them.
Their are some happenings at the house involving the terminally ill kids that are a nice touch to the story, but unrealistic. I won't spoil it for others, though. But I will say that had this twist figured out with about 50 pages left in the book.
I didn't feel any emotional connection to any of these characters, even with the serious subject matter. Because of this, the ending was entirely too campy for me. Everything wrapped up in a neat little bow.
Nice concept, and I appreciate the idea behind it, but the story is unrealistic and seriously lacking in character development.
January 25, 2013
PDF Via Author for honest review
Can anything make Daniel Clay look past his very successful career and money? What more should he really want or need? He has his stunning good looks, more money than he can even spend, and a career as an investment adviser that would make anyone jealous of him and his success. He is completely deemed a workaholic even by himself. He hasn't taken a vacation in forever and he seems to believe he is not meant to have love or family because he doesn't have time after work. Daniel's views are about to be changed though, when he finds out he had a long lost uncle who passed away and left Daniel his huge, old, yet beautiful house. When he decides to go look at, fix up, and sell this house he thinks it will be a two week or less job. He couldn't have been more wrong. After a bit of an accident with a mallet Daniel meets Claire, a pediatric palliative care nurse. She only helped treat him because of his extremely rude behavior while waiting in the ER for help for over an hour. Daniel comes to see Claire in a new light and soon feels horrible for his behavior and asks if he can make it up to her with dinner or at least coffee. What can a caring, gentle, loving, beautiful woman like Claire ever have in common with a greedy, selfish, and rude rich guy like Daniel? Daniel soon learns why Claire has the job she has and what she really does at work. Can this be the start of an actual relationship for Daniel that doesn't involve his job? Can miracles really come true when you stop being selfish? Can prayers made at just the right time really be answered? Daniel needs a lot of help if he is to survive his biggest health battle ever. He knows what he has and why, but has vowed to never tell. But how can he be cured or survive if he holds the secret to his illness inside?
I must say I entered this book with skepticism but was quickly hooked and loving it. It truly is an inspirational story that I think everyone should read and needs to read. It really puts life into perspective for any reader, I know it did for me. I quickly came to love all the characters, even the ones with personal flaws, like Daniel. Claire was one of my favorites though, but part of that is because I see some of me in her. I also loved the soft side of Daniel that was brought out by Claire and her sharing her job with him. The plot was amazing and very touching too. You really just read this book and feel inspired to do good in your own life. I know I left this book feeling genuinely happy and glad that the author wrote it, shared it, and asked me to read it. A true inspiration, is what I would call this book. It makes us remember that no matter how bad things are and how busy things in our lives are, there are others that have much harder things to deal with in life...and if they can carry on and even have moments of happiness then the rest of us should have no problems at all carrying on and remembering to be happy. I have always believed you should try not to sweat the small stuff and this book helped me remember that yet again. Personally, I have some things going on that are frustrating and are proving hard to work through, but after reading this book I am reminded that at least I have the opportunity to probably work through them and "fix" things to try and get back to a "normal" life in the end, no matter how far out that end is. Some people don't have or get that chance, to see the end and be "normal" again. You need to remember that miracles happen every day, sometimes without us even realizing them. Life can be short, so you better just appreciate what you have and not think about all you want. This book reminded me that prayers can be answered if they are asked for the right reasons and that being a selfish person doesn't really get you anywhere in life. I can't say enough good about this book! The plot, the characters, and the writing were all very impressive and well worth reading. This is a book I plan to and will recommend to MANY!! Very touching and inspirational read.
5/5 Stars!!!!
Can anything make Daniel Clay look past his very successful career and money? What more should he really want or need? He has his stunning good looks, more money than he can even spend, and a career as an investment adviser that would make anyone jealous of him and his success. He is completely deemed a workaholic even by himself. He hasn't taken a vacation in forever and he seems to believe he is not meant to have love or family because he doesn't have time after work. Daniel's views are about to be changed though, when he finds out he had a long lost uncle who passed away and left Daniel his huge, old, yet beautiful house. When he decides to go look at, fix up, and sell this house he thinks it will be a two week or less job. He couldn't have been more wrong. After a bit of an accident with a mallet Daniel meets Claire, a pediatric palliative care nurse. She only helped treat him because of his extremely rude behavior while waiting in the ER for help for over an hour. Daniel comes to see Claire in a new light and soon feels horrible for his behavior and asks if he can make it up to her with dinner or at least coffee. What can a caring, gentle, loving, beautiful woman like Claire ever have in common with a greedy, selfish, and rude rich guy like Daniel? Daniel soon learns why Claire has the job she has and what she really does at work. Can this be the start of an actual relationship for Daniel that doesn't involve his job? Can miracles really come true when you stop being selfish? Can prayers made at just the right time really be answered? Daniel needs a lot of help if he is to survive his biggest health battle ever. He knows what he has and why, but has vowed to never tell. But how can he be cured or survive if he holds the secret to his illness inside?
