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Endless Love #1
Home Again
BOOK 2 **RETURN TO LOVE** IS NOW ALSO AVAILABLE! HOME AGAIN is a novella set in 1969 on the shores of the Albemarle Sound. April Harrington has fond memories of summers at her family home, Bliss. After her fairytale wedding disintegrates, it becomes her refuge—the one place where she can attempt to pull the unraveling threads of her life back together. Unbeknownst to April, the stately house has been neglected in recent years. The once-sturdy roof is leaking in a few dozen places, and the wharf is rotting. Nothing is the same as she remembers. Nothing except for Hale, a Viet Nam pilot who is haunted by a dreadful secret, and who is also her brother’s best friend, a brother killed in the conflict that is tearing the country apart. In Hale’s presence, April finds familiarity and solace. They share grief for a lost loved one, and from the comfort of Hale’s arms, passion blooms. Yet, April’s future is unresolved. Her wealthy, arrogant almost-bridegroom wants her back and the ghosts of Viet Nam are whispering to Hale. Can they find new love in an old treasured home, the kind of affection and trust that lasts forever?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2013
29 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Shoop
49 books1,126 followersBestselling author, Kathleen Shoop, holds a PhD in reading education and has more than 20 years of experience in the classroom. She writes historical fiction, women’s fiction and romance. Shoop’s novels have garnered various awards in the Independent Publisher Book Awards, Eric Hoffer Book Awards, Indie Excellence Awards, Next Generation Indie Book Awards and the San Francisco Book Festival. Kathleen has been featured in USA Today and the Writer’s Guide to 2013. Her work has appeared in The Tribune-Review, four Chicken Soup for the Soul books and Pittsburgh Parent magazine. She lives in Oakmont, Pennsylvania with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 12, 2014
Home Again by Kathleen Shoop is a 2013 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Anytime I read a book set in the late 1960's it evokes a certain emotion in me. I was only small child in that year, but I do have some very vivid memories of the adults talking about Vietnam and the other very turbulent events that took place in this era.
So, this novella, which is only about 96 pages long still packs a solid punch. April has just baled on her Ivy league life and returned home to Albemarle Sound to start from scratch. She immediately finds herself in a bind and of course her brother's best friend is there to rescue her.
Hale is home on leave from Vietnam and during this time he and April reconnect while he works on the family home that has fallen into a state of disrepair. April and Hale are having a very difficult time dealing with April's brother's death in the war. He is settled between the two of them like a restless spirit. Guilt bites at their hills and keeps them from admitting that they should be together.
This is an age when women were still treated a certain way by men. Men had a really hard time watching a woman do physical labor without thinking they should take over for them. It wasn't really intended to be sexist, it was just they way men were back then. April sets Hale straight right away and she earns a new kind of respect from him as a result. The difficulties April will face now that she has graduated college and baled on the perfect marriage, are addressed as she admits her job opportunities are not as great as people think due to her gender. In 1969 there were few hardcore career women out there. Women were still regulated to working as a teacher, nurse or secretary, make a waitress. So, all these roadblocks on top of dealing with her brother's death has April feeling a little undone. But, it's Hale you will ache for. I don't know how on earth he kept all that bottled up inside of him for so long. This is a shocking memory that will horrify you . Can April help Hale overcome his ordeal through the power of her love?
This book is the prelude to “ Return to Love” which will pick up the story of April and Hale once again. Overall this one gets a 4
Anytime I read a book set in the late 1960's it evokes a certain emotion in me. I was only small child in that year, but I do have some very vivid memories of the adults talking about Vietnam and the other very turbulent events that took place in this era.
So, this novella, which is only about 96 pages long still packs a solid punch. April has just baled on her Ivy league life and returned home to Albemarle Sound to start from scratch. She immediately finds herself in a bind and of course her brother's best friend is there to rescue her.
Hale is home on leave from Vietnam and during this time he and April reconnect while he works on the family home that has fallen into a state of disrepair. April and Hale are having a very difficult time dealing with April's brother's death in the war. He is settled between the two of them like a restless spirit. Guilt bites at their hills and keeps them from admitting that they should be together.
This is an age when women were still treated a certain way by men. Men had a really hard time watching a woman do physical labor without thinking they should take over for them. It wasn't really intended to be sexist, it was just they way men were back then. April sets Hale straight right away and she earns a new kind of respect from him as a result. The difficulties April will face now that she has graduated college and baled on the perfect marriage, are addressed as she admits her job opportunities are not as great as people think due to her gender. In 1969 there were few hardcore career women out there. Women were still regulated to working as a teacher, nurse or secretary, make a waitress. So, all these roadblocks on top of dealing with her brother's death has April feeling a little undone. But, it's Hale you will ache for. I don't know how on earth he kept all that bottled up inside of him for so long. This is a shocking memory that will horrify you . Can April help Hale overcome his ordeal through the power of her love?
This book is the prelude to “ Return to Love” which will pick up the story of April and Hale once again. Overall this one gets a 4
December 13, 2013
Wearing her wedding dress, with her family and friends gathered for her special occasion and a new married life ahead of her, April decides that this is not the life she wants. The runaway bride takes the car given to her but her Fiance’s parents and drives to her childhood home. Upon returning, she discovers that her parents have neglected both their home and it’s surroundings and whilst investigating, April finds herself in trouble.
