Rise and Shine

Contemporary Fairytales

by Sandra D. Bricker

Shannon Malone thought she’d found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she’s thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon’s tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone’s life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones!

As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes—both in the world and in her—she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show' And where is her beloved dog, Freeway' Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart’s dog, not hers.

Shannon’s three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund’s sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel’s kiss awaken her once and for all'

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian, Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance, Retellings, Fairy Tales

288 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2014

About the author

Sandra D. Bricker was an entertainment publicist in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, where she attended school to learn screenwriting and eventually taught the craft for several semesters. She became a best-selling, award-winning author of Live-Out-Loud Fiction for the inspirational market, authored books such as the Jessie Stanton novels, and was best known for her Emma Rae Creation series. Over the years, as an ovarian cancer survivor, she spent time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure. Sandra lived in Toledo, Ohio before her passing in 2016.

Reviews

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last thing Shannon remembers is her and her new husband leaving the hotel on their honeymoon to go diving. She wakes up from a coma to find her new husband has died, and her very attractive doctor, Daniel knows more about her than she does. Her faith is shaken and she begins to lean very heavily on Daniel. He is the only link she has to her husband, Edmund.
In true Sandra style she has written a book that will not only give you a laugh or two, it will leave you thinking about the characters and their story long after you've closed the last page.

Highly recommended!

[JoJo Sutis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love fairy tale retellings and modern-day twists on the stories I loved growing up! Rise and Shine is one of my absolute favorites!
I cannot imaged being in a coma for 10 years, but main character Shannon experiences this. I thought this story was spun in such a fun and creative way- mirroring the tale of Sleeping Beauty, but with tons of fun!
Shannon woke up to the news that her newly we’d hubby had passed away. She woke up to a whole new world of technology- this was so fun to experience with her!
The supporting characters were wonderful- from the 3 aunts to the wicked Millicent and of course, Daniel.
I love Sandra’s books- they are fun and inspiring. I hope she continues to write these contemporary fairy-tale re-tellings, because I can’t get enough!!! I love them!!!

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shannon wakes up from being in a coma for 10 years. Dr. Daniel is there when she wakes up. A lot has changed during the 10 years, she was on her honeymoon when the accident happen. Her husband passed away during that time and everyone looks a lot older. She told her Aunt Mary " you look terrible! Are you sick" , but she had just gotten older. When Daniel gives her a Kindle she says "what's a Kindle". Some things she can remember and some things not. She does continue to remember things, also they find out they actually knew each other when they were children. This book made me laugh and cry. I got really attached to Shannon. I loved this book.

[Mrs. Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was anticipating this book for a long time and the book exceeded my expectations! This book has it all: fun love story, fairy tale spin-off (Sleeping Beauty), well developed characters, and it even touches a little on the questions that come with life and faith. Sandra has done a fabulous job balancing the book to have humor, romance, and still speak to the questions that come with the trials of life. To me this book took Sandra's writing to a different level, while it included a lot of romance, I felt the book had more depth without being overwhelming. I just loved this book and I hope you will too!!!
*I received a galley of this book, but this review is my honest opinion.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Comments
I simply loved everything about this book….I really felt like I was there with Shannon every bit of her journey and it was precious throughout. This book is definitely a 5 star read and one of the best books I’ve read this year!

Shannon is enjoying her honeymoon with Edmund in 2005 when disaster strikes and the next thing the reader knows, she’s waking up from nearly a 10-year coma! *Minor spoiler alert* I was heartbroken momentarily for Shannon when she learns her beloved husband is no longer alive and this is an added trauma to what Shannon must deal with as she recuperates. I was sooo very touched by the respectful way Edmund’s memory is dealt with, the lengths he went to in order for Shannon to wake up, AND with the ease of being taken care of so many years later. Rest in peace, Edmund, you will never be forgotten by the characters in this book. It was amazing in the short time we knew Edmund in the story, the impact he has on Shannon and everyone else. *End of spoiler*

