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The Darlings #1
All Right Here
Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold.
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
401 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2014
58 people are currently reading
760 people want to read
About the author
Carre Armstrong Gardner
4 books71 followersCarre writes from the big small town of Portland, Maine, where she's the mom of 3 teenagers and 2 dogs she would rather not own. (Only the dogs, not the teenagers.) From 2007 to 2010, she and her family lived in Russia, studying the language and doing humanitarian work.
Like most writers, Carre grew up with her nose in a book. The heroines who most informed her were smart, creative, independent thinkers like Anne Shirley, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Nancy Drew, and Cherry Ames. Nancy proved that being a girl detective might just be the coolest career ever, but Cherry taught her that nursing was more practical. Carre compromised by becoming a nurse and marrying a sleuth.
Nearly every flat surface in Carre's home has books on it. The stories she loves most are those about the ordinary lives of ordinary people; she thinks of every life as a fascinating drama. Isn't each one of us the hero of our own story? She'd love for you to drop her a line and tell her yours!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
January 21, 2015
Four and a half stars.
Set in Copper Cove, Maine, reading this book was rather like relaxing into a warm bubble bath. I completely enjoyed my time with the Darling family. With one exception, Ivy and her close knit family are a joy to spend time with. Ivy’s husband Nick’s family is a whole different dynamic. With their self centric, bigoted and judgmental attitudes, they are in-laws you would not wish on anyone. I admit to having some most uncharitable thoughts about most of Nick’s family and admired Ivy’s restraint at times. Ivy and Nick are in many ways representative of their upbringing and the families they came from.
Ivy is a loving, openhearted and generous woman, if a bit forgetful at time. But she remembers the important things. Unable to have children, Ivy and Nick initially temporarily take in the next door three Afro- American children abandoned by their mother. This decision has repercussions that affect Nick and Ivy’s marriage and also relationships with their respective families. But it is a decision from Ivy’s past that ultimately brings issues to a head in their marriage.
Despite covering marriage problems, alcoholism and drug taking at times, this book was uplifting and positive and just what I needed to read at the time. I did wonder at times if perhaps the three children settled in a little too easy to their changed circumstances but maybe that’s me. On the whole I adored this book and was sad when I came to the end. Just a guess but I suspect the next book in the Darling family due this year may focus on Laura, Ivy’s twin. I’ll be interested to see if I am right.
Set in Copper Cove, Maine, reading this book was rather like relaxing into a warm bubble bath. I completely enjoyed my time with the Darling family. With one exception, Ivy and her close knit family are a joy to spend time with. Ivy’s husband Nick’s family is a whole different dynamic. With their self centric, bigoted and judgmental attitudes, they are in-laws you would not wish on anyone. I admit to having some most uncharitable thoughts about most of Nick’s family and admired Ivy’s restraint at times. Ivy and Nick are in many ways representative of their upbringing and the families they came from.
Ivy is a loving, openhearted and generous woman, if a bit forgetful at time. But she remembers the important things. Unable to have children, Ivy and Nick initially temporarily take in the next door three Afro- American children abandoned by their mother. This decision has repercussions that affect Nick and Ivy’s marriage and also relationships with their respective families. But it is a decision from Ivy’s past that ultimately brings issues to a head in their marriage.
Despite covering marriage problems, alcoholism and drug taking at times, this book was uplifting and positive and just what I needed to read at the time. I did wonder at times if perhaps the three children settled in a little too easy to their changed circumstances but maybe that’s me. On the whole I adored this book and was sad when I came to the end. Just a guess but I suspect the next book in the Darling family due this year may focus on Laura, Ivy’s twin. I’ll be interested to see if I am right.
own-need-to-read
February 16, 2015This Kindle Freebie sounds soooo good!!! All Right Here (The Darlings Book 1) by Carre Armstrong Gardner
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G...
Tyndale House is the publisher and they focus on Christian Fiction and Inspirational stories.
Blurb
Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold.
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G...
Tyndale House is the publisher and they focus on Christian Fiction and Inspirational stories.
Blurb
Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold.
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
July 9, 2016
I received a copy of this book thank to the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thanks for the opportunity.
Synopsis:
Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold.
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
My Review:
This is a really well written novel that has tons of emotion through it from the start and is what I call a "feel-good" book, one to read if you want to feel all warm and nice inside, this book would appeal to those readers who enjoy the complexities of family dynamics and relationships very much.
The children that are abandoned come to stay with Nick and Ivy very early in the book, Ivy embraces them with open arms during a time when her marriage is strained and not meeting her own emotional needs. The subtle writing about how she is feeling about herself is really powerful.
