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Where the Wildflowers Grow
Rose Cassidy's fantasy life is a haunting reminder that she's living a lie. So when she has the opportunity to act on those fantasies, she dives in without any thought to consequences.
Rose's husband, Ryan, has fantasies of his own, and his actions cause unimaginable hurt [pain] to the very children he tries so hard to protect.
When the happiness each member of the Cassidy family seeks so desperately to find is shattered by shame, guilt, and ultimately murder, they must each face the truth that lies deep within their souls.
Rose's husband, Ryan, has fantasies of his own, and his actions cause unimaginable hurt [pain] to the very children he tries so hard to protect.
When the happiness each member of the Cassidy family seeks so desperately to find is shattered by shame, guilt, and ultimately murder, they must each face the truth that lies deep within their souls.
- GenresDrama
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 23, 2019
A father who cheats, a mother who is not satisfied, a son just on the verge of becoming a teenager and a sixteen year old daughter who has fallen in love and discovered sex. The secrets straining the family begin to fester having unexpected consequences.
This is a contemporary family drama set in a small town. The characters are amazing. They are strong will, flawed, fearful, angry, loving and each is very distinct. They are further developed by the great narrative. Secrets drive the storyline as the characters deal with the consequences of secrets from years ago. This is an emotional drama as each character tries to overcome their internal battles, the actions of other and their own unsavoury tenderness. There is danger and suspense leading up to massive changes that pull the family apart. As each member struggles to adapt to the changes you can not help but feel their sense of loss and celebrate their achievements. To me this story left me with conflicting emotions as I tried to digest the multitude of changes that occurred and the impact they had. It is an extremely well written book by a talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a contemporary family drama set in a small town. The characters are amazing. They are strong will, flawed, fearful, angry, loving and each is very distinct. They are further developed by the great narrative. Secrets drive the storyline as the characters deal with the consequences of secrets from years ago. This is an emotional drama as each character tries to overcome their internal battles, the actions of other and their own unsavoury tenderness. There is danger and suspense leading up to massive changes that pull the family apart. As each member struggles to adapt to the changes you can not help but feel their sense of loss and celebrate their achievements. To me this story left me with conflicting emotions as I tried to digest the multitude of changes that occurred and the impact they had. It is an extremely well written book by a talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2017
I received a free copy of this book and want to thank Reading Deals for giving me this opportunity. I want to start by saying I found the storyline quite interesting. However, while reading the first chapter, I was certain I wouldn’t be able to finish it. The author started out by using so many big, flowery words to describe everything, all I thought was - wow! However, after the first chapter, the author seemed to skip all the pretentious & over the top words with only a few exceptions. The storyline was very intriguing and I really enjoyed how twisted the story kept getting. All the players in this story had a very complex and faulted life and I’m not too sure Dalton should have gone into his chosen profession. He was a far too damaged a boy & truly needed lots of therapy in my opinion. Enjoyed the book and would recommend it to others. The only reason for my lower score was the opening chapter. It’s really a 3-1/2 Star but that’s not an option.
June 28, 2019
This was a wild ride! This cast of characters does not disappoint with the drama, there is so much going on its so up and down from the very beginning to the very end. You will think you know where everything is going and then you will have your world turned upside down in the end. I think it was crazy that this kind of book could bring so much to it. It really stands apart to me.
This is very much a story of self discovery and learning about yourself. The characters all make so many mistakes along the way, I was so frustrated with some throughout. Most of them end up shining in a better light by the end, so we get redemption and growth in their characters.
I loved the setting and time period and how so much went into the author conveying that to the reader.
This is very much a story of self discovery and learning about yourself. The characters all make so many mistakes along the way, I was so frustrated with some throughout. Most of them end up shining in a better light by the end, so we get redemption and growth in their characters.
I loved the setting and time period and how so much went into the author conveying that to the reader.
