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Sing for Me
When a good church girl starts singing in a jazz club and falls for the music—as well as a handsome African American man—she struggles to reconcile her childhood faith with her newfound passions.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
322 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
716 people want to read
About the author
Karen Halvorsen Schreck
9 books92 followersKaren Halvorsen Schreck is the author of the historical novels Broken Ground (Simon & Schuster May 2016), called a “masterfully written . . . must-read” by USA Today, and Sing For Me, which Publisher's Weekly described as “an impressive debut…a well-wrought and edifying page-turner” in a Starred Review, along with two novels for young adults and a book for children. Her short stories, interviews, and essays have appeared in magazines and journals including The Rumpus, Belt, and Image. The recipient of a Pushcart Prize and an Illinois State Arts Council Grant, Karen received her doctorate in English and Creative Writing from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She lives with her husband, the photographer Greg Halvorsen Schreck, and their two children in Wheaton, Illinois, and is at work on her next novel.
For more information, please connect with Karen at: http://karenschreck.com
or Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-...
or Twitter:
@KarenSchreck.
You can also find her on Instagram @khschreck.
For more information, please connect with Karen at: http://karenschreck.com
or Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-...
or Twitter:
@KarenSchreck.
You can also find her on Instagram @khschreck.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 22, 2014
Loved this book! Not only because it's set in the Chicago my Swedish grandparents moved to and lived in, not only because it offers up historical gems every Chicagoan will love, not only because the heroine is a Scandinavian with SOUL, not only because the heroine and I share a love of Mihalia Jackson, but because the story is so powerful, so engaging. Only a few pages in, I couldn't put it down this wonderful story of love and injustice and following God-given dreams and callings.
April 13, 2014
This is the second book I have read by this author, and again I am amazed by her ability to construct complex young adult characters.
Sing for Me is set in Chicago, during the Depression, Rose Sorenson is a mostly obedient daughter and always-responsible older sister. She understands what is expected in her family and her church and she sticks to the path that has been laid out for her. Then, one night her cousin introduces her to a new world of music in a smoky jazz club. It is there where she realizes she is called to sing, and not just the hymns from church where she is a soloist.
In that jazz club, she also meets Theo Chastain, a gifted piano player, who is African American. Without revealing too much, the story unfolds and Rose is forced to evaluate who she is, who she wants to be and how she is going to live her faith.
I was moved by how Rose grapples with balancing her family and faith in this story. This is not a “black and white” story about how things should be. It is honest and nuanced - filled with the heartbreaks and wistfulness that come with not being who people want you to be. It is also always maintains the hope that people can change and things can get better. The whole story is enhanced by wonderfully accurate historical references to people and places. I really felt suspended in Rose and Theo’s time and I was sad to have the story end.
Sing for Me is set in Chicago, during the Depression, Rose Sorenson is a mostly obedient daughter and always-responsible older sister. She understands what is expected in her family and her church and she sticks to the path that has been laid out for her. Then, one night her cousin introduces her to a new world of music in a smoky jazz club. It is there where she realizes she is called to sing, and not just the hymns from church where she is a soloist.
In that jazz club, she also meets Theo Chastain, a gifted piano player, who is African American. Without revealing too much, the story unfolds and Rose is forced to evaluate who she is, who she wants to be and how she is going to live her faith.
I was moved by how Rose grapples with balancing her family and faith in this story. This is not a “black and white” story about how things should be. It is honest and nuanced - filled with the heartbreaks and wistfulness that come with not being who people want you to be. It is also always maintains the hope that people can change and things can get better. The whole story is enhanced by wonderfully accurate historical references to people and places. I really felt suspended in Rose and Theo’s time and I was sad to have the story end.
April 30, 2014
Breathtakingly good.
The premise sounded compelling, but I hesitated because I don't generally do romance, or Christian fiction, or historical fiction. But Sing for Me is *not* typical genre fiction. It has a wonderful literary feel, with lyrical language and nuanced characters and an strong sense of time and place. But I think what I loved most of all - in addition to the characters themselves - is the gentle but powerful way that justice and faithfulness were woven into the narrative. The novel has a moral and spiritual rootedness that isn't forced or flat or tacked on, but at the very heart of the story. It's a gorgeous and inspiring novel that kept me up way past my bedtime.
The premise sounded compelling, but I hesitated because I don't generally do romance, or Christian fiction, or historical fiction. But Sing for Me is *not* typical genre fiction. It has a wonderful literary feel, with lyrical language and nuanced characters and an strong sense of time and place. But I think what I loved most of all - in addition to the characters themselves - is the gentle but powerful way that justice and faithfulness were woven into the narrative. The novel has a moral and spiritual rootedness that isn't forced or flat or tacked on, but at the very heart of the story. It's a gorgeous and inspiring novel that kept me up way past my bedtime.
April 1, 2014
received this book from Howard Books for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Book Description:
When a good church girl starts singing in a jazz club and falls for the music—as well as a handsome African American man—she struggles to reconcile her childhood faith with her newfound passions.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
My Thoughts:
Sing For Me is the first book by Karen Halvorsen Schreck I have had the pleasure of reading. Set in 1937, this book tells the story of Rose Sorensen, a Danish Baptist, who loves to sing all songs especially Jazz music. Rose's parents are strict Baptist that expect their daughter to follow also. Rose works all day cleaning houses and taking care of her sister, Sophy, who is handicapped. One night Rose's cousin, Rob, takes Rose to a jazz club called Calliope's where blacks and whites mingle from their shared loved of jazz. Rose meets one of the musicians, Theo, and can't stop thinking about him. Theo plays the piano for the band The Chess Men, a mixed race group that plays at Calliope's. After hearing Rose sing The Chess Men offer Rose a job as their singer, making more money than she could ever make doing the work she is doing. Rose and Theo find themselves drawn more and more to one another. They know the risks but still try to be together.