Edmund and Daniel are definitely the heroes in this story. Even though there are many lovable characters including Aunt Mary, Izzy/her family, Dr. Rush, and even Rodney/Freckles :)

I utterly enjoyed the scenes with Shannon and Daniel hanging out together and the friendship/chemistry between them! The scene where Shannon has just adopted Rodney and is describing the new man in her life to Daniel on the phone, just priceless :)

The dialogue in this story is just a delight! It’s funny, enjoyable, sweet, humorous, witty, and touching. There are SO MANY references to old movies and TV shows, but you don’t have to be a film buff to understand them. This book SLIGHTLY reminded me of the book, P.S. I Love You, except Rise & Shine is the Christian version and one I can connect with much better. I found Shannon to be entertaining, genuine, endearing, adorable, creative, funny, graceful and lovely throughout. She has the greatest sense of humor, she has such innocence about her and her faith gets restored. I also loved the fairy tale bits and comparisons! Some of the best parts of the story are when Daniel prays for her. His support, devotion, patience, and loyalty had me admiring him way beyond his wonderful looks. He is such an amazing character and he enhanced the story big time.

Things Shannon has to learn about:
Kindle
Smartphone
iPad
TV Shows
Renewing her driver’s license
Cooking
Facebook
Skype

This book has the perfect amounts of humor, wit, sadness, moving forward, letting go, restoring one’s faith, family, romance, friendship, passion and even a hospital with friendly staff rooting for one very special patient! I highly recommend it and I’m confident my fellow booklovers, that you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. There’s just something so precious within its pages that will leave you feeling satisfied long after you’ve read the end :)

I want to thank the author and River North Fiction/Moody Publishers for the review copy received. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Michelle Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise and Shine by Sandra D. Bricker
Shannon Malone wakes up from a coma after almost ten years. Not only is she no longer a newlywed she is now a widow. Her beloved Edmund has passed away from cancer. Dr Daniel Petros has taken care of her most of these years and has gone above and beyond the standard care. He befriended Edmund and took of the care of her personal affairs after his passing. Now he has taken on the job of familiarizing Shannon with the world and changes that have taken place. As Shannon struggles to learn this new world, she faces grief and guilt. Her guilt builds as she develops an attraction to Dr. Daniel. Just like in sleeping Beauty, the Evil Queen rears her ugly head in the form of Edmunds evil sister. And the three good fairies show up as her three aunts who have made her well-being and care their a main concern, especially her Aunt Mary. I fell head over heals in love over Rodney the basset hound. Read this great book to see if Dr Daniel’s kiss wakes her and they find their happily ever after. You will find inspiration, romance, quirky characters and amusement around every corner. I love Sandra D. Bricker books, they are always so light hearted and fun. She takes a serious situation and puts a positive light on it. I think I fall a little more in love with her books the more I read. In fact I have never found one that I did not like because I have found all of them fantastic. I give this book a high five, great job. It is well written with characters that are enthusiastic, inspiring and full of life. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for a compelling Christian book that is entertaining and gives hope to the readers with stories of faith. I want to thank the author Sandra D. Bricker and publisher for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've so enjoyed reading Sandra Bricker's contemporary twist on the beloved fairy tales. As a child I loved reading fairy tales and I still love to watch movies or read about them from time to time. After reading, "If the Shoe Fits" I knew I wanted to read this one as well.
I laughed several times throughout this book and I really enjoyed how the author really implemented a little humor in almost every situation.
I was so engrossed with this novel that I devoured every page whenever I had a chance to read it. I really love when a book can capture my attention even on my busiest days. There was hardly a boring moment and to be honest it could have went on and on!
It was very interesting to read how that the heroine was discovering herself and overcoming obstacles throughout the novel.
The hero was pretty good to read about as well! As I mentioned before, I have a weakness for reading about heroes who are doctors in novels. So yeah... ;)
Overall, if you're into contemporary and fairy tale re-tellings this is definitely the book for you. The writing flowed and was right to the point. I really enjoyed this sweet and charming novel. I highly recommend reading this novel!! (4 stars)

