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Snowglobe Connections #3
Finding Our Way Home: A Novel
When the road home becomes daunting—sometimes a very capable girl on a bicycle can help find the way.
“Charming, surprising, familiar, and just downright wonderful.”
—Allie Pleiter, author of Yukon Wedding and Bluegrass Blessings
When principal ballerina Sasha Davis suffers a career-ending injury at age thirty-eight, she leaves her Boston-based dance company and retreats to the home of her youth in Minnesota. But Sasha’s injuries limit her as much as her mother’s recent death haunts her. Concluding she can’t recover alone, Sasha reluctantly hires a temporary live-in aide.
Enter the übercapable Evelyn Burt. As large-boned as Sasha is delicate, Evelyn is her employer’s opposite in every way. Small town to Sasha’s urban chic, outgoing to Sasha’s iciness, and undaunted where Sasha is hopeless, nineteen-year-old Evelyn is newly engaged and sees the world as one big, shiny opportunity.
Evelyn soon discovers Sasha needs to heal more than bones. Slowly, as the wounds begin to mend and the tables tilt, the two women form an unlikely alliance and discover the astounding power of even the smallest act done in the name of love. Finding Our Way Home is a story of second chances and lavish grace.
“Charming, surprising, familiar, and just downright wonderful.”
—Allie Pleiter, author of Yukon Wedding and Bluegrass Blessings
When principal ballerina Sasha Davis suffers a career-ending injury at age thirty-eight, she leaves her Boston-based dance company and retreats to the home of her youth in Minnesota. But Sasha’s injuries limit her as much as her mother’s recent death haunts her. Concluding she can’t recover alone, Sasha reluctantly hires a temporary live-in aide.
Enter the übercapable Evelyn Burt. As large-boned as Sasha is delicate, Evelyn is her employer’s opposite in every way. Small town to Sasha’s urban chic, outgoing to Sasha’s iciness, and undaunted where Sasha is hopeless, nineteen-year-old Evelyn is newly engaged and sees the world as one big, shiny opportunity.
Evelyn soon discovers Sasha needs to heal more than bones. Slowly, as the wounds begin to mend and the tables tilt, the two women form an unlikely alliance and discover the astounding power of even the smallest act done in the name of love. Finding Our Way Home is a story of second chances and lavish grace.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
9 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Charlene Ann Baumbich
33 books119 followersAuthor, Speaker, Humorist. Seventeen books under her belt (including the Dearest Dorothy series and the Snowglobe Connections series), Charlene is still going strong, finding writing (including grocery lists and brainstorming sessions and eCards to her grandgirlies) more enjoyable than ever. Visit her website at www.charleneannbaumbich.com for more information."
It's awesome when my fictional characters bless me. Like Evelyn in FINDING OUR WAY HOME is fond of saying, "Grace, Amen."
It's awesome when my fictional characters bless me. Like Evelyn in FINDING OUR WAY HOME is fond of saying, "Grace, Amen."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 30, 2012
Lives can change in a moment, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse. Sasha Davis was a prima ballerina until a tragic fall ended her career. Her depression is deep, causing her to push away from the people she loves. But she needs help, and Evelyn Burt is hired to be her personal assistant. At 19, Evelyn has her whole life ahead of her, but is dealing with the pressures of her parents desire for her to attend college, and her desire to marry Jordyn. As the two women spend time together, they become friends helping each other overcome negative thoughts and feelings. Will Sasha be able to move past the loss of her dream and find something new to fill up her time? Will her marriage weather the storms? Will Evelyn listen to her parents or to her heart? Can life ever be wonderful again after severe change?
This is a wonderful story of change, hope, friendship, and love. The characters pull you into their stories and make you feel their sorrows and joys. The story moves along at a good pace and will hold your attention. It will make a wonderful gift for readers of all types, and book discussion groups will enjoy discussing the many topics held in the pages. I received my free review copy from the Blogging for Books program.
This is a wonderful story of change, hope, friendship, and love. The characters pull you into their stories and make you feel their sorrows and joys. The story moves along at a good pace and will hold your attention. It will make a wonderful gift for readers of all types, and book discussion groups will enjoy discussing the many topics held in the pages. I received my free review copy from the Blogging for Books program.
September 15, 2021
This was a great little story that I picked up off a shelf at the library, not knowing the author nor realizing it was part of a series. It was billed as Christian fiction, and at the beginning, I wondered why, as there seemed to be no spiritual component to the story. But later, as the characters grew, their faith grew along with them. I would definitely not call it preachy, but just a quiet realization of the grace God gives us as we meet challenges in our lives.
Sasha is a dancer. Well, was a dancer until an injury ended her career. Even after she leaves the hospital, she is forced to hire a live-in aide because there is almost nothing she can do on her own.
Evelyn Burt is a young woman who has just graduated from high school. Having formed a new relationship she doesn't want to leave, she decides to postpone college and hire herself out to do odd jobs - no job too odd, as her advertisement says. She agrees to be Sasha's helper. She is a breath of fresh air in a stuffy old house, and refuses to feel sorry for her patient. How these two women forge an amazing friendship makes a wonderful, warm story.
Sasha is a dancer. Well, was a dancer until an injury ended her career. Even after she leaves the hospital, she is forced to hire a live-in aide because there is almost nothing she can do on her own.
Evelyn Burt is a young woman who has just graduated from high school. Having formed a new relationship she doesn't want to leave, she decides to postpone college and hire herself out to do odd jobs - no job too odd, as her advertisement says. She agrees to be Sasha's helper. She is a breath of fresh air in a stuffy old house, and refuses to feel sorry for her patient. How these two women forge an amazing friendship makes a wonderful, warm story.
June 30, 2012
Broken in body and spirit, principal ballerina Sasha Davis leaves the world of dance and all who remind her of it to return as an invalid to her hometown in Minnesota. There, as she searches for healing for both her back and her heart, Sasha finds that she cannot live alone and is forced to hire Evelyn Burt, a sassy and upbeat young woman who is determined to help Sasha on her way to recovery - even if Sasha resists her every move. Evelyn, a big girl and a tomboy at heart, is everything that Sasha is not and their relationship is fraught with conflict. Sasha, in the grip of depression and despair, sees Evelyn's sunny disposition and persistent optimism as failures and irritations. The women do share one important characteristic, however: both have wandered far from home. Sasha's move was a physical one while Evelyn moved emotionally away from her parents when she upset them by choosing not to go to college and instead became engaged to the town's "bad boy." As the women work together to find their ways back home, they gradually learn to understand each other better and form a strong bond of friendship that will prove to be an important source of strength for both of them when they are faced with unexpected life changes.
As a fan of Charlene Ann Baumbich's Dearest Dorothy series, I was so glad to see that she has continued to write beautiful novels that touch the heart. Finding Our Way Home was a wonderful novel that reminded me of the all-important need for grace and friendship in our lives. Though I was initially dissatisfied with the way the last few chapters seemed to rush towards closure, I realized upon further meditation that the focus of the book was not the resolution of the problems that arose but was rather the relationship between Sasha and Evelyn and its transforming power as they faced their darkest moments. The characters of both women are strong and well-written, but I was especially drawn to Sasha's story. I could relate so well to her feelings of helplessness and to the lessons that she learned by surviving those dark hours. I could have written passages like these myself: "Sadly, not until she was wholly laid up did she realize what a gift it had been to be able to wash a dish, clean a toilet, or make her own bed..." and "In the midst of everything that was wrong, Sasha began to realize how important it was to pay attention while one could, to remember to be thankful for small things. Thankful for growing health and the people who came alongside you." The book is filled with similar truths that left an impression on me, reminding me to be thankful for each day that I have to draw breath and to enjoy the world and the people around me.
Thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah Press for the copy of the book I received in exchange for this unbiased review.
As a fan of Charlene Ann Baumbich's Dearest Dorothy series, I was so glad to see that she has continued to write beautiful novels that touch the heart. Finding Our Way Home was a wonderful novel that reminded me of the all-important need for grace and friendship in our lives. Though I was initially dissatisfied with the way the last few chapters seemed to rush towards closure, I realized upon further meditation that the focus of the book was not the resolution of the problems that arose but was rather the relationship between Sasha and Evelyn and its transforming power as they faced their darkest moments. The characters of both women are strong and well-written, but I was especially drawn to Sasha's story. I could relate so well to her feelings of helplessness and to the lessons that she learned by surviving those dark hours. I could have written passages like these myself: "Sadly, not until she was wholly laid up did she realize what a gift it had been to be able to wash a dish, clean a toilet, or make her own bed..." and "In the midst of everything that was wrong, Sasha began to realize how important it was to pay attention while one could, to remember to be thankful for small things. Thankful for growing health and the people who came alongside you." The book is filled with similar truths that left an impression on me, reminding me to be thankful for each day that I have to draw breath and to enjoy the world and the people around me.
Thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah Press for the copy of the book I received in exchange for this unbiased review.
March 14, 2012
When the summary said it was a story of “second chances and lavish grace” I was expecting it to be a story of God’s grace – His saving grace. But it’s not, it’s a story of the grace people extend to one another and the grace we receive to live another day and find our purpose in life. Not that any of that is bad, I was just expecting a bit more “Christian” book.
The only thing I really didn’t like was how much Sasha valued her ballerina snow globe which she called “Our Lady of Dance”. Her mother had given it to her as a child and she would touch it before every performance for good luck and to help her perform better.
In the story it’s as if Sasha and the snow globe ballerina were mysteriously connected – four times one of the ballerina’s appendages mysteriously falls off and each time Sasha also experienced some unusual pain. There are a couple other times the ballerina does something unusual. A bit too superstitious for my liking.
I loved the friendship that forms between Sasha and Evelyn and how much each of them learns throughout the book. This isn’t a story just about Sasha, it’s also very much about Evelyn. Baumbich did a great job writing Evelyn’s character – she loves learning, is cheerful, bouncy, tries to control her tongue, and has a couple life lessons to learn.
I also really like another character – so patient and persevering. But I can’t tell you who it is because that would spoil the surprise on page 23. Don’t go flipping ahead now!
It’s a pretty clean book – although there is some passionate kissing between Evelyn and her fiancé and it’s clear that he wants more. But Evelyn stands by her convictions. (Go Evelyn!) And we’re told that a married couple enjoy themselves once or twice. Few details are given – just enough to let you know that married lovemaking is very sweet [and is the best kind].
Read my complete review: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2012...
Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.
The only thing I really didn’t like was how much Sasha valued her ballerina snow globe which she called “Our Lady of Dance”. Her mother had given it to her as a child and she would touch it before every performance for good luck and to help her perform better.
In the story it’s as if Sasha and the snow globe ballerina were mysteriously connected – four times one of the ballerina’s appendages mysteriously falls off and each time Sasha also experienced some unusual pain. There are a couple other times the ballerina does something unusual. A bit too superstitious for my liking.
I loved the friendship that forms between Sasha and Evelyn and how much each of them learns throughout the book. This isn’t a story just about Sasha, it’s also very much about Evelyn. Baumbich did a great job writing Evelyn’s character – she loves learning, is cheerful, bouncy, tries to control her tongue, and has a couple life lessons to learn.
I also really like another character – so patient and persevering. But I can’t tell you who it is because that would spoil the surprise on page 23. Don’t go flipping ahead now!
It’s a pretty clean book – although there is some passionate kissing between Evelyn and her fiancé and it’s clear that he wants more. But Evelyn stands by her convictions. (Go Evelyn!) And we’re told that a married couple enjoy themselves once or twice. Few details are given – just enough to let you know that married lovemaking is very sweet [and is the best kind].
Read my complete review: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2012...
Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.
May 28, 2012
Sasha sits wrapped in her shawl like an old woman, but injury and depression have led her here, not age, and the outspoken young housekeeper Evelyn might be just who she needs to bring her home. Author Charlene Anne Baumbich explores the sudden end of a brilliant ballerina’s career with a sensitive ear for the deadening silence of depression, lightening the tale with Evelyn’s eager hopes for a home of her own. Soon both characters will learn that “home” isn’t a house or memory or gift, but a state of being, chosen and maintained with care and love. It’s a wise lesson well taught in this gentle tale.
There are some lightly mystical elements in this novel, a snowglobe ballerina whose stance hides precious advice, the sweet blessing of “Grace, Amen,” before meals, and the gentle reminders to lift our problems to God. But church and serious prayer stay far away on the wings—not a “let-me-convert-you” story, or even a “let-me-make-you-want-to-be-converted,” this is more of a tale that acknowledges there’s more to life than eyes can see and lets the reader decide what to believe.
Sasha and Evelyn are very different characters, petite and large, boss and servant, silent and outspoken. The author renders their points of view very convincingly and gradually reveals the secret hurts both hide. Both awkward in their movements now, both unsure in their loves, they stumble towards friendship and healing and find their way in a world that’s not filled with easy answers but is filled with hope.
A satisfying tale, I enjoyed reading this and would be happy to read other snowglobe tales by this author.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my honest review.
There are some lightly mystical elements in this novel, a snowglobe ballerina whose stance hides precious advice, the sweet blessing of “Grace, Amen,” before meals, and the gentle reminders to lift our problems to God. But church and serious prayer stay far away on the wings—not a “let-me-convert-you” story, or even a “let-me-make-you-want-to-be-converted,” this is more of a tale that acknowledges there’s more to life than eyes can see and lets the reader decide what to believe.
Sasha and Evelyn are very different characters, petite and large, boss and servant, silent and outspoken. The author renders their points of view very convincingly and gradually reveals the secret hurts both hide. Both awkward in their movements now, both unsure in their loves, they stumble towards friendship and healing and find their way in a world that’s not filled with easy answers but is filled with hope.
A satisfying tale, I enjoyed reading this and would be happy to read other snowglobe tales by this author.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my honest review.
September 4, 2020
This was the third of a series, I liked it the best. Sasha, a ballerina, has a career-ending fall, and leaves all she knows, including her husband and dance partner. She moves into her mother’s house, halfway across the country. She’s hurting, and bitter and depressed. Evelyn, the young woman she hires to live in and care for her, is cheerful and pushes Sasha to get out of herself. A beautiful story of grace and friendship, as Sasha and Evelyn slowly grow close. The only thing that disappointed me was the cover. It’s beautiful, but the first two books had the snow globe on the cover, so when I picked this one up, I didn’t realize at first that it was part of the series.
