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Sunshine Walkingstick #1
Greenwood Cove
I had three loves in my life: my daddy, him what my mama killed in cold blood; my son Henry, God rest him; and tall as an oak Riley Treadwell.
I lost all of 'em, one way or t'other, 'til Riley showed up on my stoop with a monster problem and tried to wiggle his way back into my life.
Only, weren't no monster bothering him; was the one bothering his ex-girlfriend what'd stirred up a hornet's nest out on Lake Burton amongst the muckity mucks. Weren't no never mind to me, see? I was fine letting well enough alone, 'cept curiosity got the best of me, and Riley, well. He weren't above using that silver tongue of his to persuade me 'round to his way of thinking. If I'da listened to my gut, maybe I woulda avoided stepping knee deep into somebody else's trouble.
Then again, I ain't never been one to heed a warning when monsters come a-calling.
Author's Note: Greenwood Cove was written in the native dialect of the narrator, found in the rural areas of the Southern Appalachians. The grammar, spelling, and syntax are not standardized American English.
I lost all of 'em, one way or t'other, 'til Riley showed up on my stoop with a monster problem and tried to wiggle his way back into my life.
Only, weren't no monster bothering him; was the one bothering his ex-girlfriend what'd stirred up a hornet's nest out on Lake Burton amongst the muckity mucks. Weren't no never mind to me, see? I was fine letting well enough alone, 'cept curiosity got the best of me, and Riley, well. He weren't above using that silver tongue of his to persuade me 'round to his way of thinking. If I'da listened to my gut, maybe I woulda avoided stepping knee deep into somebody else's trouble.
Then again, I ain't never been one to heed a warning when monsters come a-calling.
Author's Note: Greenwood Cove was written in the native dialect of the narrator, found in the rural areas of the Southern Appalachians. The grammar, spelling, and syntax are not standardized American English.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2017
About the author
Celia Roman
26 books44 followersCelia Roman lives in the Southern Appalachians, surrounded by generations of family and myth. Her stories are inspired by a natural interest in the paranormal and too many late night reruns of Supernatural.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 17, 2018
Honestly it's not a great book, but I still loved it.
And the reason I loved it was because I love language and I really loved listening to the narrator telling the story in what I presume is a Georgia Appalachian dialect.
That on its own was worth the price of the book.
And the reason I loved it was because I love language and I really loved listening to the narrator telling the story in what I presume is a Georgia Appalachian dialect.
That on its own was worth the price of the book.
January 19, 2024
Acquired Kindle edition when offered free on Amazon.
This isn't a book that's easy to read, and I can understand why a lot of people chose an audio version. I personally have a strong aversion to audio books, but that's absolutely just me. No aspersions cast on those for whom the opposite is true.
For me, however, a major part of the enjoyment of reading comes from hearing the characters' voices in my own head, and that's one of the reasons why you'll often see me criticize authors who don't/won't/can't give their characters distinct voices. (Another part of my enjoyment comes from being able to mentally visualize the setting and action, so if a text is all dialogue and no narrative, it's not going to work for me.)
Greenwood Cove is supposedly the first in a series, but it's made clear at the beginning that there is substantial backstory the reader isn't going to get, at least not right away. This story structure, rather than a cliffhanger ending, seems a better way to keep a reader wanting to read future installments, but again, that's just me.
What I think turns readers off -- more than listeners -- is the Georgia Appalachian dialect used by the first-person narrator, Sunny Walkingstick. I love dialect when it's done well. I think a reader has to have an ear for it, or yes, it can be difficult to read. If you don't know what the vernacular sounds like in real life, you may have to stop and "translate" Sunny's language. Because she's also the narrator, this dialect is more prominent in the book than if the story were told from another point of view. Again, I personally loved it. Others might not. It is a challenge.
There were, however, other strengths in the writing. The lack of major backstory info dumps was a huge plus. The way Sunny's background came through her actions was another. The fact that the reader doesn't get all of her background in this book is another. The careful development -- not too much, not too little, no info dumps -- of the other characters' personalities and backgrounds is another.
The biggest plus, in my opinion, was the almost complete lack of stupidity.
The biggest weakness, on the other hand, was the ending, and again, this is a personal opinion. Structurally, it was fine. The resolution of the main plot point made sense even taking into consideration the paranormal aspects of the story and without overpowering it. I just personally didn't like the way things were "changed" about Sunny and her environment. If the other character involved in those changes had that kind of ability, it would have made sense for them to alter other details along the way to effect a different outcome.
I would be interested in reading further in the series, so we'll see.
Four solid stars from a really picky reader.
This isn't a book that's easy to read, and I can understand why a lot of people chose an audio version. I personally have a strong aversion to audio books, but that's absolutely just me. No aspersions cast on those for whom the opposite is true.