Sing For Me is a wonderful story about Chicago during 1937. I have never read anything by Karen Halvorsen Schreck but when I read the description about the book, I had to read it. I love Christian Historical Fiction and this is no exception. Karen Halvorsen Schreck writes with authority about Chicago in the 1930's, Danish Baptist Church, Denmark, jazz music, and cerebral palsy and how it was treated then. I found myself unable to put this book down once I started reading, it really drew me in and held on. I loved the characters in this book especially Theo's Mom, Mrs. Chastain. Her acceptance of Rose and Theo's relationship and her faith really stood out to me. She was a loving mother who treated everyone like her child, taking care of them and accepting of them no matter what. I enjoyed that throughout this story Karen Halvorsen Shreck's characters always leaned on their faith whether good times or bad, this was a consistent theme throughout. I felt like I was right there watching these events unfold from the descriptions of Chicago and the time period. This book also delved into interracial relationships and how they were looked at during this time period also. I really enjoyed the historical facts that were mixed in with the fiction. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, you will not be disappointed. I cannot wait to read more from Karen Halvorsen Schreck. I give this book 4.5 STARS.
Book Description:
When a good church girl starts singing in a jazz club and falls for the music—as well as a handsome African American man—she struggles to reconcile her childhood faith with her newfound passions.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
My Thoughts:
Sing For Me is the first book by Karen Halvorsen Schreck I have had the pleasure of reading. Set in 1937, this book tells the story of Rose Sorensen, a Danish Baptist, who loves to sing all songs especially Jazz music. Rose's parents are strict Baptist that expect their daughter to follow also. Rose works all day cleaning houses and taking care of her sister, Sophy, who is handicapped. One night Rose's cousin, Rob, takes Rose to a jazz club called Calliope's where blacks and whites mingle from their shared loved of jazz. Rose meets one of the musicians, Theo, and can't stop thinking about him. Theo plays the piano for the band The Chess Men, a mixed race group that plays at Calliope's. After hearing Rose sing The Chess Men offer Rose a job as their singer, making more money than she could ever make doing the work she is doing. Rose and Theo find themselves drawn more and more to one another. They know the risks but still try to be together.
Sing For Me is a wonderful story about Chicago during 1937. I have never read anything by Karen Halvorsen Schreck but when I read the description about the book, I had to read it. I love Christian Historical Fiction and this is no exception. Karen Halvorsen Schreck writes with authority about Chicago in the 1930's, Danish Baptist Church, Denmark, jazz music, and cerebral palsy and how it was treated then. I found myself unable to put this book down once I started reading, it really drew me in and held on. I loved the characters in this book especially Theo's Mom, Mrs. Chastain. Her acceptance of Rose and Theo's relationship and her faith really stood out to me. She was a loving mother who treated everyone like her child, taking care of them and accepting of them no matter what. I enjoyed that throughout this story Karen Halvorsen Shreck's characters always leaned on their faith whether good times or bad, this was a consistent theme throughout. I felt like I was right there watching these events unfold from the descriptions of Chicago and the time period. This book also delved into interracial relationships and how they were looked at during this time period also. I really enjoyed the historical facts that were mixed in with the fiction. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, you will not be disappointed. I cannot wait to read more from Karen Halvorsen Schreck. I give this book 4.5 STARS.
March 22, 2014
"Sing for Me" was a novel that interested me from the moment that I read the description. The plot held the promise of depth and uniqueness and delivered both. Karen Halvorsen Schreck builds a poignant tale of love, acceptance, and purpose set in 1930s Chicago. It reads like a work of literature and ventures into subjects that are thought-provoking and emotionally charged. Halvorsen Schreck shows the shades of gray between the spectrum of perceived right and wrong, acceptable and unacceptable. Her characters confront prejudices on a few different fronts and learn to depend on their faith to steer them in the right direction.
Rose Sorensen finds herself crossing boundaries - singing music that her church and family view as sinful and falling in love with an African American man. Traditionally in Christian fiction, characters who spend their time in smoky bars are either in need of reform or have strayed from the "right" path. Rose is neither; she remains strong in her faith and finds her purpose in a place as unlikely as a worldly jazz club. Looking out from the club stage one night, Rose realizes that despite the differences and faults of each person in the crowd, they are all "Children of God," and therefore equal. Rose conveys an important lesson of acceptance throughout her story. This lesson permeates the plot and gives hope despite the pain and hatred that are also present.
Rose's relationships are especially compelling. As a sister, I am drawn to the tender relationship Rose shares with her younger sister, Sophy. Halvorsen Schreck creates a tangible connection between Rose and Sophy, who suffers from cerebral palsy. Rose's first person point of view gives a clear perspective on her devotion to her disabled sister. There are numerous sweet moments between the sisters, from Sophy resting her head on Rose's lap during church to Rose taking Sophy on outings to the park. Each nuance of their interactions give the relationship life and depth. Despite Sophy's inability to communicate verbally, her character is brought to life through Rose; and instead of taking a background role, Sophy becomes and integral part of the story.
