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Carolina Coast #1
Becalmed
With her days chock full - designing jewelry for the shop she co-owns with her best friend, sailing her sharpie, and hanging out with girlfriends - Tadie Longworth barely notices she's morphing into the town's maiden aunt. When Will, a widower with a perky daughter named Jilly, limps into town in a sailboat badly in need of engine repairs, Tadie welcomes the chance to help. Her shop becomes Jilly's haven while Will hunts boat parts, and Tadie even takes the two of them sailing. It's the kind of thing she lives for, and it's a welcome distraction from the fact that her ex-boyfriend Alex, aka The Jerk of Jerks, is back in town. With his northern bride. Oh, and he's hitting on Tadie, too.
Those entanglements are more than enough, thank you very much, so it's almost a relief when a hurricane blows into town: at least the weather can match Tadie's mood. When Will and Jilly take shelter in her home, though, Tadie finds herself battling her attraction to Will. Even worse, the feeling is mutual, tempting them all with what-ifs that petrify Will, who has sworn never to fall in love again. Mired in misunderstanding, he takes advantage of the clear skies and hauls Jilly out of there and back to his broken boat so fast, Tadie's head spins.
With the man she might have loved gone, and the man she wishes gone showing up on her doorstep, Tadie finds herself like a sailboat with no wind; becalmed, she has to fight her way back against the currents to the shores of the life, and the man, she wants to have.
Those entanglements are more than enough, thank you very much, so it's almost a relief when a hurricane blows into town: at least the weather can match Tadie's mood. When Will and Jilly take shelter in her home, though, Tadie finds herself battling her attraction to Will. Even worse, the feeling is mutual, tempting them all with what-ifs that petrify Will, who has sworn never to fall in love again. Mired in misunderstanding, he takes advantage of the clear skies and hauls Jilly out of there and back to his broken boat so fast, Tadie's head spins.
With the man she might have loved gone, and the man she wishes gone showing up on her doorstep, Tadie finds herself like a sailboat with no wind; becalmed, she has to fight her way back against the currents to the shores of the life, and the man, she wants to have.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2013
363 people are currently reading
1752 people want to read
About the author
Normandie Fischer
12 books167 followersNormandie had the best of several worlds: a Southern heritage, access to schooling in the DC area (which meant lots of cultural adventures), and several years of sculpture studies in Italy. It might have been better for her if she'd used all these opportunities more wisely, but it's possible that the imperfect and the unwise also add fodder for the artist and the writer.
She writes Southern women's fiction and romantic suspense from her waterfront base in coastal North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, her aging mother, two dogs and two cats.
She writes Southern women's fiction and romantic suspense from her waterfront base in coastal North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, her aging mother, two dogs and two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
November 28, 2014
“You don't love someone because they're perfect, you love them in spite of the fact that they're not.”
----Jodi Picoult, My Sister's Keeper
Normandie Fischer, an American writer, penning her novel from on board her sailboat or from on shore in coastal NC, has spun another remarkable story in her new book, Becalmed which is not a perfect story yet it is beautiful in a way. Sometimes, falling in love with a match fixed by someone else is quite undeniable.
Synopsis:
When a Southern woman with a broken heart falls for a widower with a broken boat, it's anything but smooth sailing.
Tadie Longworth doesn't mind acting the maiden aunt in Beaufort, North Carolina. She has a gift shop full of her own jewelry designs and a sweet little sailboat to take her mind off the guy who got away. But now he’s back . . . with the fashion-plate wife he picked instead of Tadie . . . and he’s hitting on her again.
When widower Will Merritt limps into town with a broken sailboat and a perky seven-year-old daughter, he offers the perfect distraction — until that distraction turns into fascination when Tadie offers shelter during a hurricane. Over candlelit games of Slap-Jack and Monopoly, Jilly becomes the daughter she could have had and Will the man she always wanted. Only, he’s sworn never to let another woman in his life. Any day now, he’s going to finish those repairs, and that ship's going to sail — straight out of Tadie’s life.
This is really a touching story and the bonus part of this story is seven year old Jilly, who will win your heart right from the very first page and her bright demeanor fades away the charm of other characters. The author has penned down a very heart-rending, simplistic and a believable story! Well apart from the plot, it has got a mesmerizing set-up in a small southern town named, Beaufort and reading the book, will let feel the cool breeze of the bay and hear the sounds of the seagull and smell the sweet taste of the river. Fischer made it all alive with her choice of simple and articulate words. Hence the two things that anyone whoever reads the book will love it are Jilly's spunky and full-of-life characteristic and the small, quiet town of Beaufort.
The only disappointment for me was the love story between Tadie and Will. Well it started off very nicely, but I felt that it lacked pace with the progress of their growing relationship. But the author has described their chemistry with clemency and tenderness. The author has even stressed on the factors, advantages and disadvantages of an arranged marriage and how, despite the fact that Will and Tadie were fixed up by Jilly, their love story unfolded in the midst of confusion, doubts and ex-boyfriend troubles.
The author has tried to write about Tadie and her ex-boyfriend's relationship with a mystery angle, which is quite compelling. Well the characters were not that brilliant but still they managed to leave an impression on our hearts.
