Чудесата нямат край

by Nicholas Sparks, Никълъс Спаркс

В „Чудесата нямат край“ Никълъс Спаркс разказва една емоционална история за това дали можем да променим, или да приемем, пътя, който сме си избрали.

Танър Хюс е отгледан от баба си и дядо си, чиито стъпки следва, за да стане армейски рейнджър. Прекарал е целия си живот в чужбина и е най-щастлив, докато скача от приключение на приключение, без желание да се установи някъде. Но преди баба му да почине го призовава да открие къде принадлежи и разкрива името на бащата, когото той никога не е познавал – и къде да го намери.

Танър поема към Северна Каролина, където среща Кейтлин Купър, самотна майка и лекар. Двамата веднага усещат силна връзка помежду си. Танър искрено желае да чуе историята на Кейтлин, а за нея той е загадъчен и вълнуващ... но си заминава след само няколко седмици и отношенията им сякаш нямат бъдеще.

Междувременно наблизо в една хижа живее възрастният Джаспър. Сам с кучето си, той води спокоен живот, но споменът за един трагичен инцидент отпреди години не спира да го измъчва. Когато чува, че в гората е видяна легендарна бяла сърна, той е решен на всяка цена да я предпази от бракониерите.

Съдбите на тримата се преплитат все повече, а никой от тях не очаква да се случи чудо... но може би точно едно чудо ще промени живота им завинаги.

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Audiobook, Book Club, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Family

320 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2024

About the author

Nicholas Sparks is one of the world’s most beloved storytellers. All of his books have been New York Times bestsellers, with over 130 million copies sold worldwide, in more than 50 languages, including over 92 million copies in the United States alone.

Sparks wrote one of his best-known stories, The Notebook, over a period of six months at age 28. It was published in 1996 and he followed with the novels Message in a Bottle (1998), A Walk to Remember (1999), The Rescue (2000), A Bend in the Road (2001), Nights in Rodanthe (2002), The Guardian (2003), The Wedding (2003), True Believer (2005) and its sequel, At First Sight (2005), Dear John (2006), The Choice (2007), The Lucky One (2008), The Last Song (2009), Safe Haven (2010), The Best of Me (2011), The Longest Ride (2013), See Me (2015), Two by Two (2016), Every Breath (2018), The Return (2020), The Wish (2021), and Dreamland (2022), as well as the 2004 non-fiction memoir Three Weeks With My Brother, co-written with his brother Micah. His twenty-fourth novel, Counting Miracles, will be published on September 24, 2024.

Film adaptations of Nicholas Sparks novels, including The Choice, The Longest Ride, The Best of Me, Safe Haven (on all of which he served as a producer), The Lucky One, Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, Nights in Rodanthe, Dear John and The Last Song, have had a cumulative worldwide gross of over three-quarters of a billion dollars. The Notebook has also been adapted into a Broadway musical, featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson.

Sparks lives in North Carolina. He contributes to a variety of local and national charities, and is a major contributor to the Creative Writing Program (MFA) at the University of Notre Dame, where he provides scholarships, internships, and a fellowship annually. He co-founded The Epiphany School in New Bern, North Carolina in 2006. As a former full scholarship athlete (he still holds a track and field record at the University of Notre Dame) he also spent four years coaching track and field athletes at the local public high school. In 2009, the team he coached at New Bern High School set a World Junior Indoor Record in the 4×400 meters, as well as US High School National Records in the 800 Medley and 1600 Medley. Click to watch the Runner’s World video with Nicholas.

The Nicholas Sparks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded in 2011, to provide scholarships and fund educational programs for underprivileged and disadvantaged youth. Between the foundation, and the personal gifts of the Sparks family, more than $15 million dollars have been distributed to deserving charities, scholarship programs, and projects. Because the Sparks family covers all operational expenses of the foundation, 100% of donations are devoted to programs.

Reviews

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting Miracles written by Nicholas Sparks was absolutely beautiful and heart breaking. In my honest opinion, Counting Miracles is Nicholas's best work yet, this was an all time FAVORITE for me. There will NEVER be a time where I am NOT in awe over Sparks's stories. I will forever be honored to have read this book, because anyone who knows me, knows I'm a HUGE fan of Nicolas Sparks. This book, the characters, and their stories left me completely speechless and heart broken. I know these are just fictional characters, but as you read their story, they feel like real humans to you and I love that about Nicholas Sparks, he makes you feel like you have known these characters forever. Nicholas Sparks writes from his heart and you can truly feel that pain. You can feel the pain and rawness from each character. There were many times where I just wanted to reach into my kindle and hug these characters based on their stories and emotional baggage. The snot bubbles were bubbling the entire time I was reading this book. Please do yourself a favor and mark your calendars for September 24th, 2024 because Counting Miracles is no exception. I love love love this book with my whole entire heart.

THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING GROUP- BALLANTINE FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!

Tanner Hughes has been raised by his grandparents for as long as he can remember. His mother died minutes after giving birth to Tanner, and he also knows nothing about his biological father. Tanner's grandfather was a former Army mechanic and Tanner wanted to follow in his grandfather's footsteps and make him proud, so Tanner became an Army Ranger. Before Tanner's grandmother passed away, she left him a note: Find where you belong and make that place your own. On the back of that note, Tanner's grandma left the name of his biological father and where can possibly be found. Tanner was in the Army for fourteen years, he then left the service and worked for the USAID for over six years, then Tanner left for Cameroon to work for the International Rescue Committee. Tanner Hughes is boyfriend material, both of his arms are covered in tattoos, he has green/hazel eyes depending on sunshine on light, muscled, high cheek bones, defined jawline, and wavy dark hair, if you ask me, Tanner Hughes is a cinnamon roll. After Tanner receives this note from his grandmother, he sets out for Asheboro, North Carolina to look for his biological father. I couldn't help but cheer Tanner on as he went on this beautiful journey.

Tanner has been in town for less than twenty four hours when he meets Kaitlyn Cooper. Kaitlyn's daughter backed into Tanner's car at this bar/restaurant. Kaitlyn is a doctor and a single mom to Casey and Mitch Cooper. Kaitlyn divorced from her husband George who is an interventional cardiologist. Following the divorce of her parents, Casey became the queen of excuses, but she never gave her mom a hard time, Mitch viewed his father as a real life super hero. Kaitlyn Cooper has a story to tell, but Tanner can't exactly put his finger on what her story might be. As Kaitlyn and Tanner start spending time together, their stories eventually spill out. Jasper Johnson is just a widowed eighty-three year old man that lives alone with his dog Arlo in a cabin bordering a national forest. Arlo was such a cute and sweet pups, he's part Labrador and part mystery mutt. Jasper has many medical conditions, including burn and grafting scars that cover more than half of his body. Jasper, Tanner, and Kaitlyn find a way to connect with one another throughout this book, but you will need to read Counting Miracles to find out their connections. Jasper, Tanner, and Kaitlyn will forever remain in my heart. Like I said before, Counting Miracles is a heart breaking story, so do yourself a favor and keep the tissues close by.

[Casey Reads 🌸 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story about a man who finds out from his grandmother his true father’s name. He goes on a search to find his father. Along the way he finds love, family, and stability that he has never had before.

Keep in mind this book has a lot of biblical references. There are questions of faith and God. There are stories of deep suffering and why would God allow someone to suffer in so many ways?

Jasper, the old man in the book, has gone through so much. Even though, I had a feeling of where the book was headed very early on, I still enjoyed the story. To be honest, my favorite part of the story was everything to do with Jasper. The love story between Tanner and Kaitlyn just seemed like a side story and I felt Jasper was the true main character in my mind.

Also, Casey and Mitch, Kaitlyn’s children were so cute and just great children.

Overall, I thought this was a good read.

Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review. 💙

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A magical white deer is one reason to give this one all the stars. I am always up for a new title from Nicholas Sparks. Here are some additional reasons to love this new release:

🤗 You will want to hug Jasper Johnson. A man whose life mirrors that of Job. He has lived a life of blessing and tragedy.
🦮 Arlo, Jasper's dog, is one of my new favorite fictional canines.
🙏 High marks to Sparks for the character development of Jasper and his past with a father who was well-versed in the truth of scripture. Jasper follows in his footsteps in applying verses to his life situations.
👫 Tanner and Kaitlyn are a middle-aged couple to root for. They make some foolish decisions early on, but you will get your happy ending.
📣 High marks for Kaitlyn's kids. Both Casey and Mitch are delightfully drawn by the narrative.

Thank you to Random House and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

find where you belong and make that place your own

Nicholas Sparks, your writing hit me right in the feels! 💓💓💓💓

Tanner is an Army Ranger following his grandfather's footsteps serving the military. His mother died shortly after his birth, he never knew his father. Tanner was raised by his grandparents. Before his grandmother passed away, she left a note suggesting where his father might be.