"Sing for Me" traverses new ground with a mixed race relationship during a time in history when prejudice and hatred run rampant. The budding romance between Rose and Theo, an African American musician, is fraught with challenges from the beginning. I enjoy the subtlety of the romance that gradually builds between the two characters. Physical connections take a backseat to emotional connections, and sometimes the looks that pass between Rose and Theo convey the strength of their bond even more than conversation. A mixed race love story set in the 1930s brings a new level of stress to the plot. At times it seems that the story has little hope of ending well. After all, how can a love endure when the world seems set against it? That question and the resulting tension kept drawing me in and even now leaves me wanting to know more of Rose's story.
Beautifully written with skillfully sculpted characters, "Sing for Me" is a novel that I will distinctly remember. It is a story of pain and triumph, love and acceptance, fear and strength. Karen Halvorsen Schreck engages readers' emotions with lessons that still ring true for the modern reader.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Howard Books through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Rose Sorensen finds herself crossing boundaries - singing music that her church and family view as sinful and falling in love with an African American man. Traditionally in Christian fiction, characters who spend their time in smoky bars are either in need of reform or have strayed from the "right" path. Rose is neither; she remains strong in her faith and finds her purpose in a place as unlikely as a worldly jazz club. Looking out from the club stage one night, Rose realizes that despite the differences and faults of each person in the crowd, they are all "Children of God," and therefore equal. Rose conveys an important lesson of acceptance throughout her story. This lesson permeates the plot and gives hope despite the pain and hatred that are also present.
Rose's relationships are especially compelling. As a sister, I am drawn to the tender relationship Rose shares with her younger sister, Sophy. Halvorsen Schreck creates a tangible connection between Rose and Sophy, who suffers from cerebral palsy. Rose's first person point of view gives a clear perspective on her devotion to her disabled sister. There are numerous sweet moments between the sisters, from Sophy resting her head on Rose's lap during church to Rose taking Sophy on outings to the park. Each nuance of their interactions give the relationship life and depth. Despite Sophy's inability to communicate verbally, her character is brought to life through Rose; and instead of taking a background role, Sophy becomes and integral part of the story.
"Sing for Me" traverses new ground with a mixed race relationship during a time in history when prejudice and hatred run rampant. The budding romance between Rose and Theo, an African American musician, is fraught with challenges from the beginning. I enjoy the subtlety of the romance that gradually builds between the two characters. Physical connections take a backseat to emotional connections, and sometimes the looks that pass between Rose and Theo convey the strength of their bond even more than conversation. A mixed race love story set in the 1930s brings a new level of stress to the plot. At times it seems that the story has little hope of ending well. After all, how can a love endure when the world seems set against it? That question and the resulting tension kept drawing me in and even now leaves me wanting to know more of Rose's story.
Beautifully written with skillfully sculpted characters, "Sing for Me" is a novel that I will distinctly remember. It is a story of pain and triumph, love and acceptance, fear and strength. Karen Halvorsen Schreck engages readers' emotions with lessons that still ring true for the modern reader.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Howard Books through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
April 11, 2014
Karen Halvorsen Schreck in her new book “Sing For Me” published by Howard Books takes us into the life of Rose Sorensen.
From the back cover: When a good church girl starts singing in a jazz club and falls for the music—as well as a handsome African American man—she struggles to reconcile her childhood faith with her newfound passions.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
Things really weren’t so different in 1937 Chicago then they are today. People were people, prejudice was prejudice and we tried to keep the races apart. The Bible tells us that God gave us talents from the womb. He is just waiting on us to use those talents for Him. In this case singing. Rose can sing however she is a Baptist and she gets involved in a mixed band called The Chess Men and starts to sing for them at a jazz club. How much worse can it get? Well I am not really going to say, you will have to read this amazing story for yourself. Then you can answer the questions like are you fulfilling your calling if you are using your talents in the world rather than the Church? And then there is that issue of prejudice. Ms. Schreck tackles some hard themes in her book but she also gives us such a terrific story it all works together so well. And, of course, there are the characters. I think Ms. Schreck has done an outstanding job of bringing both Rose and Theo to life. “Sing For Me” is a wonderful, powerful story with amazing characters and depth that will keep you flipping pages.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: When a good church girl starts singing in a jazz club and falls for the music—as well as a handsome African American man—she struggles to reconcile her childhood faith with her newfound passions.
Raised in the Danish Baptist Church, Rose Sorensen knows it’s wrong to sing worldly songs. But Rose still yearns for those she hears on the radio—“Cheek to Cheek,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”—and sings them when no one is around.
One day, Rose’s cousin takes her to Calliope’s, a jazz club, where she discovers an exciting world she never knew existed. Here, blacks and whites mingle, brought together by their shared love of music. And though Rose worries it’s wrong—her parents already have a stable husband in mind for her—she can’t stop thinking about the African American pianist of the Chess Men, Theo Chastain. When Rose returns to the jazz club, she is offered the role of singer for the Chess Men. The job would provide money to care for her sister, Sophy, who has cerebral palsy—but at what cost?