Ivy spoke lightly, but the truth was the line begin to find your own voice had sounded a chord inside her. She liked the idea that she might have her own voice. If she did, it was buried so deep that she wouldn't recognize it if it shouted out loud.
The children need a stable family and love, all of this Ivy is willing to give, she does this whilst getting her strength from her relationship with God and through prayer and because her heart is HUGE and soft towards these children. This novel does have a Christian element woven in to the text, however if you are not a Christian fiction reader, don't let this bother you as it's not an overwhelming factor. It's a great read.
The book focuses over time on the dynamics of the newly thrown together family and how it impacts the couple. Nick is struggling to accept the children and embrace what is in front of him. There are a lot of words unspoken in this home.
The extended family is complex, Nick's family have shut Ivy out for years and I cheered for her when she started to stand her ground against being shunted to the side for so long. It's not an unrealistic theme for a married woman, not being accepted into the wider family. Nick has three sisters, enough said.
Ivy faces temptations and confusion as she searches her heart for where her marriage is going and how she feels. The children fill a huge gap for her and they are bright characters in this book. I loved all the children and could see easily why Ivy wanted to love them into her home.
It's a slow paced book, steady and solid, very readable and I was satisfied with the ending that the book gave me to the whole story. I really liked Ivy towards the end of the book, I had watched her grow and change.
There are also sideline stories surrounding Ivy's sisters and her own family dynamics, secrets and support. So it weaves in two large families, then the new family that Nick and Ivy have begun and you have a whole lot of issues going on.
3.5 stars from me, but I am leaning up towards 4 stars due to Goodreads not having a half star option. A really nice read that will warm your heart if you like that type of story.
Synopsis:
Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold.
When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
My Review:
This is a really well written novel that has tons of emotion through it from the start and is what I call a "feel-good" book, one to read if you want to feel all warm and nice inside, this book would appeal to those readers who enjoy the complexities of family dynamics and relationships very much.
The children that are abandoned come to stay with Nick and Ivy very early in the book, Ivy embraces them with open arms during a time when her marriage is strained and not meeting her own emotional needs. The subtle writing about how she is feeling about herself is really powerful.
Ivy spoke lightly, but the truth was the line begin to find your own voice had sounded a chord inside her. She liked the idea that she might have her own voice. If she did, it was buried so deep that she wouldn't recognize it if it shouted out loud.
The children need a stable family and love, all of this Ivy is willing to give, she does this whilst getting her strength from her relationship with God and through prayer and because her heart is HUGE and soft towards these children. This novel does have a Christian element woven in to the text, however if you are not a Christian fiction reader, don't let this bother you as it's not an overwhelming factor. It's a great read.
The book focuses over time on the dynamics of the newly thrown together family and how it impacts the couple. Nick is struggling to accept the children and embrace what is in front of him. There are a lot of words unspoken in this home.
The extended family is complex, Nick's family have shut Ivy out for years and I cheered for her when she started to stand her ground against being shunted to the side for so long. It's not an unrealistic theme for a married woman, not being accepted into the wider family. Nick has three sisters, enough said.
Ivy faces temptations and confusion as she searches her heart for where her marriage is going and how she feels. The children fill a huge gap for her and they are bright characters in this book. I loved all the children and could see easily why Ivy wanted to love them into her home.
It's a slow paced book, steady and solid, very readable and I was satisfied with the ending that the book gave me to the whole story. I really liked Ivy towards the end of the book, I had watched her grow and change.
There are also sideline stories surrounding Ivy's sisters and her own family dynamics, secrets and support. So it weaves in two large families, then the new family that Nick and Ivy have begun and you have a whole lot of issues going on.
3.5 stars from me, but I am leaning up towards 4 stars due to Goodreads not having a half star option. A really nice read that will warm your heart if you like that type of story.
July 26, 2014
Master storytelling!!!
Complexities of marriage, foster children, extended family, in-laws, siblings, grandparents, friendships, and community are handled with wisdom, spirit and humanity.
We are reminded of similar feelings and circumstances from our own past.
This story is full of purpose: capturing the experience of growing & learning with honesty
One of the greatest pleasures was seeing the foster children mature, seeing them come into their own and develop their own talents ---
Ordinary events from squabbling with siblings, watching a DVD, a birthday party, cooking in the kitchen, reminds us of the importance of embracing all those experiences, even during uneventful stretches that might not hold much resonance.
Ivy: A key hero character of this story -- teaches us the value of 'celebration'. Ivy really is a character to admire!