I must say I entered this book with skepticism but was quickly hooked and loving it. It truly is an inspirational story that I think everyone should read and needs to read. It really puts life into perspective for any reader, I know it did for me. I quickly came to love all the characters, even the ones with personal flaws, like Daniel. Claire was one of my favorites though, but part of that is because I see some of me in her. I also loved the soft side of Daniel that was brought out by Claire and her sharing her job with him. The plot was amazing and very touching too. You really just read this book and feel inspired to do good in your own life. I know I left this book feeling genuinely happy and glad that the author wrote it, shared it, and asked me to read it. A true inspiration, is what I would call this book. It makes us remember that no matter how bad things are and how busy things in our lives are, there are others that have much harder things to deal with in life...and if they can carry on and even have moments of happiness then the rest of us should have no problems at all carrying on and remembering to be happy. I have always believed you should try not to sweat the small stuff and this book helped me remember that yet again. Personally, I have some things going on that are frustrating and are proving hard to work through, but after reading this book I am reminded that at least I have the opportunity to probably work through them and "fix" things to try and get back to a "normal" life in the end, no matter how far out that end is. Some people don't have or get that chance, to see the end and be "normal" again. You need to remember that miracles happen every day, sometimes without us even realizing them. Life can be short, so you better just appreciate what you have and not think about all you want. This book reminded me that prayers can be answered if they are asked for the right reasons and that being a selfish person doesn't really get you anywhere in life. I can't say enough good about this book! The plot, the characters, and the writing were all very impressive and well worth reading. This is a book I plan to and will recommend to MANY!! Very touching and inspirational read.
5/5 Stars!!!!
November 13, 2012
When I got this request, I wasn't entirely sure what to make of the story line.
It gave you something about the book but also gave nothing away.
I was also worried about it being a real tear jerker. I'm not much for those.
The living room story is a really good read. Also a fast one at only 155 pages, I devored it in one sitting.
There is a faith element to The Living Room Story, though not heavy. A non religious person could read and still enjoy the book. (I did)
Daniel Clay, the main character had a LOT of development through out the book.
He's a completely different person at the end of the book and thank goodness for that.
An investment advisor with no family ties orphaned at a young age taken in by a family friend.
Initially he is all about work, he has no real personal or social life to speak of. His apartment is one that holds what's necessary and not much else.
Daniel is a calculated, driven man all about routine right down to his closet and his route to work every morning. There is next to no room for emotion or personal connection in his life.
Until his surrogate father and boss remind him of the three rules.
One he has clearly not followed.
Make time for family.
Suddenly he finds out he inherits a house in England. A dead relative he never knew he had.
He never bothers to dig up the info on the dead family member so this tidbit goes unanswered through out.
The story really picks up once Daniel travels to see his house and decide what he plans to do with it.
There was so much change in him with everything he goes through over in England and the many people that come into his life that I found myself finally able to like the person that he became.
As much as I liked Daniel at the end I'm not sure who I'd choose as a favourite character. They all had elements to them that I loved.
I think more than any one character I loved Art's three rules to life, they're something that I think everyone should give some thought to.
The living room story is one of those books that gets you with every emotion you have. It definitely has it's moments where you find yourself with a lump in your throat. But also has those awwe moments. Moments that make you smile and keep reading.
The characters were perfectly written for the book. I could see any of them being real people.
The talent shows in the authors writing. Being able to write about doctors, nurses but also families of sick children and make it as real as it was, raw and human.
I was surprised by the ending. I saw a few possible ways it could go along the way, but didn't see that particular ending coming.
I have to say, I'm happy that the author worked with that ending. It was a really great way to end the book.
I loved the Living Room Story, it's one of those books that make you glad you read it at the end.
Definitely worth the read and one you will want to share.
It gave you something about the book but also gave nothing away.
I was also worried about it being a real tear jerker. I'm not much for those.
The living room story is a really good read. Also a fast one at only 155 pages, I devored it in one sitting.
There is a faith element to The Living Room Story, though not heavy. A non religious person could read and still enjoy the book. (I did)
Daniel Clay, the main character had a LOT of development through out the book.
He's a completely different person at the end of the book and thank goodness for that.
An investment advisor with no family ties orphaned at a young age taken in by a family friend.
Initially he is all about work, he has no real personal or social life to speak of. His apartment is one that holds what's necessary and not much else.
Daniel is a calculated, driven man all about routine right down to his closet and his route to work every morning. There is next to no room for emotion or personal connection in his life.
Until his surrogate father and boss remind him of the three rules.