August 13, 2019
What a treat! I always look forward to a new novel by Vera Jane Cook because I know I’m going to be transported to a world where true emotion and a powerful journey awaits. Her books are so easy to slide into, like a soft pair of worn jeans, and Where the Wildflowers Grow is no exception. Her main characters are women I’d like to grab coffee with, and the story filled my head with visions of life in a small town finding my soulmate in a small, artisan shop.
There is an effortless feel to Cook’s writing. Her descriptions of her settings just dance on the page, and her dialogue is crisp, witty, and it’s heartfelt when it needs to be.
There is an effortless feel to Cook’s writing. Her descriptions of her settings just dance on the page, and her dialogue is crisp, witty, and it’s heartfelt when it needs to be.
February 15, 2023
DNF.
This reads like silly, light-porn. I am NOT the target audience.
Women judging women in a book club because of a choice in seductive reading and the attire (capris and a midriff shirt) of a new book club member. Granted, this was simpler times – when women were little housewives. Sixteen year olds having sex, while the younger brother watches. I'm sorry. Just weird vibes throughout. I'm certainly not a prude, but this is mindless reading. My electricity was out and I had limited downloads. This is definitely not my thing.
This reads like silly, light-porn. I am NOT the target audience.
Women judging women in a book club because of a choice in seductive reading and the attire (capris and a midriff shirt) of a new book club member. Granted, this was simpler times – when women were little housewives. Sixteen year olds having sex, while the younger brother watches. I'm sorry. Just weird vibes throughout. I'm certainly not a prude, but this is mindless reading. My electricity was out and I had limited downloads. This is definitely not my thing.
May 17, 2021
The dysfunctional family in this story has many secrets. It is well-written, but too true to life for me to enjoy reading. Instead of the characters changing in a redemptive way during the crisis, they all simply move on and away from each other.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but my review is voluntary.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but my review is voluntary.
June 30, 2022
This book is amazing! The storyline is kiss-ass. The characters will make you learn a lot from their mistakes.
Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2014
I absolutely loved The Story of Sassy Sweetwater, so when given the chance to review another one of Vera Jane Cook’s books came about, I knew that I was in. This book was really difficult for me to put down and I kept gravitating back to it even when I knew I had other obligations that I needed to get done. This is when you know that the story is great. It pulls the reader in with that silent tug that only someone who avidly reads can know the feeling. This story had great characters that kept me on my toes and wanting to know more with every turn of the page. I loved that it was not super simple and straightforward and because of the layers and depth it kept me wondering and wanting to know the whole read. I really enjoyed that the author took into account that the readers may want to know about each character from their own point of view. I liked knowing what they were thinking and what their reasons for certain actions and decisions.
Rose was one of those characters that you felt for as she struggled to find herself. She had just gotten out of a marriage that had lasted for years and found love for another woman. Rose was one of those women that was very into herself when we are first introduced to her but she meets Heather and her world is changed forever. When before all she would wear was stockings and pretty dresses, she changes into a lifestyle of wearing pants and just enjoying herself so much more. This is something that she never would have dreamed of as being the mother, wife and housewife that she used to be. She finds a whole new independence and happiness with herself. I loved that her character finally felt at ease. Growing with her as a person through her changes was moving and I was mesmerized by how well the author captured all of the thoughts and decisions and changes with such grace.
Ryan was constantly one that was searching for more and more. He seemed that he was never satisfied with anything including his marriage. He has many times where he makes mistakes, but this let’s the reader know that he is struggling to eventually find what makes him happy. Growing from a man who was at first very centered around himself to a person that cares a lot about people around him. One thing I truly enjoyed was that he became a better father figure as he got older compared to when he was younger. It’s nice to see people learn from what they were doing wrong and change those things to make an ultimately better life for themselves and everyone around them.
Lily and Dalton were also characters that were interesting to get wrapped in. Lily had known love when she was younger and as steadily trying to find this again when she got older. She gets in and out of relationships without care to try and find her ultimate happiness. dalton is only thirteen years old and is trying his best to protect his sister. He moves into his adult life and becomes a teacher and a Priest. It’s amazing how people’s lives can change so dramatically. Pierce was also a character that I was not sure about at the beginning but he is also turned out to be one of my favorites along the way.