As Rose gets to know Theo, their fledgling relationship faces prejudices she never imagined. And as she struggles to balance the dream world of Calliope’s with her cold, hard reality, she also wrestles with God’s call for her life. Can she be a jazz singer? Or will her faith suffer because of her worldly ways?
Set in Depression-era Chicago and rich in historical detail, Sing for Me is a beautiful, evocative story about finding real, unflinching love and embracing—at all costs—your calling.
Things really weren’t so different in 1937 Chicago then they are today. People were people, prejudice was prejudice and we tried to keep the races apart. The Bible tells us that God gave us talents from the womb. He is just waiting on us to use those talents for Him. In this case singing. Rose can sing however she is a Baptist and she gets involved in a mixed band called The Chess Men and starts to sing for them at a jazz club. How much worse can it get? Well I am not really going to say, you will have to read this amazing story for yourself. Then you can answer the questions like are you fulfilling your calling if you are using your talents in the world rather than the Church? And then there is that issue of prejudice. Ms. Schreck tackles some hard themes in her book but she also gives us such a terrific story it all works together so well. And, of course, there are the characters. I think Ms. Schreck has done an outstanding job of bringing both Rose and Theo to life. “Sing For Me” is a wonderful, powerful story with amazing characters and depth that will keep you flipping pages.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 7, 2014
Howard Books sent the book "Sing For Me" by Karen Halvorsen Schreck for my review. I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books, for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own. From the cover, I was not sure I would like this novel. That just goes to show that you cannot literally judge a book by its cover.
I thought this was an excellent book, both in writing style and story content. I enjoy period novels and this was set in the 1930’s during the Jazz Age in Chicago. Times were hard especially after the Stock Market Crash in 1929. Those who had became those who had not! Rose Sorensen’s family worships in the Danish Baptist church. Rose had a beautiful voice, but she is not supposed to sing anything but worship music. However Rose loves jazz and the popular music that is played in all the jazz clubs during this time. She sneaks around singing this while she is working. Her family had money but because of a reversal, they all work for a fellow Dane who owns apartment buildings. She is also expected to take care of Sophie, her little sister who has cerebral palsy. Her mother and father are pushing her to make a good marriage with the son of a local grocer.
Rose’s cousin, Rob sneaks her out one night and takes her to a jazz club on the south side. She loves the music of the Chess Men and falls for the pianist, a black musician. She fills in for of the girl singer and is soon singing every time the band plays at the Calliope Club.
Her relationship with Theo Chastain, the pianist, is forbidden by society. No way can a white woman have a relationship with a black man. Rose and Theo have to sneak around to see each other and have to keep their love a relationship a secret from Rose’s family. Theo’s family accept Rose, but know the futility of their relationship. They are even accosted one evening and Theo is beaten within an inch of his life. Rose is injured also. It is then that Theo decides to go to New Orleans to pursue his music. How will they choose how to live their lives.
I was so involved in this book and so interested in the plight of Rose and Theo. I realized that things are not so different now. Some are prejudiced against “mixed” marriages still yet. I think that those who are in love should be able to be together without anyone making judgments. This novel started me thinking about all the different people who have to put up with criticism from others who think that their ideas are the only ones. I felt ashamed that Rose and Theo had to live their lives this way.
Please read this book. I know that you will finish it with a different attitude about those around you who may not act or believe as you do. It makes you pause and reflect. I recommend this book highly.
You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-aL.
I thought this was an excellent book, both in writing style and story content. I enjoy period novels and this was set in the 1930’s during the Jazz Age in Chicago. Times were hard especially after the Stock Market Crash in 1929. Those who had became those who had not! Rose Sorensen’s family worships in the Danish Baptist church. Rose had a beautiful voice, but she is not supposed to sing anything but worship music. However Rose loves jazz and the popular music that is played in all the jazz clubs during this time. She sneaks around singing this while she is working. Her family had money but because of a reversal, they all work for a fellow Dane who owns apartment buildings. She is also expected to take care of Sophie, her little sister who has cerebral palsy. Her mother and father are pushing her to make a good marriage with the son of a local grocer.
Rose’s cousin, Rob sneaks her out one night and takes her to a jazz club on the south side. She loves the music of the Chess Men and falls for the pianist, a black musician. She fills in for of the girl singer and is soon singing every time the band plays at the Calliope Club.
Her relationship with Theo Chastain, the pianist, is forbidden by society. No way can a white woman have a relationship with a black man. Rose and Theo have to sneak around to see each other and have to keep their love a relationship a secret from Rose’s family. Theo’s family accept Rose, but know the futility of their relationship. They are even accosted one evening and Theo is beaten within an inch of his life. Rose is injured also. It is then that Theo decides to go to New Orleans to pursue his music. How will they choose how to live their lives.
I was so involved in this book and so interested in the plight of Rose and Theo. I realized that things are not so different now. Some are prejudiced against “mixed” marriages still yet. I think that those who are in love should be able to be together without anyone making judgments. This novel started me thinking about all the different people who have to put up with criticism from others who think that their ideas are the only ones. I felt ashamed that Rose and Theo had to live their lives this way.
Please read this book. I know that you will finish it with a different attitude about those around you who may not act or believe as you do. It makes you pause and reflect. I recommend this book highly.
You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-aL.
April 10, 2014
A captivating tale set against tumultuous times.
Rose Sorenson is a hardworking young woman who longs for the sounds and music of the late night jazz clubs. The Danish Baptist Church she attends, looks down on the worldly songs that are sung on the radio and in the clubs, but Rose finds herself drawn to them and their beauty.