Hale, her Brother’s best friend, appears just in time and in doing so, not only rescues her but brings with him a burst of feelings that both are sure they’ve felt at some point in the past but neither remember clearly. With April trying to sort out both her life and her parent’s house and Hale hiding a secret that he feels will tear them apart before they’ve even started, you’ll be taken on a quick, romantic rollercoaster of a read.
Home Again may be a novella but it packs a lot into it’s pages – love, drama, tragedy, emotion and a lots of water are squashed into this short story. I learned a lot about the characters throughout; what they looked like, where they had been, how their experiences had led them to where they were now. April and Hale make a great couple and you’ll be gunning for them as you read this, hoping they can work through their issues and find their Happy Ever After.
My Rating 4/5 – Short and sweet but packed to the brim, this is a great love story in less than 100 pages. Although set in 1969, this is a timeless tale that could just as easily be set in the present day. A highly recommended quick read.
Hale, her Brother’s best friend, appears just in time and in doing so, not only rescues her but brings with him a burst of feelings that both are sure they’ve felt at some point in the past but neither remember clearly. With April trying to sort out both her life and her parent’s house and Hale hiding a secret that he feels will tear them apart before they’ve even started, you’ll be taken on a quick, romantic rollercoaster of a read.
Home Again may be a novella but it packs a lot into it’s pages – love, drama, tragedy, emotion and a lots of water are squashed into this short story. I learned a lot about the characters throughout; what they looked like, where they had been, how their experiences had led them to where they were now. April and Hale make a great couple and you’ll be gunning for them as you read this, hoping they can work through their issues and find their Happy Ever After.
My Rating 4/5 – Short and sweet but packed to the brim, this is a great love story in less than 100 pages. Although set in 1969, this is a timeless tale that could just as easily be set in the present day. A highly recommended quick read.
July 15, 2019
It was a quick read and I enjoyed it. I'm glad it had a happy ending!
May 27, 2023
Honestly, surprised at the hight ratings. Bleh
July 23, 2023
Great read, wonderful love story
Not too over the top or sappy. The little sister falling for her brother's best friend, with a bit of a turn.
Not too over the top or sappy. The little sister falling for her brother's best friend, with a bit of a turn.
December 8, 2013
HOME AGAIN
By
Kathleen Shoop
ABOUT BOOK
1969-- Set on the shores of the Albemarle Sound, April Harrington has fond memories of summers at her family home, Bliss. After her fairytale wedding disintegrates, it becomes her refuge—the one place where she can attempt to pull the unraveling threads of her life back together. Unbeknownst to April, the stately house has been neglected in recent years. The once-sturdy roof is leaking in a few dozen places, and the wharf is rotting. Nothing is the same as she remembers. Nothing except for Hale, a Viet Nam pilot who is haunted by a dreadful secret, and who is also her brother’s best friend, a brother killed in the conflict that is tearing the country apart. In Hale’s presence, April finds familiarity and solace. They share grief for a lost loved one, and from the comfort of Hale’s arms, passion blooms. Yet, April’s future is unresolved. Her wealthy, arrogant almost-bridegroom wants her back and the ghosts of Viet Nam are whispering to Hale. Can they find new love in an old treasured home, the kind of affection and trust that lasts forever?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MY REVIEW
Reading the very first page I wanted to know what was going to happen…But, I found this book way too short….was not surprised because it is a Novella… bummed …Because I wanted to read more!
I would recommend for a quick read…. Just wished this story was a longer !
This book can be read in one evening or a few hours in a day :O)
NOW AVAILABLE-- Bliss--an anthology of love stories that all take place in the same house on the water, but each novella is set in a different era! Lovely, fun, easy read! LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS...A fun read for women's fiction lovers!
ABOUT AUTHOR
! I'm married with two children. I've been seriously writing for almost a decade although I dabbled much earlier than that! I've had short stories published in four Chicken Soup for the Soul books, am a regular contributor to a local magazine, Pittsburgh Parent, and have had essays in local newspapers as well. I have a PhD in Reading Education and have worked in schools for over twenty years. I work with teachers and their students in grades k-8 and am lucky to learn something new from them every time I walk through their doors. This experience was a huge help in writing LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS--a quirky, post-college coming of age story. My first novel, The Last Letter (2011 IPPY Gold Medal--Regional Fiction, Midwest, 2011 Indie Excellence Finalist Award for Historical Fiction and Regional Fiction, 2011 International Book Awards Finalist for Historical Fiction and Best New Fiction), was a fascinating trip through history, punctuated with fictional characters and events. The idea for the story grew from my great-great grandmother's letters (see My Dear Frank for the complete set of letters!) written during the year of her engagement to Frank Arthur. The beautiful letters are the inspiration for the novel, the seed from which The Last Letter's characters and their voices grew. I've also written women's fiction--LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS-- and have written another historical fiction novel, AFTER THE FOG, set in 1948 in a town not far from Oakmont, PA. AFTER THE FOG is also an award winning book--silver IPPY and WINNER in the literary category of the National Indie Excellence Awards. Right now, I'm finishing up a 20,000 word short love story for an anthology and am also using my characters and setting from THE LAST LETTER as per reader request to show what happened between the two timelines in the original book! I hope readers will enjoy the fact I write about varied eras and places and that they will love each book for its unique setting and time.