November 22, 2020
This book is a nice escape. It’s a heart-warming story, if a bit predictable in terms of plot. The relationship forged between the two main characters Sasha and Evelyn is the best part of this book. I found myself rooting for them both to see their situations clearly and overcome their problems. It reminds me of Hallmark movies, which quite honestly I like sometimes - especially when reality gets a bit too heavy.
April 23, 2020
Grace Covers it.
This book is a beautiful love story as well as a story about coming of age and the struggles that can occur. The blessings when things go different than desired. I love the spiritual element in all of the authors books. Definitely worth more than 5 stars. I’m hoping there’s a sequel.
This book is a beautiful love story as well as a story about coming of age and the struggles that can occur. The blessings when things go different than desired. I love the spiritual element in all of the authors books. Definitely worth more than 5 stars. I’m hoping there’s a sequel.
August 1, 2017
What a fascinating story! I had trouble putting it down. A great story of love & grace.
November 29, 2017
Just a nice feel good book
April 5, 2018
Second time reading this, seems I forgot it until I started reading it again. It drags at times, but some of that may be because it wasn't my first time reading it.
June 10, 2018
Delightful!
First time reading this author. It was a delightful romp with a good message. Love to find a clean book that has a good storyline to go with it.
First time reading this author. It was a delightful romp with a good message. Love to find a clean book that has a good storyline to go with it.
November 22, 2019
4* Enjoyed this a lot. A feel-good story : )
July 31, 2020
Unbearably sappy. I have a hard time stopping books that I'm not enjoying... I wish it were not so.
Cliche characters.
Slow moving plot.
Not much happens and then it's over.
Cliche characters.
Slow moving plot.
Not much happens and then it's over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 21, 2021Fun romantic read. Clean. Sentimental.
Read
March 3, 2024This did not hold my interest. DNF
December 14, 2024
Nice story of friendship and family.
December 27, 2012
"When the road home becomes daunting--sometimes a very capable girl on a bicycle can help find the way."
Finding Our Way Home is a story about an unlikely pairing up of two women with equally strong, but dramatically different personalities. Sasha Davis, a 37-yr-old professional ballerina, has a career-ending accident that sends her spiraling into an ocean of bitterness, anger, and physical pain. Abruptly abandoning her dancing life, her hugely supportive and loving husband, and her circle of friends who remind her too much of what she's lost, she hides herself away in her mother's home, keeping most of the house closed up and unlived in while she spends much of her time sitting in a rocking chair glaring - not gazing - out the window at her memories of what her life used to be.
She needs help so she hires an assistant, Evelyn Burt, a 19-yr-old, "large-boned" girl who prays in one word, "Grace." Evelyn is just the opposite of Sasha - she finds hope and possibility in even the worst circumstances and situations...and people, including Sasha Davis. Evelyn is also engaged to Jorden McFinn, a young man with a "playboy" reputation, questionable roots, and from the wrong part of town. Evelyn's parents do not approve; which is why she is pursuing the live-in position with Sasha Davis. She's trying to get some perspective on her future.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Baumbich and I must say that I'm not surprised at the mixed reviews it has received. I'm a voracious reader who gets "attached" to characters quickly, but that was not the case with the cast in Finding Our Way Home. Although I enjoyed Ms. Baumbich's prose and lyrical style, I felt that the story was weighed down by characters who were not quite believable. If Sasha Davis could walk away from everything in her old life (including a devoted husband who relentlessly pursued her throughout her withdrawal, and whom she deeply loved, too), she certainly would have had no qualms in dismissing Evelyn Burt the moment the girl tried to push her way into the dancer's life. Evelyn Burt, having such a gift at being able to see people for who they were underneath their masks, still seemed overly naive about Jorden McFinn's role in her life. And Jorden McFinn was textbook bad boy (too many cliches) but we're given no back story, no substance for us to care about him...making Evelyn's "love" for him seem shallow and unbelievable. By the end of the book, the direction of their relationship seemed contrived, convenient, and somewhat disingenuous. The "spiritual" aspect of the snowglobe ballerina was distracting to me, not endearing.
Although the previous paragraph would indicate otherwise, I think this book has many promising qualities and I did enjoy it enough to care how it ended. The characters were understandable, if not wholly believable, and the prevailing message of grace made me want good things for these women and for the important people in their lives. Evelyn's undaunted spirit in light of her often adverse circumstances was a sharp contrast to Sasha's poisoned spirit in light of all she had going for her, something I'm certain the author intended readers to note. I did find myself rooting for Evelyn and all that she expected out of life, and I found myself longing for Sasha's healing both physically and emotionally.
Would I recommend the book? Yes, I would, but with some disclaimers. I feel that Ms. Baumbich has a lovely way with words, however, she did not endear me to these characters in the way I'd hoped.
Would I read more of her books? I may try some of her non-fiction and see if I connect better with her that way.
I received this novel for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Press via Blogging For Books in exchange for an honest review.
Finding Our Way Home is a story about an unlikely pairing up of two women with equally strong, but dramatically different personalities. Sasha Davis, a 37-yr-old professional ballerina, has a career-ending accident that sends her spiraling into an ocean of bitterness, anger, and physical pain. Abruptly abandoning her dancing life, her hugely supportive and loving husband, and her circle of friends who remind her too much of what she's lost, she hides herself away in her mother's home, keeping most of the house closed up and unlived in while she spends much of her time sitting in a rocking chair glaring - not gazing - out the window at her memories of what her life used to be.
She needs help so she hires an assistant, Evelyn Burt, a 19-yr-old, "large-boned" girl who prays in one word, "Grace." Evelyn is just the opposite of Sasha - she finds hope and possibility in even the worst circumstances and situations...and people, including Sasha Davis. Evelyn is also engaged to Jorden McFinn, a young man with a "playboy" reputation, questionable roots, and from the wrong part of town. Evelyn's parents do not approve; which is why she is pursuing the live-in position with Sasha Davis. She's trying to get some perspective on her future.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Baumbich and I must say that I'm not surprised at the mixed reviews it has received. I'm a voracious reader who gets "attached" to characters quickly, but that was not the case with the cast in Finding Our Way Home. Although I enjoyed Ms. Baumbich's prose and lyrical style, I felt that the story was weighed down by characters who were not quite believable. If Sasha Davis could walk away from everything in her old life (including a devoted husband who relentlessly pursued her throughout her withdrawal, and whom she deeply loved, too), she certainly would have had no qualms in dismissing Evelyn Burt the moment the girl tried to push her way into the dancer's life. Evelyn Burt, having such a gift at being able to see people for who they were underneath their masks, still seemed overly naive about Jorden McFinn's role in her life. And Jorden McFinn was textbook bad boy (too many cliches) but we're given no back story, no substance for us to care about him...making Evelyn's "love" for him seem shallow and unbelievable. By the end of the book, the direction of their relationship seemed contrived, convenient, and somewhat disingenuous. The "spiritual" aspect of the snowglobe ballerina was distracting to me, not endearing.