When Ivy throws a party with 3 yummy cakes, for her 3 foster children to 'celebrate' ....ask YOURSELF (as the reader) ---would you have remembered this date? Would you have done what Ivy did that night?
It just might make you move into action to find 'something' to CELEBRATE. Be OUTLANDLISH!
We are all, no matter our age, or race, still in the process of growing up and sorting out our place in the world. And given that, we might as well fully embrace the fact there is no reliable road map to show us the way. -----but this author does a brilliant job in gracefully guiding us to open our eyes.
GREAT FIRST NOVEL!!!! Congrats to the author!!!
Complexities of marriage, foster children, extended family, in-laws, siblings, grandparents, friendships, and community are handled with wisdom, spirit and humanity.
We are reminded of similar feelings and circumstances from our own past.
This story is full of purpose: capturing the experience of growing & learning with honesty
One of the greatest pleasures was seeing the foster children mature, seeing them come into their own and develop their own talents ---
Ordinary events from squabbling with siblings, watching a DVD, a birthday party, cooking in the kitchen, reminds us of the importance of embracing all those experiences, even during uneventful stretches that might not hold much resonance.
Ivy: A key hero character of this story -- teaches us the value of 'celebration'. Ivy really is a character to admire!
When Ivy throws a party with 3 yummy cakes, for her 3 foster children to 'celebrate' ....ask YOURSELF (as the reader) ---would you have remembered this date? Would you have done what Ivy did that night?
It just might make you move into action to find 'something' to CELEBRATE. Be OUTLANDLISH!
We are all, no matter our age, or race, still in the process of growing up and sorting out our place in the world. And given that, we might as well fully embrace the fact there is no reliable road map to show us the way. -----but this author does a brilliant job in gracefully guiding us to open our eyes.
GREAT FIRST NOVEL!!!! Congrats to the author!!!
November 29, 2015
I have passed over this book a few times, intrigued by the premise but never sure if I would really like it. The main problem was that this was going to be a series about the Darling family, which I assumed was Nick's family, who in the synopsis of this book are described as standoffish and unloving. Who would want to read a series about a family like that? But the Darlings are actually Ivy's family (she kept her maiden name when marrying Nick Mason), so the series is actually about a big, loving, slightly crazy family. And that is definitely my kind of book.
All Right Here is both a marriage breakdown/rekindling romance and a story about a family who take in three foster children. Nick and Ivy cannot have children and the void between them grows everyday. Ivy has worked so hard to hold her marriage together, constantly belittled and rebuffed by the aloof Nick. When three children are abandoned by their mother. Ivy and Nick take them in. The children and Ivy learning to mother them is the focus of the book. The three kids are so ... well, it's a mix between heartbreaking and heartwarming. I loved reading about them joining Ivy and Nick's family, and the everyday line of laughter, love and disaster that families tread. As the kids settle into the Mason/Darling household, they slowly melt Nick's hardened heart, but his realisation of his neglect of Ivy may just come a little late.
Entwined in Ivy and Nick's story are the Darlings. This loud, loving family provide the perfect backdrop to the story and great possibilities for future books in the series. They also provide a stark contrast to the shocking-in-their-levels-of-self-absorption Mason family.
Faith plays a great part in this story. Ivy and Nick are Christians, but putting those beliefs into action, caring for orphans, love and forgiveness, are sometimes easier preached than done.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. The gentle themes of faith, forgiveness and restoring love are carried by great writing and vibrant characters. I can't wait to continue this series, both to see how Ivy and Nick and their three kids continue and with new main Darling characters.
Find more reviews on my blog Madison's Library.
All Right Here is both a marriage breakdown/rekindling romance and a story about a family who take in three foster children. Nick and Ivy cannot have children and the void between them grows everyday. Ivy has worked so hard to hold her marriage together, constantly belittled and rebuffed by the aloof Nick. When three children are abandoned by their mother. Ivy and Nick take them in. The children and Ivy learning to mother them is the focus of the book. The three kids are so ... well, it's a mix between heartbreaking and heartwarming. I loved reading about them joining Ivy and Nick's family, and the everyday line of laughter, love and disaster that families tread. As the kids settle into the Mason/Darling household, they slowly melt Nick's hardened heart, but his realisation of his neglect of Ivy may just come a little late.
Entwined in Ivy and Nick's story are the Darlings. This loud, loving family provide the perfect backdrop to the story and great possibilities for future books in the series. They also provide a stark contrast to the shocking-in-their-levels-of-self-absorption Mason family.