*I received this book through Moody Publishers. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and I was not required to write a positive review.*

[Cathie Gerhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was such a pleasant surprise. When you read one of Sandie Bricker books, you come away with feeling you have a new best friend. This was totally the case when I read Rise and Shine. Shannon married the love of her lie Edmund Ridgeway. Yet life took an unexpected turn when an accident happened while on her honeymoon. The accident left her in a coma. And yet life for her stopped yet the world around her continued. One unexpected day she "woke" and found life had changed, talk about a rude awakening. She not only discovered she was now a widow, but technology had been discovered. The world of Ipads, texting the internet and even Skype had come into play while she was asleep. Yet can she move on and begin a new life? Watching Shannon discover not only herself but also how her life of her past helps her adjust to the new life around her. And of course it would not be complete with out her realizing she found love again. This could be daunting for anyone yet how she realized she loved the man in front of her, will leave you believing in love all over again. This book will find you cheering Shannon on, crying with Shannon and somehow she has wrapped herself round your finger and she has become apart of your life. Well Done!!! So worth 5 plus stars.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun book. I really enjoyed this one. I can’t even imagine how I would feel if I had missed my life for ten years and wake up to a whole new world.

I loved when Shannon wakes up she has totally missed the e-reader, iPad movement and this is all new to her. It also makes me realize how quickly things have changed from 2005 to 2014.

I loved the character of Daniel and I kept wondering how these two would fall for each other, although it is pretty evident from the beginning that Daniel cares for Shannon more than on a doctor-patient level. My heart stirred to think of the relationship he formed with Shannon’s husband and that Daniel was able to see Shannon through her husband’s eyes and grew to care for her because of another’s great love.

Hmmmm, kind of reminds me of how God sees us through Jesus and because of Jesus we can enter into a relationship with the Holy One. Love can do amazing things :)

Overall, I think this is a book you will enjoy whether you have ever read Sandra’s books before or not. A great story and a great romance.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book its about a girl who has met and married her prince charming and in a instant everything changes. But an instant turns into waking up to the world changing 10 years late when she wake up and realize she has so much to catch up on. And why dealing with a lot of pain and hurt Shannon decides that she will take as it comes and will see where life heads.
Sandra has done it again and you will not be disappointed. Sandra has got to the heart of the matter and gets you sucked in right away and all you want to do is enjoy it was you can. I wasn't even through the book all the way when I knew I wanted to read this again. I love how the characters could be a friend or some one you meet in real life. The story is so life like that you wonder if it really has ever happened. I love how Sandie can make you laugh and cry and leave you still wanting more. If you have never read any of Sandie's book grab this one and I know you will want to read all your books. Each one of her books have character and is very enjoyable.

[Rebekah Gyger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have only ever read one other Sleeping Beauty retelling and must say that I like this one better. Coming up with a reason for someone to be asleep for a long time is difficult, and I believe that Sandra came up with a good reason. It is also terribly sad, with everything Shannon must then wake up to.

I found the way Sandra handled someone waking up after ten years in a coma to be realistic in the changes one would face, while also bringing a touch of humor. Imagining what someone's reaction to different technological devises would be if they had never seen them had me laughing and realizing just how much I rely on my smartphone.

Overall, Rise and Shine is a very sweet romance that had a bittersweet beginning. I hope to see more fairy tale retellings from Sandra Bricker soon.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marriage means happily ever after, right? Not for Shannon Ridgeway, not when unexpected tragedy happens on her honeymoon. She awakens from a coma ten years later, obviously a lot has changed, but not just what you would expect in ten years. She has to learn how to get on in her life, with no Edmund, no career, no prospect of a career or remembering what she liked to do. Her faith in God is put in question, until she realizes that is one of the things she needs most. Having Dr. Daniel, who cared for her for ten years and became a close friend of Edmund helps her get back into her life. Once again, Sandra D. Bricker has exceeded my expectations. Just when I think I have found my favorite of her books, she changes my mind with a new release!