In Asheboro, North Carolina, Tanner meets Kaitlyn, a doctor and a single mother of a teenage girl. Tanner and Kaitlyn click immediately and despite that, their romance doesn't feel rushed. They both have a good heart and helping others in need is a bond they share.

Meanwhile, frail Jaspor and his old dog live in a cabin in the forest. Jasper is determined to protect a rumored white deer from trophy hunters.

Counting Miracles is a beautiful book about family, love, and loss. It's always a pleasure to pick up a Nicholas Sparks novel knowing it'll pull my heartstrings, make me shed a few tears, and keep my heart warm.

Thank you Random House/Ballantine and Netgalley for this DRC.
Published Sep. 24, 2024.

[Karen J · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️’s

I absolutely love Nicholas Sparks and take great joy in reading his books.
I listened to the audiobook of Counting Miracles and was sadly disappointed.
The voice of the narrator trying to change voices for a few characters was not done well.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Find where you belong and make that place your own.”

Recently, I mentioned to my husband that I wanted to subscribe to the Hallmark streaming channel. With the bombardment of disturbing daily headline news, I just wanted a syrupy sweet escape into their ‘pretty’ rom-com movies and mysteries.

In some ways, Nicholas Sparks writing takes me to that place, too. I read a lot of his stories, and watched many of his made-for-tv and premiere release movies in the theater before coming to Goodreads. So, when this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I thought it was time to indulge in Sparks again.

Our three main protagonists are Tanner, Kaitlyn and Jasper. And, I should mention Arlo. Jasper’s dog. In many ways, the dog in a story will capture our hearts, and certainly Arlo does. How will these 3 lives intersect and how it will impact each of them?

Tanner has been a loner for the majority of his life, having been raised by his grandparents when his mother died in childbirth. He is an avid traveller and former military with no place to call home. He comes to Asheboro, North Carolina because on his grandmother’s deathbed she finally revealed who is birth father was. This is his opportunity to discover his past before heading off to a job in Cameroon, in Central Africa where he once worked.

Kaitlyn is a divorced doctor and mother of a precocious teenager named Casey and young son, Mitch. Casey happened to plow into Tanner’s car, which leads Tanner to Kaitlyn. What sparks manifest between them? Could Kaitlyn be the answer to Tanner’s restlessness? And, could Tanner be the answer to Kaitlyn opening her life to living?

Jasper is a scarred-face loner who lives next to the woods with Arlo, an elderly Labrador, “part mystery mutt” who has appreciated Kaitlyn’s attention to his health, and Mitch’s visits. What happened in Jasper’s past?

And then there is the rumors of a white deer in the woods. How will this affect Jasper? And, the others?

This is a sweet, easy-to-read, page-turning story about family, faith, love and second chances. And, with Arlo, the joy of having a devoted dog. 🐾

[Ron Charles · Rating 3 out of 5]

Last week, I read “Playground,” a timely, dazzlingly brilliant novel by Pulitzer Prize winner Richard Powers. This week I read “Counting Miracles,” a new romance novel by Nicholas Sparks. That sequence tasted like chasing a fine dish of lobster thermidor with an Almond Joy candy bar from last Valentine’s Day.

As a professional book reviewer, confessing how much I enjoyed “Counting Miracles” is almost more humiliation than I can bear, but what can I say? Sometimes you feel like a nut; sometimes you don’t.

This is not news to Sparks’s fans, who have snatched up 130 million copies of his books since 1996 when “The Notebook” undammed an ocean of tears. Three decades later, in a world hotter, crazier and more confounding than ever, Sparks’s 24th novel offers all the calming comforts of a weighted blanket and a warm cup of caramel almond blossom tea.

“Counting Miracles” makes that offer of escape central to its plot. The hero is a former soldier in the Army’s elite Delta Force named Tanner Hughes, which also conveniently suggests his golden complexion. After his beloved grandmother passes away in Pensacola, Fla., Tanner plans to head back overseas to work a security job for USAID. But first, he wants to spend a few weeks looking around Asheboro, N.C., to see if he can find any information about the father he never knew.

It’s there in the parking lot of an Asheboro bar, far from the battlefields of Afghanistan and the Middle East, that Tanner’s life takes a hit from which he’ll never recover. A teenage girl named Casey backs her SUV into his spanking-new candy-apple red reproduction 1968 Shelby GT500KR. Tanner’s muscles are unbruised but his muscle car is crunched. Nonetheless, always the gentleman, he drives the girl and her barely scratched SUV back to her mom’s house.

If you’ve never watched the Hallmark channel, you’ll be shocked by what happens next: Casey’s mom has got it going on.