One he has clearly not followed.
Make time for family.
Suddenly he finds out he inherits a house in England. A dead relative he never knew he had.
He never bothers to dig up the info on the dead family member so this tidbit goes unanswered through out.
The story really picks up once Daniel travels to see his house and decide what he plans to do with it.
There was so much change in him with everything he goes through over in England and the many people that come into his life that I found myself finally able to like the person that he became.
As much as I liked Daniel at the end I'm not sure who I'd choose as a favourite character. They all had elements to them that I loved.
I think more than any one character I loved Art's three rules to life, they're something that I think everyone should give some thought to.
The living room story is one of those books that gets you with every emotion you have. It definitely has it's moments where you find yourself with a lump in your throat. But also has those awwe moments. Moments that make you smile and keep reading.
The characters were perfectly written for the book. I could see any of them being real people.
The talent shows in the authors writing. Being able to write about doctors, nurses but also families of sick children and make it as real as it was, raw and human.
I was surprised by the ending. I saw a few possible ways it could go along the way, but didn't see that particular ending coming.
I have to say, I'm happy that the author worked with that ending. It was a really great way to end the book.
I loved the Living Room Story, it's one of those books that make you glad you read it at the end.
Definitely worth the read and one you will want to share.
July 17, 2012
If you are looking for a well written, feel good book with a touch of spiritualism, look no further. Bill Rolfe delivers a book filled with hope, compassion and strength.
Daniel Clay seems to have it all - a beautiful corner apartment in a high rise anyone would be proud to live in, a prestigious job with an even more prestigious firm in New York, a love of the work he does and the thrill of being considered for a coveted position as a partner in his firm. He has dated a few women, but none had been serious and lately with trying to land a big client for the firm he has stopped even doing that. To everyone he seems to have it all, except one man, Art Rothschild.
Art has been in the business for forty years. He saw Daniel's potential and had brought Daniel to the firm and mentored him. While he knows that Daniel can do the job he is worried that Daniel takes no personal time, and works day and night. He had 3 rules for business success that he had passed on to Daniel. He reminds Daniel of these rules and tells Daniel that to stay ahead of everyone, he needs to consider his personal life.
Daniel has been approached by an attorney about some relative, an uncle, that has supposedly lived in England and has passed away. As Daniel has never heard of this uncle, he at first thinks its a scam. When he finally meets with the attorney, he decides to take some personal time and travel to England. His uncle had left him a house near Canterbury and Daniel decides it would be a good idea to go there, see the house, and at the same time, take stock of his life and his priorities.
Daniel arrives in England, finds the house needs a large amount of work and decides to stay a few weeks to get started on repairs. One room of the house, on the second floor, is amazing and the view from all the windows in that room is spectacular. Daniel hurts himself while trying to do a repair, and meets Claire, a palliative care children's nurse. She asks something of Daniel that he is not sure he can do but searching inside himself, he agrees.
The wonder of the amazing room with the spectacular view, the enlightenment that comes to Daniel through his contact with Claire, Brenda and the palliative children, and the miracles that happen when you least expect them will keep you reading to the end.
A very well written book, with touches of romance, spirituality, loss, faith and love make for a very interesting read. The book makes you think of your own life, your own priorities and what faith is truly about. I didn't like that it was a little cliche at times and I found the ending rather abrupt.
A very touching story that left me thinking about miracles.
I received my copy of The Living Room by the author in exchange for my honest review.
Daniel Clay seems to have it all - a beautiful corner apartment in a high rise anyone would be proud to live in, a prestigious job with an even more prestigious firm in New York, a love of the work he does and the thrill of being considered for a coveted position as a partner in his firm. He has dated a few women, but none had been serious and lately with trying to land a big client for the firm he has stopped even doing that. To everyone he seems to have it all, except one man, Art Rothschild.
Art has been in the business for forty years. He saw Daniel's potential and had brought Daniel to the firm and mentored him. While he knows that Daniel can do the job he is worried that Daniel takes no personal time, and works day and night. He had 3 rules for business success that he had passed on to Daniel. He reminds Daniel of these rules and tells Daniel that to stay ahead of everyone, he needs to consider his personal life.
Daniel has been approached by an attorney about some relative, an uncle, that has supposedly lived in England and has passed away. As Daniel has never heard of this uncle, he at first thinks its a scam. When he finally meets with the attorney, he decides to take some personal time and travel to England. His uncle had left him a house near Canterbury and Daniel decides it would be a good idea to go there, see the house, and at the same time, take stock of his life and his priorities.
Daniel arrives in England, finds the house needs a large amount of work and decides to stay a few weeks to get started on repairs. One room of the house, on the second floor, is amazing and the view from all the windows in that room is spectacular. Daniel hurts himself while trying to do a repair, and meets Claire, a palliative care children's nurse. She asks something of Daniel that he is not sure he can do but searching inside himself, he agrees.
