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Our Kept Hearts
A heart-warming coming-of-age debut novel where sisters learn that even motherless daughters must grow up and become women one day.
Arkansas, 1953. Nine-year-old Hazel McKay knows little girls need a mother. So, when her mother decides to leave her and her little sister, Ruthie, without any reason except she wants more, Hazel feels like her life is falling apart. With their father working out of town most days, Hazel and Ruthie are left on their own in the little house in the middle of the woods, where they find more than just animals and birds hiding in the forest.
Meanwhile, not far away, ten-year-old Joel lives with his alcoholic father. Caught in a struggle to survive his father's volatile nature and the desire to satisfy his curiosity about the little girls that live in the house in the woods, Joel finds a world of friendship and love he never knew existed.
Together, the three encounter school dances, heartbreaks, first loves, and a world turned upside down by the threat of nuclear war. With a new beginning on the horizon, Hazel, Ruthie, and Joel find their happiness is in jeopardy when tragedy strikes, and they are forced to make a choice. Bury a secret so deep no one will ever know the truth or lose everything they hold dear.
NetGalley Reviews are in -
"What a story!"
"Can't wait for the next book."
"I absolutely loved this coming of age story by Tennille Marie. It was one of those beautiful stories written with so much heart and love. Her characters were so honest and real. I was totally mesmerized right from the beginning."
Arkansas, 1953. Nine-year-old Hazel McKay knows little girls need a mother. So, when her mother decides to leave her and her little sister, Ruthie, without any reason except she wants more, Hazel feels like her life is falling apart. With their father working out of town most days, Hazel and Ruthie are left on their own in the little house in the middle of the woods, where they find more than just animals and birds hiding in the forest.
Meanwhile, not far away, ten-year-old Joel lives with his alcoholic father. Caught in a struggle to survive his father's volatile nature and the desire to satisfy his curiosity about the little girls that live in the house in the woods, Joel finds a world of friendship and love he never knew existed.
Together, the three encounter school dances, heartbreaks, first loves, and a world turned upside down by the threat of nuclear war. With a new beginning on the horizon, Hazel, Ruthie, and Joel find their happiness is in jeopardy when tragedy strikes, and they are forced to make a choice. Bury a secret so deep no one will ever know the truth or lose everything they hold dear.
NetGalley Reviews are in -
"What a story!"
"Can't wait for the next book."
"I absolutely loved this coming of age story by Tennille Marie. It was one of those beautiful stories written with so much heart and love. Her characters were so honest and real. I was totally mesmerized right from the beginning."
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2023
18 people are currently reading
9057 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 7, 2023
This is a lovely book! It was a joy to read. I was addicted right away but because I was reading it on kindle and not on audio I couldn’t work while reading. Otherwise I would have listened as much as I could!
What I like about Our Kept Hearts is that it’s a true to life story. Three kids living their lives and growing up together in America. I liked that it skipped years at a time and had the viewpoint of all three characters, Hazel, Ruthie and Joel. The two girls had to live with the fact that their mother up and left them at a young age and Joel’s hardship was his physically and mentally abusive, alcoholic father.
I’ve never read historical fiction that included the timeline of the Cuban Missile Crisis and it was eye opening to learn how the Americans reacted to it. They made preparations for immediate destruction; bomb shelters, stockpiling provisions, practicing bomb drills at school. I guess it was a foretaste of the preppers we have today.
The book starts in 1953 and ends in November of 1962. There is a sequel so I’m excited to see what Hazel, Ruthie and Joel will be doing next.
Many thanks to BookSirens and Tennille Gilreath for the advanced readers copy!
What I like about Our Kept Hearts is that it’s a true to life story. Three kids living their lives and growing up together in America. I liked that it skipped years at a time and had the viewpoint of all three characters, Hazel, Ruthie and Joel. The two girls had to live with the fact that their mother up and left them at a young age and Joel’s hardship was his physically and mentally abusive, alcoholic father.