Although the previous paragraph would indicate otherwise, I think this book has many promising qualities and I did enjoy it enough to care how it ended. The characters were understandable, if not wholly believable, and the prevailing message of grace made me want good things for these women and for the important people in their lives. Evelyn's undaunted spirit in light of her often adverse circumstances was a sharp contrast to Sasha's poisoned spirit in light of all she had going for her, something I'm certain the author intended readers to note. I did find myself rooting for Evelyn and all that she expected out of life, and I found myself longing for Sasha's healing both physically and emotionally.
Would I recommend the book? Yes, I would, but with some disclaimers. I feel that Ms. Baumbich has a lovely way with words, however, she did not endear me to these characters in the way I'd hoped.
Would I read more of her books? I may try some of her non-fiction and see if I connect better with her that way.
I received this novel for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Press via Blogging For Books in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2012
Summary: Sasha Davies was a nationally known ballet dancer, until a performance fall left her with career ending injuries. Devastated by this turn of events she returns to the small town in Minnesota where she grew up to lick her wounds. There she finds an assistant in Evelyn Burt - a lively 19 year-old who loves life, and isn't afraid to work. But Sasha's distance and gruff nature are major road blocks for Evelyn. Can she help the former dancer, break through? And as Evelyn battles her own issues, will she see the truth of her future?
Overall I enjoyed the story. Sasha and Evelyn are empathetic characters. You love them in their misery, you cheer for them to overcome their issues. You smile when they succeed and your heart bleeds a little when they stumble. They seem the perfect match to help each other. Not every detail of the story is revealed up front, and there are a few small surprises for readers. It's themes are tangled with Christian themes - of hope, of grace, of new beginnings.
Although the characters are not overtly Christian - no mention of church services or fellowship activity - it obvious that God is among them and they are grateful for it. It's a feel good kind of story - bridging relationships in many ways. Most notably between an older Sasha and her young assistant Evelyn. God is never restricts us in who he binds together.
This book is part of Baumbich's "Snow Globe Series". Sasha finds strength from a mysterious snow globe given to her as a child. The Globe has a dancer in it that often foreshadows moments of Sasha's life and events in the story. It has always been a source of strength for her. The Globe seems to be a vehicle of warning, an affirmation of truths - sent from God. This is the one part of the story that I most struggle with. While I believe that God speaks to us in many ways, making a leg fall off a ballerina in a snow globe time and time again, just does not seem to fit.
Evelyn's fiance Jorden, was the one character that seemed out of place in this book overflowing with grace. While labeled a "bad-boy" by other characters in the book, he really wasn't that bad. The author used a lot of stereotypes in his description - despite his need of grace perhaps more than anyone else in the story. He didn't have a snow globe to rub....and it just felt wrong, because God loves us all. And Jorden seemed like one of those lost lambs searching for that one thing.
Recommend for those who love Christian chick-lit stories or uplifting fiction with faith at the center. This would be a great Christian ladies book club choice - it has a complete guide in the back and lots of things to contemplate.
Note: I was given a complementary copy of the book by the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Overall I enjoyed the story. Sasha and Evelyn are empathetic characters. You love them in their misery, you cheer for them to overcome their issues. You smile when they succeed and your heart bleeds a little when they stumble. They seem the perfect match to help each other. Not every detail of the story is revealed up front, and there are a few small surprises for readers. It's themes are tangled with Christian themes - of hope, of grace, of new beginnings.
Although the characters are not overtly Christian - no mention of church services or fellowship activity - it obvious that God is among them and they are grateful for it. It's a feel good kind of story - bridging relationships in many ways. Most notably between an older Sasha and her young assistant Evelyn. God is never restricts us in who he binds together.
This book is part of Baumbich's "Snow Globe Series". Sasha finds strength from a mysterious snow globe given to her as a child. The Globe has a dancer in it that often foreshadows moments of Sasha's life and events in the story. It has always been a source of strength for her. The Globe seems to be a vehicle of warning, an affirmation of truths - sent from God. This is the one part of the story that I most struggle with. While I believe that God speaks to us in many ways, making a leg fall off a ballerina in a snow globe time and time again, just does not seem to fit.
Evelyn's fiance Jorden, was the one character that seemed out of place in this book overflowing with grace. While labeled a "bad-boy" by other characters in the book, he really wasn't that bad. The author used a lot of stereotypes in his description - despite his need of grace perhaps more than anyone else in the story. He didn't have a snow globe to rub....and it just felt wrong, because God loves us all. And Jorden seemed like one of those lost lambs searching for that one thing.
Recommend for those who love Christian chick-lit stories or uplifting fiction with faith at the center. This would be a great Christian ladies book club choice - it has a complete guide in the back and lots of things to contemplate.
Note: I was given a complementary copy of the book by the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 25, 2012
Sasha Davis was once the principal dancer for a famous Boston ballet company, but an injury has left her disabled and living in her old home in Wanonishaw, Minnesota, while she recovers. Evelyn Burt is the live-in carer. She is nineteen, and is working to gain some life experience before she marries her fiancé, has two babies and goes to college (in that order) before she is twenty-five. Evelyn was not a character I immediately feet I could relate to, but I really warmed to her as the story progressed, and that is real complement to the author.
Donald Major is Sasha's dance partner and husband. They were dancing together when an undisclosed heart problem caused Sasha's fall. She has now left him, to his sorrow and frustration. But his efforts to reconnect with his wife are continually foiled by the ogre she has living with her, Ms. Burt, who screens all calls and manages all correspondence.
One of the things I admire about good writers is their ability to give their characters distinct yet believable voices. Charlene Baumbich is no exception. The character of Sasha is quiet and refined, with strong opinions and an underlying frustration. Sasha is slipping back into her memories, almost losing her grip on reality, and suffering from a depression that colours her view of the world.
Evelyn is young, brash and outspoken, and even though her actions do not always please Sasha, her motives are pure. She has a deep Christian faith which gradually affects Sasha, but the subject is very understated. I was especially impressed by the way there was almost a dual layer in the scenes written from Evelyn’s viewpoint – on one level, we could see the scene through Evelyn’s eyes, but on another level, we could also see some of the undertones to the scene that it was clear Evelyn didn’t see. This was very clever writing, and something few authors can achieve.
The writing wasn't all brilliant. There were a lot of flashbacks, and some of these passages were overlong (almost a page on the minor point of choosing a physical therapist). And the book was more ‘inspirational’ than ‘Christian’ fiction. But the good by far outweighed these minor points, leaving us a touching story of love, loss, searching and redemption. It was similar in tone to Five Miles South of Peculiar (which I reviewed last week). This is probably no accident – the two authors share the same literary agent. Finding Our Way Home is part of the Snowglobe Connections Series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
Thanks to Waterbrook Press and BloggingforBooks® for providing a free ebook for review.
Donald Major is Sasha's dance partner and husband. They were dancing together when an undisclosed heart problem caused Sasha's fall. She has now left him, to his sorrow and frustration. But his efforts to reconnect with his wife are continually foiled by the ogre she has living with her, Ms. Burt, who screens all calls and manages all correspondence.