By
Kathleen Shoop
ABOUT BOOK
1969-- Set on the shores of the Albemarle Sound, April Harrington has fond memories of summers at her family home, Bliss. After her fairytale wedding disintegrates, it becomes her refuge—the one place where she can attempt to pull the unraveling threads of her life back together. Unbeknownst to April, the stately house has been neglected in recent years. The once-sturdy roof is leaking in a few dozen places, and the wharf is rotting. Nothing is the same as she remembers. Nothing except for Hale, a Viet Nam pilot who is haunted by a dreadful secret, and who is also her brother’s best friend, a brother killed in the conflict that is tearing the country apart. In Hale’s presence, April finds familiarity and solace. They share grief for a lost loved one, and from the comfort of Hale’s arms, passion blooms. Yet, April’s future is unresolved. Her wealthy, arrogant almost-bridegroom wants her back and the ghosts of Viet Nam are whispering to Hale. Can they find new love in an old treasured home, the kind of affection and trust that lasts forever?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MY REVIEW
Reading the very first page I wanted to know what was going to happen…But, I found this book way too short….was not surprised because it is a Novella… bummed …Because I wanted to read more!
I would recommend for a quick read…. Just wished this story was a longer !
This book can be read in one evening or a few hours in a day :O)
NOW AVAILABLE-- Bliss--an anthology of love stories that all take place in the same house on the water, but each novella is set in a different era! Lovely, fun, easy read! LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS...A fun read for women's fiction lovers!
ABOUT AUTHOR
! I'm married with two children. I've been seriously writing for almost a decade although I dabbled much earlier than that! I've had short stories published in four Chicken Soup for the Soul books, am a regular contributor to a local magazine, Pittsburgh Parent, and have had essays in local newspapers as well. I have a PhD in Reading Education and have worked in schools for over twenty years. I work with teachers and their students in grades k-8 and am lucky to learn something new from them every time I walk through their doors. This experience was a huge help in writing LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS--a quirky, post-college coming of age story. My first novel, The Last Letter (2011 IPPY Gold Medal--Regional Fiction, Midwest, 2011 Indie Excellence Finalist Award for Historical Fiction and Regional Fiction, 2011 International Book Awards Finalist for Historical Fiction and Best New Fiction), was a fascinating trip through history, punctuated with fictional characters and events. The idea for the story grew from my great-great grandmother's letters (see My Dear Frank for the complete set of letters!) written during the year of her engagement to Frank Arthur. The beautiful letters are the inspiration for the novel, the seed from which The Last Letter's characters and their voices grew. I've also written women's fiction--LOVE AND OTHER SUBJECTS-- and have written another historical fiction novel, AFTER THE FOG, set in 1948 in a town not far from Oakmont, PA. AFTER THE FOG is also an award winning book--silver IPPY and WINNER in the literary category of the National Indie Excellence Awards. Right now, I'm finishing up a 20,000 word short love story for an anthology and am also using my characters and setting from THE LAST LETTER as per reader request to show what happened between the two timelines in the original book! I hope readers will enjoy the fact I write about varied eras and places and that they will love each book for its unique setting and time.
August 11, 2014
“Sometimes the Road We Need to Take Leads Us Home Again”
Set in the turbulent 1960’s—a time of unrest and agitation with the Vietnam War on everyone’s mind and the tragic news from same landing on many doorsteps here at home. April Harrington shows up at her parents’ summer home, (aptly named “Bliss”) located on the Albemarle Sound, in her French silk wedding gown, all by herself—no groom by her side. She had left the arrogant, self-centered philanthropist, Mason, standing at the altar! Always her favorite spot, from childhood on, Bliss offers comfort after the chaotic wedding scene as well as evoking many fond and often sad memories. The familiar, once stately, now slightly dilapidated surroundings brought feelings of shock and guilt to the surface, as well as shame at what April had put her parents through. After all, they had sacrificed much to put her through college and give her the fairy tale wedding every girl dreams about. With her pampered life in view, she had forgotten who she really is and placed her parents on an invisible, forgettable shelf. As she strolls the familiar grounds, she discovers, the hard way, that even the dock has not been maintained. It cracks and disintegrates beneath her dainty-slippered feet, and she tumbles into the water. Struggling to get to the surface, she is rescued by a pair of strong hands that seem to reach her from out of nowhere to save her. Imagine her surprise when the hands belong to her Brother’s best friend Hale Abercrombie! In years past,Hale and her Brother were almost inseparable. The one person she could never forget was her beloved Brother, Andrew. A memorial stone, a grave, where no body could be laid to rest, stands in a picturesque spot overlooking the sound. With tears streaming, she recalls and brokenheartedly regrets the ugly words that were written in anger in the last letter she wrote to Andrew before her parents received the dreaded news. Oh, how April hates herself for that selfish act—one that resulted from a foolish argument over none other than her then-boyfriend, Mason. Her mind continually replays the question that has plagued her for what seems like forever–“What if her letter was the last thing he read before he was killed?” April hadn’t been pleased when Andrew decided to serve his Country. Hale had made the same decision. She had always been the “Little Sister” who tagged along, with Hale being like an extra big brother, keeping a wary eye out for her, when Andrew didn’t do the same. Andrew hadn’t approved of her choice of boyfriends either. It became a hurtful, vicious circle they were trapped in—but that was when she was much younger and heading for college, as her “Two Brothers” were heading to Vietnam. Now, here she was, grown and still needing Hale to come to her rescue—and he does, in more ways than one. Hale has his own set of demons to deal with. He refuses to speak of Andrew’s death which has injured him to his inner core. Through the love of Bliss, shared memories and heartaches, they re-kindle a closeness that was never lost and find a love that they never would have envisioned possible. Ms. Shoop’s novella may only consist of 88 pages, but, believe me when I tell you, it will leave you with a knot in your stomach, a lump in your throat, some soggy tissues, thoughts that it should be turned into a “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movie and will have you anxiously waiting to read book two in this series, “Return to Love”. Whatever you do—place this on the top of your TBR list, so you don’t miss this tale of endless love.