For me, however, a major part of the enjoyment of reading comes from hearing the characters' voices in my own head, and that's one of the reasons why you'll often see me criticize authors who don't/won't/can't give their characters distinct voices. (Another part of my enjoyment comes from being able to mentally visualize the setting and action, so if a text is all dialogue and no narrative, it's not going to work for me.)
Greenwood Cove is supposedly the first in a series, but it's made clear at the beginning that there is substantial backstory the reader isn't going to get, at least not right away. This story structure, rather than a cliffhanger ending, seems a better way to keep a reader wanting to read future installments, but again, that's just me.
What I think turns readers off -- more than listeners -- is the Georgia Appalachian dialect used by the first-person narrator, Sunny Walkingstick. I love dialect when it's done well. I think a reader has to have an ear for it, or yes, it can be difficult to read. If you don't know what the vernacular sounds like in real life, you may have to stop and "translate" Sunny's language. Because she's also the narrator, this dialect is more prominent in the book than if the story were told from another point of view. Again, I personally loved it. Others might not. It is a challenge.
There were, however, other strengths in the writing. The lack of major backstory info dumps was a huge plus. The way Sunny's background came through her actions was another. The fact that the reader doesn't get all of her background in this book is another. The careful development -- not too much, not too little, no info dumps -- of the other characters' personalities and backgrounds is another.
The biggest plus, in my opinion, was the almost complete lack of stupidity.
The biggest weakness, on the other hand, was the ending, and again, this is a personal opinion. Structurally, it was fine. The resolution of the main plot point made sense even taking into consideration the paranormal aspects of the story and without overpowering it. I just personally didn't like the way things were "changed" about Sunny and her environment. If the other character involved in those changes had that kind of ability, it would have made sense for them to alter other details along the way to effect a different outcome.
I would be interested in reading further in the series, so we'll see.
Four solid stars from a really picky reader.
July 31, 2017
I love love love this character, a tough as nails call'em like she sees'em girl with backbone and personality to match!
I'm a huge fan of PNR and went into this book with that genre in mind, now it wasn't as paranormal as I was expecting but that was NOT a bad thing...
This story centres around Paranormal investigator Sunshine Walkingstick and her long time school friend Riley Treadwell, A Mystery surrounding what's in the Lake? The who's how's and why's, a budding albeit reluctant romance and so much more.
Sunny has a unique speech very countrified, this adds flavour to the story and you really get a feel for the characters..
A very entertaining read one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all.
I'm a huge fan of PNR and went into this book with that genre in mind, now it wasn't as paranormal as I was expecting but that was NOT a bad thing...
This story centres around Paranormal investigator Sunshine Walkingstick and her long time school friend Riley Treadwell, A Mystery surrounding what's in the Lake? The who's how's and why's, a budding albeit reluctant romance and so much more.
Sunny has a unique speech very countrified, this adds flavour to the story and you really get a feel for the characters..
A very entertaining read one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to all.
December 1, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book. The narrator did an amazing job with Sunny's dialect and really made the book come alive for me.
It is a slow story, so if you are looking for an action packed read, you won't like this one. But, if you appreciate really learning about the characters, the family dynamics of a truly dysfunctional family, a slow building romance and a Southern region, then you will enjoy the book.
I loved getting into Sunny's head, learning about her past and her family and getting a glimpse into her paranormal dealings. I look forward to many more adventures with Sunshine Walkingstick!
I was given a copy of this Audible book by the narrator/publisher/author and chose to review it.
It is a slow story, so if you are looking for an action packed read, you won't like this one. But, if you appreciate really learning about the characters, the family dynamics of a truly dysfunctional family, a slow building romance and a Southern region, then you will enjoy the book.
I loved getting into Sunny's head, learning about her past and her family and getting a glimpse into her paranormal dealings. I look forward to many more adventures with Sunshine Walkingstick!
I was given a copy of this Audible book by the narrator/publisher/author and chose to review it.
September 2, 2020
I'd really recommend this series, what some would define as magic realism. It's true, it's slow paced and I believe that some people find the dialect problematic but the story-line, the back-drop, the characters and the monsters are rich and engrossing. There's a lot of hints and references to details that are not made clear and are obviously there to be picked up in future books but, personally, I found this engrossing.
July 6, 2017
I recommend the audio version.
This book was a little out of my usual genre, as I don't normally read Paranormal fiction. Although, to be honest, this was only mildly paranormal - most of the story centred around Sunny, a private investigator, and Riley Treadwell, her longtime school-friend and would-be-lover. It very much reminded me of Janet Evanovich's books, although the who-done-it element is not quite as strong.
Sunny, the Sunshine Walkingstick of the title, has a sad history - her mother killed her father and is now in jail, and her young son was taken by pooka (see below for explanation). She seems to have moved on from this awful past and is now a frequent member of her uncle's household and making a new life for herself - will it be with Riley Treadwell?