I’ve never read historical fiction that included the timeline of the Cuban Missile Crisis and it was eye opening to learn how the Americans reacted to it. They made preparations for immediate destruction; bomb shelters, stockpiling provisions, practicing bomb drills at school. I guess it was a foretaste of the preppers we have today.
The book starts in 1953 and ends in November of 1962. There is a sequel so I’m excited to see what Hazel, Ruthie and Joel will be doing next.
Many thanks to BookSirens and Tennille Gilreath for the advanced readers copy!
August 23, 2023
I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. I am so glad that she asked me to read it, I was not disappointed! This is a true coming of age story that took me right back to all the feelings a young girl has… Falling in love, and the fear and heartbreak that sometimes comes with it. The hurt that families can do with betrayal and feelings of not knowing your place in the world. The author did a great job at bringing all those feelings out in her characters, and made it so relatable to those feelings of growing up and learning some things the hard way. The characters were very likable, and made me feel all the things that a good book will make you feel, sadness, excitement, loneliness, anger, and hope. This book definitely gave you a good book hangover! Recommend!
September 1, 2023
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book was captivating and I literally read it in one day. I love her characters and their interactions. Can't wait to read Book 2 ... and then Book 3!
The author is very talented.
The author is very talented.
August 22, 2023
READ THIS BOOK! I could not put it down. Every character is well-developed and the story line is captivating! If you want a page-turner, this is it!
December 31, 2023
What a pleasant surprise this was! I absolutely loved this coming of age story and found myself eager to pick it back up and continue reading.
We start with Hazel and Ruthie as their mother leaves them on her quest for "more". Hazel knows it's not right for little girls to grow up without a mother. Meanwhile, Joel, the neighbor is living in a nightmare thanks to his drunk father. After a chance encounter these three characters grow to become family and we follow along as they navigate elementary, middle and high school. What will come after?
This is set in the 50's and 60's which is one of my favorite time periods to read about. Although there were some devastating circumstances, I found this book to be heartwarming and I devoured the whole thing. I seriously don't know how I'm going to be able to wait until November for the second book to come out!
This book has already been released and is also on Kindle Unlimited! Thank you NetGalley for my copy!
We start with Hazel and Ruthie as their mother leaves them on her quest for "more". Hazel knows it's not right for little girls to grow up without a mother. Meanwhile, Joel, the neighbor is living in a nightmare thanks to his drunk father. After a chance encounter these three characters grow to become family and we follow along as they navigate elementary, middle and high school. What will come after?
This is set in the 50's and 60's which is one of my favorite time periods to read about. Although there were some devastating circumstances, I found this book to be heartwarming and I devoured the whole thing. I seriously don't know how I'm going to be able to wait until November for the second book to come out!
This book has already been released and is also on Kindle Unlimited! Thank you NetGalley for my copy!
December 17, 2023
I recently received this book through Goodreads Giveaway and asked to write a review . I was pleasantly surprised ! The sisters and their father are endearing and warm your heart. The book starts with some surprises and leaves you anticipating how things will turn out . Because of that anticipation there were parts I wanted to race through, wanting to get to what happened but do not fall into that habit as a reader. Instead soak in the characters and embrace their journey and discoveries. Well written , surprising twists, and endearing characters.
April 26, 2025
A sweet coming of age story that has a heartwarming father-daughter dynamic. Growing up in the same small town as the author, it was fun seeing locations, sports teams, drive-ins, etc. that were a special part of my life. Good job, Tennille!
September 16, 2023
This book is SO good and will give you all of the feels. I loved the mid-century, small-town Arkansas setting and the special details that made the story come to life. My favorite part of this book was the development of the endearing characters. I felt the characters’ disappointments, frustrations, embarrassments, fears, loves, and joys. I am completely invested in Hazel, Ruthie, and Joel, and I cannot wait to find out what the future holds for this trio. Thank you, Tennille Marie for an early copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2023
Our Kept Hearts is the debut book by Tennille Marie and is book one in a series. This is a historical story that feels mostly slice of life with a few dramatic moments and a sweet romance woven through.