One of the things I admire about good writers is their ability to give their characters distinct yet believable voices. Charlene Baumbich is no exception. The character of Sasha is quiet and refined, with strong opinions and an underlying frustration. Sasha is slipping back into her memories, almost losing her grip on reality, and suffering from a depression that colours her view of the world.
Evelyn is young, brash and outspoken, and even though her actions do not always please Sasha, her motives are pure. She has a deep Christian faith which gradually affects Sasha, but the subject is very understated. I was especially impressed by the way there was almost a dual layer in the scenes written from Evelyn’s viewpoint – on one level, we could see the scene through Evelyn’s eyes, but on another level, we could also see some of the undertones to the scene that it was clear Evelyn didn’t see. This was very clever writing, and something few authors can achieve.
The writing wasn't all brilliant. There were a lot of flashbacks, and some of these passages were overlong (almost a page on the minor point of choosing a physical therapist). And the book was more ‘inspirational’ than ‘Christian’ fiction. But the good by far outweighed these minor points, leaving us a touching story of love, loss, searching and redemption. It was similar in tone to Five Miles South of Peculiar (which I reviewed last week). This is probably no accident – the two authors share the same literary agent. Finding Our Way Home is part of the Snowglobe Connections Series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
Thanks to Waterbrook Press and BloggingforBooks® for providing a free ebook for review.
June 25, 2012
When professional ballerina Sasha Davis suffers a career ending injury at age thirty eight, she leaves her Boston-based company and home and retreats to the home of her youth in Minnesota. But Sasha's injuries limit her as much as her mother's death haunts her. Concluding she cannot recover on her own, she reluctantly hires a temporary live-in aide.
Enter the super capable Evelyn Burt. As large boned as Sasha is delicate, Evelyn is her employer's opposite in every way. To top it all off, nineteen year old Evelyn is newly engaged and sees the world as one big, shining opportunity.
Evelyn soon discovers, however, that Sasha needs to heal more than simply bones. Slowly, as the wounds begin to mend and the tables tilt, the two women form an unlikely alliance and discover the astounding power of even the smallest act when it is performed out of love.
Finding Our Way Home by Charlene Ann Baumbich was an excellent novel, filled with bonding moments and life changing realizations. The plot line flowed smoothly and easily transitioned from past memories to present situations. The change in point of views from Sasha, Evelyn, and Donald were clear and helped the reader understand the full unfolding situation. There were not any huge twists or mysteries in the story, but it was extremely well written and kept the reader tied to the novel to see what would happen to Sasha and Evelyn.
The characters were well developed, complex and enjoyable to read about. Sasha started as a prickly and depressed woman, but as she began to process her injuries, her life, and her role in the world with Evelyn's help, she transformed into a woman capable of love, kindness, and following after God. Evelyn was a hilarious and truly enjoyable character. She was somewhat eccentric as well as bold, rash, and unafraid to speak her mind. Her growth through caring for Sasha and issues with her fiance was inspiring and her return to her parents and their love was wonderful to see. Donald was less developed as the two primary women in the novel, but his characteristics were still clear. He was a man unafraid to show his emotions and incredibly patient in his love and wait for Sasha.
Overall, I truly enjoyed Finding Our Way Home with its complex and beautiful characters and interesting plot line. I would highly recommend this book to anyone needing an incredible read filled with the bond of love, growth through hard times, and relying on God when all else fails.
I received this novel for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Press in exchange for an honest review.
Enter the super capable Evelyn Burt. As large boned as Sasha is delicate, Evelyn is her employer's opposite in every way. To top it all off, nineteen year old Evelyn is newly engaged and sees the world as one big, shining opportunity.
Evelyn soon discovers, however, that Sasha needs to heal more than simply bones. Slowly, as the wounds begin to mend and the tables tilt, the two women form an unlikely alliance and discover the astounding power of even the smallest act when it is performed out of love.
Finding Our Way Home by Charlene Ann Baumbich was an excellent novel, filled with bonding moments and life changing realizations. The plot line flowed smoothly and easily transitioned from past memories to present situations. The change in point of views from Sasha, Evelyn, and Donald were clear and helped the reader understand the full unfolding situation. There were not any huge twists or mysteries in the story, but it was extremely well written and kept the reader tied to the novel to see what would happen to Sasha and Evelyn.
The characters were well developed, complex and enjoyable to read about. Sasha started as a prickly and depressed woman, but as she began to process her injuries, her life, and her role in the world with Evelyn's help, she transformed into a woman capable of love, kindness, and following after God. Evelyn was a hilarious and truly enjoyable character. She was somewhat eccentric as well as bold, rash, and unafraid to speak her mind. Her growth through caring for Sasha and issues with her fiance was inspiring and her return to her parents and their love was wonderful to see. Donald was less developed as the two primary women in the novel, but his characteristics were still clear. He was a man unafraid to show his emotions and incredibly patient in his love and wait for Sasha.
Overall, I truly enjoyed Finding Our Way Home with its complex and beautiful characters and interesting plot line. I would highly recommend this book to anyone needing an incredible read filled with the bond of love, growth through hard times, and relying on God when all else fails.
I received this novel for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Press in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2012
Finding Our Way Home
by
Charlene Ann Baumbich
Evelyn Burt is young and in love. She has put off going away to college to stay in her hometown to be near the one she loves. Sasha Davis is not as young and in love. She has returned to her hometown to hide from the one she loves. The two women are in the same town, right where they need to be, to learn about loving.
Sasha is a ballerina whose career has been cut short by a devastating accident. The accident not only injured her physically but brought about a depression that threatens to destroy what is most important to her. She thinks dance is what is most important but while her body is healing so is her broken heart. With healing she will learn the truth of what is important.
Evelyn wants to be independent to show her parents that the choices she is making are the right ones. She goes to work for Sasha as a live-in aide and assistant. Her youthful exuberance and innocence try Sasha’s patience but also open Sasha’s eyes to what her depression has not let her see. And Evelyn learns, from Sasha’s experience, that right choices are not always forever choices; often they are just steps to better ones.
What starts out as a business relationship, employer and employee, becomes much more. Evelyn and Sasha learn that their strengths and weaknesses compliment each other. Evelyn’s determined take charge impulsiveness gets Sasha moving again and Sasha’s quiet acceptance of life’s challenges gives Evelyn new perspective and direction.
As their friendship blossoms so does their faith; Evelyn’s faith is affirmed and Sasha’s is renewed as they find their way to where home really is.
Baumbich writes a sweet and affirming story about the friendship of women. The need we have to share our lives with one another, our worth as women at any age, how we comfort and encourage each other through the good and not so good of life. She reminded me that young women need the perspective of older women to see beyond today and older women need the energy of the younger to leave the past.
If you are at a point where you are thinking that maybe friendship is not worth the work it sometimes takes--read this book!
Finding Our Way Home was sent to me free of charge by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for this review.
November 18, 2011
was a pleasant surprise for me! It's a beautiful story about an unlikely friendship that forms between two people. Sasha is a retired ballerina, thanks to an unfortunate dancing accident. She moves back to her deceased mother's house in order to recover and attempt to pull herself out of depression. She hires Evelyn as a live-in helper. Evelyn is a 19 year old girl who is completely lost in the sappy land of love. She's incredibly book smart, but maybe a little naive in the "worldly smarts" department.