Verdict: Die-hard romance fans can't give this tear-jerking story, but non romance readers may find this book a bit cheesy! But I'd recommend you to read it for the seven year old girl named, Jilly!
Courtesy: I'm very grateful to the author, Normandie Fischer, for giving me the opportunity to read and review her book.
----Jodi Picoult, My Sister's Keeper
Normandie Fischer, an American writer, penning her novel from on board her sailboat or from on shore in coastal NC, has spun another remarkable story in her new book, Becalmed which is not a perfect story yet it is beautiful in a way. Sometimes, falling in love with a match fixed by someone else is quite undeniable.
Synopsis:
When a Southern woman with a broken heart falls for a widower with a broken boat, it's anything but smooth sailing.
Tadie Longworth doesn't mind acting the maiden aunt in Beaufort, North Carolina. She has a gift shop full of her own jewelry designs and a sweet little sailboat to take her mind off the guy who got away. But now he’s back . . . with the fashion-plate wife he picked instead of Tadie . . . and he’s hitting on her again.
When widower Will Merritt limps into town with a broken sailboat and a perky seven-year-old daughter, he offers the perfect distraction — until that distraction turns into fascination when Tadie offers shelter during a hurricane. Over candlelit games of Slap-Jack and Monopoly, Jilly becomes the daughter she could have had and Will the man she always wanted. Only, he’s sworn never to let another woman in his life. Any day now, he’s going to finish those repairs, and that ship's going to sail — straight out of Tadie’s life.
This is really a touching story and the bonus part of this story is seven year old Jilly, who will win your heart right from the very first page and her bright demeanor fades away the charm of other characters. The author has penned down a very heart-rending, simplistic and a believable story! Well apart from the plot, it has got a mesmerizing set-up in a small southern town named, Beaufort and reading the book, will let feel the cool breeze of the bay and hear the sounds of the seagull and smell the sweet taste of the river. Fischer made it all alive with her choice of simple and articulate words. Hence the two things that anyone whoever reads the book will love it are Jilly's spunky and full-of-life characteristic and the small, quiet town of Beaufort.
The only disappointment for me was the love story between Tadie and Will. Well it started off very nicely, but I felt that it lacked pace with the progress of their growing relationship. But the author has described their chemistry with clemency and tenderness. The author has even stressed on the factors, advantages and disadvantages of an arranged marriage and how, despite the fact that Will and Tadie were fixed up by Jilly, their love story unfolded in the midst of confusion, doubts and ex-boyfriend troubles.
The author has tried to write about Tadie and her ex-boyfriend's relationship with a mystery angle, which is quite compelling. Well the characters were not that brilliant but still they managed to leave an impression on our hearts.
Verdict: Die-hard romance fans can't give this tear-jerking story, but non romance readers may find this book a bit cheesy! But I'd recommend you to read it for the seven year old girl named, Jilly!
Courtesy: I'm very grateful to the author, Normandie Fischer, for giving me the opportunity to read and review her book.
March 2, 2016
Well, I wrote this, so I don't think I should review it!
June 20, 2013
If you have loved stories about arranged marriages, try this novel for an interesting twist: a marriage arranged not by parents, but by a child. And not just any child, but one of the most beguiling and lovable child characters I've read for quite some time.
Seven-year-old Jilly Merritt lost her mother to cancer, and she and her father Will have been grieving while roaming the Atlantic shore aboard a sailboat that bears the mother's name. The boat has been leaking oil and finally breaks down outside of Beaufort, North Carolina, where Tadie Longworth, also a sailor, designs jewelry for an artsy shop she owns. When their paths intersect, Jilly befriends Tadie—much to Will's consternation—and innocently begins her courtship for a new mother.
Also in town is Alex, an old beau who got another woman pregnant when Tadie wouldn't sleep with him in college. As that marriage dissolves, Alex tries to reclaim his place in Tadie's life—a place he wrongly presumes she has been keeping for him. As the plot winds its way toward its darkest moment, Alex shows how dangerous it can be to take up with the wrong man.
Normandie Fischer's concise, active prose brings to life a sense of extended family among the neighbors in this small southern town. Her characters become friends that won't soon be forgotten.
Frustrating for me was that Will and Tadie's romance seems born of internal decision making more than bona fide story pressures. Her reaction after he rather inexplicably declares his undying love for her at the end—she says that she hardly knows him—says it all. Tadie has held off making love to a man until her mid-thirties; why would she marry one now so precipitously? Romance lovers be forewarned: Fischer was so good at building these conservative and guarded characters that their most important turning points at the story's climax end up seeming a bit too quick.
Yet once I closed the book, the story did make me wonder if perhaps enduring love might not be simply a decision, after all. Deciding to act in a loving way toward a spouse has been the basis of long-lasting arranged marriages throughout the centuries, and couples have certainly stayed together for the love of a child, a fact to which empty nest divorce rates can attest. And if any child could inspire that kind of devotion, it would be Jilly Merritt.
Which leaves me with one final, unfulfilled desire after reading this novel: swag. I want a "Team Jilly" tee-shirt. Because like this sweet child and the rest of the Beaufort community—of which I now feel a part—I'll be rooting for this union to succeed.