This follows Hazel and Ruthie, two sisters that have recently had their mother walk out on them. Left with only their father, the two have to learn how to grow up without a mother figure. The neighbor kid, Joel, stumbles upon them one day and the three grow into close friends. We follow them as they grow into young adults.
This story was very enchanting. I think the writing style made it feel very immersive. The late fifties/early sixties vibes gave the characters such a quaint feeling. All three children have to learn how to grow up in a heartbreaking way but especially Joel. My heart hurt for him at the beginning. I loved watching the characters grow over time. We get snapshots of them as they get older and it was always nice to see them doing well.
There are some suspenseful moments sprinkled through the book that help with the pace and it never felt slow. I’m excited to see where this series goes from here! This is a book that would make an excellent palette cleanser after something heavy or if you just want something that feels wholesome. This book felt like going to an old style ice cream bar and listening to some fifties music while enjoying a vanilla cone.
This follows Hazel and Ruthie, two sisters that have recently had their mother walk out on them. Left with only their father, the two have to learn how to grow up without a mother figure. The neighbor kid, Joel, stumbles upon them one day and the three grow into close friends. We follow them as they grow into young adults.
This story was very enchanting. I think the writing style made it feel very immersive. The late fifties/early sixties vibes gave the characters such a quaint feeling. All three children have to learn how to grow up in a heartbreaking way but especially Joel. My heart hurt for him at the beginning. I loved watching the characters grow over time. We get snapshots of them as they get older and it was always nice to see them doing well.
There are some suspenseful moments sprinkled through the book that help with the pace and it never felt slow. I’m excited to see where this series goes from here! This is a book that would make an excellent palette cleanser after something heavy or if you just want something that feels wholesome. This book felt like going to an old style ice cream bar and listening to some fifties music while enjoying a vanilla cone.
November 19, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for a preview of this book. I would give 4.5 stars. It’s heartwarming light read, which was what the doctor ordered. The characters were compelling and the plot was good. I think the one thing that it could’ve benefitted from was a little more historical grounding. Some of it came later on with details of the Cold War. I loved that and wanted more of that.
November 18, 2023
This is one of the best books I've read in a long time! All the people were so real an believable. I hope to read more from this author!
December 29, 2023
I received this book from the publisher as an ARC. I absolutely loved this coming of age story by Tennille Marie. It was one of those beautiful stories written with so much heart and love. Her characters were so honest and real. I was totally memorized right from the beginning. She did an amazing job of making her characters relatable to everyday life, yet also giving each one of them incredible depth. It was an unforgettable story about friendship, family, and everlasting love. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a heartfelt story about first and forever love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2024
What an amazing coming of age story! This is my first book by Tennille Marie and definitely won’t be my last. This story had everything: endearing characters, mystery, a delightful small town setting, and heartfelt romance all set in the 1950’s-60’s. The mysterious prologue immediately pulled me in and I couldn’t wait to find out what lead up to it.
The first few chapters were emotionally difficult to read as the story begins with two small sisters, Hazel & Ruthie whose mother leaves them in such a cruel way. She’s verbally abusive and unnecessarily mean while informing them that she wants more than them and their father. Nearby, ten year old Joel experiences both severe mental and physical abuse from his alcoholic father. When these three meet in the forest, they become fast friends and their lives begin to change for the better.
Told from each of the children’s points of view, this heartwarming, poignant story of growing up in the 1950’s grabbed hold of my heart and didn’t let go. Each of these children was so lovable and I enjoyed experiencing the ups and downs of childhood & adolescence, first love, and first kisses with them. Though the children carry scars from the devastating experiences of their childhood, it’s kudos to the girls’ loving father and caring neighbors who provide Hazel, Ruthie, & Joel with a stable, loving environment.
I loved the way this story felt so real and authentic. From the clothing styles and cars to Coke bottles & the movies, this story made me feel like I was there. It was also fascinating how real world events were woven into the story. The panicked reaction of the small town to the Cuban Missile Crisis had an unexpectedly profound effect.