To read the rest of this review, go to The Washington Post:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/...

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanner Hughes was raised by his grandparents because his mum passed away when he was born and he became an Army Ranger like his grandfather. He's lived most of his life overseas, he returns to the America when he finds out his grandmother is sick and before she passes away she gives him the name of a man who she thinks is his father.

Tanner drives to Asheboro, North Carolina, and his plan is to study old phone books and follow up any leads about men with the last name his grandmother gave him and could possibly be in the right age group to be his dad. Kaitlyn Cooper is a doctor in Asheboro, she’s divorced and has two children Casey and Mitch. Kaitlyn and Tanner meet, there’s a spark of attraction between them, but Kaitlyn doesn’t want to have a fling and with a man who’s only going to be in town for a couple of weeks and is returning to Africa. Tanner and Kaitlyn share the same ideal of helping others and giving back to the community and are fearful of being in a relationship and especially Tanner who doesn’t stay in one place for long.

Japser is eight three, he lives alone in a cabin with his dog Arlo and his land borders on Uwharrie National Forrest, he hears rumours about a white deer being spotted in the area, a creature that he’s been told by his father and grandfather is sacred and how it provides a spiritual message and guidance and he wants to protect it.

The tale is told from the points of view of Tanner, Kaitlyn and Jasper. Each of them have been hurt in the past, Jasper was burnt in a terrible house fire, he lost his entire family, he gets up every morning, his body aches and itches and Kaitlyn is his doctor.

I received a copy of Counting Miracles from Sphere Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I haven’t read a book by Nicholas Sparks in ages, I can remember sobbing while reading A Walk to Remember twenty two years ago and he hasn’t lost his touch or way with words and he writes with feeling.

A story about family and love, finding were you come from and a home, settling down and the future, animals and what they mean to people, whittling and kindness, forgiveness and finding peace. Five stars from me, some readers didn't like the biblical versus in the novel, I wouldn't class it as Christian Fiction, everything included in the story is there for a reason and you need to find it like Jasper did.

[Kimber Silver · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You cannot swim for new horizons until you have courage to lose sight of the shore."
― William Faulkner

Counting Miracles begins like a gentle drift down a sunlit river—fingers trailing in the water and not a care in the world.
For much of the novel, I followed three distinct lives: Tanner, a former Delta Force soldier searching for his identity; Kaitlyn, a single mom and doctor who is stretched thin; and Jasper, a reclusive man who is judged by his scars but is blessed with a quiet wisdom.

Their paths converge in unexpected ways, and in the final sixty-three pages, I found myself swept into a vortex of emotion that I hadn’t anticipated.

Though the blurb doesn't mention it, this is unmistakably Christian fiction.
If you're looking for a story that blends emotional depth, faith, and healing, this one might be for you.

3.5 stars

[Katy Fann · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m truly baffled this book isn’t categorized as Christian because it is VERY heavy-handed. If that’s your thing, this book is for you. Otherwise, skip it. The Christian themes are not mentioned in the description or genres, and if I had realized, I wouldn’t have chosen this book.

However, even if this type of story is your thing, I wouldn’t recommend it for the romance element. The couple in the book was entirely unbelievable and extremely rushed. I rolled my eyes on multiple occasions at this relationship were apparently supposed to be rooting for.

I’ve enjoyed many of Nicholas Sparks books in the past, but this one didn’t do it for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing this advance copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Ceecee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Tanner Hughes is raised by his grandparents after his mother dies in childbirth. As Tanner understands it, his father is unknown. In March 2023, his grandmother dies but she leaves Tanner a note. “Dave Johnson Asheboro, North Carolina. I’m sorry.” As anybody would be, he’s curious so he heads to North Carolina. After an unfortunate encounter or two with teenager Casey Cooper, Tanner meets her mother Kaitlyn, a divorced Doctor. He feels an instant connection and wants to know her story and she feels the same. Meanwhile, 83-year-old Jasper lives in a cabin on the edge of a national forest with only his Labrador Arlo for company. Jasper is haunted by his past, an incident that occurred decades ago. He hears rumours of a white deer, a rare albino, which has apparently been seen in the forest. He becomes increasingly concerned about the fate of the deer as poachers armed with rifles are hunting it. He is determined to do as much as he can to protect it. How do all these characters connect? What does fate have in store for them? Will they be counting miracles?