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you imagine waking up from your honeymoon and it's years later and your husband has died? A handsome doctor and three aunts to help you along and a sister-in-law to crush you. New technology to deal with. A lack of memory that comes back a little at a time. This book will make you feel so many emotions as Shannon comes closer and closer to remembering her past and starts heading toward her new future. It's a fun read that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next! Make sure this one is on your reading list!

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun read! I was cheering right along with Aunt Mary as I read it. The characters are like able and fun and the story is easy to read and very enjoyable! I loved the pop culture references especially to the show Castle which is one of my absolute favorite shows :) The book also makes me want to check out the Dick Van Dyke show which I've never actually seen, so I've requested the first season from my local library. :) if you want a laugh out loud fun and light contemporary fairy tale-then this is the boom for you! 5 plus stars!

[Rachel Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

You should have already known that when I saw "contemporary fairy tale", that it was a given that I was going to check this out. I don't care that much for Sleeping Beauty in general, but I really enjoyed this one. It was cute and fun.

Shannon is on her honeymoon, when she has an accident that puts her in a coma. When she finally wakes up, 10 years has passed, and her husband has died of cancer. She understands nothing of the world around her, or what to do. With the help of her best friend Izzy, her fairy godmothers--er, aunts, and her Prince Charming (also known as Doctor Petros), Shannon learns to re-navigate the world and find her purpose. And of course, battle the evil Maleficent--I mean Millicent.

I will say, one thing this put into perspective was how technologically dependent we have become. You don't think about how fast it has progressed from only 10 years ago, until you saw it from Shannon's perspective. And seeing her get excited about all the new discoveries shows how much we take for granted too.

I loved the characters. Shannon is a strong-willed, independent woman. She has to learn how she fits in the world after being "asleep" for ten years, and that is not an easy thing to do, especially when you still can't remember most of your previous life. Hear aunts were fun and hilarious, and Izzy was the kind of girlfriend every woman needs. And Doctor Petros was so kind and perfect and funny (if a bit old. For me, not for Shannon. Bummer.)

This was definitely a cute, hilarious story. Sandra D. Bricker has a way of writing that will have you laughing out loud. It may be a sweet and simple story, but it is definitely filled with a lot of fun times, emotions, and growth. The spiritual aspect was nicely weaved in, as Sandra learns to come to terms with God after the aspect. All in all, this is a nicely done book that is perfect when you're looking for something sweet and fun.

I received a copy from the publisher, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 for Goodreads rating purposes (seriously, when are we going to be able to rate half stars??).

This book was so fun and quirky. Sleeping Beauty actually isn't my favorite fairy tale, but this modern twist on the classic story was just so much fun! The characters just leaped off the page, and when I was done with the book I wanted to call them up and catch up with them, like they're old friends. That's what I like.

"Rise and Shine" also very nicely balanced the humor and more serious plotlines. There was never too much or too little of either one, and I really appreciated that. It was a very hard book to put down!

My only complaint is that the ending was a bit too rushed (thus the half-star knocked off the rating). It ended too abruptly, and felt jarring compared to the pace of the rest of the book. But I still very much enjoyed this one, and look forward to reading it again in the future!

[R.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rise and Shine is a contemporary retelling of Sleeping Beauty, and was an amazing one at that!

I loved the main characters, Shannon and Daniel, and the story was very well written. Shannon’s personality makes the terrible trauma that she went through easy to read without getting depressed, of course we still care for her. There are a few emotional scenes, but for the most part, you are laughing.

I loved how Daniel was such an amazing Christian. He thanked God for everything that happened, prayed before every decision, and even prayed with Shannon a few times. Though he wasn’t perfect, he was still a great Christian roll-model.

If you liked If the Shoe Fits, Sandra’s contemporary retelling of Cinderella, or just funny books in general, I can almost promise that you will love this book!

I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.