There are several twists in the story that kept me on the edge of my seat. While things are tied up pretty well at the end, there’re still questions & I can’t wait to see what lies in store for Hazel, Joel, & Ruthie in the next book as they forge ahead into adulthood.
This was truly a unique, enjoyable story that was impossible to put down. Highly recommend to historical fiction fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author via TLC Book Tours but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
CW: a few mentions of verbal and physical child abuse
The first few chapters were emotionally difficult to read as the story begins with two small sisters, Hazel & Ruthie whose mother leaves them in such a cruel way. She’s verbally abusive and unnecessarily mean while informing them that she wants more than them and their father. Nearby, ten year old Joel experiences both severe mental and physical abuse from his alcoholic father. When these three meet in the forest, they become fast friends and their lives begin to change for the better.
Told from each of the children’s points of view, this heartwarming, poignant story of growing up in the 1950’s grabbed hold of my heart and didn’t let go. Each of these children was so lovable and I enjoyed experiencing the ups and downs of childhood & adolescence, first love, and first kisses with them. Though the children carry scars from the devastating experiences of their childhood, it’s kudos to the girls’ loving father and caring neighbors who provide Hazel, Ruthie, & Joel with a stable, loving environment.
I loved the way this story felt so real and authentic. From the clothing styles and cars to Coke bottles & the movies, this story made me feel like I was there. It was also fascinating how real world events were woven into the story. The panicked reaction of the small town to the Cuban Missile Crisis had an unexpectedly profound effect.
There are several twists in the story that kept me on the edge of my seat. While things are tied up pretty well at the end, there’re still questions & I can’t wait to see what lies in store for Hazel, Joel, & Ruthie in the next book as they forge ahead into adulthood.
This was truly a unique, enjoyable story that was impossible to put down. Highly recommend to historical fiction fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author via TLC Book Tours but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
CW: a few mentions of verbal and physical child abuse
May 5, 2024
This fantastic coming of age story begins in 1953 in rural Arkansas. It beautifully reflects children's lives at that time and the three main characters all reminded me of friends that I had growing up in this time period. It's a book full of family and love and leaning to overcome bad situations and find happiness in life.
Hazel was 9 and her sister Ruthie was two years younger when their mother decided to leave the family because she wanted more out of life. Hazel was devastated at the loss of her mother while Ruthie was more angry than sad. Their dad worked out of town so they spent their summer days taking care of themselves and spent a lot of time in the woods exploring and learning about nature. They don't realize it at first, but there is a young boy living in a nearby house. He lives with his abusive alcoholic father and struggles to get through his days without getting beaten by his father. He meets the two girls in the woods and they quickly become friends. Joel is the same age as Hazel and the three kids bonded together. We get to know the kids so well through their interactions with each other that they feel like real friends. The story covers their lives from 1953 to 1962. As they grow up, their relationships ebb and flow -- school problems, Joel's father's abuse, first loves and losses...but despite what was going on, their friendship remained strong. It was especially interesting to read about the fear of Communism and nuclear bombs that gripped America during the early 60s and how it affected these three children.
This was a sweet emotional coming of age story as Hazel, Ruthie and Joel managed their lives as they grew up. It encompasses abandonment and abuse but more importantly it's about love - sister love, family love and the love of friends who may become more than friends. It may make you laugh - especially the relationship of the sisters and it may make you cry but overall it's a book that will make you feel happy that you read it and got to know these three characters. There is an indication that this is the first book in a new series and I am looking forward to reading more about this trio of friends as they face issues together in the coming years.