The wonder of the amazing room with the spectacular view, the enlightenment that comes to Daniel through his contact with Claire, Brenda and the palliative children, and the miracles that happen when you least expect them will keep you reading to the end.
A very well written book, with touches of romance, spirituality, loss, faith and love make for a very interesting read. The book makes you think of your own life, your own priorities and what faith is truly about. I didn't like that it was a little cliche at times and I found the ending rather abrupt.
A very touching story that left me thinking about miracles.
I received my copy of The Living Room by the author in exchange for my honest review.
April 22, 2013
Normally I really like books because of the plot or the characters I can really connect with. This time I had a different kind of feeling. I think I liked this book so much because it kept me reading. It read like a train and I wasn't able to stop the train or jump from it.
Author Bill Rolfe writes a beautiful story for us, he once saw in a dream. A story without unnecessary elements (I like that a lot). A good story... nothing more, nothing less. A story about two people who happen to meet in somewhat strange circumstances (although... they weren't that strange... I once had a teacher who met his wife in hospital where he lay after an accident).
In this story we meet Daniel Clay, a typical New Yorker. Work is the only thing on his mind. He doesn't have a family, he doesn't have a warm home to get back to every evening, so he just keeps on working till he drops. When Daniel inherits a cottage in England there's needed more than persuasion to get him there. Luckily his tutor at work had a big influence and almost forces him to take a break from work. Reluctantly Daniel books a ticket to Europe and there he finds the woman who can give him the family and warm nest he always missed without knowing it.
Do not think this is an ordinary love story (hmm, can love stories be ordinary?? ;p). There's more to it... We find in Daniel a man who finally discovers what's really important in life and afterwards almost loses this newfound treasure. Will Daniel be able to keep his new love, his health and his job? Or will he have to give up on one of them?
I recommand this book to different types of readers, but mostly to the lovers of love stories. This doesn't mean there's only one "genre" to be put on this book... Author Bill Rolfe writes in a no-nonsense kind of way which can be appreciated by lots of readers. He just keeps on writing the main plot without getting distracted, without the need to fill more pages, without the idea the readers wants more mysteries. It's just a good book and that's the reason why I think it deserves 5 stars.
Don't think I always give books 4 and 5 stars. It's not because I'm in a good mood either ;). Maybe these people just provide us readers good books and we need to thank them by giving some stars and good comment...
Author Bill Rolfe writes a beautiful story for us, he once saw in a dream. A story without unnecessary elements (I like that a lot). A good story... nothing more, nothing less. A story about two people who happen to meet in somewhat strange circumstances (although... they weren't that strange... I once had a teacher who met his wife in hospital where he lay after an accident).
In this story we meet Daniel Clay, a typical New Yorker. Work is the only thing on his mind. He doesn't have a family, he doesn't have a warm home to get back to every evening, so he just keeps on working till he drops. When Daniel inherits a cottage in England there's needed more than persuasion to get him there. Luckily his tutor at work had a big influence and almost forces him to take a break from work. Reluctantly Daniel books a ticket to Europe and there he finds the woman who can give him the family and warm nest he always missed without knowing it.
Do not think this is an ordinary love story (hmm, can love stories be ordinary?? ;p). There's more to it... We find in Daniel a man who finally discovers what's really important in life and afterwards almost loses this newfound treasure. Will Daniel be able to keep his new love, his health and his job? Or will he have to give up on one of them?
I recommand this book to different types of readers, but mostly to the lovers of love stories. This doesn't mean there's only one "genre" to be put on this book... Author Bill Rolfe writes in a no-nonsense kind of way which can be appreciated by lots of readers. He just keeps on writing the main plot without getting distracted, without the need to fill more pages, without the idea the readers wants more mysteries. It's just a good book and that's the reason why I think it deserves 5 stars.
Don't think I always give books 4 and 5 stars. It's not because I'm in a good mood either ;). Maybe these people just provide us readers good books and we need to thank them by giving some stars and good comment...
November 14, 2012
I believe in miracles and I do believe that sincere prayers can result in miracles – I’ve personally witnessed this, yet at the same time, I don’t exactly believe in dreams, I rarely have dreams.
So when I learnt that this book was based on dream that the author, Bill Rolfe had and in the dream he was asked to write this book, I was a bit skeptical. Having read the book, I am so glad that I did. The main protagonist of the book – Daniel Clay, has worked hard to make his way up the corporate ladder at an investment firm in New York. He works tirelessly days and nights almost all days of the week and has been nominated for partnership.
His mentor and senior partner in this investment firm, Art Rothschild, tells him to concentrate on a personal life as well. Daniel respects Art, but getting a personal life, a life partner seems to be Daniel’s biggest challenge. Things suddenly change.