This is a nice story but the pace is way too slow for me as it goes to Asheboro by all points south and then some. I feel the story is too long as although all the backstories are good you get chapter and verse, talking of which via Jasper there are a lot, and I mean a lot, of biblical references. His story is probably the most interesting being very sad and especially tragic, and I like the old guys intentions, especially with regard to the beautiful deer . Underneath his taciturn exterior, he is a very nice man who is suffering. Tanner and Kaitlyn are very likeable too as are Kaitlyn‘s children.

I do enjoy how the story starts to connect although aspects of it are certainly predictable. If you don’t mind the authors style it is a lovely story and the ending is a slice of magic. It’s an easy read which will appeal to those who like slower paced character driven stories.

With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little Brown Book Group UK for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.

[Violet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting Miracles is a heartwarming, intricate story of being in the right place at the right time. Nothing is merely a coincidence. As with most Nicholas Sparks books I can just see this story playing out up on the big screen & I truly hope it gets adapted into a movie...soon! I loved the characters, the storyline, and how it all intersected at the perfect time. There aren't many of Sparks's books that I don't love, but this, dare I say, is some of his best work yet. My only complaint is Casey & Kaitlyn are such similar names for mother and daughter and it took some time before I able to keep them straight.
Thank you to Random House for an early copy in exchange for my honest review.
4 stars.

[Melany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I just finished reading this and I'm wiping away tears. I cried so much the last 5-10% of the book. Such a beautiful story with so much true life lessons and deep meanings behind it. While this story may not be for you if you're not into biblical versus and references to God, it was for me as I am a woman of faith. This book does reference and quote many versuses in the Bible. I'm only noting that as others disliked it and gave it bad reviews for that reason, which I was shocked by. It was such a beautiful story about multiple characters and Nicholas Sparks beautifully had a way to intertwine their lives throughout the story. A part in the epilogue, I wish I could quote as it made me choke on my tears, but since it's an ARC I'm unable to quote it in my review. This is a MUST read book for anyone seeking to find themselves, who may feel lonely, who may feel lost, who may feel not good enough or like an outsider or who may feel like settling down to a place or person may not be in the cards for them...this is for any of those people. It's so beautifully written you'll easily be wrapped up in the story. You'll feel it deep down and it'll open your eyes, it'll make you feel and think so deeply. Just breathtaking!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.

[PalmPages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanner Hughes, an Army Ranger raised by his grandparents, has always been a restless adventurer with no plans to settle down. After his grandmother's death, her final words urge him to find where he belongs and reveal the identity of the father he never knew. Curious, Tanner heads to Asheboro, North Carolina, where he meets Kaitlyn Cooper, a single mom and doctor, sparking an instant connection. Nearby, 83-year-old Jasper, haunted by a past tragedy, becomes fixated on protecting a legendary white deer in the forest. As their lives intertwine, none expect a miracle, but one may be on the horizon.

I have watched three of Nicholas Sparks' movies - The Notebook is one of my favourites. I can't believe this is my first time reading one of his books, and I’ve decided I need to read them all. I got this ARC because I was intrigued by the premise of faith and miracles. I thoroughly enjoyed his writing style for this story and how it all ties up in the end. Each person's story kept you engaged.

I could not put it down and binged it in two days. I had no expectations when I picked up this book, and now it’ll forever be etched in my memory bank. I loved the characters:

Jasper's commitment, sacrifices, and humility throughout life were admirable. Despite Jasper's many trials and tribulations, his faith in God was unwavering.

Tanner’s life choices were realistic, and I appreciated his calm demeanour. Ps. I wish I had the opportunity to invest when Apple launched iPods.

Kaitlyn is an awesome mom to Casey and Mitch. She is also a doctor who goes above and beyond for her patients. There was only one instance when I got frustrated with her. I thought I was going to get triggered by another entitled teenager; however, Casey got over herself and stepped up when people around needed her. Mitch is a sweet little brother who loves his sister, Casey and is quite intelligent. I enjoyed his open personality and kindness as well.

Nicholas Sparks did a great job of connecting the biblical story of Job to Jasper to express the meaning of having faith in God amidst adversity.

I am so glad to have had the opportunity to read and review this cry-worthy novel.

Please read it if you want to cry and have your heart unfurl with a beautiful ending❣️

Publishing date: September 24th.

Quotes:
The passage of time changes things.

Not all jobs offer an existential purpose.