Nancy Narma
Set in the turbulent 1960’s—a time of unrest and agitation with the Vietnam War on everyone’s mind and the tragic news from same landing on many doorsteps here at home. April Harrington shows up at her parents’ summer home, (aptly named “Bliss”) located on the Albemarle Sound, in her French silk wedding gown, all by herself—no groom by her side. She had left the arrogant, self-centered philanthropist, Mason, standing at the altar! Always her favorite spot, from childhood on, Bliss offers comfort after the chaotic wedding scene as well as evoking many fond and often sad memories. The familiar, once stately, now slightly dilapidated surroundings brought feelings of shock and guilt to the surface, as well as shame at what April had put her parents through. After all, they had sacrificed much to put her through college and give her the fairy tale wedding every girl dreams about. With her pampered life in view, she had forgotten who she really is and placed her parents on an invisible, forgettable shelf. As she strolls the familiar grounds, she discovers, the hard way, that even the dock has not been maintained. It cracks and disintegrates beneath her dainty-slippered feet, and she tumbles into the water. Struggling to get to the surface, she is rescued by a pair of strong hands that seem to reach her from out of nowhere to save her. Imagine her surprise when the hands belong to her Brother’s best friend Hale Abercrombie! In years past,Hale and her Brother were almost inseparable. The one person she could never forget was her beloved Brother, Andrew. A memorial stone, a grave, where no body could be laid to rest, stands in a picturesque spot overlooking the sound. With tears streaming, she recalls and brokenheartedly regrets the ugly words that were written in anger in the last letter she wrote to Andrew before her parents received the dreaded news. Oh, how April hates herself for that selfish act—one that resulted from a foolish argument over none other than her then-boyfriend, Mason. Her mind continually replays the question that has plagued her for what seems like forever–“What if her letter was the last thing he read before he was killed?” April hadn’t been pleased when Andrew decided to serve his Country. Hale had made the same decision. She had always been the “Little Sister” who tagged along, with Hale being like an extra big brother, keeping a wary eye out for her, when Andrew didn’t do the same. Andrew hadn’t approved of her choice of boyfriends either. It became a hurtful, vicious circle they were trapped in—but that was when she was much younger and heading for college, as her “Two Brothers” were heading to Vietnam. Now, here she was, grown and still needing Hale to come to her rescue—and he does, in more ways than one. Hale has his own set of demons to deal with. He refuses to speak of Andrew’s death which has injured him to his inner core. Through the love of Bliss, shared memories and heartaches, they re-kindle a closeness that was never lost and find a love that they never would have envisioned possible. Ms. Shoop’s novella may only consist of 88 pages, but, believe me when I tell you, it will leave you with a knot in your stomach, a lump in your throat, some soggy tissues, thoughts that it should be turned into a “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movie and will have you anxiously waiting to read book two in this series, “Return to Love”. Whatever you do—place this on the top of your TBR list, so you don’t miss this tale of endless love.
Nancy Narma
December 16, 2013
When I knew I had the opportunity to review Home Again, I was excited. I have heard a lot about Kathleen Shoop, but I have never once picked up one of her books. It was on my to-do list, but thank goodness I got to read her now! I love novellas for that quick afternoon read and that is exactly what this becam this passed Saturday while it was pouring down rain outside. I had nowhere to be and the kids were playing nicely, so why not? This novella grabbed me and never let me leave it’s clutches until the end. Good thing I have a supportive hubs that let me continue to read and took over the household for a minute!
I love a good romance and during war time, even though it is sad, it just makes everything all that much more touching. This story takes place in the times of the Vietnam War. You really don’t hear much about this war in novels and so I was happy to read about the people and their lives. If you have ever had an interest in these times, then I highly recommend this book to you. I was a little bummed once I got into the story because I wanted more! A novella was great, but I was greedy and wanted to know more about the time and the characters. Kathleen Shoop did such a great job in describing everything, I would even watch this short on the big screen. It reminded me a lot of a Nicholas Sparks book that has been turned into a movie. Of course, for something like that, more scenarios and length would have to be added, Don’t get me wrong, I loved the book. I was just so sucked in that I did not want it to end.
In this short, you will be faced wih love and emotions along with some sadness and drama. You learn a lot about the depths of the characters and what makes them tick even though this was a novella. I loved April and Hale as a couple and was rooting for them throughout the whole novel. I recommend this highly, and even though I wanted more, I give it FIVE stars. As my first story read by Kathleen Shoop, I am looking forward to other stories from her!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I love a good romance and during war time, even though it is sad, it just makes everything all that much more touching. This story takes place in the times of the Vietnam War. You really don’t hear much about this war in novels and so I was happy to read about the people and their lives. If you have ever had an interest in these times, then I highly recommend this book to you. I was a little bummed once I got into the story because I wanted more! A novella was great, but I was greedy and wanted to know more about the time and the characters. Kathleen Shoop did such a great job in describing everything, I would even watch this short on the big screen. It reminded me a lot of a Nicholas Sparks book that has been turned into a movie. Of course, for something like that, more scenarios and length would have to be added, Don’t get me wrong, I loved the book. I was just so sucked in that I did not want it to end.