When Rose gets the chance to sing for a band called The Chess Men, she has a choice to make between her family's expectations and the song in her heart.
I loved the style of this novel, I thought it fit the story and the setting very well, evoking the emotion and forbidden love, showing a part of history that we don't necessarily hear much about. Rose was a strong, yet vulnerable heroine, who loved her family, especially her sister. Theo was a gallant, and selfless hero, who knew that the way he was being treated wasn't right, but he dared to dream of a brighter future.
I think that my favorite character was Sophy, because she could say so much without really saying anything. I loved her delight in the small things, and how she truly wanted the very best for her sister.
This is an evocative novel set in the year 1937, the tail end of the Great Depression, and the beginning of the troubles leading to WWII, the country is recovering, but many are irreparably changed by the long years of hardship.
Overall, this was a fantastic book that kept my eyes glued to the pages, even when I knew I had something else that I should have been doing instead! I loved the characters and the subtly of their interactions and emotions, little movements and expressions spoke volumes. In a way this was a sort of coming-of-age story, and Rose was a brave young woman willing to chart a new and dangerous course at the dawning of a new era. I loved how the book showed how God gives us different gifts, so that he can use us in different ways. Rose wasn't meant to walk the same path as her peers and parents before her, but make her own way by following her calling.
I will definitely be on the look out for the next book from Ms. Schreck!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
Rose Sorenson is a hardworking young woman who longs for the sounds and music of the late night jazz clubs. The Danish Baptist Church she attends, looks down on the worldly songs that are sung on the radio and in the clubs, but Rose finds herself drawn to them and their beauty.
When Rose gets the chance to sing for a band called The Chess Men, she has a choice to make between her family's expectations and the song in her heart.
I loved the style of this novel, I thought it fit the story and the setting very well, evoking the emotion and forbidden love, showing a part of history that we don't necessarily hear much about. Rose was a strong, yet vulnerable heroine, who loved her family, especially her sister. Theo was a gallant, and selfless hero, who knew that the way he was being treated wasn't right, but he dared to dream of a brighter future.
I think that my favorite character was Sophy, because she could say so much without really saying anything. I loved her delight in the small things, and how she truly wanted the very best for her sister.
This is an evocative novel set in the year 1937, the tail end of the Great Depression, and the beginning of the troubles leading to WWII, the country is recovering, but many are irreparably changed by the long years of hardship.
Overall, this was a fantastic book that kept my eyes glued to the pages, even when I knew I had something else that I should have been doing instead! I loved the characters and the subtly of their interactions and emotions, little movements and expressions spoke volumes. In a way this was a sort of coming-of-age story, and Rose was a brave young woman willing to chart a new and dangerous course at the dawning of a new era. I loved how the book showed how God gives us different gifts, so that he can use us in different ways. Rose wasn't meant to walk the same path as her peers and parents before her, but make her own way by following her calling.
I will definitely be on the look out for the next book from Ms. Schreck!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
March 30, 2014
This book offered a storyline/plot that is somewhat different than the things I am normally drawn to. I am always up for something different, and this book offered just that. The setting is Chicago in the 1930’s, mid depression. Rose Sorensen, our passionate heroine, finds herself between a rock and a hard place. She is loves to sing types of music that she knows her family and the people of the church she was raised in would not approve of, and she finds herself in love with an African American man named Theo. Rose is not doing any of this to rebel against her parents or her church. In fact Rose is just the opposite, she is strong in her values and in her faith. She feels that she has a calling that is pulling her in the opposite direction that her parents may have wanted her to go, but can be strong enough within herself to make the right choice? Even if it means making a daring, bold move?
The part of this story that interested me the most would have to be Rose and Theo’s relationship. I will just say what everyone else is already thinking – they are involved in an interracial relationship at a time in history when prejudices were running at an all-time high. I enjoyed their relationship because it slowly developed over time, and was not a quick rollercoaster ride. I also enjoyed reading about their connection because of all the challenges they faced, and it was inspiring to follow them and see how each character grew in love and faith when it came to each other.
Another relationship that I very much admired in this book was Rose’s relationship with her younger sister, Sophy. I am an only child, so of course I am drawn to the bonding of sisters in any book I read. There are several genuinely sweet and intimate moments shared between Rose and Sophy. They are the epitome of what a sister is supposed to be. They share their darkest secrets and look to each other as comfort and security in dark times. They are truly best friends and make this book worth reading a hundred times more!
***A free copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Howard Books in exchange for my honest review***
The part of this story that interested me the most would have to be Rose and Theo’s relationship. I will just say what everyone else is already thinking – they are involved in an interracial relationship at a time in history when prejudices were running at an all-time high. I enjoyed their relationship because it slowly developed over time, and was not a quick rollercoaster ride. I also enjoyed reading about their connection because of all the challenges they faced, and it was inspiring to follow them and see how each character grew in love and faith when it came to each other.
Another relationship that I very much admired in this book was Rose’s relationship with her younger sister, Sophy. I am an only child, so of course I am drawn to the bonding of sisters in any book I read. There are several genuinely sweet and intimate moments shared between Rose and Sophy. They are the epitome of what a sister is supposed to be. They share their darkest secrets and look to each other as comfort and security in dark times. They are truly best friends and make this book worth reading a hundred times more!