I liked that the investigation revolved around the topical issue of pollution of the nearby lake by persons unknown and I enjoyed the Appalachian accent (very broad American south) from the narrator, Rebecca Winder. As the book itself is written in this accent, I think I would have struggled to read it myself, given my own Queen's English!
It was also refreshing to read a novel where the female lead didn't jump straight into bed with the sexy male.
It's a short novel, just 178 pages in paperback, and I would have been happy for it to have been longer, but I didn't feel the characters suffered from the lack of length and I'd certainly listen to (if not read) subsequent books in the series.
Pooka: A mythical creature of Irish folklore. There are numerous variations of it in various cultures and traditions. It can be "good" or "bad," depending on the myth. According to various myths, a pooka can be a shape-shifter. Some of the shapes include appearing as a horse, goat, or rabbit.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review."
This book was a little out of my usual genre, as I don't normally read Paranormal fiction. Although, to be honest, this was only mildly paranormal - most of the story centred around Sunny, a private investigator, and Riley Treadwell, her longtime school-friend and would-be-lover. It very much reminded me of Janet Evanovich's books, although the who-done-it element is not quite as strong.
Sunny, the Sunshine Walkingstick of the title, has a sad history - her mother killed her father and is now in jail, and her young son was taken by pooka (see below for explanation). She seems to have moved on from this awful past and is now a frequent member of her uncle's household and making a new life for herself - will it be with Riley Treadwell?
I liked that the investigation revolved around the topical issue of pollution of the nearby lake by persons unknown and I enjoyed the Appalachian accent (very broad American south) from the narrator, Rebecca Winder. As the book itself is written in this accent, I think I would have struggled to read it myself, given my own Queen's English!
It was also refreshing to read a novel where the female lead didn't jump straight into bed with the sexy male.
It's a short novel, just 178 pages in paperback, and I would have been happy for it to have been longer, but I didn't feel the characters suffered from the lack of length and I'd certainly listen to (if not read) subsequent books in the series.
Pooka: A mythical creature of Irish folklore. There are numerous variations of it in various cultures and traditions. It can be "good" or "bad," depending on the myth. According to various myths, a pooka can be a shape-shifter. Some of the shapes include appearing as a horse, goat, or rabbit.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review."
April 22, 2024
Southern sass
OMG! Such a beautiful plot! The characters are so real and unique! There are good and evil, mysteries to solve, monsters, a handsome ex, a crazy, wacky woman, her crazy family, and a lot of weird friends! Can’t wait to see what comes next! Rooting for them to settle down!
OMG! Such a beautiful plot! The characters are so real and unique! There are good and evil, mysteries to solve, monsters, a handsome ex, a crazy, wacky woman, her crazy family, and a lot of weird friends! Can’t wait to see what comes next! Rooting for them to settle down!
July 2, 2022
4.25 stars
June 12, 2017
I quite enjoyed this, both the story and the narration of the Audible. I struggled at first with Rebecca Winder's version of a rural accent. It, combined with Roman's phrasing, came across as artificial at times, more of a stereotypical mountain-speak than anything realistic. But I got used to it eventually.
I generally liked this. I liked the characters, the mystery and the romance. But I struggled at times feeling like the romance overpowered everything else and, well, this really doesn't feel like a first book. The characters have a lot of history and a certain amount of background is left unexplained. I kept feeling like there must be a prequel out there somewhere. (There isn't as far as I know.) Some of this feeling probably would have been ameliorated by fleshing some of the plot points out a bit and bringing her whole paranormal investigation into the open earlier. As it was, I wasn't even sure she'd had paranormal cases, outside of her lost son, before the events of the book, until it was finally mentioned toward the end. It felt like yet one more thing readers were just supposed to know already.
All the same, it was a fun read. There was a certain amount of humor and I'd be open to continuing the series.
I generally liked this. I liked the characters, the mystery and the romance. But I struggled at times feeling like the romance overpowered everything else and, well, this really doesn't feel like a first book. The characters have a lot of history and a certain amount of background is left unexplained. I kept feeling like there must be a prequel out there somewhere. (There isn't as far as I know.) Some of this feeling probably would have been ameliorated by fleshing some of the plot points out a bit and bringing her whole paranormal investigation into the open earlier. As it was, I wasn't even sure she'd had paranormal cases, outside of her lost son, before the events of the book, until it was finally mentioned toward the end. It felt like yet one more thing readers were just supposed to know already.
All the same, it was a fun read. There was a certain amount of humor and I'd be open to continuing the series.