In this short, you will be faced wih love and emotions along with some sadness and drama. You learn a lot about the depths of the characters and what makes them tick even though this was a novella. I loved April and Hale as a couple and was rooting for them throughout the whole novel. I recommend this highly, and even though I wanted more, I give it FIVE stars. As my first story read by Kathleen Shoop, I am looking forward to other stories from her!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 17, 2014
Set in 1969, when the Vietnam War was taking place, April Harrington finds herself leaving her asinine fiancé at the alter and going back to her family’s vacation home, Bliss. Because Bliss has so many good memories associated with it, April hopes to find refuge and try to pull her life back together. When she returns, she finds the family home in a state of neglect, as her parents used all the money they had to finance her wedding. With that guilt and the guilt she has harbored for her deceased brother, Andrew, April feels her life unraveling. The only familiar comfort she finds is in Hale, a long-time friend to both her and Andrew. But Hale has his own guilt and demons bringing him down – and a secret that may ruin the relationship he has and the love he wants from April. Can April and Hale find peace and love that truly lasts forever?
Home Again by Kathleen Shoop, although short, packed so many emotions – happiness, sadness, guilt and most of all love. I absolutely loved this beautiful story! It was so easy to get carried away in the drama that unfolded within the pages of this book. April and Hale make the perfect couple and I was cheering them on from the very beginning. They both deserved a happily ever after we all crave. Home Again is a short and sweet story that I would recommend to anyone who loves a timeless romance.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
- See more at: The Avid Book Collector
Home Again by Kathleen Shoop, although short, packed so many emotions – happiness, sadness, guilt and most of all love. I absolutely loved this beautiful story! It was so easy to get carried away in the drama that unfolded within the pages of this book. April and Hale make the perfect couple and I was cheering them on from the very beginning. They both deserved a happily ever after we all crave. Home Again is a short and sweet story that I would recommend to anyone who loves a timeless romance.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
- See more at: The Avid Book Collector
December 15, 2013
When I saw the description of Home Again. I was excited to read it. However, when I got it, I was a little hesitant. It was so small. That is when I realized it was a novella, and not a full length novel. I actually read another one of Kathleen Shoop's books, Love & Other Stories, first, even though, I got this one first to review. After reading that book, I could not wait to read this one. I'm glad I did. I really liked it. It is well written and grabbed my attention from the beginning. I couldn't put the book down.
I love a good love story, and I've always been interested about the times around the Vietnam War. What were people really like at this time? How did the men coming back from war deal with PTSD? This book touches on all of the above. If you are interested in this time period and like a good love story, then this book is for you. I would have probably liked this more if this was a full length novel. It has all of the making of a wonderful full length book and possibly a movie. It seemed a little rushed at parts especially at the end. Overall, it is a good book. I just wanted more.
I give this one 4 stars out of 5. There is some sex in the book. So, it is not appropriate for all ages.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I love a good love story, and I've always been interested about the times around the Vietnam War. What were people really like at this time? How did the men coming back from war deal with PTSD? This book touches on all of the above. If you are interested in this time period and like a good love story, then this book is for you. I would have probably liked this more if this was a full length novel. It has all of the making of a wonderful full length book and possibly a movie. It seemed a little rushed at parts especially at the end. Overall, it is a good book. I just wanted more.
I give this one 4 stars out of 5. There is some sex in the book. So, it is not appropriate for all ages.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
December 17, 2013
This story is a happy/sad read. It made me sad with all the remembrances she had about her brother and the grief she still felt over his death. It is very heart wrenching to read about her suffering over how she had left their relationship, not knowing that she would never see him again.
She also has memories of her brother's best friend and feels a closeness to him that is undiminished after all these years. When she meets back up with him, that closeness is instantly obvious. Their relationship is the happy in this story. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow quickly through this novella, and was hoping that they have a happily ever after ending.
I won't go too much into detail about this, but her fiance is a pretentious, arrogant, word I won't say here! I couldn't believe his excuses for his behavior. I don't care when or where this story takes place, his actions and lack of guilt over them are reprehensible!
I recommend this to any romance lover that wants a fun, quick read. I really liked this story and it had me smiling even while it had some really sad bits to it.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
She also has memories of her brother's best friend and feels a closeness to him that is undiminished after all these years. When she meets back up with him, that closeness is instantly obvious. Their relationship is the happy in this story. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow quickly through this novella, and was hoping that they have a happily ever after ending.
I won't go too much into detail about this, but her fiance is a pretentious, arrogant, word I won't say here! I couldn't believe his excuses for his behavior. I don't care when or where this story takes place, his actions and lack of guilt over them are reprehensible!
I recommend this to any romance lover that wants a fun, quick read. I really liked this story and it had me smiling even while it had some really sad bits to it.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 18, 2013
First of all, if you are looking for a quick romance, this is certainly one to read. The opening of the book is quite clever, and I believe the end will have you begging for more. Although I appreciated that the book was short, I think I would have liked to have read an expanded version. Some of the nuances and the historical aspects of the period escaped me. This is the Vietnam War time period, and it deals with several different topics--war, wealth, death, and more. I enjoyed the novella for what it was, and it may be the very thing you need for a light read some time during Christmastime.
I was disappointed that such a short book included some profanity. It was not necessary, but it was thankfully relatively minor. The intimate scenes were never described in great detail, but the ending seemed a little rushed.