An attorney has been calling Daniel’s office persistently about a personal matter, a deceased Uncle in England, whom Daniel never even knew of. For the first time in several years, Daniel takes time off to visit England to see his newly inherited house and sell it off.
He could not have imagined what life had in store. The house, has a loving warm aura and one room in particular, with a splendid view is extra special. In the course of carrying out minor repairs around the house, so as to make it more saleable, Daniel injures himself, meets Claire, a palliative children’s nurse. They date and she makes a strange request.
This ‘healing room’ becomes a guest room for the terminally ill children. One of the first guests dies, Daniel is unable to bear the pain and becomes the receptacle for miracles, but at a great personal cost. Claire, who has by now fallen in love with Daniel needs a miracle of her own. I will not act as a spoil sport and tell you what happens.
This book is very well written; it flows flawlessly and is a book of hope, love and miracles. I also loved the fact that the author is donating proceeds of the book to charity.
For the author's interview, visit my blog:
http://booksonmyshelves.blogspot.in/2...
April 24, 2013
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The Living Room is a heartfelt story about life and death, love and sacrifices, family and, let’s not forget, miracles.
Daniel Clay has a very bland character in the beginning. He was very serious all the time, he’s super workaholic, and he doesn’t have enough time for himself. So when his boss and godfather, Art encouraged (more like commanded) him to take a vacation, Daniel doesn’t have a choice but to do what he was told.
So Daniel went to England to check out the house he mysteriously inherited from an unknown distant relative. And that’s where everything changed. He met Claire, who taught him how to love and care unselfishly, and met a bunch of inspiring little kids, who taught him what the true meaning of life is.
I have no doubt in my mind that this book is made to give hope and courage people especially those who are facing difficult stages in there life right now. And I truly believe that this will inspire them.
But if I could change one tiny bit about this book, I would probably use the first person POV here instead of the third person POV. I just thought that it would make this book more personal to me and in turn, would make me feel more emotion if it was in first person. You see, there were a few times where I felt disconnected to the story because I felt like an outsider, watching all the scenes unravel from the distance and because of that, the emotional impact that I felt was lesser than what is expected. I guess, it would be more effective for me if I was seeing the story through Daniel’s eyes. But that’s just me.
Overall, this book will inspire you to live your life to the fullest and will teach you to not be afraid to take chances and risk. Because, you will only live once so enjoy it.
The Living Room is a heartfelt story about life and death, love and sacrifices, family and, let’s not forget, miracles.
Daniel Clay has a very bland character in the beginning. He was very serious all the time, he’s super workaholic, and he doesn’t have enough time for himself. So when his boss and godfather, Art encouraged (more like commanded) him to take a vacation, Daniel doesn’t have a choice but to do what he was told.
So Daniel went to England to check out the house he mysteriously inherited from an unknown distant relative. And that’s where everything changed. He met Claire, who taught him how to love and care unselfishly, and met a bunch of inspiring little kids, who taught him what the true meaning of life is.
I have no doubt in my mind that this book is made to give hope and courage people especially those who are facing difficult stages in there life right now. And I truly believe that this will inspire them.
But if I could change one tiny bit about this book, I would probably use the first person POV here instead of the third person POV. I just thought that it would make this book more personal to me and in turn, would make me feel more emotion if it was in first person. You see, there were a few times where I felt disconnected to the story because I felt like an outsider, watching all the scenes unravel from the distance and because of that, the emotional impact that I felt was lesser than what is expected. I guess, it would be more effective for me if I was seeing the story through Daniel’s eyes. But that’s just me.
Overall, this book will inspire you to live your life to the fullest and will teach you to not be afraid to take chances and risk. Because, you will only live once so enjoy it.
January 28, 2013
Daniel Clay is a successful businessman, who has everything in life, except family. His boss tells him he needs to make time to meet someone, so when he finds out he's inherited a house in England, it's the perfect chance for him to take a long-overdue vacation. Once there, he meets a pediatric nurse who cares for dying children, and she arranges for children who are close to death to stay in a beautiful room in his house, which she says will make the children feel alive. When Daniel has trouble dealing with the children dying, he prays for a miracle. He gets it, but at a price.
When I heard that this book came to the author in a dream, it made me nervous. And when I realised the book was about miracles, I was even more apprehensive. But this book won me over with the pure emotion of it. It made me cry, and that wins a book points from me.
The Living Room is not really an easy story to read. Children die in it, which is always tough to read about. But I think it was handled really well in this case. You really get to see the pain experienced by those who grow close to the child near the end, but without feeling totally depressed. Because ultimately, this story is filled with hope. When some of the children miraculously get better, and even when the children are sick but get to experience some moments of true happiness, this story is anything but a downer.