I think this will be a story that I can reread again and again because of the fluidity of the writing and the overall storyline. You learn a lot about the prejudice that happened years ago and how the characters learn to evolve through all of it throughout their lives into adulthood. If I could give this book more than five stars than I would and I can not wait to start in on another Vera Jane Cook novel that I am sure will delight me just as much as these last two have!
Disclosure: I was provided a copy of this novel in exchange for my open and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Rose was one of those characters that you felt for as she struggled to find herself. She had just gotten out of a marriage that had lasted for years and found love for another woman. Rose was one of those women that was very into herself when we are first introduced to her but she meets Heather and her world is changed forever. When before all she would wear was stockings and pretty dresses, she changes into a lifestyle of wearing pants and just enjoying herself so much more. This is something that she never would have dreamed of as being the mother, wife and housewife that she used to be. She finds a whole new independence and happiness with herself. I loved that her character finally felt at ease. Growing with her as a person through her changes was moving and I was mesmerized by how well the author captured all of the thoughts and decisions and changes with such grace.
Ryan was constantly one that was searching for more and more. He seemed that he was never satisfied with anything including his marriage. He has many times where he makes mistakes, but this let’s the reader know that he is struggling to eventually find what makes him happy. Growing from a man who was at first very centered around himself to a person that cares a lot about people around him. One thing I truly enjoyed was that he became a better father figure as he got older compared to when he was younger. It’s nice to see people learn from what they were doing wrong and change those things to make an ultimately better life for themselves and everyone around them.
Lily and Dalton were also characters that were interesting to get wrapped in. Lily had known love when she was younger and as steadily trying to find this again when she got older. She gets in and out of relationships without care to try and find her ultimate happiness. dalton is only thirteen years old and is trying his best to protect his sister. He moves into his adult life and becomes a teacher and a Priest. It’s amazing how people’s lives can change so dramatically. Pierce was also a character that I was not sure about at the beginning but he is also turned out to be one of my favorites along the way.
I think this will be a story that I can reread again and again because of the fluidity of the writing and the overall storyline. You learn a lot about the prejudice that happened years ago and how the characters learn to evolve through all of it throughout their lives into adulthood. If I could give this book more than five stars than I would and I can not wait to start in on another Vera Jane Cook novel that I am sure will delight me just as much as these last two have!
Disclosure: I was provided a copy of this novel in exchange for my open and honest review. All thoughts are my own.
January 29, 2014
I received the book from the touring host for an honest review.
This was on of the best books I have read for 2014. I struggled to put it down. This books complexities and many layers kept me at all hours. With fascinating characters that touch the heart, you could experience their struggles and confusion during a time that it was unacceptable to be yourself. Believable, I could connect with every character in this book. Written from all their points of views you learned firsthand their troubles and reasoning when making decisions that would alter their futures.
With Rose, and her struggle with independence as she stepped out of a long time marriage, and her love for another woman. At first, we met her as a self-absorbed woman that reasoned like her counterparts during the early sixties. With her pretty dresses, stockings, hats, etc. When she met Heather for the first time, her world was turned up side down. She was introduced to a whole new lifestyle, wearing pants and enjoying life. Something she would have not done as a wife, mother and housewife.
With Ryan, in his search for something more then what life offered him, being bored with his marriage and finding short lived relief in the arms of others. Through many mistakes we got to learn this man, growing from self-centered to one who really cared for those he loved. Being the father in his old age that he was not in his younger years. Due to an unwanted baby, he was confronted with more than he bargained for. I really admired his growth and how he progressed as a respected man.
Lily, who experienced love to early in her teenage years was always seeking for that same love. A forbidden love that could never be, paying the sacrifice of a father's sin long into her adult life. Fluttering from relationships to different marriages to find happiness.