Hazel was 9 and her sister Ruthie was two years younger when their mother decided to leave the family because she wanted more out of life. Hazel was devastated at the loss of her mother while Ruthie was more angry than sad. Their dad worked out of town so they spent their summer days taking care of themselves and spent a lot of time in the woods exploring and learning about nature. They don't realize it at first, but there is a young boy living in a nearby house. He lives with his abusive alcoholic father and struggles to get through his days without getting beaten by his father. He meets the two girls in the woods and they quickly become friends. Joel is the same age as Hazel and the three kids bonded together. We get to know the kids so well through their interactions with each other that they feel like real friends. The story covers their lives from 1953 to 1962. As they grow up, their relationships ebb and flow -- school problems, Joel's father's abuse, first loves and losses...but despite what was going on, their friendship remained strong. It was especially interesting to read about the fear of Communism and nuclear bombs that gripped America during the early 60s and how it affected these three children.
This was a sweet emotional coming of age story as Hazel, Ruthie and Joel managed their lives as they grew up. It encompasses abandonment and abuse but more importantly it's about love - sister love, family love and the love of friends who may become more than friends. It may make you laugh - especially the relationship of the sisters and it may make you cry but overall it's a book that will make you feel happy that you read it and got to know these three characters. There is an indication that this is the first book in a new series and I am looking forward to reading more about this trio of friends as they face issues together in the coming years.
January 30, 2024
This book was beautiful from start to finish. It centers around two sisters Hazel & Ruthie growing up in the 50's & 60's adjusting to life, hormones, hopes & dreams, & ever changing world around them. Their mom abandons them, leaving them to be raised by a mostly absent father who's rarely around due to his job. With the help of their neighbor, Joel, who's from an abusive home himself, they all bond together through the years. They try to navigate coming of age events like pep rallies, dating, & Friday Night Lights while handling the Cuban missile crisis & the Vietnam War. During it all, they mainly only have each other for support.
I listened to the audio book of this & I found I really enjoyed it. I usually don't get pulled in with audio books they leave my mind drifting away, but I didn't have that with this story. The narrator did a great job giving a voice to each character.
This book reminded me a lot of a mix of Pretty in Pink & The Wonder Years blended together. I love Americana stories of WWII to Vietnam Era time periods & this story captured it all. It made you feel those raw teenage emotions. It made you feel the love, hurt, & fear of family troubles, romance, & living in an era of political & civil unrest. It really made you think how life would have been living through those events. The three lead characters are all amazing. I can't wait to see what happens in this series. The author did an amazing job from start to finish. I highly recommend giving this book a try if you love heartfelt coming of age & family stories that are timeless.
I listened to the audio book of this & I found I really enjoyed it. I usually don't get pulled in with audio books they leave my mind drifting away, but I didn't have that with this story. The narrator did a great job giving a voice to each character.
This book reminded me a lot of a mix of Pretty in Pink & The Wonder Years blended together. I love Americana stories of WWII to Vietnam Era time periods & this story captured it all. It made you feel those raw teenage emotions. It made you feel the love, hurt, & fear of family troubles, romance, & living in an era of political & civil unrest. It really made you think how life would have been living through those events. The three lead characters are all amazing. I can't wait to see what happens in this series. The author did an amazing job from start to finish. I highly recommend giving this book a try if you love heartfelt coming of age & family stories that are timeless.
November 14, 2023
Set in small town Arkansas in the 1950s, this is a story with a big heart. When their mother leaves young Hazel and her younger sister Ruthie in search of something better, 9 year old Hazel is especially devastated, knowing that this will be a bitter blow for the two of them to overcome.
Meanwhile, Joel struggles to survive life with his unpredictable father, who has alcohol problems. Curious about the two little girls living in the woods, who are so often left to fend for themselves while their father is out working, the three children eventually establish an unbreakable bond.
Set over a decade against the background of the Cuban Missile Crisis, this is a story memorable for its emotion and authenticity. We accompany the characters through seminal events in their lives, including the stirrings of first love, as well as the other challenges of growing up with unstable or absent parents. Definitely worth a read for those who enjoy coming of stories, in particular. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Meanwhile, Joel struggles to survive life with his unpredictable father, who has alcohol problems. Curious about the two little girls living in the woods, who are so often left to fend for themselves while their father is out working, the three children eventually establish an unbreakable bond.