This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book... I LOVED IT! Shannon is like a modern Sleeping Beauty. She's been in a coma for 10 years from a diving accident that occurred on her honeymoon. The world that she wakes up in is crazy different from the one that she knew before. Not only is everything around her different, Shannon realizes that she has changed in various ways herself.
I will hold my tongue so there are no spoilers, but this book was a real treat.

[Daisy Dandelion · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
Super cute story that leaves you with a smile on your face.
It is definitely a fairy tale, complete with a sleeping beauty (who makes a miraculously rapid recovery), and a good-looking prince charming.
Love reading a clean story with a Christian viewpoint.
And after this read I am completely motivated to prepare some delicious dishes in my kitchen!

[Amie B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the book overall. It doesn’t have any language or vulgar sex scenes. It is just a good, light read. I did think it ended a little abruptly, but it was a happy ending.

[Cathy Fassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun read. I found myself itching to finish reading it while not wanting the story to end!

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't imagine waiting a lifetime to get married to the perfect man that I had fallen head over heels in love with even as he put his wealthy upbringing behind him to marry me. Spending a blissful honeymoon in Fiji, getting prepared for diving and then waking up 10 years later and not remembering a thing but fragmented bits and pieces of your life. That is just what has happened to Shannon Malone. For the last 10 years, she has been faithfully cared for by her husband Edmund in the Draper Long Term Care facility until cancer took over his life and left her a widow in her comatose state. Now as she tries to make sense of what happens she learns that her attending physician Dr. Daniel Petros has been waiting for just this moment to happen. Not every one wakes up, but Shannon is that exception and miracle that her entire family has been waiting for.

Now as she tries to understand the implications of what happened and how she can pick up and attempt to move forward in her life, Daniel attempts to fill in the blanks for her. Being Edmund's best friend until he passed away, he shows her just how much Edmund believed that Shannon would one day wake up. Being a huge lover of fairy tales, she is Sleeping Beauty in real life, only there was no kiss to wake her from her slumber. If there was, surely Edmond would have made sure to try that. But when everyone else seemed to lose faith and hope that one day she would wake, Edmond's dedication and Daniel's belief she would one day wake up, has proved to be 100% true.

But how do you simply wake up from one life and begin another? How do you stop loving the man you love now that that life is over and he isn't around? How do you stop the implications of Edmond's sister Millicent who believes their family is entitled to everything that belonged to Edmond including her home and wedding ring? Is is possible to find a happily ever after in the wake of a living nightmare?

I received Rise and Shine from author Sandra D. Bricker compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and River North Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. I love the introduction to a modern day fairy tale that introduces each new section of the novel that is a reference to Shannon's new life. She finds solace in being a different person that when she went into her coma when it comes to remembering her lost love in Edmond and how deeply he went to such great lengths to see to her care, even when he was facing his own death without her. Daniel's dedication to her medical care comes through when he realizes just how wonderful Shannon's life was with Edmond and how easily it can be to fall in love with her. This is such a wonderful novel that I can easily give a full 5 out of 5 stars to and love all the creativity that went into creating this modern day fairy tale! It reminded me of While You Were Sleeping with actress Sandra Bullock.

[Kate (The Shelf Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a lover of fairy tales...a known Disney princess fanatic...I have a Pinterest board to prove it. So, when a new twist on an old favorite comes along, I have to check it out.

I was not disappointed in Rise & Shine. I wondered how Sleeping Beauty could be told with a modern twist. Sandra figured out the perfect way to do it. It was a mix of Sleeping Beauty and Rip Van Winkle. It also showed the most realistic version of time travel. Being in a coma and waking up ten years later. It really brings attention to how much things can change, especially with the advances in technology.

When introduced to Shannon, she is a bubbly newlywed. Happy about life...except for the ending of her favorite TV show Friends. She is ready to concur the world, and her newlywed class at church with her husband. We don't get to really dive into the the old Shannon's life. We just get a brief glimpse. The Shannon we get to know is the girl who wakes up ten years later to a whole new world that has kept on moving without her.