Evelyn is what surprised me the most with this story. I didn't know a whole lot about the book when I decided to read it. I expected Evelyn's character to be older and more of a nanny type of character. She wasn't even close to that. She's only 19, for one. She's newly engaged and struggling to keep herself and her thoughts pure. She's one of the sweetest characters ever, and I'd be very surprised if she doesn't charm her way into everyone's heart. I was constantly laughing at her in the first part of the book, and then constantly crying with her as the story progressed.
I had a hard time picturing Sasha as a 30-something year old woman. She relies on help to simply walk and sits in a chair wrapped in a shawl watching birds. I kept picturing her older. She doesn't start off with the best attitude in the world, so as expected, it took a little bit for her to grow on me.
There is just the tiniest bit of fantasy in Finding Our Way Home. It's so tiny, it's almost not even there. I definitely wouldn't label it as fantasy, though. I also wouldn't label it as a romance. It's a story about friendship and family. That said, there are some sexual references throughout the story. It's always when one of the characters are thinking back on memories. It wouldn't consider it edgy or anything, but if you're an extremely conservative reader, it might be a tad much.
Charlene is definitely on my reading list now, and I can't wait to eventually read the other books in the Snowglobe Connections Series.
Evelyn is what surprised me the most with this story. I didn't know a whole lot about the book when I decided to read it. I expected Evelyn's character to be older and more of a nanny type of character. She wasn't even close to that. She's only 19, for one. She's newly engaged and struggling to keep herself and her thoughts pure. She's one of the sweetest characters ever, and I'd be very surprised if she doesn't charm her way into everyone's heart. I was constantly laughing at her in the first part of the book, and then constantly crying with her as the story progressed.
I had a hard time picturing Sasha as a 30-something year old woman. She relies on help to simply walk and sits in a chair wrapped in a shawl watching birds. I kept picturing her older. She doesn't start off with the best attitude in the world, so as expected, it took a little bit for her to grow on me.
There is just the tiniest bit of fantasy in Finding Our Way Home. It's so tiny, it's almost not even there. I definitely wouldn't label it as fantasy, though. I also wouldn't label it as a romance. It's a story about friendship and family. That said, there are some sexual references throughout the story. It's always when one of the characters are thinking back on memories. It wouldn't consider it edgy or anything, but if you're an extremely conservative reader, it might be a tad much.
Charlene is definitely on my reading list now, and I can't wait to eventually read the other books in the Snowglobe Connections Series.
December 31, 2011
This is the first novel I've read by Ms. Baumbich and I was very please with the book. Once I started reading, I had a hard time putting the book down. I was pulled into the story and wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next.
The characters were strong and real, so I felt an instant connection with them. I enjoyed the writing style of Ms. Baumbich and it was easy to place myself in the story, to picture in my mind what she was describing as it was taking place.
Ballerina Sasha Davis suffers from a career-ending injury and returns to her hometown of Wanonishaw, Minnesota to live in her childhood home as she slowly recovers. Sasha is very depressed, refusing to have anything to do with her former friends and even her dance partner, Donald Major. Sasha hires nineteen-year-old Evelyn Burt to be a live-in assistant/helper. Evelyn is the direct opposite of Sasha in every way possible. Where Sasha is petite and graceful, Evelyn is large-boned and not so graceful. Sasha is quiet, reserved and Evelyn is load and speaks her mind. But Evelyn is also intelligent, reading books on different topics all the time, would do anything to help another person, and has a strong faith in God. Evelyn is also deeply in love with a boy her parents don't believe is good enough for her. They want Evelyn to go to college before she thinks about settling down but Evelyn doesn't want to follow her parents' plans for her life.
Slowly, Sasha and Evelyn start to develop a friendship as Evelyn strives to help Sasha not only recover physically, but emotionally and spiritually. As their friendship deepens, Evelyn discovers a secret Sasha has been hiding and realizes she must help her new friend overcome her fears to be fully healed and whole once again.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. I am looking forward to reading more books by Charlene Ann Baumbich. You may find out about Charlene and her books by visiting her website, http://www.charleneannbaumbich.com/.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
The characters were strong and real, so I felt an instant connection with them. I enjoyed the writing style of Ms. Baumbich and it was easy to place myself in the story, to picture in my mind what she was describing as it was taking place.
Ballerina Sasha Davis suffers from a career-ending injury and returns to her hometown of Wanonishaw, Minnesota to live in her childhood home as she slowly recovers. Sasha is very depressed, refusing to have anything to do with her former friends and even her dance partner, Donald Major. Sasha hires nineteen-year-old Evelyn Burt to be a live-in assistant/helper. Evelyn is the direct opposite of Sasha in every way possible. Where Sasha is petite and graceful, Evelyn is large-boned and not so graceful. Sasha is quiet, reserved and Evelyn is load and speaks her mind. But Evelyn is also intelligent, reading books on different topics all the time, would do anything to help another person, and has a strong faith in God. Evelyn is also deeply in love with a boy her parents don't believe is good enough for her. They want Evelyn to go to college before she thinks about settling down but Evelyn doesn't want to follow her parents' plans for her life.
Slowly, Sasha and Evelyn start to develop a friendship as Evelyn strives to help Sasha not only recover physically, but emotionally and spiritually. As their friendship deepens, Evelyn discovers a secret Sasha has been hiding and realizes she must help her new friend overcome her fears to be fully healed and whole once again.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. I am looking forward to reading more books by Charlene Ann Baumbich. You may find out about Charlene and her books by visiting her website, http://www.charleneannbaumbich.com/.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
April 17, 2012
This was a very different book than any I have ever read. Which is a good thing, because you don't want to read the same thing or it's like eating leftover chili all week. It's good, real good, but you get tired of it.
Well, the was NOT left over anything! This was a whole new kettle of fish!
This book talks about "Grace". And mentions God a few times. The caregiver, 2nd main character, "prays" a lot by just saying "Grace! Amen" There is no talk of salvation, or Church and the closest it comes to talking about sin is the temptation that the caregiver is going through when she is with her fiance' and he wants to push the relationship past kissing and she wants to wait but her body feels like it is betraying her with it's feelings.
I felt like there was a fine line walked between trying to make Christians happy and making people who believe in fantasy happy, because you have all of the above going on and then you have the strange snow globe that is her good luck charm/fortune teller that her Mom gave her when she was little after a stranger told them a "Prediction" about her being a famous dancer one day.
This really isn't my kind of book. But I loved Evelyn to death!! What a wonderful character!! She came alive on the page! And I adored her grandfather! I felt every pain Sasha felt because I have been crippled up in bed and a chair for over 3 years now! And her husband was a real man with feelings that he wasn't ashamed of expressing, just like my own husband. Although there is no way my husband would allow me to run away! He would find me and treasure me. But that is our story....
I'm just saying that the characters are very real and THAT make me love this story.
Charlene@charleneannbaumbich.com
This book was gifted to me by Blogging for Books @ WaterBrookMultnomah.com for the purpose of my honest opinion and review, be it good or bad. I have not been paid for this review in any way except for the book being sent to me.
Well, the was NOT left over anything! This was a whole new kettle of fish!