Set over a decade against the background of the Cuban Missile Crisis, this is a story memorable for its emotion and authenticity. We accompany the characters through seminal events in their lives, including the stirrings of first love, as well as the other challenges of growing up with unstable or absent parents. Definitely worth a read for those who enjoy coming of stories, in particular. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
November 28, 2023
What a story! I think high schoolers may well like this one. I found it remarkable in that some who suffered severe childhood abuse and another whose trauma came from a mother, were able to overcome despite the odds, scars, and mental anguish. I feel that this story sends a very positive message of hope and courage and of one that could help heal, although its not meant to be a counseling or therapy guide, I don't think. A very sweet romance infuses this work of fiction and has good, clean fun coupled with a faith-in-God based element. Also of note, this is a first in a series called the Waldron Hearts Series.
~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~
September 2023
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~
September 2023
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
April 24, 2024
I'm a little stuck. I thought the story was interesting and I always want to support first time novelists.
But, the short sentences, the miscellaneous anecdotes of the children's formative years and the slow plot development just didn't do it for me. There was just too much going on. (And, the type face was too big. I know that is picky but it was annoying.)
The prologue sets up the ending of the book so the reader has some inkling where the plot is headed from page one. It just seemed like it took a long while to get there. I was literally scanning whole pages and I didn't feel like I was missing any real vital movement in the story.
On a brighter note, I did enjoy watching the characters grow up and I think Marie definitely know how to depict small town life. While Ruthie, Hazel and Joel were developed, there were other characters that just fell short, like Joel's father and Ms. Faye.
It's a first novel. I get it. And, I wish Marie all the best.
But, the short sentences, the miscellaneous anecdotes of the children's formative years and the slow plot development just didn't do it for me. There was just too much going on. (And, the type face was too big. I know that is picky but it was annoying.)
The prologue sets up the ending of the book so the reader has some inkling where the plot is headed from page one. It just seemed like it took a long while to get there. I was literally scanning whole pages and I didn't feel like I was missing any real vital movement in the story.
On a brighter note, I did enjoy watching the characters grow up and I think Marie definitely know how to depict small town life. While Ruthie, Hazel and Joel were developed, there were other characters that just fell short, like Joel's father and Ms. Faye.
It's a first novel. I get it. And, I wish Marie all the best.
April 29, 2024
‘Our Kept Hearts’ is such a beautiful coming of age story. It follows Joel, Hazel, and Ruthie as they practically raised each other. This story starts off during a rough day for Ruthie and Hazel. I wanted to reach into the book and smack their mother upside her head. Thankfully they had women who stepped up and helped guide them into womanhood after their mother left. Their father was also really supportive and loving.
I loved that the girls had each other and Joel. They were so supportive of each other. I really enjoyed the pace of the timeline. Nothing felt rushed or too slow. Joel and Ruthie’s brother/sister relationship was really sweet. I loved seeing Hazel and Joel’s relationship blossom from a crush into a deeper love. The ending of this book was so beautiful and I cannot wait to read the next one.
*Thank you @tlcbooktours for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I loved that the girls had each other and Joel. They were so supportive of each other. I really enjoyed the pace of the timeline. Nothing felt rushed or too slow. Joel and Ruthie’s brother/sister relationship was really sweet. I loved seeing Hazel and Joel’s relationship blossom from a crush into a deeper love. The ending of this book was so beautiful and I cannot wait to read the next one.
*Thank you @tlcbooktours for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
January 12, 2024
Full Disclosure: Goodreads win..thanks!
Brief Plot synopsis: Our Kept Hearts follows the lives of Hazel, her sister Ruthie, and their neighbor boy Joel from childhood to early adulthood. All 3 children are "abandoned" children in one way or another but Hazel and Ruthie grow up in a house with love, while Joel is forced into a life of abuse. Fortunately, Hazel and Ruthie's dad realizes the life the young child has to live and welcomes him into their lives as much as he can. Though they all live what many would call an impoverished live, they value the importance of love above all other things.