5 stars.
Full disclosure: Free ebook copy received from the author.
This review is copied from my blog, The Towering Pile. It was originally published here.
When I heard that this book came to the author in a dream, it made me nervous. And when I realised the book was about miracles, I was even more apprehensive. But this book won me over with the pure emotion of it. It made me cry, and that wins a book points from me.
The Living Room is not really an easy story to read. Children die in it, which is always tough to read about. But I think it was handled really well in this case. You really get to see the pain experienced by those who grow close to the child near the end, but without feeling totally depressed. Because ultimately, this story is filled with hope. When some of the children miraculously get better, and even when the children are sick but get to experience some moments of true happiness, this story is anything but a downer.
5 stars.
Full disclosure: Free ebook copy received from the author.
This review is copied from my blog, The Towering Pile. It was originally published here.
March 14, 2013
The Living Room is a short story that is actually one of Bill Rolfe’s dreams.
Daniel Clay started in the mail room of his guardian’s, Art, investment firm and is now almost a partner. Before being given the partnership, Art tells him he needs to change his non-existent personal life to an existent personal life. When an uncle he never knew existed leaves him a house in England Daniel decides to head to England to check out the house and take a short vacation.
After a mishap while fixing up the house, he meets Clair, a pediatric nurse. At her suggestion he opens his house to her terminal patients hoping to make their final days more comfortable. With each child, Daniel prays for a miracle and the prayers get answered. With each answered prayer Daniel gets sicker and sicker and is in need of a prayer of his own.
This novel has a religious element that I very much enjoyed. I believed in miracles and have seen it happen. The fact that Daniel had miracles happen around him makes him the type of friend we all need, just because he believes. But even a non-believer of miracles will enjoy this story.
Daniel is the main character and had a lot of changes from the start of the story to the end of the story. These changes were definitely for the better. He goes from being a lonely, over worked man with no social life to a man whose found love and enjoys giving back to society.
I could see where this story was heading, but enjoyed the path Bill Rolfe took me on to get there. This is an emotional story that will pull you in and make you glad you read it.
Daniel Clay started in the mail room of his guardian’s, Art, investment firm and is now almost a partner. Before being given the partnership, Art tells him he needs to change his non-existent personal life to an existent personal life. When an uncle he never knew existed leaves him a house in England Daniel decides to head to England to check out the house and take a short vacation.
After a mishap while fixing up the house, he meets Clair, a pediatric nurse. At her suggestion he opens his house to her terminal patients hoping to make their final days more comfortable. With each child, Daniel prays for a miracle and the prayers get answered. With each answered prayer Daniel gets sicker and sicker and is in need of a prayer of his own.
This novel has a religious element that I very much enjoyed. I believed in miracles and have seen it happen. The fact that Daniel had miracles happen around him makes him the type of friend we all need, just because he believes. But even a non-believer of miracles will enjoy this story.
Daniel is the main character and had a lot of changes from the start of the story to the end of the story. These changes were definitely for the better. He goes from being a lonely, over worked man with no social life to a man whose found love and enjoys giving back to society.
I could see where this story was heading, but enjoyed the path Bill Rolfe took me on to get there. This is an emotional story that will pull you in and make you glad you read it.
January 13, 2013
The Living Room by Bill Rolfe is a really nice story. As you read in the above section Bill had a dream and wrote down what he dreamed.
I enjoyed it but if I wrote it I would have changed a few parts. It ended nicely, but I would have liked a few different things to happen. I won’t tell you what they were so it doesn’t ruin the ending for you.
Mainly this book is about Daniel a successful business man who didn’t take time for himself and just thought of his career. Then he inherits a house in a different country and decides to go and sell it and also take a much needed vacation at the same time. Then he meets Claire who is a nurse of children who are in the end stages of their lives. They fall in love right away and in Daniel’s house there is a glassed-in room that would be perfect for the children to use. I really like the description of the house and thought it was a really nice part of the book.
Strange things start happening in this book for Daniel and the children. I thought this part was super also. I recommend this book for reading enjoyment. It is full of love, death, life and miracles. Really a sweet story all in all. This is the only book Bill Rolfe has written and I think it is great for a first time.
Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
I enjoyed it but if I wrote it I would have changed a few parts. It ended nicely, but I would have liked a few different things to happen. I won’t tell you what they were so it doesn’t ruin the ending for you.
Mainly this book is about Daniel a successful business man who didn’t take time for himself and just thought of his career. Then he inherits a house in a different country and decides to go and sell it and also take a much needed vacation at the same time. Then he meets Claire who is a nurse of children who are in the end stages of their lives. They fall in love right away and in Daniel’s house there is a glassed-in room that would be perfect for the children to use. I really like the description of the house and thought it was a really nice part of the book.