Shannon deals with so many changes and has several blows dealt to her. And after having been out of it for ten years, she really doesn't remember who she was. Her memories are faded, so when she is able to start life again, after rehabbing, she is determined to find out what she wants to do, because who people keep telling her she was, just doesn't fit to who she thinks she is anymore.

It was an interesting story to think about while reading. What would some be like after waking up. How would they see everything with these new eyes. It was interesting to see it through Shannon's perspective.

There was a lot of humor through out the story, which was great, because this story could have easily have been a very serious and heart wrenching story. It has many sweet moments as well. Shannon's aunt Mary is a very chipper character that kept lightness to the book as it moved forward during what could have been heavier moments.

Daniel was very much the prince charming in the story. He cared for everyone and he made good on the promise he made to Shannon's late husband. He was a wonderful support for Shannon during her transitioning time. And in modern day style, he does goof up, but he is willing to learn from his mistakes.

This was a fun story to read. It was the perfect companion for me during my sick day. The only small thing about the story I noticed I wish was a little different was the ending. It wasn't bad, I enjoyed it, but it just seemed to end a little too quickly, but that could have just been me wanting know more about the afterwards of the characters.

Thank you to MP Newsroom, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.


This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“Shannon Malone thought she'd found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she's thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon's tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone's life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones!
As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world and in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait! That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's dog, not hers.
Shannon's three elderly aunts flit through her life in true Sleeping Beauty style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund's sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel's kiss awaken her once and for all?”


Series: Book #2 in the stand-alone series “Contemporary Fairy Tales” (review of book #1, “If The Shoe Fits”, here!)


Spiritual Content- Jeremiah 29:11 and other Scriptures; Prayers and Blessing over food are said; Church going.


Negative Content- A (not-detailed) blood scene.


Sexual Content- a ‘sexy’; Three almost kisses & two semi-detailed kisses.

-Shannon Malone
-Daniel Petros
P.O.V. switches between them
284 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre & New Teens- One Star
Early High School age Teens (15-16) – Three Stars
Older High School age Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Heeheehee! There were many parts that I would just burst out laughing! The first book in this series, “If the Shoe Fits”, was good but I enjoyed “Rise & Shine” so much! I was shocked at the plot twists and laughed so hard!

[Valerie (Val's Vicinity) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gotta admit, this one is pretty fun--even if you're not a fairy tale buff! The idea of someone waking from a 10 year coma and trying to integrate back into the world is fascinating, offering many unique subplots that aren't often explored in fiction. Being sort of a tech-geek girl myself, I was particularly amused by the changes in technology that Shannon had to get used to. (It's amazing how things change in 10 years!) Her sense of wonder regarding the new technology was pretty fun, and it makes you realize how much we often take for granted.

The interaction between Daniel and Shannon was enjoyable; the transition from doctor/patient to friends was smoothly done, very believable and natural feeling. I also liked the idea that Shannon's tastes and motivations for life changed during her coma time, similar to how an average person's preferences slowly evolve during their life.

There's quite a few classic TV references sprinkled throughout the story, with "The Dick Van Dyke Show" claiming the majority of the references. Since I'm familiar with the series (gotta love TV on DVD!) much of this was rather amusing for me, but for those who aren't familiar with the show I imagine the references might grow slightly stale after while.

The biggest downside is that the ending seemed a bit abrupt; especially when I was hoping for a solid "happily ever after" to go along with the fairy tale theme. Without a doubt it has the promise of a future happily ever after, but some aspects are left slightly open ended, which prods the reader to imagine how certain things will turn out. It's not a deal breaker for me, but when it comes to endings I guess I'm just more of a traditionalist.

Overall, this is a cute modern day take on Sleeping Beauty. It's a loose adaption, of course, but nevertheless it's still a fun ride. I do admit the "villain" seemed a bit too villainous, with no clear reason or motivation behind her wickedness...but, I guess every good story needs a villain so the "good guys" can triumph, right? :) If you're in the mood for something unique and cute, this story is something that I'd certainly recommend. I may even purchase a copy or two as gifts for my friends!