Faith plays a great part in this story. Ivy and Nick are Christians, but putting those beliefs into action, caring for orphans, love and forgiveness, are sometimes easier preached than done.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. The gentle themes of faith, forgiveness and restoring love are carried by great writing and vibrant characters. I can't wait to continue this series, both to see how Ivy and Nick and their three kids continue and with new main Darling characters.
Find more reviews on my blog Madison's Library.
September 21, 2015
I enjoyed the concept of this book. Foster parents play a large part in children(s)' lives growing up. They provide a loving and caring support system when the bloodline system is lacking or has failed. This is a relate-able storyline for a fiction novel. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
August 18, 2014
This was an interesting book.
The book didn't indicate that it is #1 in a series, but with "a Darling Family novel" as a subtitle, I certainly had the feeling it was IN a series. I wouldn't have guessed it was the first though, as I kept vaguely feeling like there was a back story I didn't know. Apparently not.
From the opening sentences, where Ivy is wrapping a birthday gift for her husband of six years knowing he is going to hate it, I was rolling my eyes at her. Seriously, you give him a book of poetry every year, he never cracks open the cover, and you eventually add it to "your" collection? And I was guessing this was going to be the central character. As she was.
The dynamics of Ivy and Nick's relationship are fairly complex, which I did like, and their relationships with their families are incredibly complex. The Darlings (Ivy's family) seem like a fairly friendly bunch, and they are generally supportive, though Nick avoids interacting with them. The Masons (Nick's family) treat Ivy horribly, though she certainly does her duty in showing up for functions and being polite.
Ivy can't have children, and she desperately wants them. And then they end up taking in the kids next door when they are abandoned by their mother. Nick is in agreement about this, even agreeing to attend foster parenting classes. But he keeps insisting these are not his kids. Ivy, of course, totally falls for the children and is referring to them as "mine" from pretty early on.
Most of the adults in this novel seem to be horribly self-centered. Nick and Ivy are very wrapped up in what they want, though the kids seem to break through some. Nick's sisters and mother are horrid. Ivy's twin sister is definitely concerned only with what she wants. The rest of Ivy's family seem to be slightly more normal.
All the complicated dynamics between everyone did keep me interested and moving forward through the book. I definitely wanted to see how things went for the kids. I also enjoyed seeing Ivy start showing some backbone, especially regarding the kids. It was nice seeing Nick having some positive feelings.
For me, the main story was that of DeShaun, the 14-year-old who was abandoned. He is fiercely protective of his younger sister (Jada) and brother (Hammer). I really wanted things to work out for him. Anyone who took an interest in encouraging him (and the younger two kids) scored some points with me.
I also did like how things worked out at the end. Not neat and clean, still rather messy, and obviously with room for further novels about the other members of the Darling family.
The book didn't indicate that it is #1 in a series, but with "a Darling Family novel" as a subtitle, I certainly had the feeling it was IN a series. I wouldn't have guessed it was the first though, as I kept vaguely feeling like there was a back story I didn't know. Apparently not.
From the opening sentences, where Ivy is wrapping a birthday gift for her husband of six years knowing he is going to hate it, I was rolling my eyes at her. Seriously, you give him a book of poetry every year, he never cracks open the cover, and you eventually add it to "your" collection? And I was guessing this was going to be the central character. As she was.
The dynamics of Ivy and Nick's relationship are fairly complex, which I did like, and their relationships with their families are incredibly complex. The Darlings (Ivy's family) seem like a fairly friendly bunch, and they are generally supportive, though Nick avoids interacting with them. The Masons (Nick's family) treat Ivy horribly, though she certainly does her duty in showing up for functions and being polite.
Ivy can't have children, and she desperately wants them. And then they end up taking in the kids next door when they are abandoned by their mother. Nick is in agreement about this, even agreeing to attend foster parenting classes. But he keeps insisting these are not his kids. Ivy, of course, totally falls for the children and is referring to them as "mine" from pretty early on.
Most of the adults in this novel seem to be horribly self-centered. Nick and Ivy are very wrapped up in what they want, though the kids seem to break through some. Nick's sisters and mother are horrid. Ivy's twin sister is definitely concerned only with what she wants. The rest of Ivy's family seem to be slightly more normal.
All the complicated dynamics between everyone did keep me interested and moving forward through the book. I definitely wanted to see how things went for the kids. I also enjoyed seeing Ivy start showing some backbone, especially regarding the kids. It was nice seeing Nick having some positive feelings.
For me, the main story was that of DeShaun, the 14-year-old who was abandoned. He is fiercely protective of his younger sister (Jada) and brother (Hammer). I really wanted things to work out for him. Anyone who took an interest in encouraging him (and the younger two kids) scored some points with me.