Thank you to Random House & Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ruth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow, did not expect to have a 'did not finish' on a major author's newest work but this one definitely was. When I signed up to receive an advance copy from #Netgalley, I was expecting a book about intergenerational friendships, a possible friendship/potential love story between two adults and maybe a bit of small town drama. Maybe buried deep inside there was a gentle, tasteful love story but, to me, the book was overwhelming 'Christian" and chock full of New Testament scriptures on nearly every page, both of which made me very uncomfortable. I did like the characters, except the spoiled bullies/teenage boys. The little boy and the old man special friendship was especially nice. As others have stated, this just wasn't the book I thought it would be and I never got past 30%.

[Lori Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting Miracles is another wonderful book by Nicholas Sparks. Tanner Hughes has been overseas working in the military most of his life. He's currently out and not sure what to do with his life. He's promised a military buddy that he'll do security for him overseas in a few months. Tanner has trouble staying in one place too long. His grandmother and grandfather raised Tanner as his mother died in childbirth and he was never told anything about his father. His grandfather has been dead a couple of years and he came back when his grandmother got sick. Tanner took care of her and on her deathbed she told him to settle down and find a home. She also left him a note with a name on it and the town of Asheboro, North Carolina. The name was David Johnson and it said it was Tanner's father.

After settling his grandmother's affairs and listing the house for sale, Tanner heads to Asheboro to get answers. Why wasn't Tanner told about his father before now? He loved his grandparents, but would've loved to have seen his father, too. So many unanswered questions. Tanner needs to find answers on his own now. Tanner meets a single mom while in Asheboro when her daughter backs into his car. When he takes her home, his heart skips a beat when he meets Katityn Cooper, her mother. Kaitlyn is a doctor in town who is raising her teenaged daughter and 8 year old son. Their father is a famous surgeon and doesn't have much time for the kids. He met a younger woman and left Kaitlyn a couple years ago. He is now remarried to that younger woman and sees the kids when it fits his schedule.

Kaitlyn's neighbor, Jasper, is an 83 year old living in a run down cabin. He has terrible scars all over him and is scary to look at as he was in a fire. No one knows what happened to Jasper. They know he had a family and know something tragic happened, but no one wants to ask him to relive it. Jasper's best friend is his dog, Arlo. They go everywhere together and are very close. What will bring these 3 people together? Is it possible to find family after you've lost everyone you ever loved? Is it possible to settle down when you've never stayed in one place for long? Is it possible to find love again after being hurt? These are questions that you'll have to find out by reading Counting Miracles. I rate Counting Miracles 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for an advanced copy of Counting Miracles in exchange for a fair review. Counting Miracles is available now and should go in your TBR pile. #CountingMiracles

[Kayla Hewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read a Nicholas Sparks book, I am reminded how much I love his writing and characters. The emotional attachment I feel toward them is unmatched. He does it so so well every time and always makes me feel something. Great story!

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never once been disappointed in a Nicholas Sparks book, so I was excited to see this new book, Counting Miracles, and couldn't wait to read it. Of course, I loved it!

Description:
Tanner Hughes was raised by his grandparents, following in his grandfather’s military footsteps to become an Army Ranger. His whole life has been spent abroad, and he is the proverbial rolling happiest when off on his next adventure, zero desire to settle down. But when his grandmother passes away, her last words to him are find where you belong. She also drops a bombshell, telling him the name of the father he never knew—and where to find him.

Tanner is due at his next posting soon, but his curiosity is piqued, and he sets out for Asheboro, North Carolina, to ask around. He’s been in town less than twenty-four hours when he meets Kaitlyn Cooper, a doctor and single mom. They both feel an immediate connection; Tanner knows Kaitlyn has a story to tell, and he wants to hear it. To Kaitlyn, Tanner is mysterious, exciting—and possibly leaving in just a few weeks.

Meanwhile, nearby, eighty-three-year-old Jasper lives alone in a cabin bordering a national forest. With only his old dog, Arlo, for company, he lives quietly, haunted by a tragic accident that took place decades before. When he hears rumors that a white deer has been spotted in the forest—a creature of legend that inspired his father and grandfather—he becomes obsessed with protecting the deer from poachers.

As these characters’ fates orbit closer together, none of them is expecting a miracle . . . but that may be exactly what is about to alter their futures forever.

My Thoughts:
Nicholas Sparks with stunning prose and pulls me totally into whatever story he is weaving. This one is engrossing and pulled me in at the first and never let go. Tanner makes a great hero. Kaitlyn and her children are all great characters too. I enjoyed the romance and the search for Tanner's father. My heart broke for poor Jasper - he has such a difficult, traumatic history. This book evoked many feelings and there is both joy and sorrow here. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys romance.

Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through Netgalley for an advance copy.