***A free copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Howard Books in exchange for my honest review***
April 7, 2014
The fortunes of Rose’s family have suffered since the Depression hit. As a result, they’ve had to downsize into an apartment owned by the wealthy Nygaard family, on whom they are wholly dependent. Rose, however, has an opportunity to bring in some extra income by singing songs both families disapprove of. Prohibition is over and the jazz club is legal, as is Rose’s attendance there. But what would happen to her family if her evening occupation and companions were discovered?
Sing For Me is a book I could have read in one sitting if not for the other things I needed to do. I got halfway through before that nagging to do list spoke loudly enough for me to hear. I came back to it later in the day, and had it finished before bedtime! This is a novel about being different, and the difficulties that come from those differences. In this book, many of the characters learn to step out of their comfort zone and overcome great obstacles to be who they were made to be. While some of the situations in Sing For Me are depressing at times, it is also a book that gives us hope. The hymn Just As I Am is referred to throughout the pages. It’s a reminder that God accepts all of us. He gave His Son to die for us. This is something we all have in common, no matter who we are.
Thank you to HowardBooks for my complimentary copy of Sing For Me, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
Sing For Me is a book I could have read in one sitting if not for the other things I needed to do. I got halfway through before that nagging to do list spoke loudly enough for me to hear. I came back to it later in the day, and had it finished before bedtime! This is a novel about being different, and the difficulties that come from those differences. In this book, many of the characters learn to step out of their comfort zone and overcome great obstacles to be who they were made to be. While some of the situations in Sing For Me are depressing at times, it is also a book that gives us hope. The hymn Just As I Am is referred to throughout the pages. It’s a reminder that God accepts all of us. He gave His Son to die for us. This is something we all have in common, no matter who we are.
Thank you to HowardBooks for my complimentary copy of Sing For Me, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2014
Prepare to be immersed in the semi-Utopian world of Chicago's Bronzeville jazz clubs. It is 1937 and the Depression has struck the nation and left chaos in its wake. In many respects it has evened the playing field for many but among the older generation there are still taboos that can't be broken.
Rose's cousin Rob has long admired her singing abilities. Up to this point Rose has only sung in church. But she secretly sings worldly songs that seem to stir her soul. One night Rob convinces her to sneak out and come with him to hear some of this music live. She does and against all of her upbringing she's drawn to it.
This is a beautiful heart wrenching story about the pull between two worlds. The choices that Rose has placed before her are gut wrenching. She has to choose between pleasing those she loves the most and what her heart desires. Ultimately she must trust the One who bestowed the gift of song on her to help her make the decisions she faces.
Karen Halvorsen Schreck is a new author to me, but one I'm looking forward to reading again. Her ability with words puts the reader right in the midst of the scene. I felt as if I could hear the music, feel the stick of the floor and smell the scent of the jazz clubs. What a great read for all of your senses!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
Rose's cousin Rob has long admired her singing abilities. Up to this point Rose has only sung in church. But she secretly sings worldly songs that seem to stir her soul. One night Rob convinces her to sneak out and come with him to hear some of this music live. She does and against all of her upbringing she's drawn to it.
This is a beautiful heart wrenching story about the pull between two worlds. The choices that Rose has placed before her are gut wrenching. She has to choose between pleasing those she loves the most and what her heart desires. Ultimately she must trust the One who bestowed the gift of song on her to help her make the decisions she faces.
Karen Halvorsen Schreck is a new author to me, but one I'm looking forward to reading again. Her ability with words puts the reader right in the midst of the scene. I felt as if I could hear the music, feel the stick of the floor and smell the scent of the jazz clubs. What a great read for all of your senses!
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
April 2, 2014
“Sing for Me” is a debut novel set in an era that is rife with corruptness in a time that made falling in love and pursuing your dreams an impossible thing.
I couldn’t help but feel a great deal of empathy for Rose who is burdened to care for her disabled sister, wanting to sing because that is the desire God has laid on her heart and falling for a forbidden love, one her family, especially her father and definitely all of society is not going to accept or tolerate. It was hard to read and know how much Rose wanted to grow above these society expectations and I definitely saw a part of her character deepen and grow throughout the book.
I, unfortunately, did not fall in love with the story like I really wanted to. I think it was a style element more than anything which is not the fault of anyone and no one’s problem, except for my own personal taste. There were elements that moved slowly and much of the action and elements repetitious, however, that being said, this is primarily a literary novel and while I consume many of these type of novels, this one just didn’t 100% move me. I still encourage readers to give the book a chance for the emotional impact it does have the reader.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
I couldn’t help but feel a great deal of empathy for Rose who is burdened to care for her disabled sister, wanting to sing because that is the desire God has laid on her heart and falling for a forbidden love, one her family, especially her father and definitely all of society is not going to accept or tolerate. It was hard to read and know how much Rose wanted to grow above these society expectations and I definitely saw a part of her character deepen and grow throughout the book.
I, unfortunately, did not fall in love with the story like I really wanted to. I think it was a style element more than anything which is not the fault of anyone and no one’s problem, except for my own personal taste. There were elements that moved slowly and much of the action and elements repetitious, however, that being said, this is primarily a literary novel and while I consume many of these type of novels, this one just didn’t 100% move me. I still encourage readers to give the book a chance for the emotional impact it does have the reader.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
April 21, 2014
When I heard about Karen Halvorsen Schreck’s release of Sing for me, a story of a good church girl singing in a jazz club in depression-era Chicago, I couldn’t wait to read it. I’m glad to say my excitement was well-placed. I got the book in the mail on a Saturday afternoon, and didn’t put it down until I’d turned the last page in the small hours of Sunday morning. I haven’t done that in a long time.