I also did like how things worked out at the end. Not neat and clean, still rather messy, and obviously with room for further novels about the other members of the Darling family.
May 30, 2014
"All Right Here" is a story that caught me by surprise–I love it when books do that! What I mean is that the story is unique, yet charming–and full of hope. I really enjoyed reading it.
"All Right Here" is the story of Ivy Darling and her family. She’s married to Nick, who has a mother who dotes on him and three sisters who refuse to accept Ivy as part of their family. Ivy also has three sisters. She also has an older brother. I believe we’ll be learning more about these siblings in future books about the Darling Family.
Ivy and Nick can’t have children of their own and are considering adoption. When Ivy discovers that the three children next door have been abandoned by their mother, however, she takes them into her home and convinces Nick to let them stay until the situation is resolved. Nick is willing to let them stay, but he refuses to even consider the possibility of accepting them into his family permanently. The situation forces first Ivy, and then Nick, to face truths about their marriage and within their own hearts that must be resolved for the existence of their love.
Personally, I loved the way that Ivy related to everyone in her world. She’s a character of patience, love, and grace. When circumstances tempt her to harden her heart, God confronts her and she responds in a beautiful way. Her insights in that climactic passage alone make the book worth reading, though the whole story is beautifully done. I’m looking forward to reading future books by Carre Armstrong Gardner and recommend this one to anyone who enjoys ordinary stories about ordinary people just learning to get along.
"All Right Here" is the story of Ivy Darling and her family. She’s married to Nick, who has a mother who dotes on him and three sisters who refuse to accept Ivy as part of their family. Ivy also has three sisters. She also has an older brother. I believe we’ll be learning more about these siblings in future books about the Darling Family.
Ivy and Nick can’t have children of their own and are considering adoption. When Ivy discovers that the three children next door have been abandoned by their mother, however, she takes them into her home and convinces Nick to let them stay until the situation is resolved. Nick is willing to let them stay, but he refuses to even consider the possibility of accepting them into his family permanently. The situation forces first Ivy, and then Nick, to face truths about their marriage and within their own hearts that must be resolved for the existence of their love.
Personally, I loved the way that Ivy related to everyone in her world. She’s a character of patience, love, and grace. When circumstances tempt her to harden her heart, God confronts her and she responds in a beautiful way. Her insights in that climactic passage alone make the book worth reading, though the whole story is beautifully done. I’m looking forward to reading future books by Carre Armstrong Gardner and recommend this one to anyone who enjoys ordinary stories about ordinary people just learning to get along.
August 8, 2015
I chose this book because of the beautiful cover and title.
At first, I thought I was going to like it, but I had the hardest time connecting with the story and the characters.
I think paragraphs are too long and the story goes too slow; there is so much writing invested in things that doesn't make any difference.
Most of the book is about very trivial stuff like birthday cakes and parties where nothing important really happens.
Then, the very relevant stuff were treated without the depth they deserved.
There were pontentially interesting points in the story but they were not developed properly.
Nevertheless, the book touches good things such as forgiveness, giving second chances, love and the importance of right choices.
At first, I thought I was going to like it, but I had the hardest time connecting with the story and the characters.
I think paragraphs are too long and the story goes too slow; there is so much writing invested in things that doesn't make any difference.
Most of the book is about very trivial stuff like birthday cakes and parties where nothing important really happens.
Then, the very relevant stuff were treated without the depth they deserved.
There were pontentially interesting points in the story but they were not developed properly.
Nevertheless, the book touches good things such as forgiveness, giving second chances, love and the importance of right choices.
June 3, 2014
I read this book on a plane and was genuinely sad to have to put it away to disembark. Each character drew me in and made me care about them. I cannot wait to get the next book in the series
May 20, 2014
I am not being the least bit biased when I say that I love this book to pieces.
November 23, 2021
As a foster parent myself, I was pleased to see foster parenting portrayed in an honest and relatively realistic way. That was by far my favorite part of the story, and I commend the author for doing her due diligence with such a difficult topic.
It was a pretty fast and easy read, and I really liked it.
It was a pretty fast and easy read, and I really liked it.
August 12, 2014
Ivy and Nick have been married for six year. Being unable to conceive children has put a strain on their marriage. Enter the three abandoned children from next door and a family is born.
Ivy and Nick agree to care fro the children for a few days until other arrangements can be made. As days become weeks, weeks become months, Ivy and Nick realize that they are officially foster parents. But while Ivy's attachment to the children grows, the only thing growing on Nick is his attitude against Ivy and his marriage. It is not until Nick realizes that he may loose everything that he finally sees the light..