Seven-year-old Jilly Merritt lost her mother to cancer, and she and her father Will have been grieving while roaming the Atlantic shore aboard a sailboat that bears the mother's name. The boat has been leaking oil and finally breaks down outside of Beaufort, North Carolina, where Tadie Longworth, also a sailor, designs jewelry for an artsy shop she owns. When their paths intersect, Jilly befriends Tadie—much to Will's consternation—and innocently begins her courtship for a new mother.
Also in town is Alex, an old beau who got another woman pregnant when Tadie wouldn't sleep with him in college. As that marriage dissolves, Alex tries to reclaim his place in Tadie's life—a place he wrongly presumes she has been keeping for him. As the plot winds its way toward its darkest moment, Alex shows how dangerous it can be to take up with the wrong man.
Normandie Fischer's concise, active prose brings to life a sense of extended family among the neighbors in this small southern town. Her characters become friends that won't soon be forgotten.
Frustrating for me was that Will and Tadie's romance seems born of internal decision making more than bona fide story pressures. Her reaction after he rather inexplicably declares his undying love for her at the end—she says that she hardly knows him—says it all. Tadie has held off making love to a man until her mid-thirties; why would she marry one now so precipitously? Romance lovers be forewarned: Fischer was so good at building these conservative and guarded characters that their most important turning points at the story's climax end up seeming a bit too quick.
Yet once I closed the book, the story did make me wonder if perhaps enduring love might not be simply a decision, after all. Deciding to act in a loving way toward a spouse has been the basis of long-lasting arranged marriages throughout the centuries, and couples have certainly stayed together for the love of a child, a fact to which empty nest divorce rates can attest. And if any child could inspire that kind of devotion, it would be Jilly Merritt.
Which leaves me with one final, unfulfilled desire after reading this novel: swag. I want a "Team Jilly" tee-shirt. Because like this sweet child and the rest of the Beaufort community—of which I now feel a part—I'll be rooting for this union to succeed.
October 6, 2013
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting read to me as it gave me some conflicting feelings as I worked my way through it.
I will start with the good. The absolute star of this book is not the main character Tadie but seven year old Jilly. It was impossible not to like her from the get go. From her red hair and spunky personality to match she was a gem and all other characters paled in comparison. Looking at the world through her eyes makes the reader cheer for her from beginning to end. I also found it charming how Will always called her punkin and would grin whenever he said it. Another strong point was the town of Beaufort and the close knit group of friends and family that surrounded Tadie. It was exactly what I would imagine any small town to be like where people are there for you no matter what. Add the charm of the water and marina and it was the perfect setting for this story.
The part that I found difficult in this story is that Tadie was described (admittedly by herself) as a spinster because she was not married at the ripe age of 35. Much of her inner turmoil throughout the book was centered around this and her lack of life experience as a result. Now I realize that Fischer most likely portrayed this to focus in on the impact that Will and Jilly had on Tadie's life and how she wanted more after meeting them. As someone who is around the same age demographic I could not identify with this. I felt that Tadie's self image was a little more destroyed than what it should be.
Overall this was a heartwarming story of two people who cross paths and the journey that it takes them on. I found that Tadie and Will's romance was very slow and agonizing to come to fruition and yet when it did I found myself saying "already?" It was also nice that the storyline conclude around Christmas as the season is coming up upon us.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting read to me as it gave me some conflicting feelings as I worked my way through it.
I will start with the good. The absolute star of this book is not the main character Tadie but seven year old Jilly. It was impossible not to like her from the get go. From her red hair and spunky personality to match she was a gem and all other characters paled in comparison. Looking at the world through her eyes makes the reader cheer for her from beginning to end. I also found it charming how Will always called her punkin and would grin whenever he said it. Another strong point was the town of Beaufort and the close knit group of friends and family that surrounded Tadie. It was exactly what I would imagine any small town to be like where people are there for you no matter what. Add the charm of the water and marina and it was the perfect setting for this story.
The part that I found difficult in this story is that Tadie was described (admittedly by herself) as a spinster because she was not married at the ripe age of 35. Much of her inner turmoil throughout the book was centered around this and her lack of life experience as a result. Now I realize that Fischer most likely portrayed this to focus in on the impact that Will and Jilly had on Tadie's life and how she wanted more after meeting them. As someone who is around the same age demographic I could not identify with this. I felt that Tadie's self image was a little more destroyed than what it should be.
Overall this was a heartwarming story of two people who cross paths and the journey that it takes them on. I found that Tadie and Will's romance was very slow and agonizing to come to fruition and yet when it did I found myself saying "already?" It was also nice that the storyline conclude around Christmas as the season is coming up upon us.
July 9, 2013
I'll admit that I started this book with mild reservations. A lifelong sailor, I recognize the romantic appeal of sailing as a backdrop to writing- but I am weary of the attempts at nautical writing which try too hard and wind up sounding silly and being just plain inaccurate. It was quickly apparent that Ms Fischer knows her subject matter very well, and not only handles it with skill, she NAILS the technical and lifestyle aspects of cruising. Sailing and cruising aside, she wove a story that captured me completely: descriptions of coastal North Carolina that make me feel like I've been there, and twists to the tale that kept me up late, unable to put the book down because I had to find out what happened next! I thoroughly enjoyed this light, romantic read and can't wait to read more of her work.