[NrsKelley · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book should 100% be marketed as a Christian book. The blurb does not mention that every chapter about Jasper would be overflowing with scripture. For those of us with religious trauma from our youth…..this book is a tough read.
I actually chose the book as one of my 52 books in 52 weeks choices as I had never actually read any of this author’s books even though I have watched some of the movies based off his books. This was definitely not the book for me to choose for that.
The love story felt rushed as did the connection to jasper which I saw from about the second chapter. If you’re looking for a quick, Christian filled read then go for it…..otherwise I would say give this one a pass.
I received an ARC of this title, all opinions are my own.

[Jen Altman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ll start by saying I was over-the-moon excited to read this book. As a loyal Nicholas Sparks fan, I’ve read and loved over 3/4 of his novels. This unfortunately was a very different read that I struggled through.

I had a really hard time connecting with the elderly man, Jasper, as a character. He was a sweet old man who’d been dealt an extremely difficult hand, but his storyline was so slow for most of the book (the exception: a few intense scenes that I won’t spoil) and the flashbacks to his childhood caught me off guard. I wasn’t expecting the religious aspect to this book. The multitude of Bible verses were an oddity for a NS book. The Biblical stories really overtook the storyline and put the romance to the back burner. There were no indications prior to reading this book that it would have such a strong Christian tone.

The spark between Kaitlyn and Tanner felt forced and rushed, not the ‘feel it in your soul, tear-jerking’ connection you’ve come to love from NS novels. However, Casey & Mitch (Kaitlyn’s children) were enjoyable to read about, and their personalities jumped off the page.

Desperately, I wanted to DNF at 50% but forced myself to keep going. I’ve never DNF’ed a Nicholas Sparks book before, and it broke my heart to even consider it. 💔 Overall, I’m glad I finished it and while predictable, the second half of the story provided the desired emotional release I expected from the novel. Ultimately, I was still disappointed that the romance aspect was so minor in the overarching storyline.

I do think there’s an audience for this book, but it’s not me. (Female, mid-30’s, never married) it seems more suited for a conservative baby boomer - just being honest.

As an avid reader, I do appreciate the amount of research that went into writing this novel, although that was also a contributing factor to my unfavorable opinions. The amount of military info, jargon, and over detailed descriptions caused to me to want to skim. This felt like a very different book than his typical novels. I wish he’d spent less time researching and being overly descriptive and more time developing Tanner & Kaitlyn and their connection/story.

This is a solid middle-of-the-road fiction novel. Of the Sparks novels I’ve read, it’s no doubt my least favorite, however the second half had some redeeming qualities which add 1/2 ⭐️ to my overall rating. I do feel like going in blind to this book isn’t wise, and the extremely religious aspects should be noted ahead of time as that will turn some off from this book.

3.5 ⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an entertaining, well-written, fast paced, contemporary romance novel. It has a likable, intelligent female protagonist who has a former military love interest, engaging children, a sympathetic, courageous and resilient male protagonist, a faithful dog, vividly described settings, wit, a touch of humor, romance, and a gratifying conclusion. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Mr. Holter Graham, who is truly talented and has a captivating voice, does an outstanding job voicing the characters.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting Miracles by Nicholas Sparks is a heartwarming story with likeable characters and a storyline that will draw you in within a few chapters then this book is for you. I was fully invested in this story, and I didn’t want it to end a truly beautifully written novel that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
 
 

[Sylvie {Semi-Hiatus} · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

[☽｡⋆ Shells (jlreads_) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow. As someone who's looking forward to this book, I would say that this did not go well. I'm sad to say that I did not enjoy this for so many reasons.

1. It feels quite unnecessary descriptive that turns the novel way too dragging.

2. The storyline really felt boring. I don't know, but the pacing and flow are not doing it for me.

3. The romance is really minor here to little development. I'm not really convinced.

4. Reading this made me feel my slump return.

Long story short, it was boring. I don't think I'll consider this romance? It's more like fiction to me. The novel lacks intrigued for me.

Although I was really looking forward to the characters, the whole execution did not just do it for me.

Thank you, Little Brown Book UK, for the e-arc copy.

—---
Date Published: September 24, 2024
Date Read: October 12- October 17, 2024
Ratings: 2⭐️

[MJ · Rating 1 out of 5]

As much as I wanted to love this story, these characters lacked common sense. All of them. The ending was predictable and the overuse of bible verses was not expected. This book really should be marked as Christian fiction.