My review: This is a solid heartwarming story. It is the kind of book that you want to cuddle up with at night. Yes, the child abuse is really bad, but the love shown between the characters is very wholesome. It shows how you can overcome any thing in life if you try hard enough.
Brief Plot synopsis: Our Kept Hearts follows the lives of Hazel, her sister Ruthie, and their neighbor boy Joel from childhood to early adulthood. All 3 children are "abandoned" children in one way or another but Hazel and Ruthie grow up in a house with love, while Joel is forced into a life of abuse. Fortunately, Hazel and Ruthie's dad realizes the life the young child has to live and welcomes him into their lives as much as he can. Though they all live what many would call an impoverished live, they value the importance of love above all other things.
My review: This is a solid heartwarming story. It is the kind of book that you want to cuddle up with at night. Yes, the child abuse is really bad, but the love shown between the characters is very wholesome. It shows how you can overcome any thing in life if you try hard enough.
April 5, 2024
Title: Our Kept Hearts
Author: Tennille Marie
Publisher: Purple Iris Printing, LLC
Pub date: 11/30/2023
This is the first book in the Waldron Hearts series that takes place in the 1950s -1960s. You will be taken on the journey of sisters, Hazel and Ruthie, along with their neighbor Joel. They meet as young children and form bonds that help them to grow and deal with the cards they’ve been dealt. Our Kept Hearts is also a small town America story filled with youthful innocence and family drama.
This book broke my heart, made me laugh and filled me with hope that people still believe in friendships that feel like family and the importance of family bonds to overcome that which might just break us.
Thank you #NetGalley and #PurpleIrisPrinting for the opportunity to read such a moving story.
Author: Tennille Marie
Publisher: Purple Iris Printing, LLC
Pub date: 11/30/2023
This is the first book in the Waldron Hearts series that takes place in the 1950s -1960s. You will be taken on the journey of sisters, Hazel and Ruthie, along with their neighbor Joel. They meet as young children and form bonds that help them to grow and deal with the cards they’ve been dealt. Our Kept Hearts is also a small town America story filled with youthful innocence and family drama.
This book broke my heart, made me laugh and filled me with hope that people still believe in friendships that feel like family and the importance of family bonds to overcome that which might just break us.
Thank you #NetGalley and #PurpleIrisPrinting for the opportunity to read such a moving story.
May 20, 2024
This is such a lovely book! I raced through it because I was invested in Hazel, Ruthie, and Joel. The book tells the story of three motherless children, sisters Hazel and Ruthie and their neighbor Joel, growing up on the outskirts of an Arkansas town in the 1950’s. Each approaches this challenge in their own way. When they seem to be on the brink of a happily ever after their world is changed by violence. Will this destroy everything they dreamed of? The book is told from multiple perspectives which allows the reader to understand what each character is thinking. It is a story of growing up and with the support of family and friends finding the resilience to not only survive but to figure out a way to create the life you dream of. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Waldron Hearts series.
Thanks to TLC Book Tours and the author for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to TLC Book Tours and the author for providing a copy for my honest review.
March 6, 2024
Thank you to the Goodreads Giveaways program. This was such a sweet book! It reminded me of my own childhood because of the way neighbors knew what was going on with you and your family. Though my own childhood was easy compared to the main characters. And I did not have the tragedy these characters experienced. I did not really expect it to grab me so much but found that I couldn't wait to get back to it. The characters were well drawn, I really liked them, and the story was told in such a way that you could believe it.
It had the sister relationship story and the story of the sister who didn't want to like the boy, but just couldn't help but love him. And if you read it, I believe you will want to follow up with the next book. I certainly do!
It had the sister relationship story and the story of the sister who didn't want to like the boy, but just couldn't help but love him. And if you read it, I believe you will want to follow up with the next book. I certainly do!
December 2, 2025
I won a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway....
It sat on my Kindle for over a year as I finished up other books that drew my attention more. I finally dived into this one and it was a slow read at first. Once it picked up though I was hooked and always eager to come back to read the next chapter. I liked that the story was told through three different voices. I love that the time jumps allowed you to fill in the blanks of time with your own imagination although I was having to do some mental math each time a date was presented to try and remember how old they all were.