Dalton, who as a thirteen year old boy believed a few lies, doing what he had to, to protect his sister. His sense of understanding had lead him on several wrong paths, but at the end he turned out to be a well adjusted man. These struggles continued throughout his adult life, where he became a Priest and teacher.
Pierce, who had to pay the ultimate price dew to a father's sin, turned out to be the most likable from them all. His strong character out-shined the few mistakes he made. A independent young man that could be trusted as he stepped into the footsteps of his father. Fiercely dedicated to all he loved, knowing right from wrong.
Overall, a story that surpasses the dysfunctional, as you learn about hope, and the beauty of love within the pages of this book. Beautifully written and fast paced, you are taken back in a time where prejudiced ran rampantly, almost destroying the people involved but coming out stronger as human beings.
I book I can recommend to all women/ Southern Fiction readers. Even those who is willing to take a chance and read something different. You will not be disappointed in this book.
This was on of the best books I have read for 2014. I struggled to put it down. This books complexities and many layers kept me at all hours. With fascinating characters that touch the heart, you could experience their struggles and confusion during a time that it was unacceptable to be yourself. Believable, I could connect with every character in this book. Written from all their points of views you learned firsthand their troubles and reasoning when making decisions that would alter their futures.
With Rose, and her struggle with independence as she stepped out of a long time marriage, and her love for another woman. At first, we met her as a self-absorbed woman that reasoned like her counterparts during the early sixties. With her pretty dresses, stockings, hats, etc. When she met Heather for the first time, her world was turned up side down. She was introduced to a whole new lifestyle, wearing pants and enjoying life. Something she would have not done as a wife, mother and housewife.
With Ryan, in his search for something more then what life offered him, being bored with his marriage and finding short lived relief in the arms of others. Through many mistakes we got to learn this man, growing from self-centered to one who really cared for those he loved. Being the father in his old age that he was not in his younger years. Due to an unwanted baby, he was confronted with more than he bargained for. I really admired his growth and how he progressed as a respected man.
Lily, who experienced love to early in her teenage years was always seeking for that same love. A forbidden love that could never be, paying the sacrifice of a father's sin long into her adult life. Fluttering from relationships to different marriages to find happiness.
Dalton, who as a thirteen year old boy believed a few lies, doing what he had to, to protect his sister. His sense of understanding had lead him on several wrong paths, but at the end he turned out to be a well adjusted man. These struggles continued throughout his adult life, where he became a Priest and teacher.
Pierce, who had to pay the ultimate price dew to a father's sin, turned out to be the most likable from them all. His strong character out-shined the few mistakes he made. A independent young man that could be trusted as he stepped into the footsteps of his father. Fiercely dedicated to all he loved, knowing right from wrong.
Overall, a story that surpasses the dysfunctional, as you learn about hope, and the beauty of love within the pages of this book. Beautifully written and fast paced, you are taken back in a time where prejudiced ran rampantly, almost destroying the people involved but coming out stronger as human beings.
I book I can recommend to all women/ Southern Fiction readers. Even those who is willing to take a chance and read something different. You will not be disappointed in this book.
January 23, 2014
Like earlier stated I was given this book by the author/publisher to give my unbiased and honest opinion.
SO MUCH DRAMA! JUST SO MUCH! It felt like I was watching a soap opera, but on paper and I was reading...not watching. That Cassidy family sure had issues. I felt bad for the cop, Jeff, who had to deal with them and hide many of their secrets due to loyalty he had for Ryan. Jeff was a good guy, even though I had to shake my head at him a few times when loyalty for the family took over and the law was ignored. Especially when it came to something Rose did....sorry, but I would have ratted her out if I was a cop.