This book brings to light the complex issues of infertility, foster parenting, interracial families, foster parenting and in-law issues. While the book does cover these well, there were parts that were somewhat unrealistic. While maybe because their abandonment from their mother, most children in the foster care system do not accept the situation as easily. Seeing the development of characters was interesting. As first Nick seemed a little shallow and uncaring but like most when faced with a situation, he came through in the end. I will await the next in the series in order to continue on the journey.
I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!
Ivy and Nick agree to care fro the children for a few days until other arrangements can be made. As days become weeks, weeks become months, Ivy and Nick realize that they are officially foster parents. But while Ivy's attachment to the children grows, the only thing growing on Nick is his attitude against Ivy and his marriage. It is not until Nick realizes that he may loose everything that he finally sees the light..
This book brings to light the complex issues of infertility, foster parenting, interracial families, foster parenting and in-law issues. While the book does cover these well, there were parts that were somewhat unrealistic. While maybe because their abandonment from their mother, most children in the foster care system do not accept the situation as easily. Seeing the development of characters was interesting. As first Nick seemed a little shallow and uncaring but like most when faced with a situation, he came through in the end. I will await the next in the series in order to continue on the journey.
I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!
July 3, 2014
I had the privilege of reading All Right Here by Carre Armstrong Gardner. I enjoyed Ivy from the beginning. I loved meeting the entire Darling clan and found the dynamics of both extended families quite interesting. One family considered themselves perfect while being extremely dysfunctional while the other family just was happy to be together but also had hidden problems that needed to be dealt with. I am so glad this isn’t a standalone book but I get the chance to read more about the Darlings and their interesting lives. I really enjoyed Ivy’s mom. She was so down to earth and reminded me of how easy it is to talk to God as a friend, all the time. I love how she cherishes her family and doesn’t take her time with them for granted. I love the way the author depicted the three foster children that Ivy and Nick took in. I put myself right in Ivy’s shoes and could feel her exhaustion and excitement as she fully embraced three children of various ages and needs. Maybe I could relate even more as my kids stagger in the same combination, similar ages. Great book by a new author for me whom I’m so glad I was introduced to, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I was given this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
I was given this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2014
All Right Here is a heartwarming tale about the Darling family. Ivy and Nick have been married for several years and their marriage is not as it seems. Ivy is unable to have children and her husband resents her for it and treats her coldly due to his resentment. Ivy feels responsible for not being able to give her husband children but tries to make the most of her situation. Then, one of their neighbors abandons her three children and the Darlings take them in for what they believe is only a few days. However, the few days turns into months as the neglectful mother is not easily found. While Ivy falls in love with the children, who have never had a stable life and good family, Nick refuses to become emotionally attached because they are not his children. As the children and Ivy grow closer, it becomes apparent to Nick that Ivy’s attitude grows colder towards him and for the first time, he realizes that he loves his wife and has room in his heart for the children. But, is it too late for Nick to rekindle the love of his wife and save his marriage? Will Nick be able to gain custody of the three children? I found this book to be very well-written and the characters, especially the children, to be likeable. This is a beautiful story about forgiveness and redemption.
June 9, 2014
Ivy Darling can't have children. She wants to pursue adoption, but her husband is not cooperating. But one day three children are abandoned by their mother and Ivy takes them in. Her husband, Nick reluctantly agrees. But as the one year anniversary of their placement into the Darling family approaches, Nick realizes that his distance and reluctance may have pushed away the very family he now wants.
I'm not usually a fan of family sagas. But this story was charming. It grew on me more and more as I turned the pages, until I found myself completely immersed. There are some serious issues that are brought out in the story. But the author handles them with finesse and love. A true picture of what family is supposed to be, scares and all, emerges as the story unfolds. I'm sure this book will be great as a stand alone book, but I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about this Darling family.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
I'm not usually a fan of family sagas. But this story was charming. It grew on me more and more as I turned the pages, until I found myself completely immersed. There are some serious issues that are brought out in the story. But the author handles them with finesse and love. A true picture of what family is supposed to be, scares and all, emerges as the story unfolds. I'm sure this book will be great as a stand alone book, but I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about this Darling family.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
June 15, 2014
I really loved this book! I can't wait for the second book to come out in the Darling Family Series. This book is about a woman and her husband who struggle with infertility who find three neighborhood children homeless and left abandon by their mother. Ivy and Nick decide to take the three children into their home and make them into a family. However the family faces more than just taking three kids off the street, they face drug addiction, marital strain, alcoholism, in-law issues, trust issues and many things along the way that make this not so picture perfect. This book has so many moments of trusting God to work out the details. Oh, I love this book because it depicts what can happen and does happen when people foster children, but it also shows the beauty of how God has a purpose for every situation he directs in our paths. Just loved this book.