Overall I really enjoyed this and found it to be a cozy page turner.
It sat on my Kindle for over a year as I finished up other books that drew my attention more. I finally dived into this one and it was a slow read at first. Once it picked up though I was hooked and always eager to come back to read the next chapter. I liked that the story was told through three different voices. I love that the time jumps allowed you to fill in the blanks of time with your own imagination although I was having to do some mental math each time a date was presented to try and remember how old they all were.
Overall I really enjoyed this and found it to be a cozy page turner.
November 19, 2023
Wow! This book is stunning. Well written, this book makes you feel. Hazel and Ruthie, 9 and 7, are trying to cope after their mother leaves. Up the hill from their house is Joel's house, who is 10 years old, is trying to survive his alcoholic father who is physically abusive. Read to find out how their lives intersect. This is a coming of age book. I highly recommend! 5 stars! Coming out Nov. 30, 2023.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Purple Iris Printing LLC for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Purple Iris Printing LLC for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2024
Thank you to the author who provided a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
It took me awhile to get into this book, but I was struggling with a reading slump
The story is heartfelt and lovely, following two sisters and the boy who lived up the hill from childhood to adulthood. It is told through three points of view, so the reader experiences each of the main characters thoughts and motives.
I would recommend to anyone who needs a heartwarming read.
Trigger Warnings: abandonment and child abuse
It took me awhile to get into this book, but I was struggling with a reading slump
The story is heartfelt and lovely, following two sisters and the boy who lived up the hill from childhood to adulthood. It is told through three points of view, so the reader experiences each of the main characters thoughts and motives.
I would recommend to anyone who needs a heartwarming read.
Trigger Warnings: abandonment and child abuse
May 13, 2024
this story was a work of art and took my emotions on a roller coaster ride. 🥹 it’s a coming of age novel you don’t want to miss.
Arkansas, 1953.
it starts with ruthie and hazel as their mom leaves them on a journey for “more” in life. simultaneously, the next door neighbor kid, Joel, is stuck growing up with an alcoholic father. thats when these 3 wonderful characters meet and come together for a stunning storyline.
there were some harsh scenarios that touched on topics as it’s set in the 50s and 60s - however, this book just touched me in many ways. 🫶🏻❤️
Arkansas, 1953.
it starts with ruthie and hazel as their mom leaves them on a journey for “more” in life. simultaneously, the next door neighbor kid, Joel, is stuck growing up with an alcoholic father. thats when these 3 wonderful characters meet and come together for a stunning storyline.
there were some harsh scenarios that touched on topics as it’s set in the 50s and 60s - however, this book just touched me in many ways. 🫶🏻❤️
November 26, 2023
I received an arc copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion of it. I so enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read more by this author. The book starts off with two sisters (Hazel and Ruthie) watching their mom get in her car and leave them. They grew up with their dad and soon made friends with Joel. The book is told in parts by Hazel, Ruthie and Joel as they were growing up. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend.
March 11, 2024
What an emotionally gripping book! This is outside of the typical crime and murder novels I read. This wholesome novel had me on the edge of my seat the whole time! The author has a way of tugging our heartstrings from the first pages. This book is full of promises to reveal secrets kept, life changes and juicy back stories. It’s why it was so emotional and exciting to read. I can’t wait for book two!
June 6, 2024
feal good quick & easy read
This book takes place in a small town in the 50s. The story is about self-love and the journey that these characters take on their way to adulthood. As the story develops, so do the characters. The story is told through the course of passing years as these characters get older. It starts off a little slow, but it is a quick read, with some romance and family drama. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
This book takes place in a small town in the 50s. The story is about self-love and the journey that these characters take on their way to adulthood. As the story develops, so do the characters. The story is told through the course of passing years as these characters get older. It starts off a little slow, but it is a quick read, with some romance and family drama. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
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