The Battered Heiress Blues

by Laurie Van Dermark

When the life of her child is threatened, philanthropist Julia Spencer is faced with a most difficult decision- do nothing, thereby saving herself or forge ahead and lose everything she holds dear. While one child is spared, another is lost forever.

Surviving a brutal assault in a small and desolate Peruvian town, Julia wakes to find that her unborn child has perished in a desperate, violent attack. Returning to the safety of her family's Savannah estate, she prepares to bury her tragically murdered son. Forced to confront the choices that led to her son's death, she is bombarded with resolving the details of her poorly conceived marriage, estrangement from a powerful and disapproving patriarch, and navigating the sudden renewal of a long forgotten flame- Henry Walker. Unable to find her way out of the grief and sorrow, those who profess love eventually leave one by one, but not before a precious gift is left behind that will change everything.

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Mystery, Drama, Fiction, Historical, Amazon

232 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 30, 2012

About the author

Laurie Van Dermark fell in love with literature in high school under the guidance of an AP English teacher. Her love only grew during her time at a liberal arts college. In 2000, she was invited to travel with a group of humanitarians to Chimbote, Peru, where she learned about the social and political misdoings that contribute to poverty. Since then, she has returned for several visits, and has publically spoken about the poor in this area. She has two children, both adopted from Guatemala. They live in a small community outside of Birmingham, Alabama.

Reviews

[Renae · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was so irritated with this book and it's author that when I read the ending I literally threw the book across the room. I had a hard time watching the main character forgive all that she did. I had an even harder time believing the men in the main character;s life had nothing to do but swoon over her and deal with her tireless demands and mood swings. Her life was more than a bit too perfect for my liking.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contagious chemistry...scoot over Notebook, this is a HOT one!


I don't read as often as I would like to and I have never read a "romance novel" before this one. A dear friend of mine put me onto this book. After hearing her rave about how great it was, I had to give up my man card and give it a go. WOW!! Am I glad I did.
Just so you know, my favorite movie is "The Notebook". Love it. Ya'll, I would stack this novel up against The Notebook at any time. This book is a well crafted book with characters that truly respect and genuinely love one another. The book is filled with twist and turns that you cannot wrap your head around until the last page is turned. In this story, lively romance, quick wit, heartbreak, forgiveness and acceptance are so naturally developed by the author. The chemistry is contagious. You literally don't know which way the story will go from one page to the next. It is a definite page turner ya'll. I finished the book in a total of 3 days. It usually takes me the better part of 3 weeks to read a book of this size. Take it from a guy who has never posted a review on a book before, you will finish this book in record time yearning to read more about the life of Julia and her friends and family. This book will be a best seller and personally I would love to see it as a movie on the big screen in the near future. Congrats to Laurie Van Dermark on an amazing book. FYI....I am on Team Gabe!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many emotions throughout this book. It was SO good. There are quite a few triggers , especially in the beginning. I've got to admit, I've never cried from reading before, but this book made me cry sad tears in the beginning, and happy tears in the middle. . Will definitely be willing to read more from this author. Her style of writing makes you feel like you know the characters, and easily pulls you into the story.

[Arlena · Rating 4 out of 5]

By: Laurie Van Dermark
Published By: L.V.D.
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"The Battered Heiress Blues" by Laurie Van Dermark was a wonderful romantic inspiritual women's fiction read that was thoroughly enjoyed. For "the Battered Heiress Blues will truly touch your heart. You will find the storyline that will be unique in its dealings with 'forgiveness and grace. This is not necessarily a Christian book but there will be a presence of 'God's grace and love' as you read through this read. This is a very emotional read where you will see 'the
need for person to person forgiveness and grace. The author presented to the reader a good read of Julia Grace Spencer's many 'struggles with her faith, father, and he life.' I found all of the characters well developed and so very relatable and colorful only making this read so very interesting. There will be some twist and turns that will keep your interest in the read just wanting to know what was going to happen next. If you are looking for a good book pick up "The battered Heiress Blues" because you will be entertained with a good read of loss, love and redemption.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Battered Heiress Blues was surprisingly a delightful and enthralling read. Having received this book as a Goodread's giveaway winner a few months back, I put it aside until I knew I had the time to devote to it that it deserved.


In all honesty, judging by the title alone, I expected a ditsy chic-lit novel. While this novel does have some depth and a very different story concept, it still seemed to lack the real depth and character evolvement I was hoping for based on the foundation of this tale.


I found the author's writing, while technically and grammatically correct, to be lacking in warmth and a more honest every-day voice. Perhaps the author has something against using conjunctions and complex sentences, but that is how we speak every day. We do not speak in short, complete sentences. I think if the book would have had an actual editor, who was not as closely involved with the book, a lot of that could have been improved.