My Rating: 4.5 stars. Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandra D. Bricker in her new book, “Rise & Shine” Book Two in the A Contemporary Fairy Tale series published by River North introduces us to Shannon Malone.

From the back cover: Right in the middle of an ordinary life, God throws in a fairy tale.

Shannon Malone awakes ten years after a diving accident to find that nothing in her previous life is the same. Waking up to the news that she’s thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that her young groom, Edmund, recently lost his battle with cancer.

Shannon’s elderly aunts flit through her life trying to save her from Millicent, Edmund’s evil sister, as she tries to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway fortune. Shannon’s gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, becomes Shannon’s tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone’s life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cellphones!

Can Shannon navigate to a happy ending even when her heart keeps asking, “Why, God?”

A 21st Century Sleeping Beauty. Well, not quite. All the ingredients seem to be there but they do not seem to come together the way a real fairy tale does. But then again… Sandra D. Bricker does a wonderful job of getting all the events of the fairy tale together, three aunts, a Prince Charming and an evil sister-in-law but that is where this fairy tale stops. Shannon just woke up from a ten year coma to find the world she new has dramatically changed. She is an widowed heiress for one thing with an evil sister-in-law that wants to fight her on the family fortune. We move into our technological future slowly Shannon is thrown into it with great difficulty. This is a wonderful, charming romance and it is going to make you laugh. Ms. Bricker does an outstanding job of bringing her characters to life and you really want their romance to succeed. Maybe this does work as a fairy tale after all, you be the judge.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from River North for this review. 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.”

[Margaret · Rating 1 out of 5]

Six days into her marriage, Shannon Malone had an accident on her honeymoon. Now, 10 years later she has emerged from a coma to find that she remembers very little and while she can’t remember much of her pas life, everything has changed.

Shannon has devoted aunts, a good friend, and a very, very caring doctor to help her rebuild her life.
I have a sweet tooth and I do love edible sweets and an occasional light, fluff, sweet read; but this one hurt me teeth, so to speak. The modern day twist on Sleeping Beauty is interesting, but this was as believable as the original fairy tale—in other words, not so much.

The idea that the good doctor was in charge of so very much of Shannon’s life while she was sleeping really bothered me. I could see the end coming right away. No suspense, no slow realizations, just BOOM! The prince has arrived!

I liked the comparison of Shannon’s sister-in-law to the evil one in Sleeping Beauty, but it seemed too contrived to me. I could have seen the comparison without the big, over the top scene when she and Shannon go head to head.

I didn’t care for Shannon. She seemed too fragile to be able to stand on her own two feet or to at least to search solutions before melting down and calling the good doctor. She was always in crisis or melt-down mode. And him? Didn’t he have any other obligations to his other patients? He was always “on call” for Shannon.

Then there is the ending. Everyone knows how fairy tales end when a prince and princess is involved and the happy ever after is never left to the imagination. But this ending fell short of that, kind of flat, in fact considering every other bit of drama that happened.

Ok. I am in the minority on this one. I just thought the book was too sweet and too pat in the way it worked in the spin on the fairy tale. I didn’t think that I, as a reader, was given enough credit to figure out the similarities between the two.

Don't get me wrong. I love Bricker's talent for spinning fantasy and fairy tales to fit modern times, and I do love her humor. I won't stop reading her books. I just didn't care for this one.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sandra D Bricker continues her series of contemporary fairy tales with Rise and Shine. But don’t worry: you don’t need to have read the first book, If the Shoe Fits, as each title stands alone. I first came across Bricker with the Emma Rae series and fell in love with her writing. It’s bright, it’s breezy, and it’s a fun read.