Kuddos to the author for keeping me on my toes. I pretty much guessed a lot of the things that were going to happen for the first half of the book, but then things exploded and I was utterly on the edge of my seat. I had no idea how everything was going to end. I was a little mad that certain people got a HEA that really had no right to one, but what can you do? Some of those certain people DID redeem themselves in a way, but still....>.>
There was so much going on and I'm afraid I have to be closed-mouthed so I don't give away any major spoilers. I spoiled it all for boyfriend, but it's not like he's going to read this anytime soon. This book was a chick lit in some senses. If this was to be a movie it would be on Oxygen or whatever.
In the end, this was an interesting book. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I needed to know what was going to happen next. The Cassidy family is a messed up family to all extremes. The only "normal" one was Lily, but she had major issues too....I'm glad she made up with her mom though, it was utterly stupid for her to shut her out like she did. Can't say why, but it was a dumb reason. Meh. ANYWAYS! I would recommend this those that like dramas and people stories. Out of five stars I shall stamp this with 4 stars. Mainly because some of the ending made me mad and I didn't like a lot of the characters. haha
Favorite Character(s): Jeff and Daisy
Not-so Favorite Character(s): Ryan (>.>) I was pretty much neutral towards everyone else in the book.
SO MUCH DRAMA! JUST SO MUCH! It felt like I was watching a soap opera, but on paper and I was reading...not watching. That Cassidy family sure had issues. I felt bad for the cop, Jeff, who had to deal with them and hide many of their secrets due to loyalty he had for Ryan. Jeff was a good guy, even though I had to shake my head at him a few times when loyalty for the family took over and the law was ignored. Especially when it came to something Rose did....sorry, but I would have ratted her out if I was a cop.
Kuddos to the author for keeping me on my toes. I pretty much guessed a lot of the things that were going to happen for the first half of the book, but then things exploded and I was utterly on the edge of my seat. I had no idea how everything was going to end. I was a little mad that certain people got a HEA that really had no right to one, but what can you do? Some of those certain people DID redeem themselves in a way, but still....>.>
There was so much going on and I'm afraid I have to be closed-mouthed so I don't give away any major spoilers. I spoiled it all for boyfriend, but it's not like he's going to read this anytime soon. This book was a chick lit in some senses. If this was to be a movie it would be on Oxygen or whatever.
In the end, this was an interesting book. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I needed to know what was going to happen next. The Cassidy family is a messed up family to all extremes. The only "normal" one was Lily, but she had major issues too....I'm glad she made up with her mom though, it was utterly stupid for her to shut her out like she did. Can't say why, but it was a dumb reason. Meh. ANYWAYS! I would recommend this those that like dramas and people stories. Out of five stars I shall stamp this with 4 stars. Mainly because some of the ending made me mad and I didn't like a lot of the characters. haha
Favorite Character(s): Jeff and Daisy
Not-so Favorite Character(s): Ryan (>.>) I was pretty much neutral towards everyone else in the book.
February 5, 2014
A fascinating story!
I received ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’ by Vera Jane Cook via Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
This story captured my interest from the very first chapter to the very last words of the last chapter. It flows well, moves along quickly and is a very well written piece of work. The author chose well in entitling the story ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’. It was so fitting to the story, creative and so appropriate.
The 1960’s was a time when women wore dresses, hats, nylon stockings held up by a garter belt, when prejudices ran rampant and when lesbians were securely closeted. ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’ is the story of the Cassidy family in the 1960’s, living in the small town of Darien in the southern U.S. Dr. Cassidy and his family are well liked and well respected in the community ...................... so much so that there are other people who cover up the nasty little secrets of the Cassidy family. Each and every member of this family has his/her own secrets and during this story, the family and their relationships erode. The secrets, shame, sexual confusion, blackmail, murder(?), sex, love and lies are all present and all revealed to the reader by the author who takes the reader directly into the action. She explains situations through one of the characters. I found the story sad, tragic and very disturbing. In fact, I felt it was far too much with which one family had to deal .............. it was over the top!.