I was invested in Arlo the dogs story as he was only character with redeeming qualities. I would have felt more of a connection with Jasper but the author ruined that with the non stop bible scriptures and mansplaining.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

firstly, I want to thank NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for this ARC in exchange for an honest review❤️

I was incredibly honoured to have been a chosen one to read Nicholas Spark's new novel. Anyone who knows me, knows I grew up with Nicholas Sparks, from reading all his novels to watching all his movies, I am forever in awe of his work. He’s one of my all time favourite authors. A Walk To Remember is actually my favourite novel (I cannot count how many times I’ve read that book in high school) and plus its my absolute favourite movie! (Fun fact about me) anyway, Counting Miracles was truly beautiful. We have 3 peoples lives who are connected together and they don’t even know it. You’ll have to read to figure that out🤫 we have Jasper, Tanner and Kaitlyn in this story plus Kaitlyns children. Reading about every single one of these characters was beyond beautiful and heartbreaking. Nicholas Sparks has a talent for writing so beautifully that you’re in awe and then he brings in the tears because of course!? He’s just known for that and he’s brilliant.


Jaspers Story broke me. How he lost his entire family was incredible tragic and heartbreaking I’m still thinking about how he described it💔.. I was a lot more interested in him than the romance budding between Tanner and Kaitlyn tbh. Another thing I love about Nicholas’s writing, is that he loves to set his settings in small towns in North Carolina which I always adored. When he describes the setting you’re immediately transported there and can picture and feel that setting and you know it’s beautiful❤️ he writes about each of his characters with his whole heart that you feel their pain and their joy when their explained.. in my eyes Nicholas Sparks can do no wrong with me.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

A man raised by his grandparents goes on a journey to find his biological father and meets a single mother with a story to tell.
This story can best be described as a heart-tugging, and nostalgic tale that takes us into the life of Tanner Hughes, who is a former Army Ranger who, after caring for his grandmother, finally learns who his biological father is, He then travels to Asheboro, North Carolina, to try an learn a little more about his parentage and perhaps find a place he can finally call home.

My mother loved Nichols Spark's writing. She always called it heart-warming and sentimental...and she was absolutely right. His characters are the type that simply flow from the page. They're always multilayered, independent, strong...sometimes head-strong, but usually always kind. The plot of this simple story is simply charming and so full of life, love, loss, grief, heartache, healing, intrigue, friendship, self-discovery and, of course...romance. Fans of this author will call it is another hopeful, tender, immersive tale by Nicholas Sparks that reminds us that life is complicated, sometimes messy, occasionally challenging, way too short, and even heartbreaking, but filled with wonderful things, lovely times, and those special and often brief moments that happen in-between.

If you are already a Nicholas Sparks fan, then you will recognize this work as being Nicholas Sparks at his very best. If you have never read this wonderful author or if you want a book that that will make you feel almost every human emotion possible...then this is your book.

[Nim_reads_a_lot · Rating 2 out of 5]

“What hallmark story monstrosity was this?” These were my thoughts as I forced my way through this book which my book club suggested. I wanted to dnf a few times but I pulled through so I could have a fair discussion but the ending did not improve my opinion. Maybe this story is not for me but I felt it was trite, predictable, and a bore. The main male lead saw the lead female’s red toenails and had an epiphany of some sorts. I’m wondering if he has a foot fetish. He is a Delta force veteran which excited me as I love Delta Force, the movie, but this man was no Chuck Norris. We expected manly magnetism but we got a guy who wandered around everywhere and can’t commit to anything. The lead female loved sleeping naked and is apparently very beautiful. Don’t forget she’s a doctor but she has zero friends. Girl, not one female friendship in your life? A coworker? The people she volunteers with? A cousin? I feel like the author really wanted to push the idea that this woman was ripe for being swept away by a brawny dude with a tight shirt. Anyway, there is a dog which is the only redeeming thing. The children were annoying. (sorry) The book had a lot of cringey moments and I wanted to scream a few times. I even found a grammatical error which is shocking for a trad published book. The story was bogged down by weird details and meandering paragraphs. There was an old man named Jasper who I liked but had so many “boomer” tendencies that I gave up on him. I do not get the hype and suggest this only for people who are looking for a simple comfort read with closed door romance and zero brain cell work needed.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting Miracles is such a heartwarming story.
The ending is just so beautiful.
The book tells the stories of Kaitlyn, Tanner, and Jasper.
How their lives are intertwined. Once I got past the first chapter, I didn’t want to put the book down.

I know I’ll keep thinking of this book for a while.

[Sherri Thacker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by the great Nicholas Sparks. Loved it from the very first page to the last!