July 11, 2018
I read this book practically in one sitting! The characters, story, and setting are so rich. I felt like I knew Tadie so well, and ached for her to be happy and fulfilled. A wonderful book!
September 3, 2016
Sarah Longworth, better known as Tadie, has grown up in a privileged family along the beautiful coast of North Carolina. Unconventionally, she is a sailor, who loves her business and seems to never work a day. She has a beautiful home she inherited from her parents and good friends. But Tadie is approaching middle age and has not loved or been loved in return; she has missed becoming a mother and forming a family of her own. To my mind, this must be a tremendous nagging ache on her soul; no matter how she fills her life to distract it. And then love, as it has a way of doing, appears out of nowhere when she meets Will and his daughter Jilly.
Normally, I don’t read typical “romance” novels as I am one of those who has had and lost my great love and now must find comfort in being alone. However, it was the title that grabbed me, Becalmed… what a wonderful word and a wonderful way to describe a graceful state of existing. In fact, I wouldn’t necessarily categorize Becalmed as a typical romance novel, at least the ones my Grandmother devoured. Rather it a story about the emotion of loving and the feeling of being loved. In fact, Becalmed, offered us love in its many forms: familial, friendship, parental and of course the most personal; mutual erotic attraction combined with the purest admiration for another – almost a combination of all the types of love combined in one powerful mix, but certainly a love that puts the lover in a state of bliss – they are becalmed, complete.
In this way, from memories rather than from hope, I enjoyed Becalmed and found it restored, just a bit mind you, the notion that there could be another that would rival the first love in my life and that Normandie Fischer is no small task! Thank you for giving your reader a story of the beauty of a romantic, physical relationship and the completeness it brings to life. It was encouraging and inspirational and a true pleasure to spend time with. I recommend Becalmed without reservation.
Normally, I don’t read typical “romance” novels as I am one of those who has had and lost my great love and now must find comfort in being alone. However, it was the title that grabbed me, Becalmed… what a wonderful word and a wonderful way to describe a graceful state of existing. In fact, I wouldn’t necessarily categorize Becalmed as a typical romance novel, at least the ones my Grandmother devoured. Rather it a story about the emotion of loving and the feeling of being loved. In fact, Becalmed, offered us love in its many forms: familial, friendship, parental and of course the most personal; mutual erotic attraction combined with the purest admiration for another – almost a combination of all the types of love combined in one powerful mix, but certainly a love that puts the lover in a state of bliss – they are becalmed, complete.
In this way, from memories rather than from hope, I enjoyed Becalmed and found it restored, just a bit mind you, the notion that there could be another that would rival the first love in my life and that Normandie Fischer is no small task! Thank you for giving your reader a story of the beauty of a romantic, physical relationship and the completeness it brings to life. It was encouraging and inspirational and a true pleasure to spend time with. I recommend Becalmed without reservation.
July 30, 2013
I cannot say enough about this story. I took it to bed with me every night to read before lights out. I've not had time to read much during the day this summer, but knowing I had the book with its delicious characters waiting for me at bedtime, kept me looking forward to turning in.
If you love sailing, you will enjoy this book. But you don't need to know anything about the sport. Just enjoy the ride as you sail out to sea with Tadie (it rhymes wih Sadie) the heroine. But Tadie's sail hits some rough seas when she encounters Will, the hero. He's a widower with the cutest little redheaded daughter named Jilly. She's a bit precocious, but not obnoxiously so.
It's easy to see Tadie and Will are made for each other, but they're both too blinded by life to notice. How in the world will they ever get together?
I'm not going to tell you, but I will say reading this book is like enjoying a lazy hazy trip to the Carolinas and settling back with a glass of sweet tea and one of Tadie's cookies.
I was sure sorry when I read the last page. Not because of a dissatisfying ending, but because I had to say good-bye to the characters I'd come to love so much.
Watch out for Normandie Fischer. She's a new fiction author we haven't seen the last of. I'm already chomping at the bit for her next book. You can get it at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, both on line, and at many of your favorite bookstores.
If you love sailing, you will enjoy this book. But you don't need to know anything about the sport. Just enjoy the ride as you sail out to sea with Tadie (it rhymes wih Sadie) the heroine. But Tadie's sail hits some rough seas when she encounters Will, the hero. He's a widower with the cutest little redheaded daughter named Jilly. She's a bit precocious, but not obnoxiously so.
It's easy to see Tadie and Will are made for each other, but they're both too blinded by life to notice. How in the world will they ever get together?
I'm not going to tell you, but I will say reading this book is like enjoying a lazy hazy trip to the Carolinas and settling back with a glass of sweet tea and one of Tadie's cookies.
I was sure sorry when I read the last page. Not because of a dissatisfying ending, but because I had to say good-bye to the characters I'd come to love so much.
Watch out for Normandie Fischer. She's a new fiction author we haven't seen the last of. I'm already chomping at the bit for her next book. You can get it at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, both on line, and at many of your favorite bookstores.