The main characters of the story; Ryan, Rose, Lily, Dalton and Pierce were so believable and so real and as a reader I could relate to each one; however, my feelings and emotions towards each one were so very different. I saw strengths and I saw weaknesses; I felt anger and I was sympathetic. And I was disturbed that the ‘low-life’ Wayne was being charged for a crime he did not commit. From all of that, I have to conclude that Vera Jane Cook is indeed a wonderful story teller.
I recommend this story to anyone who would like an easy to read, captivating and thought-provoking story. It is a great read!
I received ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’ by Vera Jane Cook via Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
This story captured my interest from the very first chapter to the very last words of the last chapter. It flows well, moves along quickly and is a very well written piece of work. The author chose well in entitling the story ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’. It was so fitting to the story, creative and so appropriate.
The 1960’s was a time when women wore dresses, hats, nylon stockings held up by a garter belt, when prejudices ran rampant and when lesbians were securely closeted. ‘Where the Wildflowers Grow’ is the story of the Cassidy family in the 1960’s, living in the small town of Darien in the southern U.S. Dr. Cassidy and his family are well liked and well respected in the community ...................... so much so that there are other people who cover up the nasty little secrets of the Cassidy family. Each and every member of this family has his/her own secrets and during this story, the family and their relationships erode. The secrets, shame, sexual confusion, blackmail, murder(?), sex, love and lies are all present and all revealed to the reader by the author who takes the reader directly into the action. She explains situations through one of the characters. I found the story sad, tragic and very disturbing. In fact, I felt it was far too much with which one family had to deal .............. it was over the top!.
The main characters of the story; Ryan, Rose, Lily, Dalton and Pierce were so believable and so real and as a reader I could relate to each one; however, my feelings and emotions towards each one were so very different. I saw strengths and I saw weaknesses; I felt anger and I was sympathetic. And I was disturbed that the ‘low-life’ Wayne was being charged for a crime he did not commit. From all of that, I have to conclude that Vera Jane Cook is indeed a wonderful story teller.
I recommend this story to anyone who would like an easy to read, captivating and thought-provoking story. It is a great read!
February 1, 2014
Full review on my blog
The Cassidys might look like an exemplary family, but if you look closely, you will find out some of their issues, which even they still don’t know they have. Lily Cassidy, a girl of sixteen, has her first serious relationship with a boy called Pierce; the problem is that her younger brother, Dalton, has seen them and gets to the conclusion that he has to do something to defend Lily’s virtue. Ryan Cassidy, their father, is worried because he is sure he is falling in love with the last of his lovers and, besides, he is noticing that his daughter Lily is spending too much time with his bastard son, Pierce. Of course nobody but Pierce’s mother and Ryan himself knows about that affair that happened so long ago. Finally, Rose Cassidy, the mother, is beginning to feel sexually attracted towards a member of the women’s club – a woman, no need to say.
Yes, you are right: everything is going to explode. All at once ;)
I know you are thinking this is like a soap opera but in a book (and it is!), but seriously: it works for me. I got gripped from the beginning, and by the time you get to know why Ryan doesn’t want Lily to have any intimacy with Pierce, you can’t stop reading. There are moments in which the story only gives you some clues about what’s happening – and later the author explains the situation through one of the characters – and other moments in which the reader is taken directly into the middle of the action.
There are secrets, murder, blackmailing, sex (non explicit) and love, which can take many shapes. You have no time to get bored with Vera’s stories.
January 29, 2014
Title: Where The Wildflowers Grow
Author: Vera Jane Cook
Published: Musa Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Where The Wildflowers Grow" by Vera Jane Cook was a very good literary fiction read. This novel was one of those that captured your interest from the very first page only to keep you turning the pages until the last page. This novel was about the Cassidy family in the 60's who were thought to be the 'perfect southern family' but were they? Be ready for a family that will be unravelled, with secrets and also a murder. Believe me "Where The Wildflowers Grow" has it all. I was left at say wow that was truly some read. I found all of the characters: Rose, Ryan, Lily, Dalton and Pierce were all so very interesting that will only touch you on this ride through this novel. You will see how this author presents so well each one of their stories. I liked the way this author was able to offer the reader a POV from each of the characters as you see their troubles and, reasoning that will only make up their futures. The book flows so well and I really liked how this author brought in the lesbian issue being well written into the read. I know that may be a little off
for some but I liked the way this author wrote it. Lastly, in the end I will say this was a most interesting novel where this family is off the chart...well I will let you decide that for yourself from the read. If you are looking for drama, drama and more drama, you have come to the right place, for "Where The Wildflowers Grow" will give it ALL to you and what a ending!