The thing that most impressed me was that the author drew on actual family memories from this time period, and perhaps that is what made the discussions of wartime seem more realistic.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I was disappointed that such a short book included some profanity. It was not necessary, but it was thankfully relatively minor. The intimate scenes were never described in great detail, but the ending seemed a little rushed.
The thing that most impressed me was that the author drew on actual family memories from this time period, and perhaps that is what made the discussions of wartime seem more realistic.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
May 3, 2014
I had the honor of reading Home Again by Kathleen Shoop. I am so glad I set down the book I was already starting by her to do so. This short little love story kept me devouring each page. Don't let the length of this book fool you into thinking that it lacks anything, it provides a powerful punch when it comes to character development, engaging story line, and overall satisfaction. What I enjoyed the most was the fact that this book could have been a full novel, but Kathleen somehow was able to condense it down to a well-written romance.
We all know that romance is not my strongsuit when it comes to novels, so anytime I finish one it should show how good the book is. There are some portions of the book that may be a little too much for young people, but it is written tastefully. I would have no problem offering this to my teen daughter to read.
Kathleen is fast becoming one of my favorite authors this year. And I am excited now to go on and read the book I was going to start, Love and Other Subjects. By reading Home Again, I think I have more insight into her writing and how she chooses to relate her characters to readers
We all know that romance is not my strongsuit when it comes to novels, so anytime I finish one it should show how good the book is. There are some portions of the book that may be a little too much for young people, but it is written tastefully. I would have no problem offering this to my teen daughter to read.
Kathleen is fast becoming one of my favorite authors this year. And I am excited now to go on and read the book I was going to start, Love and Other Subjects. By reading Home Again, I think I have more insight into her writing and how she chooses to relate her characters to readers
August 18, 2014
Home Again
By Kathleen Shoop
Kathleen Shoop shows us a story of loss, grief, and how love can truly conquer all. Two friends; one loses her brother the other his best friend and each is trying to pick up the pieces of their lives and rebuild. Shoop shows how a memory can bring two lonely hearts together and how love can heal wounds and change the course of lives. This story is so moving and leaves the heart still believing in hope and a better tomorrow. I love the way Kathleen takes the characters April and Hale who are both grief stricken, brings them together and shows how the human spirit will always persevere Pick this up and see how grief can change into memories and memories into warmth and a new joy of living. Did I also forget to mention love? Shoop shows us that love really does still exist in stories and that happy endings do still exist. I loved reading Home Again and look forward to reading more books by Kathleen Shoop.
Bella Doerres written 8/16/14 Five stars.
By Kathleen Shoop
Kathleen Shoop shows us a story of loss, grief, and how love can truly conquer all. Two friends; one loses her brother the other his best friend and each is trying to pick up the pieces of their lives and rebuild. Shoop shows how a memory can bring two lonely hearts together and how love can heal wounds and change the course of lives. This story is so moving and leaves the heart still believing in hope and a better tomorrow. I love the way Kathleen takes the characters April and Hale who are both grief stricken, brings them together and shows how the human spirit will always persevere Pick this up and see how grief can change into memories and memories into warmth and a new joy of living. Did I also forget to mention love? Shoop shows us that love really does still exist in stories and that happy endings do still exist. I loved reading Home Again and look forward to reading more books by Kathleen Shoop.
Bella Doerres written 8/16/14 Five stars.
December 8, 2013
This was a love story about finding yourself. Set around the Viet Nam war was interesting. It was interesting to me because women of that time did not have all the freedom that women today have. I felt so bad for April because of her jerk husband, and because she lost her brother. It is true love when you can be seen at your best, your worst, your past and your present. You can together make your future. This book was too short. I hope that we see more of April and Hale in future books. I liked that in order to love each other they had to mend their hearts. will they be mended in time, or will they miss their chances at true love? I am giving this book a 5/5.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
December 9, 2013
Home Again by Kathleen Shoop is the kind of story I like reading when I want to know the whole thing FAST! I was able to finish the book in no time. It came in so handy when I need to waited in line for something or even when I was at some doctor’s office. I am a big sucker for romance. I found Home Again very well written permitting me to slide through all the curves of emotions when certain scenes were taking place.
The past does seem to alter lives. April is affected while Hale is unable to shake off past events. Both April and Hale have lost so much. Together, they have to conquer the present and make room for their love in the future, as I would sum it up, it is a good read, a little short for all the action that could have happened and making it a little more steamier would have been so perfect. It was a short read and I do recommend it.
Adriana LG
Author, Jessica The Untold Story
The past does seem to alter lives. April is affected while Hale is unable to shake off past events. Both April and Hale have lost so much. Together, they have to conquer the present and make room for their love in the future, as I would sum it up, it is a good read, a little short for all the action that could have happened and making it a little more steamier would have been so perfect. It was a short read and I do recommend it.
Adriana LG
Author, Jessica The Untold Story
December 10, 2013
This story starts out tragic and it is a painful time during which the Vietnam War was going on and we lost so many men. April's brother, Andrew was one of those men who lost his life over there and his best friend, Hale, survived. Hale feels guilty because he survived and Andrew didn't.
April feels guilty because she finally realizes how much her parents sacrificed to send her to college while dealing with Andrew being in Vietnam and then his death. They experienced a financial setback and their vacation home suffered.
When April fled her wedding, she ran to the vacation home and ran into Hale, or should we say he rescued her? Together, maybe they can heal each other. If nothing else, they can repair the vacation home and help Andrew's parents get back some of their joy. And in the end, it just might help them discover other things.