May 14, 2013
Wow! I read this book as a beta reader and was blown out of the water with the emotions and strength of Sarah Longworth (aka. Tadie). The internal struggles she faces being 35 and still a virgin really made me want to cheer her on for waiting for the right guy. That wasn't her motivation for holding out, she had some really bad guys that did her wrong and the time just never came along where she was comfortable. I love how that she didn't need a man to define her but in the end found the love of her life who helped complete her. This is an inspiring read and I strongly recommend it to anyone looking for something to encourage and leave you feeling satisfied.
The author did not intend for this book to be a religious book, however, the characters pray to God and have a high moral standard. No specific religion is discussed other than having respect for God and hope that there is someone greater looking out for us all.
Even though I read this book for free, the price had no bearing on my rating.
The author did not intend for this book to be a religious book, however, the characters pray to God and have a high moral standard. No specific religion is discussed other than having respect for God and hope that there is someone greater looking out for us all.
Even though I read this book for free, the price had no bearing on my rating.
March 13, 2013
Tadie became the maiden aunt in her little town of Beaufort, NC, when she wasn't paying attention. But when the handsome Will and his adorable daughter, Jilly, sail into dock, she perks up. Unfortunately, Will is not willing to be pulled into a relationship with anyone.
Fischer spins a wonderful tale with equal doses of humor and southern charm. Her writing voice is fresh and so unique, you can hear the accents in her word choices. Her characters feel real enough to be good friends or, in the case of the ex-beau, Alex, longtime enemies. When you're finished, you'll be looking forward to your next trip to Beaufort.
Now, I read a lot of Christian fiction, and if you're looking for a typical Christian read, this isn't it. No preaching, no redemption story. But what this book offers is a clean, honest, sometimes humorous look at what it would be like to be a middle-aged virgin in modern America.
Fischer spins a wonderful tale with equal doses of humor and southern charm. Her writing voice is fresh and so unique, you can hear the accents in her word choices. Her characters feel real enough to be good friends or, in the case of the ex-beau, Alex, longtime enemies. When you're finished, you'll be looking forward to your next trip to Beaufort.
Now, I read a lot of Christian fiction, and if you're looking for a typical Christian read, this isn't it. No preaching, no redemption story. But what this book offers is a clean, honest, sometimes humorous look at what it would be like to be a middle-aged virgin in modern America.
July 11, 2013
This was a book I picked up and did not want to put down. It's been a while since I had a book affect me so deeply. This one spoke to me exactly right for this moment,somehow. Not exactly a romance, not exactly literary fiction, possibly upmarket women's fiction, this book has a really interesting story with well-drawn characters and unusual scenarios, like a thirty-five year old virgin and a single dad living aboard a sailboat.
I can't say it's the best book I've ever read because some of the parts in the voice of the little girl seemed weak to me, but I can easily overlook that for the intensity of emotion this book brought me. I cried and cried as it touched me deeply. I felt the struggles of all the characters, the single dad mourning his dead wife, the little girl longing for a mother, the main character feeling unlovable and still hoping and wishing for love.
I really enjoyed this book and am curious what the author will come up with next. I can't wait!
I can't say it's the best book I've ever read because some of the parts in the voice of the little girl seemed weak to me, but I can easily overlook that for the intensity of emotion this book brought me. I cried and cried as it touched me deeply. I felt the struggles of all the characters, the single dad mourning his dead wife, the little girl longing for a mother, the main character feeling unlovable and still hoping and wishing for love.
I really enjoyed this book and am curious what the author will come up with next. I can't wait!
July 14, 2013
Normandie Fischer writes a gentle romance set in the seaside town of Beaufort, NC where the mild breezes and water embrace a community full of characters that love where they live. The author's personal spirit of sailing has been infused into these characters, and the reader can smell the salt, rock with the waves, inhale the humidity as the story unfolds. The main character Tallie has all but given up on finding a gentleman, but her life is still full with sailing the Luna, making jewelry and loving her dear friends. When a child walks into her world, along with a father she's strangely attracted to, suddenly she realizes how being single for so long can be a lonely fate. This is a sweet story with just enough romance, just enough passion, just enough religious conviction to soothe any reader seeking a tale that is touching without the shock factor utilized by so many these day. Impressive debut novel by this author.
August 26, 2015
Normandie Fischer can illustrate loneliness as if she has lived through it herself. I don't have a clue whether she has, but she did an excellent job. Her character, Tadie, was doing just fine in her life--busy, surrounded by friends, generally happy--until Will and his daughter Jillie came along and reminded her of how empty her days were and stirred a craving she'd long suppressed. When Will, still suffering from his wife's death, forbids her from seeing Jillie again and disappears from her life, Tadie's pain is realistic and heartrending. Tadie's a fighter, but that kind of emptiness is a tough opponent. In this battle, victory is sweet indeed.
July 9, 2013
I'm doing something I rarely do in a book. I'm savoring Beclamed, by Normandie Fischer. I have dozens of books in my to-be-read pile that I usually speed read. But when I come across one that's so good, the characters so beautifully drawn, I discipline myself to stop after about 6 chapters a night; I don't want to reach the end. What I find so interesting about Becalmed is that I'm not sure how she's going to get Will to come around. Becalmed is truly masterfully written! Novel Rocket and I give it a very high recommendation. It's a must read!