February 4, 2023
Good
Sunshine Walkingstick investigates the unusual in her small Southern town. That might include missing rings, polluted waterways, runaway dogs… or the odd monster or two…
Right off the bat, this book began a little differently. I wasn’t sure I was going to like it, because the choice to write in the protagonist’s dialect was a little off putting. I admit, I was wrong.
First, my issue with the dialect is mostly that it’s often hard to read an accent that isn’t your own, and as a Brit in the USA, I have enough issues with that!
This, however, was a bold choice and very well executed, illustrating well Sunny’s description of herself as a “backwoods hick”.
As we work our way through Sunny’s story, it becomes readily apparent that Sunny might live in the woods, but she is a strong, smart, and savvy woman. She has been through the wringer, life hasn’t always dealt her the best cards, but she works hard and tries her best. Her resolute behaviour keeps her going, even when the odds are against her.
The only time she comes across as weak, is when she shies away from people, often at her own expense. It’s the kind of behaviour that comes from trauma and experience, and yes, Sunny has those in spades.
The book itself also impressed me, because it’s the first I’ve read in a while that actually follows the old ways. Sunny investigates the wyrd as it were, and quietly deals with it- either for barter or for money, it doesn’t matter. Religion plays an important part in her life, and I was definitely reminded of the Granny Women of the Appalachians when reading the book, which was a pleasant surprise.
Ultimately, this book grabbed my attention, and Sunny’s engaging and believable personality, kept me reading. The book’s premise is entertaining, and I definitely look forward to reading more about Sunny and her friends and family.
This book is a little quirky, but those who enjoy paranormal mysteries or contemporary fantasy might just find this one to their taste.
Sunshine Walkingstick investigates the unusual in her small Southern town. That might include missing rings, polluted waterways, runaway dogs… or the odd monster or two…
Right off the bat, this book began a little differently. I wasn’t sure I was going to like it, because the choice to write in the protagonist’s dialect was a little off putting. I admit, I was wrong.
First, my issue with the dialect is mostly that it’s often hard to read an accent that isn’t your own, and as a Brit in the USA, I have enough issues with that!
This, however, was a bold choice and very well executed, illustrating well Sunny’s description of herself as a “backwoods hick”.
As we work our way through Sunny’s story, it becomes readily apparent that Sunny might live in the woods, but she is a strong, smart, and savvy woman. She has been through the wringer, life hasn’t always dealt her the best cards, but she works hard and tries her best. Her resolute behaviour keeps her going, even when the odds are against her.
The only time she comes across as weak, is when she shies away from people, often at her own expense. It’s the kind of behaviour that comes from trauma and experience, and yes, Sunny has those in spades.
The book itself also impressed me, because it’s the first I’ve read in a while that actually follows the old ways. Sunny investigates the wyrd as it were, and quietly deals with it- either for barter or for money, it doesn’t matter. Religion plays an important part in her life, and I was definitely reminded of the Granny Women of the Appalachians when reading the book, which was a pleasant surprise.
Ultimately, this book grabbed my attention, and Sunny’s engaging and believable personality, kept me reading. The book’s premise is entertaining, and I definitely look forward to reading more about Sunny and her friends and family.
This book is a little quirky, but those who enjoy paranormal mysteries or contemporary fantasy might just find this one to their taste.
September 16, 2017
3.5 stars
Good start to a series. Really good story with excellent narration. While it's interesting and pulls you in immediately, it's a very, very slow building story. At the same time it holds your attention completely. It's always alluding to something "more" supernatural going on but it takes the whole story for things to really come together. Which is annoying in some ways but is also perfect because it keeps you on the edge of your seat guessing as to what exactly is going on. For a shorter story it's very well written and flows smoothly. It doesn't "feel" like a shorter story.
Really good, interesting and well rounded cast of characters. Sunshine is in a class by herself. Clueless but strong and independent at the same time. Even though Sunshine is a fantastic character, is it really possible for someone to be that clueless about men/relationships. She is always misinterpreting things they say or do. Riley was sweet, charming and lovable from the beginning.
The relationship building between Sunshine and Riley is a sweet one.
Great narration. This is the first time I have heard Rebecca Winder narrate a book. She did a fantastic job. The narration is what kept me listening. Especially in the beginning. She was the perfect narrator for this book. Her narration pulls you into the story and brings it to life. Nice voice that is easy to listen to for long periods of time. Great character voices and accents. Clearly spoken with a smooth even pace. Hopefully she will be narrating the rest of the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily provided this review.
Good start to a series. Really good story with excellent narration. While it's interesting and pulls you in immediately, it's a very, very slow building story. At the same time it holds your attention completely. It's always alluding to something "more" supernatural going on but it takes the whole story for things to really come together. Which is annoying in some ways but is also perfect because it keeps you on the edge of your seat guessing as to what exactly is going on. For a shorter story it's very well written and flows smoothly. It doesn't "feel" like a shorter story.