The main thing to remember with Rise and Shine is that it is a modern day fairy tale. Some things sound rather fantastic, such as Shannon’s quick recovery once she wakes up. She’s alert, she’s talking, and she’s on her feet in no time. She doesn’t have parents but she does have three aunts, one of which is determined to play matchmaker between Shannon and Daniel. It’s also very convenient that Daniel became good friends with Edmund before his death, to the extent that he knows exactly what Shannon needs to resume her life. He’s there as Shannon gets used to e-readers, smartphones, and reality TV.

It’s not all fun and games and Words with Friends though. Shannon must get used to life without Edmund. In her mind, she had been married for mere days and looking forward to a future with her husband. He’s now gone. Her best friend has married. Shannon feels lost and alone. She’s woken in the future, but this isn’t science fiction and she can’t return to the past she knows.

I enjoyed Rise and Shine right up until the end, which I felt was abrupt and not very satisfying. There wasn’t any sense of closure. We have a major event and then The End. If I’d been reading this on an e-reader I might have wondered if I was missing some of the download. We get the fairy tale ending, but there are still difficulties to overcome. There was no guarantee of the happily ever after, even if Sleeping Beauty was woken by her prince. I wanted something more substantial. Or maybe I’m just not cut out for fairy tales.

Thank you to River North for my complimentary copy of Rise and Shine, which I received in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Continuing on her theme of contemporary fairy tales, Sandra Bricker tackles the difficult Sleeping Beauty . . . which brings to mind the question, how does one fall asleep for years in this day and less-than-magical age?

This isn't so much the usual story of how Sleeping Beauty fell asleep and was rescued, but rather how Sleeping Beauty learned to live again after she woke up. Though it is a lighthearted tale, it places due emphasis on how devastating it would be to lose ten years of one's life over the course of seemingly one night's sleep - to have missed out on births, deaths, marriages, illnesses, hard times, and good times, and to struggle to recall memories from before the accident. Even if it had been a much shorter time, would not one be crying out to God, "How could You let this happen? Why me?" Then couple that with survivor's guilt - how difficult it would be to create a new life.

I found Shannon's change of preferences - like from tea to coffee and from never cooking to loving cooking - a good touch to the story. Having known someone who suddenly disliked chocolate after coming out of a three-week coma (bizarre, right?), it stands to reason that Shannon's preferences would also have been altered thanks to the trauma to her brain. And I know my preferences have changed significantly over the past ten years without any brain injuries - how much more so for her with the addition of trauma?

This book is an encouragement for everyone to have hope for the future, to be unafraid to develop new passions, and to seek out where one's heart lies, regardless of life circumstances. No one is the same as they were ten years ago; it is okay to make changes, develop new interests, and discover hidden talents. Bricker writes a delightful and thoughtful story - touched with humor, yet not neglecting the serious aspects of a second chance at life.

[Brooke (i blog 4 books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Review originally posted on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2014/...

Rise and Shine is such a fun book! It seems that fairy tale retellings are quite popular right now, and Sandie Bricker has done a great job of creating a modern version of Sleeping Beauty.

To be honest, the premise was almost too sad for me to deal with. A woman has an accident on her honeymoon, goes into a coma for 10 years, finally awakens only to learn that her husband died of cancer several years earlier. So sad, right? But I trusted that Sandie would give me both a great story and a happily-ever-after ending (it's a fairy tale after all!), so I read the book despite my nervousness about the potentially-sad plot.

As I've come to expect from Sandie, Rise and Shine was great! The story is cute with plenty of laughs. Shannon's aunt is hilarious with her exclamation of "yippee!" every time Shannon remembers something. And Shannon and Daniel are fun, likeable characters. They definitely have some issues to work through, but it was fun to watch their relationship develop. Daniel was a great hero and I loved how he took care of Shannon. The best part of Shannon is that she is such a strong character—and only begins to realize it after she wakes up.

As great as the book was, I was a little disappointed in the ending. It felt really abrupt, and I just needed a little more. Maybe one more chapter or an epilogue? Overall, though, I definitely enjoyed this book and recommend it to fans of romantic comedies and/or fairy tales. [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from River North through CFBA in exchange for my fair and honest review.