Author: Vera Jane Cook
Published: Musa Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Where The Wildflowers Grow" by Vera Jane Cook was a very good literary fiction read. This novel was one of those that captured your interest from the very first page only to keep you turning the pages until the last page. This novel was about the Cassidy family in the 60's who were thought to be the 'perfect southern family' but were they? Be ready for a family that will be unravelled, with secrets and also a murder. Believe me "Where The Wildflowers Grow" has it all. I was left at say wow that was truly some read. I found all of the characters: Rose, Ryan, Lily, Dalton and Pierce were all so very interesting that will only touch you on this ride through this novel. You will see how this author presents so well each one of their stories. I liked the way this author was able to offer the reader a POV from each of the characters as you see their troubles and, reasoning that will only make up their futures. The book flows so well and I really liked how this author brought in the lesbian issue being well written into the read. I know that may be a little off
for some but I liked the way this author wrote it. Lastly, in the end I will say this was a most interesting novel where this family is off the chart...well I will let you decide that for yourself from the read. If you are looking for drama, drama and more drama, you have come to the right place, for "Where The Wildflowers Grow" will give it ALL to you and what a ending!
January 18, 2014
It's the 1960's south and the Cassidy family seems like the perfect southern family to all the town folks who live in the same town. They seem to have it all and are well respected. Ryan Cassidy is a doctor with two beautiful children and a wife. He is considered to be a pillar of the community. However, what may seem perfect on the outside, has many secrets on the inside and little by little this perfect family starts to unravel and their secrets seem to be coming to the surface.
Where the Wild Flowers Grows has it all. An unravelling family, secrets, and even murder. Or is it murder? You will have to decide. This book is for adults only and only for those who aren't bothers by sexual scenes, including a lesbian sex scene. To me sex is natural so I think it is natural for it to be included in books and movies.
This book is well written and flows well. The characters are well drawn out and the household in the south with the wild flowers are a big part of the story. The only thing missing for me is that it seemed like it could have taken place anywhere in 1960's United States, not just the south. The south played such a large role in The Story of Sassy Sweetwater, but it took a back seat to this book. Other than the sense of place not being well drawn out, everything else was, including plot. Vera Jane Cook wrote another hit. I can hardly wait to read more!
Where the Wild Flowers Grows has it all. An unravelling family, secrets, and even murder. Or is it murder? You will have to decide. This book is for adults only and only for those who aren't bothers by sexual scenes, including a lesbian sex scene. To me sex is natural so I think it is natural for it to be included in books and movies.
This book is well written and flows well. The characters are well drawn out and the household in the south with the wild flowers are a big part of the story. The only thing missing for me is that it seemed like it could have taken place anywhere in 1960's United States, not just the south. The south played such a large role in The Story of Sassy Sweetwater, but it took a back seat to this book. Other than the sense of place not being well drawn out, everything else was, including plot. Vera Jane Cook wrote another hit. I can hardly wait to read more!
January 30, 2014
This book is absolutely gripping. Right from the start you get caught up in this southern saga. This book is so well written with its great character development and excellent descriptions - you almost feel like you are watching a movie, but you might want to close your eyes to parts of it!
There is a lot of sex (but not overly graphic) in this book, but surprisingly, it didn't bother me! It just felt like it needed to be there. This is such a sad, and in a way, disturbing story. Its a story of sex, lies, and murder in the 1960's (which is when I was born, BTW).