Really good, interesting and well rounded cast of characters. Sunshine is in a class by herself. Clueless but strong and independent at the same time. Even though Sunshine is a fantastic character, is it really possible for someone to be that clueless about men/relationships. She is always misinterpreting things they say or do. Riley was sweet, charming and lovable from the beginning.
The relationship building between Sunshine and Riley is a sweet one.
Great narration. This is the first time I have heard Rebecca Winder narrate a book. She did a fantastic job. The narration is what kept me listening. Especially in the beginning. She was the perfect narrator for this book. Her narration pulls you into the story and brings it to life. Nice voice that is easy to listen to for long periods of time. Great character voices and accents. Clearly spoken with a smooth even pace. Hopefully she will be narrating the rest of the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily provided this review.
June 16, 2017
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review."
This started a bit rough for me. I was a bit annoyed with the really deep Southern accent that the narrator. As the story continues the accent grew on me. I realized that the main character was not the only one with that thick Southern drawl. I have to admit the main reason it was so foreign to me was because I was trying to place the state that this story was taking place. I know that I am putting a lot of emphasis on the narration but listening to an audiobook that is all that is basically the main thing that sets the tone for a story.
The story was good. I loved Sunshine. The name already let me as a listener/reader know that the main character would be either real hippy or just sassy and she was sassy. I loved her as a main character. She had faults and she recognized them. She was not in denial thinking that she is amazing. I loved all the characters even the 'villains'. All the characters played off of one another and Riley (the love interest) just seems to be everywhere. Sunshine does not know what his motives are and that is great.
Riley is someone that I would like to know more about. There is just something there that author can bring up. Also I want to know more about her daddy, her son Henry, David, and Taeo. I think that all of these characters can add a lot to the story and I cannot wait to find out more.
This started a bit rough for me. I was a bit annoyed with the really deep Southern accent that the narrator. As the story continues the accent grew on me. I realized that the main character was not the only one with that thick Southern drawl. I have to admit the main reason it was so foreign to me was because I was trying to place the state that this story was taking place. I know that I am putting a lot of emphasis on the narration but listening to an audiobook that is all that is basically the main thing that sets the tone for a story.
The story was good. I loved Sunshine. The name already let me as a listener/reader know that the main character would be either real hippy or just sassy and she was sassy. I loved her as a main character. She had faults and she recognized them. She was not in denial thinking that she is amazing. I loved all the characters even the 'villains'. All the characters played off of one another and Riley (the love interest) just seems to be everywhere. Sunshine does not know what his motives are and that is great.
Riley is someone that I would like to know more about. There is just something there that author can bring up. Also I want to know more about her daddy, her son Henry, David, and Taeo. I think that all of these characters can add a lot to the story and I cannot wait to find out more.
June 17, 2026
Greenwood Cove had all the ingredients for a fun paranormal mystery—a compelling premise, Appalachian folklore, monsters, mystery, and a second-chance romance—but it never completely came together for me. Sunshine Walkingstick is an interesting protagonist with a tragic past, and I appreciated that she wasn't your typical urban fantasy heroine. The rural setting and mountain folklore gave the story a unique atmosphere that helped it stand out from similar paranormal series.
Unfortunately, the pacing felt uneven, and it took me a while to become invested in either the mystery or the romance. The heavy use of regional dialect added authenticity, but it also slowed my reading at times and made it harder to connect with the characters early on. While the monster mystery and supernatural elements were entertaining, I found myself wanting more depth and stronger character development to really pull me in.
Overall, Greenwood Cove was an enjoyable enough introduction to the Sunshine Walkingstick series, but it didn't quite hook me the way I'd hoped. Readers who enjoy Appalachian folklore, paranormal investigations, and small-town supernatural mysteries may find more to love here than I did. I'll consider continuing the series because the world has potential, but this first installment landed at a solid 3 stars for me.
Unfortunately, the pacing felt uneven, and it took me a while to become invested in either the mystery or the romance. The heavy use of regional dialect added authenticity, but it also slowed my reading at times and made it harder to connect with the characters early on. While the monster mystery and supernatural elements were entertaining, I found myself wanting more depth and stronger character development to really pull me in.
Overall, Greenwood Cove was an enjoyable enough introduction to the Sunshine Walkingstick series, but it didn't quite hook me the way I'd hoped. Readers who enjoy Appalachian folklore, paranormal investigations, and small-town supernatural mysteries may find more to love here than I did. I'll consider continuing the series because the world has potential, but this first installment landed at a solid 3 stars for me.
February 20, 2017
She's country.
I really enjoyed this book. From what I read of the critiques, people didn't think her countrified speech was real. Just like everybody else around here to me. So when you first start the book that's what catches your attention.