Strange things start happening in this book for Daniel and the children. I thought this part was super also. I recommend this book for reading enjoyment. It is full of love, death, life and miracles. Really a sweet story all in all. This is the only book Bill Rolfe has written and I think it is great for a first time.
Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
January 29, 2013
what an amazing and touching story.
this is not my usual genre, but after speaking with the author I was intrigued and had to read. once I began, I found it hard to stop and put it down,I could quite easily have finished this book in one sitting if things like work, and needing to eat hadn't got in the way.
It was quite a profound story and a belief in miracles is required, something I possess plenty of.
Daniel was such a likeable character, despite his success he didn't stomp on the "little" people in fact he was more likely to give them a foot up.
When he inherits a house in England, he realises it's his chance to take a break and follow his friend and mentors advice.
While in England Daniel meets the equally lovely Claire who as dedicated her life to taking care of terminally ill children.
Daniel opens his house to the children Claire cares for. Daniel struggles to see these children who are so ill. He as had such a wonderful life and he hates that these children sufffer while he as so much. Daniels wishes seem to start coming true, but at what cost?
Then Daniel himself becomes ill suddenly and he needs a miracle of his own.
I really enjoyed this story, I shed many tears over this story.
this is not my usual genre, but after speaking with the author I was intrigued and had to read. once I began, I found it hard to stop and put it down,I could quite easily have finished this book in one sitting if things like work, and needing to eat hadn't got in the way.
It was quite a profound story and a belief in miracles is required, something I possess plenty of.
Daniel was such a likeable character, despite his success he didn't stomp on the "little" people in fact he was more likely to give them a foot up.
When he inherits a house in England, he realises it's his chance to take a break and follow his friend and mentors advice.
While in England Daniel meets the equally lovely Claire who as dedicated her life to taking care of terminally ill children.
Daniel opens his house to the children Claire cares for. Daniel struggles to see these children who are so ill. He as had such a wonderful life and he hates that these children sufffer while he as so much. Daniels wishes seem to start coming true, but at what cost?
Then Daniel himself becomes ill suddenly and he needs a miracle of his own.
I really enjoyed this story, I shed many tears over this story.
October 20, 2012
Bill Rolfe asked me to read and review his book “The Living Room” and I have to admit I was quite worried about what the book had in store for me. This is not the type of book I would usually read and I didn’t know what to expect, however, I’m so glad I accepted Bill’s request as this is an amazing book.
Everything from the style of writing to the story line shows a great deal of talent. Bill has created a main character that everyone will feel sympathy for and support along his journey and he’s paired this with a story line that just makes you want to read more. As the book progresses it becomes harder to put down and I read the second half of the book all in one sitting.
This book isn’t too long and is a relatively easy read. A very moving book that had the ability to make me route for the characters. I have already recommended this book to several people and I would recommend this book to anyone, even if it’s not the type of book you’d usually read.
I received my copy of “The Living Room” from the author for my honest review.
Everything from the style of writing to the story line shows a great deal of talent. Bill has created a main character that everyone will feel sympathy for and support along his journey and he’s paired this with a story line that just makes you want to read more. As the book progresses it becomes harder to put down and I read the second half of the book all in one sitting.
This book isn’t too long and is a relatively easy read. A very moving book that had the ability to make me route for the characters. I have already recommended this book to several people and I would recommend this book to anyone, even if it’s not the type of book you’d usually read.
I received my copy of “The Living Room” from the author for my honest review.
July 1, 2012
The Living Room is an intriguing look inside the life of Daniel Clay, a man who believes he has it all in life. After realizing that perhaps he is missing something important, he takes a vacation to England to settle a family estate. There he meets Claire and finds what he has been missing. He finds true meaning in his life and fills a void in his soul he didn't know existed before Claire.
The novel is a wonderfully heartfelt story, even if the plot seemed a bit cliche and overused. The backstory behind the novel itself, which is shared by the author, is truly interesting and makes the book all the more meaningful. The narrative flows well and Daniel's character development is quite evident - although predictable. This is a good old fashioned story of love, hope, and finding happiness. A short but great book worth reading.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The novel is a wonderfully heartfelt story, even if the plot seemed a bit cliche and overused. The backstory behind the novel itself, which is shared by the author, is truly interesting and makes the book all the more meaningful. The narrative flows well and Daniel's character development is quite evident - although predictable. This is a good old fashioned story of love, hope, and finding happiness. A short but great book worth reading.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2013
I cried. What a touching book. I was not prepared for The Living Room and the emotions it would stir up. Bill Rolfe has taken a dream he had, and turned it into an emotional story of faith, love and the importance of family first that will touch every heart, and perhaps remind this busy world what truly matters.