It's a great little book and it's definitely a worthy subject and a hopeful message.
April feels guilty because she finally realizes how much her parents sacrificed to send her to college while dealing with Andrew being in Vietnam and then his death. They experienced a financial setback and their vacation home suffered.
When April fled her wedding, she ran to the vacation home and ran into Hale, or should we say he rescued her? Together, maybe they can heal each other. If nothing else, they can repair the vacation home and help Andrew's parents get back some of their joy. And in the end, it just might help them discover other things.
It's a great little book and it's definitely a worthy subject and a hopeful message.
December 17, 2013
It is very rare these days to find a book taking place around or during the Vietnam era. It is even somewhat rare to find books that mention this time in our history. This book does an excellent job of talking about Vietnam, what it meant for our country, and how it affected everyday lives. Of course, you also get an awesome love story with just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages until you reach the end. And even at the end you are still wanting more! Old fiance- not nice, really don't like that guy. Love the descriptions of the old family place but hate that it had to go into disrepair. Kathleen Shoop does a great job of making a story worth reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Beck Valley Books in exchange for my review. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in anyway. I was given no other compensation than a free copy of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Beck Valley Books in exchange for my review. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in anyway. I was given no other compensation than a free copy of the book.
August 11, 2014
April Harrington thought she knew what she wanted, that is, until she sees a picture of her fiancé with another woman. She leaves him standing at the alter and flees straight to her family homestead to heal and regroup. Upon arrival, she walks to the dock and accidentally falls into the bay, but gets saved by Hale Abercrombie. Hale and April’s brother were best friends growing up, with April always tagging along.
April is devastated to find the homestead all but falling down from neglect. Hale offers to help her with repairs. While working on the house, April and Hale grow closer. Will they be able to heal each other, and begin a future together?
I like the strength that April shows. Even though she was always surrounded by wealth and prestige, she could also fit the tomboy description. I think she and Hale were perfect together. I only wish that the author had brought more of April, her brother Andrew, and Hale’s growing up time into the story.
April is devastated to find the homestead all but falling down from neglect. Hale offers to help her with repairs. While working on the house, April and Hale grow closer. Will they be able to heal each other, and begin a future together?
I like the strength that April shows. Even though she was always surrounded by wealth and prestige, she could also fit the tomboy description. I think she and Hale were perfect together. I only wish that the author had brought more of April, her brother Andrew, and Hale’s growing up time into the story.
December 5, 2013
Home Again is a very sweet, quick story. I’m not usually a fan of Novella’s. I typically like a longer story that I can sit down and really dig into over a week. But Home Again had such a wonderful storyline that I found myself unable to put it down. It is a very quick read that would be perfect for reading while waiting at the Dr.’s office or an appointment.
April and Hale’s story moves very quickly and I did feel like I’d missed a bit of story once I finished. I wish there had been a little more involvement with the other characters. I wanted to see more interaction with her fiancé and her parents. This was a teaser. Home Again would make a wonderful full length novel and I hope to read April and Hale’s “full story”!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours. All the opinions above are 100% my own.
April and Hale’s story moves very quickly and I did feel like I’d missed a bit of story once I finished. I wish there had been a little more involvement with the other characters. I wanted to see more interaction with her fiancé and her parents. This was a teaser. Home Again would make a wonderful full length novel and I hope to read April and Hale’s “full story”!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours. All the opinions above are 100% my own.
December 7, 2013
I am not a huge fan of romance books, but let me tell you I loved this book! This is my first book I have read of Kathleen Shoop and I was so amazed! This book is a super fast read, which was nice because sometimes I don't have time to read a super long book, especially when I want to move on to another book. Just because it was short does not mean it wasn't good - it was fabulous! Then again I wish it kept going!
I fell in love with both April and Hale instantly. The characters brought me to them and made me feel as though I was living their story. I felt as though Kathleen was taking these characters and making them one of us. We have all been there, unable to forgive our past and so forth, always needing someone else who has been there to help us overcome the pain.
I am definitely going to check out more of Kathleen Shoop's books.
I fell in love with both April and Hale instantly. The characters brought me to them and made me feel as though I was living their story. I felt as though Kathleen was taking these characters and making them one of us. We have all been there, unable to forgive our past and so forth, always needing someone else who has been there to help us overcome the pain.
I am definitely going to check out more of Kathleen Shoop's books.
July 10, 2014
While Home Again is a novella, there is a lot going on in it. From the very beginning the story unfolds and keeps going until the very last page. There is love, drama, and a lot of emotions within this story. April and Hale go through a whole lot of emotions in the time I got to spend with them. They are both dealing with loses, one by her own choice and one an accidental lose. As they work together to save the house that April spent all her summers in and is not in disrepair, they both deal with their past and develop feelings for each other. The reader can feel their sparks, yet the respect and love between them keeps them from just “hooking up.”
I am anxious to start the second book in this series, Return to Love. I fell in love with April and Hale. This is a couple that I would love to get to know better. I will definitely recommend this series.
I am anxious to start the second book in this series, Return to Love. I fell in love with April and Hale. This is a couple that I would love to get to know better. I will definitely recommend this series.
December 9, 2013
It took April's world crumbling to make her realize just how very out of touch she really was. Abandoned morals, loss of her brother, left her fiancee at the alter... all that is raw in her face personified by her family's once pristine Summer home that has fell into dilapidation. What exactly is she really looking for...will she be rescued?