But, it doesn't stay like that. She mourns for her baby boy. She's an investigator like none you've ever heard of before. She knows all about the deep woods, and she's this country as it gets. She's got a rough family and she's not particularly proud of him, but she loves them anyway. Then there is a mystery, there is something in the lake. Her uncle, an illegal moonshiner, tells her that something is messing with the water in the stream .
Sunshine starts to investigate. I won't run the story by telling you anymore. I like the character she plays. I like the situation. The rider doesn't following anyone else's footsteps. I read so much, that to me, that is a tremendous advantage. Despite her countrified speech, it is obvious that she has a large and discerning vocabulary. I truly enjoyed the book, but I also enjoy Shakespeare and Mark Twain.
I really enjoyed this book. From what I read of the critiques, people didn't think her countrified speech was real. Just like everybody else around here to me. So when you first start the book that's what catches your attention.
But, it doesn't stay like that. She mourns for her baby boy. She's an investigator like none you've ever heard of before. She knows all about the deep woods, and she's this country as it gets. She's got a rough family and she's not particularly proud of him, but she loves them anyway. Then there is a mystery, there is something in the lake. Her uncle, an illegal moonshiner, tells her that something is messing with the water in the stream .
Sunshine starts to investigate. I won't run the story by telling you anymore. I like the character she plays. I like the situation. The rider doesn't following anyone else's footsteps. I read so much, that to me, that is a tremendous advantage. Despite her countrified speech, it is obvious that she has a large and discerning vocabulary. I truly enjoyed the book, but I also enjoy Shakespeare and Mark Twain.
June 14, 2017
Sunshine Walkingstick is a fascinating character, she is both strong and determined and proud as well as fragile and caring and hurt by life. She comes across as the perfect ordinary person forced to do extraordinary thing. She's very down to earth but in touch with the paranormal, in almost every way she's a mass of contradictions. I couldn't help but like her.
Riley comes across as a typical 'all American' guy but as the story progresses I got the impression that there's a lot more to him than we've seem so far.
In fact quite a few characters might turn out to be more than they seem and I'm eager to see where the second book will take me.
The story overall is wonderful I couldn't stop listening, I finished the whole book in one sitting, putting off other things that I had been planning to do.
The narration was amazing, the accents were impressive and the overall delivery was fabulous, I can't think of a single part of the delivery I didn't enjoy, very impressive!
This book was supplied free by the author/narrator/publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
Riley comes across as a typical 'all American' guy but as the story progresses I got the impression that there's a lot more to him than we've seem so far.
In fact quite a few characters might turn out to be more than they seem and I'm eager to see where the second book will take me.
The story overall is wonderful I couldn't stop listening, I finished the whole book in one sitting, putting off other things that I had been planning to do.
The narration was amazing, the accents were impressive and the overall delivery was fabulous, I can't think of a single part of the delivery I didn't enjoy, very impressive!
This book was supplied free by the author/narrator/publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
November 28, 2020
I was shocked at the accent that the narrator but I have to say I loved it. Her southern drawl is so good you get lost in it. Her drastic change in voices leave no doubt as to who the character is that is speaking even with out hearing a name. Seriously phenomenal job!
Now to the story. There’s always something mystical and other worldly when the swamp and Deep South are involved. This book is a paranormal but I feel really is just closer to the livings abs supernatural type vibe you find in the bayou. It’s well written and intriguing to say the least. There are some slow spots in it and I kind of cringe at the basic complete worthlessness the main character feels for herself. I know this is not a new thing but I felt like it was an extreme this book didn’t need. I always enjoy a book with a paranormal and mystery spin on it and will happily continue this story. It’s has humor, a bit of spice and some of her terms will make you giggle. There’s live, mystery and some dark going on which makes it a well rounded story.
Now to the story. There’s always something mystical and other worldly when the swamp and Deep South are involved. This book is a paranormal but I feel really is just closer to the livings abs supernatural type vibe you find in the bayou. It’s well written and intriguing to say the least. There are some slow spots in it and I kind of cringe at the basic complete worthlessness the main character feels for herself. I know this is not a new thing but I felt like it was an extreme this book didn’t need. I always enjoy a book with a paranormal and mystery spin on it and will happily continue this story. It’s has humor, a bit of spice and some of her terms will make you giggle. There’s live, mystery and some dark going on which makes it a well rounded story.
February 17, 2025
This was just the cutest! It's written with a very southern dialect the author grew up with, so she says "growed up", etc. The narrator fid such a great job with it. Sunny is so loveable and practical I just fell for her. Sunny lost her son, Henry, and since then she has been an investigator trying to stop other people from losing their loved ones to paranormal or normal means. Sunny may be practical, but she's also from the wrong side of the tracks and has a buttload of insecurities from her upbringin'.