Sing for Me is beautiful story not only for its well-researched historical detail and finely drawn characters, but also for it’s lyrical writing style that brings you into the story from the first page and doesn’t let go. The ending is poignant and believable—leaving us with hope for the future of the characters we’ve come to love as well as questions that ring true to the time period.
Karen Halvorsen Schreck has rare talent, and I’m looking forward to more of her excellent storytelling.
Sing for Me is beautiful story not only for its well-researched historical detail and finely drawn characters, but also for it’s lyrical writing style that brings you into the story from the first page and doesn’t let go. The ending is poignant and believable—leaving us with hope for the future of the characters we’ve come to love as well as questions that ring true to the time period.
Karen Halvorsen Schreck has rare talent, and I’m looking forward to more of her excellent storytelling.
May 20, 2016
I wanted to like this book. It seemed like it has some great ideas, some good characters, and good potential. And I'm a singer who does both church and secular music! So it should have struck a chord. But something just seemed missing to me. Maybe because the characters weren't quite developed enough. Maybe because the action seemed a bit too quick. (Girl falls for guy at first meeting despite obvious barriers. Girl switches from good girl conservative church singing to sneaking out at midnight to sing in a jazz club with not too much trouble.) Maybe because I just can't image someone singing Amazing Grace and Blow the Man Down in the same set at a jazz club.
But it wasn't all bad. I guess I give two stars for the potential. Not sure that I'd recommend it though.
But it wasn't all bad. I guess I give two stars for the potential. Not sure that I'd recommend it though.
April 15, 2014
" and this is what Papa says. He says on this earth we are homeless and searching, though we may fool ourselves into thinking otherwise. He says it doesn't matter, the color of our skin. We are traveling through this world, seeking another home." Schreck brings the story of the early nineteen hundreds to life in a twist of forbidden loves, forbidden by color, forbidden from jazz music, forbidden to dream a different dream than your parents, trials that rocked the 1920's. The story is realistic, entertaining, and draws delightful characters. Thus, I give the story five stars.
April 1, 2014
Rose sneaks out with her cousin who takes her to this jazz club to sing. What she sees when she gets to the club is everything her parents have told her to stay away from, yet she is drawn not only to the club, but to the pianist of the Chess Men.
This is a rich story that just sings. Recommended!
This is a rich story that just sings. Recommended!
January 29, 2014
Sing For Me is an achingly beautiful story of longing and hope in the midst of what seems impossible. Karen Halvorsen Schreck reaches deep into the soul with prose that sings. Straightforward. Honest. Utterly compelling.
Read
April 19, 2014Absorbing and engaging--I found myself binging to the end, enjoying it all.
August 27, 2014
compelling (I couldn't put it down); realistic (the time and place came alive for me); memorable characters (even now I think about them)
April 2, 2014
Review coming soon~
June 24, 2018
So this book started off well enough, but several chapters in I got bored or maybe just restless. For a few chapters I contemplated DNFing this, however, I really wanted to see how things turned out. It was a good thing I kept with it, because I ended up liking the remainder of the story.
I liked Rose and I was happy to see how she went after what she wanted. She fought through tradition, expectations, fear and doubt to seek her purpose and what she felt she was meant to do. At the time, that was unheard of, and she could have potentially lost everything and yet she kept pursuing what made her happy. Her relationship with her sister, Sophy, was sweet. I liked that Rose didn't really hold much back from her sister and helped her to live in a way that she wasn't able to on her own. Some of the terminology used to describe Sophy and her condition, didn't sit well with me in the beginning, but I understand that was probably what they knew during the time period.
Rose and Theo's relationship was sweet and I enjoyed watching it change and their feelings grow. I rooted for them, even though I knew, with the time period things might not end well. Though their were some parts that made me tear up and I hoped for things to go in a certain direction, I was still pleasantly surprised by how things turned out.
The book definitely had some strong religious ideals, regarding music, but it was easy to tell that the author wasn't trying to force that on the reader. For the whole of the story, the additional spiritual content, seemed to focus more on trying to help one reflect or contemplate their faith. It didn't feel like the author was being preachy or judgy.
For now I'm going to give this book 3 stars, but that may change once I've had some time to think about it or perhaps in the future if I reread it. I do still feel that this was worth my time and I would recommend it.
I liked Rose and I was happy to see how she went after what she wanted. She fought through tradition, expectations, fear and doubt to seek her purpose and what she felt she was meant to do. At the time, that was unheard of, and she could have potentially lost everything and yet she kept pursuing what made her happy. Her relationship with her sister, Sophy, was sweet. I liked that Rose didn't really hold much back from her sister and helped her to live in a way that she wasn't able to on her own. Some of the terminology used to describe Sophy and her condition, didn't sit well with me in the beginning, but I understand that was probably what they knew during the time period.
Rose and Theo's relationship was sweet and I enjoyed watching it change and their feelings grow. I rooted for them, even though I knew, with the time period things might not end well. Though their were some parts that made me tear up and I hoped for things to go in a certain direction, I was still pleasantly surprised by how things turned out.