All in all, this was a phenomenal first novel attempt and I look forward to new works from this up-and-coming author!

[Jeni Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grab your tissues because this will hit you hard from the start. This is not the best book I've ever read but it was a good one. It had plenty of emotion and played almost every heart string. Although, I think the ending was a bit rushed and the wallowing was a bit drawn out, I did hope for a different outcome. The title is Battered Heiress Blues but after her initial tragedy, the only abuse she received was from herself and I was mad at how much she allowed her past to define every part of her and most of her decision making, it was just a little off putting to have some scenes where she's a strong, iron back boned southerner and in the events she needs to be that strong she like a wet noodle. Enjoy!!

[Emily Mishler · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book through a goodreads giveaway.

I thought this book fell a little flat. The story line isn't bad but the writing style just leaves me feeling like a dispassionate stranger observing the lives of the characters rather than creating an intimate connection between myself and the characters. I also have trouble relating to Julia as I have never gone through such a traumatic event like losing a child. I'm not sure if that would cure the distance I feel in the writing, but altogether this book is not exactly my cup of tea.

[♥Tiffany♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book it had some emotional tugs and while I liked Julia I'm still not sure i really really liked her. I enjoyed all of the other characters and their stories. The ending fell a little flat for me and I was left thinking that's it?

[Miranda K · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS BOOK COULDNT PUT IT DOWN.CANT WAIT ON HER NEXT BOOK.

[Staci · Rating 1 out of 5]

This novel was a bizarre combination of premarital sex and God. The author seemed confused. Was she writing Christian fiction or a romance novel? Not a fan.

[Michelle Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Read the entire book in one day!!!!!

[Jenna Hackworth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Um...I’m not really sure how to even review this book. First, I’m glad I didn’t pay for it. Second, the entire story takes place in about 8 months and yet so much happens that it’s completely unbelievable. What mother/woman loses their baby in such a horrific way (a week before her due date, no less) and barely mourns?? And not just barely mourns, but is so quick to just act like it didn’t happen?? And not in a denial sort of way, but legit acts like she never experienced the loss or it wasn’t that bad?!

I have three children. I can’t even begin to imagine the complete devastation I would feel if I’d lose any of them. Much less had I lost any of them just before giving birth.

This aspect of this book was so far-reaching and so unrealistic that it was frustrating. Not to mention, none of the characters are that good. They aren’t likeable. Everything seemed superficial.

[Kathleen Downey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an ok read. It seem long and dragged out.

[L · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laurie Van Dermark’s novel The Battered Heiress Blues has to be one of the most original, remarkable and outstanding books that I have read so far this year with such a unique storyline. Following the story of Julia Spencer within a Peruvian setting, one is transported instantly into a harsh world of violence and unjustifiable circumstances. With the brutal death of her child Julia retreats back to the safety of her parents in Savannah, where she is able to focus on her life and make changes. A poorly visualized marriage, a disapproving patriarch and the reappearance of an old lover Henry Walker, Julia is flooded with mixed emotions that threaten to overwhelm her engulfing her in sorrow and mourning. As I lost myself becoming entangled within Julia’s story I was able to feel her emotions, understand her thoughts and feelings that were so poignant and meaningful. Touching your very soul with its depth of feeling and thought-provoking poignancy, this story was utterly captivating and engrossing as one is able to relate on a very personal and intimate level with its characters. Romantic and soul searching this book tugs at the heartstrings of human emotion, that will leave you completely breathless and in tears. Full of intensity, suspense and exciting twists and turns this intriguing and clever plot will have you sitting on the edge of your seat throughout. Well crafted and thought out this tale will certainly make you think, as each page seems to bring something new and unexpected. Unable to put it down for even a second I was left drained of all emotion, with it ending on such a dramatic and thrilling climax that was quite unexpected.

This book has left a large hole in my heart, being something that I shall now treasure as an outstanding and origional read that is highly distinctive and unique. A moving. Facinating tale that’s absorbing and beautifully written, by an author who has surpassed all expectations and exceeded them entirely. A powerful plot that is about love, loss, aceptance and letting go, that I garuntee you will find very hard to put down. Glimpsing deep within your soul it opens a window into your heart, seeking out ones inmost thoughts and desires that is truth-drawing and touching. I have never felt so deeply moved by a book before that touched me in a way that was so personal, where you feel as if the author is reaching out to you intimately and in which you connect to the story in your own way that effects you. I had goosbumps and chills running down my spine as I sat tense on the edge of my seat in suspence throughout, reading quicker whilst loosing myself within the pages. This novel has to be one of the best fictional works that I have read this year, blowing me away as I never thought anything would hence I cannot commend Laurie Van Dermark enough as she really has put herself, her passion and feelings into these pages that are a delight to read.