March 13, 2013
"Write about what you know" is what any good writer does. Normandie Fischer just does it better than most. On inland waterways and the open ocean, Normandie's characters chart a course for home through trials and temptations for a chance at love and redemption.
Becalmed is the story of one woman's journey to care for herself while caring for others, to be true to herself and true to another when what she hopes for will take a miracle or at least an act of God.
Becalmed is the story of one woman's journey to care for herself while caring for others, to be true to herself and true to another when what she hopes for will take a miracle or at least an act of God.
February 19, 2017
The title is appropriate to this sometimes slow-moving story of a thirty-something woman stuck behind “Do Not Pass Go” in her life. The pace, however, is not so slow that it prevents this from being a good story somewhat in the vein of Elin Hildebrand. If you like Elin, you’ll like Normandie. The characters have depth and are likeable, except for the bad guy. He’s really hate-able. An enjoyable read. I recommend it.
December 11, 2013
I really enjoyed this story set amidst the world of sailing and coastal towns of America. The main character, Tradie, is the kind of woman I'd love to have as a best friend! Becalmed is one of the few books in recent years that I couldn't put down.
July 2, 2015
What a great light reading love story!!
March 29, 2017
Fischer is, in my opinion, a good writer in that she drew me in to the story and kept my interest in the story line. I was disappointed with the last few chapters of the book, when suddenly the main characters said and did things that i felt were not given enough development.
I agree that the bad guy did have some questionable motives throughout the book. But the other main characters acted strangely at the end. It didn't fit my ideals of who they were. i guess i need to move beyond Grace Livingston Hill.
I agree that the bad guy did have some questionable motives throughout the book. But the other main characters acted strangely at the end. It didn't fit my ideals of who they were. i guess i need to move beyond Grace Livingston Hill.
September 2, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I felt like I was reading about myself. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
September 2, 2015
To read what I think of the audio-version of this book, I've placed that review on Audible. Be assured, it's totally different.
This review is to focus on the actual book, the story, and the writing....
Tadie is the owner of a handmade jewelry/ art shop in a small coastal North Carolina town. She's 35, had one significant love in her life that ended badly with him cheating on her, and she's been single ever since, focusing on her friendships, her art, and her sailing.
Along comes a man and his little girl who are laid up in this town while his boat is being fixed. They stumble upon Tadie's shop. Will's little girl, Jilly, wins the hearts of everyone.
Tadie's has quite a few friends who are a lovely support for her, as close as family, as she has no family left. It seems her heart is full, until this little girl tugs at strings she never knew she had.
The rest of the book, until the last few chapters, is how Will misinterprets Tadie's kindness toward him and his daughter, supposing she's coming on to him to snag him. He treats her with disdain from that time on and won't allow his daughter any contact with Tadie. Why she's attracted to this arrogant man, other than the way he treats his precious daughter, is beyond me. He's horrible. Inept socially! Even when, after months of no contact, and after realizing his mistake, he tries to apologize, but manages to insult her more.
Furthermore he goes from reticence to full-bore love in a matter of days. Ah well, I suppose there are folks like that. Who am I to judge...
Just a thought... If you're going to bring Christian values into a book, an author needs to make the values biblically accurate. In this case it's being unequally yoked. Non-Christians and fence sitters can get the impression that being unequally yoked (a twice-entered theme in this book) is acceptable. It's clear what God thinks about this.
Aside from that, this is a sweet read. The writing is intelligent, and entertaining.
Kudos on the way Tadie's relationships are introduced and developed. Very loving and supportive!
This review is to focus on the actual book, the story, and the writing....
Tadie is the owner of a handmade jewelry/ art shop in a small coastal North Carolina town. She's 35, had one significant love in her life that ended badly with him cheating on her, and she's been single ever since, focusing on her friendships, her art, and her sailing.
Along comes a man and his little girl who are laid up in this town while his boat is being fixed. They stumble upon Tadie's shop. Will's little girl, Jilly, wins the hearts of everyone.
Tadie's has quite a few friends who are a lovely support for her, as close as family, as she has no family left. It seems her heart is full, until this little girl tugs at strings she never knew she had.
The rest of the book, until the last few chapters, is how Will misinterprets Tadie's kindness toward him and his daughter, supposing she's coming on to him to snag him. He treats her with disdain from that time on and won't allow his daughter any contact with Tadie. Why she's attracted to this arrogant man, other than the way he treats his precious daughter, is beyond me. He's horrible. Inept socially! Even when, after months of no contact, and after realizing his mistake, he tries to apologize, but manages to insult her more.
Furthermore he goes from reticence to full-bore love in a matter of days. Ah well, I suppose there are folks like that. Who am I to judge...
Just a thought... If you're going to bring Christian values into a book, an author needs to make the values biblically accurate. In this case it's being unequally yoked. Non-Christians and fence sitters can get the impression that being unequally yoked (a twice-entered theme in this book) is acceptable. It's clear what God thinks about this.
Aside from that, this is a sweet read. The writing is intelligent, and entertaining.
Kudos on the way Tadie's relationships are introduced and developed. Very loving and supportive!