The book definitely had some strong religious ideals, regarding music, but it was easy to tell that the author wasn't trying to force that on the reader. For the whole of the story, the additional spiritual content, seemed to focus more on trying to help one reflect or contemplate their faith. It didn't feel like the author was being preachy or judgy.
For now I'm going to give this book 3 stars, but that may change once I've had some time to think about it or perhaps in the future if I reread it. I do still feel that this was worth my time and I would recommend it.
January 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Really enjoyed the author's writing. Sweet plot. Likeable characters... (I would've loved following some of their stories further.)
Favorite quotes:
"I fill my own lungs with air and sing another song. Once I was a lark tangled in a thicket, trapped for so long that I'd forgotten I had wings. Then a fierce storm stirred the branches. When the storm quieted, I glimpsed light, an opening to the great beyond. Perched on the edge of the only world I'd known, I spread my wings. I discovered I could fly."
"Why doubt my hopes? Why not doubt my doubts instead?"
Really enjoyed the author's writing. Sweet plot. Likeable characters... (I would've loved following some of their stories further.)
Favorite quotes:
"I fill my own lungs with air and sing another song. Once I was a lark tangled in a thicket, trapped for so long that I'd forgotten I had wings. Then a fierce storm stirred the branches. When the storm quieted, I glimpsed light, an opening to the great beyond. Perched on the edge of the only world I'd known, I spread my wings. I discovered I could fly."
"Why doubt my hopes? Why not doubt my doubts instead?"
March 5, 2020
Wonderful story that explores several different topics. Set just before ww2 it explores inter racial friendships, legalism in the church and homes of christians, and social class. Both heart warming and heart breaking A good read to make you think
February 2, 2017
Such a good book!
There are many aspects of this novel that I think the author tastefully described, weighing in on the magnitude while not being crude.
There are many aspects of this novel that I think the author tastefully described, weighing in on the magnitude while not being crude.
November 8, 2018
Sweet story dealing with a mixed race couple in Depression-era Chicago. I felt it needed a little more romance but the songs...
January 14, 2020
Lovely, just amazing
August 10, 2014
Sing for Me shouldn't work as well as it does. A historically research piece about race, art, religion, immigrant culture, labor and class relations, gender, family, disability, and (perhaps most of all) the mythic place known as Chicago, the novel weaves together big and small ideas about place, period, and identity. The writer's experience and talent play a part in this book's success, but I think the key is the way every character, setting, and problem is witnessed with love.
I won't recap the story, in part because the small twists and turn deserve to be experienced with the innocence of the main character. This is, at heart, a coming of age story, defined by the rich multitude of interpretations one can give to the title itself. (A parent commanding "Sing for me." A lover asking "Sing for me." A religion that centers on a god invoking participants to "Sing for me." A woman growing into the ability to state that she sings "for me.")
The writing style of this book seems to grow more mature and confident as the story progresses. Perhaps this is an intentional mimicry of the heroine's path. Or perhaps this is the unintentional growth of a writer whose vision has expanded beyond, though not left behind, the young adult audience of her earlier works. In fact, one of the more perplexing things about Sing for Me is the way the industry has categorized it. In my book store, it was shelved among inspirational books, mainly Christian texts, including the Bible. This novel won't find the readership it deserves hidden there. It's a well-crafted, female-centered, history-rich tale of personal growth, suitable for young adults and not-so-young ones. Faith may be important to the story, and even the author, but it is not required of the reader.
July 14, 2014
Sing for me is a story that takes place in the 30s and the lead character Rose sings in her church and her cousin decides to sneak her out of her apartment to go to a night club – speak easy. There when she does sing she blows them away with her voice and she was offered a job to sing there. The family could use the extra money because her sister has cerebral- palsy, were struggling. After she is there performing for a short while she begins to date one of the musicians and this causes problems for them in the neighborhood. But they work through that as well. This story touches many different issues but it always comes back to family and if your family is strong and works together you can walk through anything because you are doing it together. A very good book. I got this book from net galley.
November 18, 2014
Climb out the bedroom window and down the fire escape with Rose. Hop into her cousin's DeSoto and travel across Chicago to a jazz club for some great music, music forbidden to her. Don't lose sight of Rose as her journey becomes ever more dangerous, opposing her father, the church, and an intolerant culture.
The tension of a racially mixed relationship, the inclusion of a character with a disability, the unusual setting of 1930s Chicago, and superb writing all add up to an excellent story with unexpected depth. The author tackles a question many Christians ask - or should ask - "Are God's gifts meant for use only in church?"
The tension of a racially mixed relationship, the inclusion of a character with a disability, the unusual setting of 1930s Chicago, and superb writing all add up to an excellent story with unexpected depth. The author tackles a question many Christians ask - or should ask - "Are God's gifts meant for use only in church?"
August 2, 2015
This book so was so up my alley--Depression-era novel; young female grappling with her own desires vs. her religious upbringing; a relationship between a white woman and an African-American man in Chicago mid-1930s-- that I feared it wouldn't live up to my expectations. But--yay!--I really liked it! The young woman is a singer, and I was impressed at how beautifully the writing about the music was conveyed. Often when people try to capture music in words it falls flat, but in "Sing for Me," the music moves the plot along. I found the story moving and while it was a bit more romantic that I generally read, I really enjoyed this book.
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