An enjoyable and memorable read that is refreshingly new, innovative and distinctive hence I cannot commend it enough and thank the author for having the privalige of being able to read her work.

[Cyndi Hackett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! I laughed, mourned, and cried. It was a beautiful story. I felt the emotions expressed were right on point. I think from the very beginning a grew attached to Jewels and Henry, especially Kate. This story was a true tear jerky but it also made me laugh. I loved the scene with Kate, Jewels, and Jackson on the front porch. I thought it was great! The story did a great job of addressing the emotional question of how to handle the "what-ifs" in life. I mean the million dollar question of “what-if I didn't answer the phone”, “what-if I didn't leave town”, or “what-if I just waited and did nothing”! I think we all have experienced those moments in life. I'm so glad I read this book. Great story! A great example of devoted friendships and forgiveness.

[Karla Renee Goforth Abreu · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, this book is Inappropriately titled. I almost didn't read it thinking it was some light sappy teeny-bopper style novel. Instead, it is a story with a decent, though, at times, predictable plot, that has some very profound statements about forgiveness and grace. The book is not necessarily a Christian novel, having various scenes that a typical book labeled that would not have, but it does present a clear view of God's grace and love and the need for horizontal, person to person, forgiveness and grace. At times, the story is very emotionally compelling. For this reason, I rated it four stars. The writing is not masterpiece but the statements interwoven throughout are.

[P Karr · Rating 3 out of 5]

he Battered Heiress Blues has already been optioned for a feature film. This is a book that will be great as a movie, maybe even better. It all depends on which angles of the story are played up. The title of the book is very appropriate. The book is about a woman’s blues, and by the time you read a few pages, these blues will be transferred to you. This is the kind of book where you feel the pain of the character, and maybe relive some pain from your own life.

This is certainly not a feel good kind of book.

[Gin Tadvick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book for free from Amzaon for Kindle. And turned to it because I was looking for something light to read. (have been ready history and investing tomes lately) Well, this book was not light nor was it as worthless as I thought it would be. I would recommend this book to others. Some have said here that the Christian overtones of the book are off putting - personally I don't see how one could survive the trama in her life that Julia has without that. I liked that she had to struggle with her faith, her father, her life - I think that it gives hope to the rest of us.

[Lynda Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie VanDerMark's debut effort is a home run! The characters were fully formed and relatable, and the story put my life on hold as it kept me turning pages until there were none left to turn!

It's been a long while since I've read a book in a single day and even longer since a book made me cry. This story will touch your heart and leave you wanting more.

This is an author you'll want to watch! Great job Laurie!

[TreLyn Cecile · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a superb book! Julia leaves for another country to escape the transgressions of her husband. Pregnant and alone she faces a horrible tragedy. Henry comes back into her life again at this time. Can their love find its way through what she has faced or will it die like her spirit? Things are changing but it she strong enough to face the changes? This is a book that is well worth reading. You will definitely want to have the tissues ready when you read it!

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

i found myself torn with continuing to turn the page...i was excited to see what happened next yet sad to be closer (with each turning page) to completing the book. i didn't want to stop reading about the characters. i wanted to know more, to read more about them. definitely one of the best books i've read in a long time.

[Rhonda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. It was an easy read and the story flowed well. Her characters were developed quite well. Some were annoying and some were quite likable. The story had its ups but it definitely had its sad points. I was expecting the ending to be a bit different and that certain characters would be together. Still a good book though.

[Nelta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked this book up because it was free not sure what to expect and a little uncertain of the title.....I found this book to be a good read....when I could make out the words thru the tears....gee...get the tissues ready....but you will also be laughing...I did want to smack Henry occasionally....but think that Julia can keep him n his place....

[Stephanie White]

This was absolutely one of the best books I've read in a very long time! It was so captivating. There were twists, there was a love story, a great friendship, true love, and a mystery all in 1 book. I highly recommend reading this book. Can't wait for the next one!

[Robin Worley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book; I had such a hard time putting it down. I love the writing of this new author. It was such a refreshing change - I had just finished The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo series.

[Julie]

The Battered Heiress Blues

A short book almost a novella but it shows strength in adversity. it reminds us that God has a purpose for all of us and we are all special in our own right.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book is one of the few that Ive ever read that I think needs a "warning" -- the content is triggering to some very powerful feelings for a particular group. Which is fine, if one wants to go there, but could hit someone in the face if it was unexpected.

[Colleen Maclennan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not my kind of book. Skimmed through much of it as was very predictable. Characters were blah as was the plot of the book.

[Csimplot Simplot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!!!

[Marty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It isn't your typical love story. I was entertained throughout the entire book. I laughed and I cried. I highly recommend this book to everyone!