October 4, 2015
I loved my trip back to Beaufort, North Carolina, the place I first visited in Heavy Weather. Some of the character I met there are the main characters in Becalmed. I love it when I can go back and revisit a place that I have come to love and am able to learn more about the people who live there.
Tadie is living her life, day to day, getting by. She thinks she is happy but then Will and his adorable daughter, Jilly sail into town and she starts to feel what she is missing. I just fell in love with that little girl. She is wise beyond her years and so honest with her feelings, unlike most of the adults in this story. They should all just take a clue from her.
'It's time for her to do something proactive to change her life. Something healing. Something fun.'
Tadie had been hurt before and she can't trust her feelings or men anymore. To add to the confusion of Tadie's world, a former love comes back to town, with his new wife, and won't leave Tadie alone. She is so confused. Then things start spinning out of control. There is just enough drama and suspense in this story that you are not going to want to put the book down.
I read Heavy Weather in May. It was on tour at the time and I thought it sounded like it would be an enjoyable read. I was not prepared to be blown away by the characters and the story. I absolutely loved it and loved that I was able to revisit Beaufort. I look forward to reading more stories set in this wonderful community. And word from the author is that there will be at least 2 more Carolina Coast stories! Yay!
Tadie is living her life, day to day, getting by. She thinks she is happy but then Will and his adorable daughter, Jilly sail into town and she starts to feel what she is missing. I just fell in love with that little girl. She is wise beyond her years and so honest with her feelings, unlike most of the adults in this story. They should all just take a clue from her.
'It's time for her to do something proactive to change her life. Something healing. Something fun.'
Tadie had been hurt before and she can't trust her feelings or men anymore. To add to the confusion of Tadie's world, a former love comes back to town, with his new wife, and won't leave Tadie alone. She is so confused. Then things start spinning out of control. There is just enough drama and suspense in this story that you are not going to want to put the book down.
I read Heavy Weather in May. It was on tour at the time and I thought it sounded like it would be an enjoyable read. I was not prepared to be blown away by the characters and the story. I absolutely loved it and loved that I was able to revisit Beaufort. I look forward to reading more stories set in this wonderful community. And word from the author is that there will be at least 2 more Carolina Coast stories! Yay!
January 8, 2014
Keeping Hold of our Dreams. It's a couple of months now since I read this book. I have just seen Woody Allen's Blue Jasmine film and for some reason I find I'm connecting this book to that movie! Maybe it's because Becalmed involves a main character who in some ways lives a privileged life and some may regard her troubles as middle class ennui. But Becalmed is in many ways a rather brave book, countercultural even. How many of us have read a book where the the main protagonist, Tadie, is a 35 year old virgin? And not for religious reasons. And she's attractive and heterosexual too! Becalmed is a romantic book, the characters are realistic and they deal with real life situations. Sometimes I found myself wanting to say to Tadie, "Pull yourself together! Really, your life is OK!" But that just makes it more realistic - most days I find myself saying those very words to myself.
Tadie has dreams and high hopes. The book depicts the battle to maintain the grip on how we want our life to be. It's about not letting go of our dreams as the years go by. Tadie's life is occupied with scoundrels, lovers and kind hearted folks. She views life with blinkers, like we all do, not aware of the whole picture. I thoroughly recommend this book. It's an entertaining read and holds deeper lessons if we're open to them.
Tadie has dreams and high hopes. The book depicts the battle to maintain the grip on how we want our life to be. It's about not letting go of our dreams as the years go by. Tadie's life is occupied with scoundrels, lovers and kind hearted folks. She views life with blinkers, like we all do, not aware of the whole picture. I thoroughly recommend this book. It's an entertaining read and holds deeper lessons if we're open to them.
July 18, 2013
I think I've found another favorite author. Normandie Fischer's portrayal of Tadie Longworth and her friends makes me feel like I know them. Her setting in Beaufort, SC and her descriptions made me feel a part of it all. The sailing angle added just enough exotic interest to this landlocked reader, without so many details that I got lost.
Tadie Longworth and her best friend, Hannah, own a shop that sells jewelry (made by Tadie) and pottery (made by Hannah) among other things. Life is good, until Will and his daughter, Jillie sail into town. Problems with his boat's engine requires them to stay put long enough for Jillie and Tadie to fall in love with each other. But Will is still grieving his wife's death, and when he notices the beginnings of Tadie's attraction to him, he hightails it out of her life, tearing Jillie away and forbidding Tadie from seeing her again.
Tadie questions her purpose in life and tries to find it while Jillie works to bring her dad to his senses. Love wins, but not without an element of danger from Tadie's ex-boyfriend.
I fell in love, too, with Tadie, Hannah, Isa, Will, Jillie, Rita, Elvie and James and all the other characters in this book. It is well worth reading!
Tadie Longworth and her best friend, Hannah, own a shop that sells jewelry (made by Tadie) and pottery (made by Hannah) among other things. Life is good, until Will and his daughter, Jillie sail into town. Problems with his boat's engine requires them to stay put long enough for Jillie and Tadie to fall in love with each other. But Will is still grieving his wife's death, and when he notices the beginnings of Tadie's attraction to him, he hightails it out of her life, tearing Jillie away and forbidding Tadie from seeing her again.