Riley Treadwell is the sheriff's son and a deputy. And Sunny's childhood crush. He enlists her help to find out why the docks of Greenwood Cove are being destroyed. It's not the deepest plot and you can see it from a mile away, but I loved the whole story so much I missed the exit to I-405 and ended up in Seattle before I realized I was getting farther from home rather than closer. Lol! The side characters are also wonderful. I might break my word and get the second book because I want to read it so bad!
Riley Treadwell is the sheriff's son and a deputy. And Sunny's childhood crush. He enlists her help to find out why the docks of Greenwood Cove are being destroyed. It's not the deepest plot and you can see it from a mile away, but I loved the whole story so much I missed the exit to I-405 and ended up in Seattle before I realized I was getting farther from home rather than closer. Lol! The side characters are also wonderful. I might break my word and get the second book because I want to read it so bad!
December 29, 2019
It took me a couple of times to get through the first chapter but once I did, got into the story and the dialect, I was hooked. I enjoyed the Appalachian or Blue Ridge Mountain dialect and homespun dialogue. Sunshine appears to be a true sweetheart; strong-willed and resilient, but a sweetheart all the same. The reluctant romance with Ranger Rick and the reminiscing flashbacks to their childhood days was very sweet. Reminded me more of a coming-of-age story if Sunshine weren’t already of age. The paranormal investigator aspect is lightly played but it does add some solidity to the tale. We get around to closing that part of the tale in the last few chapters. An interesting and enjoyable introduction to a new series. I may even delve further. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 2, 2017
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com.
I think the narrator was the real star of the book. Trying to read the text would probably be very difficult, but the narrator makes it sound natural. Sunshine was a likable character and despite Sunshine's reluctance about Riley, I liked him as well. The story was ok, but I have a tendency to get overwhelmed when a lot of characters are introduced in a short period of time. It wasn't really the typical fantasy / urban fantasy feel. I'd categorize it more as just a southern mystery novel with light fantasy as opposed to something like dresden files.
I think the narrator was the real star of the book. Trying to read the text would probably be very difficult, but the narrator makes it sound natural. Sunshine was a likable character and despite Sunshine's reluctance about Riley, I liked him as well. The story was ok, but I have a tendency to get overwhelmed when a lot of characters are introduced in a short period of time. It wasn't really the typical fantasy / urban fantasy feel. I'd categorize it more as just a southern mystery novel with light fantasy as opposed to something like dresden files.
November 9, 2021
I'm a Britisher and I enjoyed reading the book; no narrator voice to guide or confuse me
I had recently read Mark Twain's Tom Sawyer tales, and found that this book, too, seemed to be written in some sort of vernacular, new to me, but which flowed smoothly like a river, no jarring stylistic stops cause by poor editing; what more can one want besides a decent plot?
Sunshine Walkingstick gets introduced early on, we follow her on her quest to find a special ring while the world building goes on in its gentle way. There seems to be an element of paranormal or magical realism in this world, too, and she's obviously had her share of painful experiences.
Sunshine just grew on me, so I hastened to buy the next book in the series.
I had recently read Mark Twain's Tom Sawyer tales, and found that this book, too, seemed to be written in some sort of vernacular, new to me, but which flowed smoothly like a river, no jarring stylistic stops cause by poor editing; what more can one want besides a decent plot?
Sunshine Walkingstick gets introduced early on, we follow her on her quest to find a special ring while the world building goes on in its gentle way. There seems to be an element of paranormal or magical realism in this world, too, and she's obviously had her share of painful experiences.
Sunshine just grew on me, so I hastened to buy the next book in the series.
October 18, 2023
Book: Greenwood Cove
Read By: Ebook
Author: Celia Roman
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Ohhhhhh I struggled with the English in this book. I didn't realise it wasn't in proper English when I went in.
After I went back and checked the listing I realised it wasn't meant to be.
While I was out, I dropped by the Tribune’s office and changed the shipping address of my new newspaper subscription from mine to Mama’s. She needed it more’n I did. ‘Sides. It served Teus right for presuming to subscribe on my behalf. Maybe that’d learn him to mind his own.
So my review is based on the book itself only.
The storyline was great and I enjoyed the story as a whole.
Read By: Ebook
Author: Celia Roman
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Ohhhhhh I struggled with the English in this book. I didn't realise it wasn't in proper English when I went in.
After I went back and checked the listing I realised it wasn't meant to be.
While I was out, I dropped by the Tribune’s office and changed the shipping address of my new newspaper subscription from mine to Mama’s. She needed it more’n I did. ‘Sides. It served Teus right for presuming to subscribe on my behalf. Maybe that’d learn him to mind his own.
So my review is based on the book itself only.