I received this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network.
I received this book from the publisher through The Book Club Network.
February 11, 2018
All Right Here by Carre Amstrong Gardner was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Without realizing it, I became totally smitten with the entire Darling clan, beginning with Jane and Leander, and all their adult children, David, twins Ivy and Laura, Sephy and Amy, whose ages range between 30 and 19.
This story focuses on Ivy and her husband, Nick, who’ve been married for seven years, and desperately want to become parents. When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine.
The book’s appeal is certainly the strong family bond between the Darlings, which is based on love and acceptance; compared to Nick’s family, who are all about material things, and conformism – as you can guess – Nick’s family are subtly antagonistic and judgmental when it comes to Ivy and her love for her new foster children. As for Nick, he’s a bit of a cold character too, passively hating Ivy for many of her character flaws, and denying her openness, denying her love. It was so subtle, but it was surely there.
The three kids, DeShaun (15), Jada (10), and Hammer (5), were absolutely wonderful and they made the book come alive – and as Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
To be honest, I quite enjoyed the Christian theme that was woven in the story. It was not preachy, on the contrary, it made a lot of sense to me.
This story focuses on Ivy and her husband, Nick, who’ve been married for seven years, and desperately want to become parents. When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine.
The book’s appeal is certainly the strong family bond between the Darlings, which is based on love and acceptance; compared to Nick’s family, who are all about material things, and conformism – as you can guess – Nick’s family are subtly antagonistic and judgmental when it comes to Ivy and her love for her new foster children. As for Nick, he’s a bit of a cold character too, passively hating Ivy for many of her character flaws, and denying her openness, denying her love. It was so subtle, but it was surely there.
The three kids, DeShaun (15), Jada (10), and Hammer (5), were absolutely wonderful and they made the book come alive – and as Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally barren marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late?
To be honest, I quite enjoyed the Christian theme that was woven in the story. It was not preachy, on the contrary, it made a lot of sense to me.
April 23, 2015
All Right Here by Carre Armstrong Gardner
This book is about a husband and wife, Ivy and Nick, who after months of trying find she is not able to conceive. He doesn't want to adopt but they are on many waiting lists.
His parents want them to have children as their other kids have grandchildren for them to spoil. Ivy feels slighted among them and the sisters never allow her to become one of them.
Ivy works in a bookstore and one day the children next door are still outside when she returns home from work. She takes the colored children in and tend to their needs. The mother is nowhere to be found. Things tend to be a bit difficult, white raising black children but they do put a lot of effort forward.
Child protective services helps them get guardianship and to track down the mother. Nick's not too keen on the kids staying there for an extended length of time but adjusts.
The story also follows not only Ivys's twin sister Laura who is having an affair with her boss, and she's an alcoholic and uses drugs; but her other sisters and their families.
It's easy to keep track of who is who with all the family events. Lots of quotes from not only the Bible but poets. They all tend to pray before eating and call on God for other help along the way as emergencies arise.
Enjoyed the read.
I received this book from a contest I entered from Tynsdale House Publishers.
This book is about a husband and wife, Ivy and Nick, who after months of trying find she is not able to conceive. He doesn't want to adopt but they are on many waiting lists.
His parents want them to have children as their other kids have grandchildren for them to spoil. Ivy feels slighted among them and the sisters never allow her to become one of them.
Ivy works in a bookstore and one day the children next door are still outside when she returns home from work. She takes the colored children in and tend to their needs. The mother is nowhere to be found. Things tend to be a bit difficult, white raising black children but they do put a lot of effort forward.
Child protective services helps them get guardianship and to track down the mother. Nick's not too keen on the kids staying there for an extended length of time but adjusts.
The story also follows not only Ivys's twin sister Laura who is having an affair with her boss, and she's an alcoholic and uses drugs; but her other sisters and their families.
It's easy to keep track of who is who with all the family events. Lots of quotes from not only the Bible but poets. They all tend to pray before eating and call on God for other help along the way as emergencies arise.
Enjoyed the read.
I received this book from a contest I entered from Tynsdale House Publishers.