Tadie questions her purpose in life and tries to find it while Jillie works to bring her dad to his senses. Love wins, but not without an element of danger from Tadie's ex-boyfriend.
I fell in love, too, with Tadie, Hannah, Isa, Will, Jillie, Rita, Elvie and James and all the other characters in this book. It is well worth reading!
August 22, 2013
I read this book because somebody told me it brought my first novel to mind. Vanity took over. What a delightful find! I love boating and this book reminds me of the days my family spent sleeping on boats and traveling around the Great Lakes via water.
Like a really great all-day-sail, this book starts out gently. The fascinating characters take shape and what looks like some sort of cloud pops up on the horizon. Once you really get into the story, the clouds darken and draw near, but land has slipped from sight. Then the story kicks into high gear and the conflict stirs up just enough worry to hold on tight, gritting teeth, and trying not to imagine the boat bottomside-up. The novel’s ending reminds me of the sweet cruise into harbor, wind winding down and sun setting into the water, reflecting orange light onto the ocean and into the clouds above. The perfect ending to a perfect day.
Translation: a great story - especially if you like boats. Ms. Fischer brings the town of Beaufort, SC to life with believable characters and southern flair. And though I’m not a huge romance fan, I must admit I loved the romantic progression of the story because of an extra special third wheel named Jilly. Unique, sweet, and brave. Look out to starboard and snag your copy today!
Like a really great all-day-sail, this book starts out gently. The fascinating characters take shape and what looks like some sort of cloud pops up on the horizon. Once you really get into the story, the clouds darken and draw near, but land has slipped from sight. Then the story kicks into high gear and the conflict stirs up just enough worry to hold on tight, gritting teeth, and trying not to imagine the boat bottomside-up. The novel’s ending reminds me of the sweet cruise into harbor, wind winding down and sun setting into the water, reflecting orange light onto the ocean and into the clouds above. The perfect ending to a perfect day.
Translation: a great story - especially if you like boats. Ms. Fischer brings the town of Beaufort, SC to life with believable characters and southern flair. And though I’m not a huge romance fan, I must admit I loved the romantic progression of the story because of an extra special third wheel named Jilly. Unique, sweet, and brave. Look out to starboard and snag your copy today!
December 18, 2013
"Becalmed" is a sweet, gentle love story about a southern woman falling for a widower and his young daughter as they try to sail away from their grief over the loss of their wife and mother. Tadie Longworth considers herself plain, not a woman who takes chances, and certainly not someone desired by a man as solid and interesting as Will Merritt. He and young Jilly have docked into town for some boat repairs and become fast friends with Tadie. She and Will start to fall for each other, but Will’s loyalty to his deceased wife pulls him – and Jilly – away from Tadie, breaking her heart and leading her to explore life beyond her own, small town in search of something more. The writing is lovely, the characters rich and real, (especially little Jilly), and the ending sweet. A lovely read.
July 20, 2013
If you're tired of the same old formula when it comes to romance, then head out on the high seas for more than simply a romantic adventure. Sail into a light literary romance, and I say light because you won't be tempted to skip pages of long drawn out description. This lovely tale anchors you to your seat until the last words blow softly across your face like an ocean breeze. You'll feel as if you actually know Tadie. She's your sister, your best friend, just a woman whose tale you heard about, but you'll truly feel as if you know her intimately. Throw in a little girl longing for a mommy and you've got the best summer read around.
July 21, 2013
I have no history with sailing, but that didn't deter me from thoroughly enjoying this book. I can only imagine that someone who DOES know their way around a boat would find it that much more entertaining. I loved the small town setting, the diversity of friendships, the warmth and honesty of the relationships, and the fact that the bad guy gets what's coming to him. These are real people whom you might encounter anywhere, with realistic issues and frustrations in their daily lives that don't get whisked aside simply because this is a love story. I'll be looking for more of this author's work.
June 19, 2013
Normandie Fischer manages to pull you into the life of Tadie from the very first line, and continues to hold you captive with every line thereafter.
Weaving a story that is both enchanting and real to life, this is a novel that will resonate with anyone who has known heartache and loss and the sweeping joy of loves sweet arrival.
I've already ordered copies for friends and family as Christmas gifts. Can't wait to read more from this author!
Susannah Friis, freelance writer and speaker.
Weaving a story that is both enchanting and real to life, this is a novel that will resonate with anyone who has known heartache and loss and the sweeping joy of loves sweet arrival.
I've already ordered copies for friends and family as Christmas gifts. Can't wait to read more from this author!
Susannah Friis, freelance writer and speaker.
September 5, 2013
This book is the perfect combination of the celebration of womanhood and romance.
Set on the Carolina coast, this book involves sailing, both local by the main character, Tadie (Sara Longworth) and to a series of ports by Will and his daughter Jilly. There are many dramatic conflicts to overcome, but through them all there is an undercurrent of love and family. Since I have always loved the sea and desired to sail, this book was definitely a must-read for me. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Set on the Carolina coast, this book involves sailing, both local by the main character, Tadie (Sara Longworth) and to a series of ports by Will and his daughter Jilly. There are many dramatic conflicts to overcome, but through them all there is an undercurrent of love and family. Since I have always loved the sea and desired to sail, this book was definitely a must-read for me. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
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