The storyline was great and I enjoyed the story as a whole.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2020
I really liked this book. It’s set in Clayton, NC on Lake Burton. It is very well written, but what makes it even better is the narration. The narrator sounds exactly like we do around here. This made it even more real. Sunshine is trying to figure out what is lurking in Lake Burton. Something big. And scary. Does it have anything to do with the pollution that’s all in the water. Like some awful oil poured into the lake. Who can she trust? It’s hard enough to poke her nose into events without a certain deputy finding her. Riley seems to be sweet on Sunshine, they knew each other since they were very little. Maybe he can protect her before harm comes to her.
June 14, 2017
My review is based on the Audiobook. Where as I give the book 3 stars I would rate the narrator 5 stars.
Once you get used to the dialect used in this story it is an interesting tale I wish there was more character development, most is surface and I like in depth characters. Rebecca Winder did a Phenomenal job as narrator. Her voice flowed and her inflections spot on. I would definitely purchase more narrated by her. I would also like to read book 2 in this series to see where the story leads and hopefully get answers to some unanswered questions in Book 1
Once you get used to the dialect used in this story it is an interesting tale I wish there was more character development, most is surface and I like in depth characters. Rebecca Winder did a Phenomenal job as narrator. Her voice flowed and her inflections spot on. I would definitely purchase more narrated by her. I would also like to read book 2 in this series to see where the story leads and hopefully get answers to some unanswered questions in Book 1
October 6, 2019
I found myself absolutely enjoying the downright homey-ness that comes through every Sunshine Walkingstick story I've read/listened to... it's like wrapping up in a warm comforter. Sure there's mysteries to solve, and a monster sighting in the cove that'll need investigating, but Sunshine's innate goodness, well... It just shines through!
Rebecca Winder's voice performance is the icing on this already perfect cake! A perfect union of writer and voice-actress!
A Solid 4 ⭐'s!
Rebecca Winder's voice performance is the icing on this already perfect cake! A perfect union of writer and voice-actress!
A Solid 4 ⭐'s!
December 7, 2020
A fairly interesting story with a few interesting characters. A little slow for my liking as prefer lots of action rather than loads of introspection and I'm not a fan of first person characters who constantly whine on about not being good enough, nobody being interested in them etc.
I'd say this is a paranormal romance, heavy on the romance, very light on the paranormal while my preference would be the other way round. Still it wasn't bad.
The narrator does a good job and fits to story nicely.
I'd say this is a paranormal romance, heavy on the romance, very light on the paranormal while my preference would be the other way round. Still it wasn't bad.
The narrator does a good job and fits to story nicely.
September 16, 2023
Contains several interesting and mysterious storylines; not all are concluded in this novel. It's also written in a regional dialect for rural Georgia (I have no idea if it's an accurate depiction). Deciphering the spelling, grammar, etc., makes for more work than your typical paranormal romance. (I took a star off for this; I like my reading time to be relaxing and fun--not work.)
FYI: if offensive language bothers you, don't read! Otherwise, it's a decent book.(I took another star off for unnecessary offensive language.)
FYI: if offensive language bothers you, don't read! Otherwise, it's a decent book.(I took another star off for unnecessary offensive language.)
December 12, 2017
Good -Solid first book in a series
It was good. Could have been longer to allow more character development. The ending was a bit abrupt and could have benefitted from a couple of more chapters. Also, if we can’t figure out that your spelling/sentence structure is meant to convey a regional dialect and try to correct you in a review, we are not bright enough to write reviews that you need to worry about. There is no need to point it out in the books description.
It was good. Could have been longer to allow more character development. The ending was a bit abrupt and could have benefitted from a couple of more chapters. Also, if we can’t figure out that your spelling/sentence structure is meant to convey a regional dialect and try to correct you in a review, we are not bright enough to write reviews that you need to worry about. There is no need to point it out in the books description.
November 18, 2020
Enjoyable! The narrator used such a strong southern accent, it was a little difficult to get into at first. However, it was perfect for the book, and I was soon lost in the story. The characters were very well developed and the story was entertaining. I loved the paranormal elements. There was a twist at the end that I didn't see coming. Can't wait to read the next!
I was given a free audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my review.
I was given a free audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected my review.
December 1, 2020
Sunshine Walkingstick is 1/2 Cherokee and comes from a line of Criminals. She does various work tracking down lost items, killing monsters, and such. She is a strong woman who can usually take care of herself. This book introduces the reader to this character and her friends and what little family she has left. I enjoyed this story well enough to have gotten books 2 & 3 on Audible to continue listening to her story.
January 2, 2021
This was an interesting story, but not as paranormal as the description says. This is way backwoods Appalachia in the telling of the narrator. She does a decent accent and gave a different tone for the other characters. This is a slow burn story with romance and mystery and a minor god thrown in. I will be looking for the next story to see how it goes. There are sad elements to the entire story because of the loss of her child, the story will keep you interested.
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