This book talks about "Grace". And mentions God a few times. The caregiver, 2nd main character, "prays" a lot by just saying "Grace! Amen" There is no talk of salvation, or Church and the closest it comes to talking about sin is the temptation that the caregiver is going through when she is with her fiance' and he wants to push the relationship past kissing and she wants to wait but her body feels like it is betraying her with it's feelings.
I felt like there was a fine line walked between trying to make Christians happy and making people who believe in fantasy happy, because you have all of the above going on and then you have the strange snow globe that is her good luck charm/fortune teller that her Mom gave her when she was little after a stranger told them a "Prediction" about her being a famous dancer one day.
This really isn't my kind of book. But I loved Evelyn to death!! What a wonderful character!! She came alive on the page! And I adored her grandfather! I felt every pain Sasha felt because I have been crippled up in bed and a chair for over 3 years now! And her husband was a real man with feelings that he wasn't ashamed of expressing, just like my own husband. Although there is no way my husband would allow me to run away! He would find me and treasure me. But that is our story....
I'm just saying that the characters are very real and THAT make me love this story.
Charlene@charleneannbaumbich.com
This book was gifted to me by Blogging for Books @ WaterBrookMultnomah.com for the purpose of my honest opinion and review, be it good or bad. I have not been paid for this review in any way except for the book being sent to me.
May 19, 2012
Finding Our Way Home by Charlene Ann Baumbich is about love, grace, and overcoming obstacles. Sasha Davis once graced the stage of major theaters, dazzling people with amazing ballet movements, rising in the world, and becoming famous with husband, Donald Major until secrets and a fall separated them. Sasha clung to her privacy—bitter, guilt-ridden, and apt to frequently lash out at her new assistant, Evelyn Burt.
Evelyn’s voice crackles with youth and optimism. Her biggest curse is her mouth as she tends to speak when she should remain sensitively quiet. Her stubbornness gets her in trouble, but in the end it is the blessing of Evelyn’s outspokenness and hope which turns Sasha’s life around.
Sasha begins as an angry, self-absorbed woman who can’t stop feeling sorry for herself. It wasn’t just the fall that took away her ability to dance, but the secrets she feels would have made her estranged husband unforgiving. Instead of allowing Donald Major to be the helpmate she needed during her time of therapy and in learning to walk again, Sasha hides in her mother’s old house. At first, I didn’t like Sasha; and Evelyn’s relationship with fiance, Jordan left me on the edge.
Who was Jordan? Why did he seem so cavalier and shallow when Evelyn needed direction? The strained relationship with Evelyn and her dad over Jordan is a familiar story. I’m sure every woman and teen could resonate with it, but you’re never sure if Jordan is a bad fiancee. He’s not obviously bad. At times, he is likable and responsible. His home life is a mystery to Evelyn.
As you get deeper into the novel, it is Sasha and Evelyn who become fast friends, helping each other through the difficulties to come. Finding Our Way Home is a winsome story that stirs the heart and breaks the cobwebs of complacency. You’re left in the end with hope.
I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by publisher to review.
Evelyn’s voice crackles with youth and optimism. Her biggest curse is her mouth as she tends to speak when she should remain sensitively quiet. Her stubbornness gets her in trouble, but in the end it is the blessing of Evelyn’s outspokenness and hope which turns Sasha’s life around.
Sasha begins as an angry, self-absorbed woman who can’t stop feeling sorry for herself. It wasn’t just the fall that took away her ability to dance, but the secrets she feels would have made her estranged husband unforgiving. Instead of allowing Donald Major to be the helpmate she needed during her time of therapy and in learning to walk again, Sasha hides in her mother’s old house. At first, I didn’t like Sasha; and Evelyn’s relationship with fiance, Jordan left me on the edge.
Who was Jordan? Why did he seem so cavalier and shallow when Evelyn needed direction? The strained relationship with Evelyn and her dad over Jordan is a familiar story. I’m sure every woman and teen could resonate with it, but you’re never sure if Jordan is a bad fiancee. He’s not obviously bad. At times, he is likable and responsible. His home life is a mystery to Evelyn.
As you get deeper into the novel, it is Sasha and Evelyn who become fast friends, helping each other through the difficulties to come. Finding Our Way Home is a winsome story that stirs the heart and breaks the cobwebs of complacency. You’re left in the end with hope.
I gave this novel five stars.
*Book given by publisher to review.
September 3, 2012
You work your life for one dream and in on moment it's gone forever. This is what happened to Sasha Davis when she was dropped during a premier performance. At age 38 the only career she has ever had is over and not only that, she can't even walk much less dance. She believes the "Lady of the Dance" from her snowglobe tried to warn her and this is her consequence for ignoring the warnings. Sasha has to give up everything she thought she wanted to find what it is that she needs.
Evelyn doesn't know why her parents are so mad! She's only postponing college not giving it up forever! And beside she's and adult... and ENGAGED adult at that! When the opportunity to be a live in assistant for Sasha Davis arises, it's the perfect answer to her problems. Moving out of her parents home, even temporarily, will give them all some breathing space, especially her father. Her relationship with her fiance hits some snags and Evelyn begins to wonder what exactly it is that she wants from life.
Sasha and Evelyn are the unlikeliest of pairs but yet they seem to complement each other. While they are complete opposites, they manage to work well enough together to help each other through some difficult times. I enjoyed the interaction between the two which was serious at times but also humorous at times. It added to the flow of the story to make it realistic and smooth.
From the extra characters, I loved Gramps and Donald the most. Gramps accepted Evelyn for who she was without judging her like her parents tended to do. Donald was a loving, devoted husband he felt shut out but persisted with his wife.
This is a Christian novel but I did not find it to be preachy. The references to faith are subtle and focus more on living a Christian Life rather than preaching to others about the Christian Life.
Overall I thought the book was wonderful and well-written.
Love and Blessings Always!
Margaret
Evelyn doesn't know why her parents are so mad! She's only postponing college not giving it up forever! And beside she's and adult... and ENGAGED adult at that! When the opportunity to be a live in assistant for Sasha Davis arises, it's the perfect answer to her problems. Moving out of her parents home, even temporarily, will give them all some breathing space, especially her father. Her relationship with her fiance hits some snags and Evelyn begins to wonder what exactly it is that she wants from life.
Sasha and Evelyn are the unlikeliest of pairs but yet they seem to complement each other. While they are complete opposites, they manage to work well enough together to help each other through some difficult times. I enjoyed the interaction between the two which was serious at times but also humorous at times. It added to the flow of the story to make it realistic and smooth.
From the extra characters, I loved Gramps and Donald the most. Gramps accepted Evelyn for who she was without judging her like her parents tended to do. Donald was a loving, devoted husband he felt shut out but persisted with his wife.
This is a Christian novel but I did not find it to be preachy. The references to faith are subtle and focus more on living a Christian Life rather than preaching to others about the Christian Life.
Overall I thought the book was wonderful and well-written.
Love and Blessings Always!
Margaret
January 22, 2012
For my full review, visit my blog: http://decemberjoy.wordpress.com/2012...