Can you say "Drama, drama, drama"? That's what this book is about, not a dull moment. There were so many different layers to this story, you just kept peeling and peeling off the layers as you went deeper and deeper into their lives.
This is the second one by Vera Jane Cook I have read now and "The Story of Sassy Sweetwater" was just as good! This author is definitely one I will keep my eye on! I really have to give Vera two thumbs up for writing a story as daring as this one.
There is a lot of sex (but not overly graphic) in this book, but surprisingly, it didn't bother me! It just felt like it needed to be there. This is such a sad, and in a way, disturbing story. Its a story of sex, lies, and murder in the 1960's (which is when I was born, BTW).
Can you say "Drama, drama, drama"? That's what this book is about, not a dull moment. There were so many different layers to this story, you just kept peeling and peeling off the layers as you went deeper and deeper into their lives.
This is the second one by Vera Jane Cook I have read now and "The Story of Sassy Sweetwater" was just as good! This author is definitely one I will keep my eye on! I really have to give Vera two thumbs up for writing a story as daring as this one.
November 4, 2015
I was given this book for review and I was very surprised with it. I was transported to the early 60's in this book where so many things were considered taboo. Marital affairs, teenagers having sex, murder, even lesbianism; those were quite a few twists and surprises in this book.
The book centered around one family a husband and wife with 2 teenage children, a boy and a girl. They all have secrets and they all go basically unpunished except by themselves. The characters were very well developed and it was interesting as the story weaved in and out of their lives and revealing so many secrets by the whole family.
Then there is a deputy who finds out about many of those secrets but they are never revealed by him. I have to say this book read at a good pace. I really didn't like the characters but I was invested in finding out where the story will lead and come together in the end. If you have ever read Peyton Place and enjoyed it, you will find this book enjoyable too.
I have never read this author before but I would read her again. She wrote a really good story.
The book centered around one family a husband and wife with 2 teenage children, a boy and a girl. They all have secrets and they all go basically unpunished except by themselves. The characters were very well developed and it was interesting as the story weaved in and out of their lives and revealing so many secrets by the whole family.
Then there is a deputy who finds out about many of those secrets but they are never revealed by him. I have to say this book read at a good pace. I really didn't like the characters but I was invested in finding out where the story will lead and come together in the end. If you have ever read Peyton Place and enjoyed it, you will find this book enjoyable too.
I have never read this author before but I would read her again. She wrote a really good story.
February 23, 2016
The narrative was compelling and the characters flawed, two things necessary to make an interesting story. I did feel that as the book progressed, there tended to be too many newly unraveling connections between the characters. Granted, it's a small town, but this made it sometimes feel more like a block than a community. Also, the last chapter (which takes place years later) felt abrupt and forced, as if all the characters had to have their stories resolved, often through expository dialogue, rather than leaving them as they are. Overall I enjoyed the book.
February 10, 2014
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
A riveting family saga- it has murder, drama, infidelity... It kept me engrossed. The descriptions were vivid. I did have some problems with the book... the main characters had some major issues and I feel they didn't really learn from their mistakes. And some of the sex scenes could have been less descriptive but other than that it was an intriguing read.
A riveting family saga- it has murder, drama, infidelity... It kept me engrossed. The descriptions were vivid. I did have some problems with the book... the main characters had some major issues and I feel they didn't really learn from their mistakes. And some of the sex scenes could have been less descriptive but other than that it was an intriguing read.
June 10, 2016
Fast read!
I think that I read this book twice. It was so entertaining that it held my interest a second time. A good family and family-friendly book where generations share the spotlight.
I think that I read this book twice. It was so entertaining that it held my interest a second time. A good family and family-friendly book where generations share the spotlight.
August 14, 2013
A Riveting Plot from the 60’s—Secrets, Shame, Murder—Sexual Confusion Unravels A Perfect American Southern Family!
February 2, 2014
Review coming soon.
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