To be honest thinking of this book today, after so many children were thoughtlessly killed over the weekend, I can't help but feel it's message is even more important. Hold to your families. Let their love hold you up and carry you through. Working parents, hold your children a little tighter. You never know when something could pull them from you. Don't get so caught up in the work life that you don't have time for home life. When you make home life a priority, the rest will work itself out.
To be honest thinking of this book today, after so many children were thoughtlessly killed over the weekend, I can't help but feel it's message is even more important. Hold to your families. Let their love hold you up and carry you through. Working parents, hold your children a little tighter. You never know when something could pull them from you. Don't get so caught up in the work life that you don't have time for home life. When you make home life a priority, the rest will work itself out.
November 19, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this fast-moving, quick read! This book flows well and the writing is clean and tight. It is heavily plot-driven; consequently, the characters are not as well developed. Because of this, the book doesn't touch the heart strings as deeply as I expected it too. But on the other hand, the book could be depressing, but because of its fast pace, it is not a tear jerker but just an intriguing read. "The Living Room" could be a movie -- it actually even reads like one! In the end, I prefer books with well-developed characters and found myself wishing for more, but I do feel it is worth the reader's time for both the entertainment factor and thought-provoking story. (The author provided me my copy of this book for my fair and honest review).
December 29, 2012
This book is fairly short, at 155 pages, so the story moves along at a pretty fast clip. Most of the time, this works well for me though I did find it a bit convenient, if sweet, to have the two main characters instantly fall in love. I think the limited length of the story also led to pretty one dimensional characters (which isn’t always bad – such as in Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere). Hence, the story is pretty predictable. With that said, there were still several small insights into the human condition that I found touching – such as the flute playing elderly nurse, the simple kindness of taking an ill kid out for a drive, ice cream, and a toy, and encouraging a young newspaper boy to attend college.
November 29, 2012
I received a copy of "The Living Room" from the author in exchange for an honest review. I had no prior association with the author or his writing prior to receiving this request.
The book is a very touching love story that incorporates another story about terminally ill children. If you have compassion for your fellow man/woman, you will be deeply touched by reading this book. I have been awed and humbled. This book provoked so many emotions. It will stay with me for a very long time to come. I have loaned my copy to my mother for her reading pleasure. (We are both avid readers.)
Thank you Mr. Rolfe. Well done. Very well done indeed.
The book is a very touching love story that incorporates another story about terminally ill children. If you have compassion for your fellow man/woman, you will be deeply touched by reading this book. I have been awed and humbled. This book provoked so many emotions. It will stay with me for a very long time to come. I have loaned my copy to my mother for her reading pleasure. (We are both avid readers.)
Thank you Mr. Rolfe. Well done. Very well done indeed.
May 15, 2013
This was a very quick, sweet read. The author managed to portray some very real and serious issues about dying and letting go and still managed to keep it light enough that the sweet romance that develops between the two main characters realistic enough to sit back and enjoy.
Because this did move quickly, I think it lacked a little bit in the character department as far as feeling connected to the lives and feelings of all the characters but overall it was a sweet read that I am glad I read and the messages inside are well worth the read.
Because this did move quickly, I think it lacked a little bit in the character department as far as feeling connected to the lives and feelings of all the characters but overall it was a sweet read that I am glad I read and the messages inside are well worth the read.
June 7, 2013
Where to begin...probably the worst writing I have ever read. Perhaps some good editing could save this story. Way too many loose ends making the storyline so implausible and paragraphs that you have to read over; not to savor the prose, but to try and understand what is happening. I admire the writer in his bold attempt to produce a labour of love, but this book misses the mark. If this book had not been a book group choice I would have never finished it.
December 5, 2012
A great job, good looks, and plenty of money. But something is missing in Daniel Clay's life. In an easy to read style Bill Rolfe has crafted a moving testament on finding love. I found it to be an inspiring read.
January 9, 2013
I liked The Living Room. It was a nice simple read and I enjoyed that the concept of miracles wasn't too cheesy. The character Daniel actually became someone I aspire to be like. If this story was all a dream of Rolfe's, that's a pretty impressive dream.
April 6, 2014
Yes, it was a fairy tale. But I couldn't get into the main character at all. Or any of them, really. Question: if you inherited a house from an uncle you didn't know you had, wouldn't you be the least bit curious about him? Apparently not.
January 5, 2013
Inspiring and emotional. A book worth reading...
Rev to come...
Rev to come...
December 17, 2013
This book is a nice, easy read with a lovely story. It focuses on a man with an empty life, who is offered a chance that he didn't even know he needed. I really enjoyed it.
March 23, 2014
I found this story surprisingly original and far from what I was expecting. I liked the way it was written and the emotions it conveyed.
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