Finding Our Way Home takes place in a small town in Wanonishaw, Minnesota where Sasha Davis, a well known and exalted ballerina, has decided to pick up the pieces of her broken life. Her career came to a crashing end when she suffered an injury during one of her performances. To make matters worse, the injury happened when she was dancing with her partner and husband, Donald Major. Although she is aware of Donald’s innocence in the accident, she still can’t bear to have him see her in such a state; mostly when his career is still going strong, and so she separates herself from him. Her only helper in recovering is the new aide she has hired, Evelyn. Evelyn is a young nineteen year old whose positive attitude becomes a major encouragement to Sasha. As their friendship grows, Sasha discovers that life is more than ballet but after all she has put her husband through, will he even talk to her again?
Although I liked the overall message of this book, I wasn’t drawn into the story as much as I would of liked. I think part of the reason was the characters. I never really connected with them or their story and as much as I wanted to be part of their world and experiences, I never truly was. Somehow they just never fully engaged me or felt real enough which made the 300+ pages seem to long for the story being shared. As for the lessons in the book; overcoming obstacles, receiving and giving grace, trusting others, and learning to forgive – they were all woven into the story and are worthwhile practices we can all learn and grow from, but they were more told to the reader than discovered.
Finding Our Way Home takes place in a small town in Wanonishaw, Minnesota where Sasha Davis, a well known and exalted ballerina, has decided to pick up the pieces of her broken life. Her career came to a crashing end when she suffered an injury during one of her performances. To make matters worse, the injury happened when she was dancing with her partner and husband, Donald Major. Although she is aware of Donald’s innocence in the accident, she still can’t bear to have him see her in such a state; mostly when his career is still going strong, and so she separates herself from him. Her only helper in recovering is the new aide she has hired, Evelyn. Evelyn is a young nineteen year old whose positive attitude becomes a major encouragement to Sasha. As their friendship grows, Sasha discovers that life is more than ballet but after all she has put her husband through, will he even talk to her again?
Although I liked the overall message of this book, I wasn’t drawn into the story as much as I would of liked. I think part of the reason was the characters. I never really connected with them or their story and as much as I wanted to be part of their world and experiences, I never truly was. Somehow they just never fully engaged me or felt real enough which made the 300+ pages seem to long for the story being shared. As for the lessons in the book; overcoming obstacles, receiving and giving grace, trusting others, and learning to forgive – they were all woven into the story and are worthwhile practices we can all learn and grow from, but they were more told to the reader than discovered.
April 14, 2012
I enjoyed this story of two women finding their way back to what they had lost. Young or old we all have things we have done or haven’t done that we regret. I think as we age the things we haven’t done pick at us more than the things we have done. What would happen if you couldn’t do something you loved? Something that was your way of living, literally and monetarily? Well you never really know what tomorrow holds and this is a sweet tale of getting back to normal, from a tragedy that changed everything, at least back to the ‘new normal’.
Grace is a huge reason for the changes in these women’s lives and I think we all need to remember that it is Grace that helps us in every way every day. If you enjoy sweet stories about friendship building, getting back to those you love and recovery of self, you will enjoy this book. This book is Christian Fiction, in the way that God is present in all of our lives but not overly religious at all. Happiness, friendship and love pop-up in places we would expect. This book made me appreciate what I have, warts and all.
Life throws us curves all the time. A favorite quote of mine is, “Life is what happens when you are making other plans.” I don’t know who said it, except the friend of mine who likes to quote it constantly. Get out there and enjoy what you have, don’t constantly whine about what is missing in your life. Instead of whining, learn to love what you have been given and if you want more than set a goal and work for it. No one deserves anything in this world unless they work for it. And when you work for something you always enjoy it more anyway. Life is what you make of it. Make it memorable.
Grace is a huge reason for the changes in these women’s lives and I think we all need to remember that it is Grace that helps us in every way every day. If you enjoy sweet stories about friendship building, getting back to those you love and recovery of self, you will enjoy this book. This book is Christian Fiction, in the way that God is present in all of our lives but not overly religious at all. Happiness, friendship and love pop-up in places we would expect. This book made me appreciate what I have, warts and all.
Life throws us curves all the time. A favorite quote of mine is, “Life is what happens when you are making other plans.” I don’t know who said it, except the friend of mine who likes to quote it constantly. Get out there and enjoy what you have, don’t constantly whine about what is missing in your life. Instead of whining, learn to love what you have been given and if you want more than set a goal and work for it. No one deserves anything in this world unless they work for it. And when you work for something you always enjoy it more anyway. Life is what you make of it. Make it memorable.
April 19, 2012
Finding Our Way Home
By
Charlene Ann Baumbich
My Speedy Summary...
One broken woman...her spirit and body shattered by an injury...goes home to heal.
Enter a 19 year old...wise and honest...hired as a live in helper/assistant and the friendship that develops.
My Thoughts...
This was the lovely story of the growth of a friendship. A broken ballerina goes home to heal. Home is a small town. Home is the house of her recently dead mother. Home is full of
beautiful memories. Home is Sasha's place to mend mind and body. Sasha has a broken spirit and does not want anyone around... not even her loving husband.
Enter Evelyn...sort of big and loud and clumsy. Newly engaged at 19 to someone she barely knows. Struggling with her parents and her future and now...struggling with her relationship with Sasha. Her parents want her to go to college and are totally floored by her relationship with Jordan. Evelyn loves life and learning. The Jordan thing does not appeal to them...it did not appeal to me...he was the only character that I didn't like at all...it truly is as though every character in the book was waiting for Evelyn to know this.
This book took me by surprise. I was surprised at how delightful it was to read about small town life. Lovely ordinary characters going fishing and eating at the local diner and getting a dairy queen and riding a bike every where. I loved the relationships that every one had with Evelyn...she was the small town girl that everyone loved. You knew that eventually Sasha would grow to love her, too!
I actually loved the easy flow and subtle predictability of this book.
I loved the hopefulness of this book.
It was a good one!
By
Charlene Ann Baumbich
My Speedy Summary...
One broken woman...her spirit and body shattered by an injury...goes home to heal.
Enter a 19 year old...wise and honest...hired as a live in helper/assistant and the friendship that develops.
My Thoughts...
This was the lovely story of the growth of a friendship. A broken ballerina goes home to heal. Home is a small town. Home is the house of her recently dead mother. Home is full of
beautiful memories. Home is Sasha's place to mend mind and body. Sasha has a broken spirit and does not want anyone around... not even her loving husband.
Enter Evelyn...sort of big and loud and clumsy. Newly engaged at 19 to someone she barely knows. Struggling with her parents and her future and now...struggling with her relationship with Sasha. Her parents want her to go to college and are totally floored by her relationship with Jordan. Evelyn loves life and learning. The Jordan thing does not appeal to them...it did not appeal to me...he was the only character that I didn't like at all...it truly is as though every character in the book was waiting for Evelyn to know this.
This book took me by surprise. I was surprised at how delightful it was to read about small town life. Lovely ordinary characters going fishing and eating at the local diner and getting a dairy queen and riding a bike every where. I loved the relationships that every one had with Evelyn...she was the small town girl that everyone loved. You knew that eventually Sasha would grow to love her, too!
I actually loved the easy flow and subtle predictability of this book.
I loved the hopefulness of this book.
It was a good one!
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