I have to honestly say Kathleen Shoop managed to stuff an incredible amount of depth and feeling into this short story. I fell deeply in love with this story & the characters. Shoop brought April and Hale to life in real and amazing detail. She takes you on an emotional ride, and you find yourself lost in the story. My only regret is that the story was so short, I would love to read more.. perhaps a sequel?
I have to honestly say Kathleen Shoop managed to stuff an incredible amount of depth and feeling into this short story. I fell deeply in love with this story & the characters. Shoop brought April and Hale to life in real and amazing detail. She takes you on an emotional ride, and you find yourself lost in the story. My only regret is that the story was so short, I would love to read more.. perhaps a sequel?
October 16, 2013
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. This review is 100% my own opinions.
I am a big fan of Kathleen Shoop. She is a very talented author that makes you feel like you are right there in the story with the characters.
I loved this book, I'm a romantic at heart. I can't imagine the different emotions both April and Hale feel from their past.
You can tell right away that there has always been a connection between April and Hale. It goes beyond Hale being Andrew, April's brother's best friend.
I loved to watch relationship evolve between April and Hale. They both had guilt over something in their past and together, they over came it.
I am a big fan of Kathleen Shoop. She is a very talented author that makes you feel like you are right there in the story with the characters.
I loved this book, I'm a romantic at heart. I can't imagine the different emotions both April and Hale feel from their past.
You can tell right away that there has always been a connection between April and Hale. It goes beyond Hale being Andrew, April's brother's best friend.
I loved to watch relationship evolve between April and Hale. They both had guilt over something in their past and together, they over came it.
November 30, 2013
Home Again is the first of Kathleen Shoop's book I've had the pleasure reading. I enjoy reading romance or more to the point historical romance, often. I normally prefer a full-fledged novel, however this novella fit perfectly into my time schedule in the doctors chair. Reading these days helps keep my mind upbeat!
Watching Hale and April come together and surpass the guilt they are both riddled with from the past was uplifting and heartwarming.
Brings to mind… what would happen if we were to return home again.
I will seek out Kathleen Shoop when I'm ready to shop for new additions to my ever growing book collection.
Watching Hale and April come together and surpass the guilt they are both riddled with from the past was uplifting and heartwarming.
Brings to mind… what would happen if we were to return home again.
I will seek out Kathleen Shoop when I'm ready to shop for new additions to my ever growing book collection.
December 1, 2013
The first time I read Hale’s name, I knew I was going to fall in love with him.
And I did.
This was a quick read (literally only took me a couple of hours). Aside from the fact that it really isn’t that long, I didn’t want to put it down.
I kept forgetting it was set back in a different time where women weren’t “allowed” the independence we have now, but hot dang, if a man such as Hale wanted to do things for me and protect me and take care of me, so be it!
This was a fabulous romance story that I absolutely fell in love with. I loved April, I fell madly in love with Hale, and I would love a place like Bliss.
And I did.
This was a quick read (literally only took me a couple of hours). Aside from the fact that it really isn’t that long, I didn’t want to put it down.
I kept forgetting it was set back in a different time where women weren’t “allowed” the independence we have now, but hot dang, if a man such as Hale wanted to do things for me and protect me and take care of me, so be it!
This was a fabulous romance story that I absolutely fell in love with. I loved April, I fell madly in love with Hale, and I would love a place like Bliss.
December 10, 2013
Her life falls apart on her wedding day when she discovers pictures of her groom cheating. April Harrington goes to the only place she remembers solace: the family beach home on Albemarle Sound only to discover the once beautiful beach home has deteriorated with neglect. While there repairing the home, she runs into her childhood pal and her brother's best friend who is battling his own demons from the war in Viet Nam.
They find solace in one another, morn their mutual grief of her fallen brother, and find the love both desperately need! Although this is a novella, there is a huge amount of feeling, and depth to this love story! 2 thumbs up!
They find solace in one another, morn their mutual grief of her fallen brother, and find the love both desperately need! Although this is a novella, there is a huge amount of feeling, and depth to this love story! 2 thumbs up!
September 23, 2014
Fleeing her wedding April finds herself back at Bliss, in Ablemarle Sound, the home that she loves, but upon returning she is shocked to find it has been neglected. The only thing familiar to her at Bliss is Hale, a Vietnam Vet who is still haunted by the death of April's brother, who served with him. Shared grief and familiarities see love blossoming between them, but both need to overcome past lives and losses in order to move forward.
I really loved reading this book, April and Hale are great characters, the house and setting on the Ablemarle Sound are beautifully described and I became lost in the story, it was wonderful. I would definitely recommend this book.
I really loved reading this book, April and Hale are great characters, the house and setting on the Ablemarle Sound are beautifully described and I became lost in the story, it was wonderful. I would definitely recommend this book.
December 5, 2013
This short novella can definitely be read in one sitting. It is a contemporary romance which takes you through heartbreak of various kinds and ultimate love and healing. These two must learn to trust and forgive their own pasts to be able to go forward into the future. I did enjoy this book-it was refreshingly different from most books I have read recently.Home Again
December 16, 2013
This novella is a nice length to kick back and read on snowy day, which is what I did. Set during the Vietnam War, the reader gets a glimpse of what it's like to be a woman back then. Not quite as easy as it is now. I enjoyed watching April take control of her own life even though it was scary, and in the process connect with her one true love. Highly recommend.
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