May 29, 2015
This book had a lot of potential. I like the general story lines of each family and its members; however, there didn't seem to be any depth to any of the characters and the story itself did not flow smoothly. There are many unresolved issues at the end of the book, and some, I felt, were swept under the rug as the story unfolded.
I suppose I'll move on to the second book just to see if it satisfies any lingering questions.
I suppose I'll move on to the second book just to see if it satisfies any lingering questions.
June 10, 2014
I loved this book! I had to say I was a bit concerned with it being a "Christian" book and feared it might be preachy or churchy. Not so. I appreciated the rawness of the characters and the relatable problems. No promises of happy ever after endings...
July 30, 2014
Maybe its just me but I just could not stand this book and could not wait to be finished reading. I only kept reading for the story of the foster kids. All the adults in the story I thought were very self centered and jerks most of the time. Not a fan of this book at all.
February 28, 2015
The story could be better if it weren't so crowded with characters in crisis. Some things resolved, some did not. I know life doesn't always resolve problems but we should at least see a direction and be given hope, or told to give up hope.
Read
September 11, 2020Didn’t make it even a fourth of the way through the book. Too many unlikable and shallow characters, too much switching POV.
February 20, 2024
I don’t even know where to start with this lmfao. The writing was so surface level and not captivating at all. We didn’t need two pages about Ivy’s dentist appointment. But there are also just SO many problematic things in this novel.
-Random fatphobia (even towards children). Could you really not introduce a single character without mentioning if they were “pretty and skinny” or “a fat, disgusting, greedy cow”? Lmao
-The micro-aggressions holy shit. White savior plot while simultaneously still saying some racist shit throughout the book. Like implying that dreads aren’t usually elegant but her (white) sister “somehow” makes them look elegant, aggressive/mean black woman stereotype, unfit black parent with multiple baby daddies who abandons kids stereotype, uneducated POC stereotype (“I doubt she even finished highschool let alone went to college” about someone they literally don’t know), calling POC a wrong and stereotypical name on purpose to try to be funny (Juan instead of Carlos, Indianfeather instead of Jonathan Blackfeather)
-Ignorant and conservative Christian themes. You can’t judge everyone for everything (alcoholism, drugs, tattoos, standing up against overbearing family) but then turn around and act like several characters having an affair is okay lol. You also can’t just pray for every issue and conflict real quick then move on. There’s no empathy or effort in that.
- Ableism/more judgement. Why was the “freak table” at school made up of a kid in a wheelchair, a fat girl, and a Jewish boy? This could have easily been made into a lesson to DeShaun about not judging but it was brushed under the rug. Makes the author look bad herself.
- Conservative views on women. Women are only respected for being wives, homemakers, and mothers. They’re judged otherwise. Also a 13 year old boy was only described as being that. 13 years old, while the 11 year old girl was described as a moody 11 year old girl. In the same sentence. Pushing the “women are irrational and too emotional” stereotype. Starting with kids.
Y’all might think I’m reading into it too much but I don’t care. This is all very harmful stuff. I’m gonna give the author the benefit of the doubt and hope she has educated herself and learned since it was published 10 years ago, but hoping is all I can do.
-Random fatphobia (even towards children). Could you really not introduce a single character without mentioning if they were “pretty and skinny” or “a fat, disgusting, greedy cow”? Lmao
-The micro-aggressions holy shit. White savior plot while simultaneously still saying some racist shit throughout the book. Like implying that dreads aren’t usually elegant but her (white) sister “somehow” makes them look elegant, aggressive/mean black woman stereotype, unfit black parent with multiple baby daddies who abandons kids stereotype, uneducated POC stereotype (“I doubt she even finished highschool let alone went to college” about someone they literally don’t know), calling POC a wrong and stereotypical name on purpose to try to be funny (Juan instead of Carlos, Indianfeather instead of Jonathan Blackfeather)
-Ignorant and conservative Christian themes. You can’t judge everyone for everything (alcoholism, drugs, tattoos, standing up against overbearing family) but then turn around and act like several characters having an affair is okay lol. You also can’t just pray for every issue and conflict real quick then move on. There’s no empathy or effort in that.
- Ableism/more judgement. Why was the “freak table” at school made up of a kid in a wheelchair, a fat girl, and a Jewish boy? This could have easily been made into a lesson to DeShaun about not judging but it was brushed under the rug. Makes the author look bad herself.
- Conservative views on women. Women are only respected for being wives, homemakers, and mothers. They’re judged otherwise. Also a 13 year old boy was only described as being that. 13 years old, while the 11 year old girl was described as a moody 11 year old girl. In the same sentence. Pushing the “women are irrational and too emotional” stereotype. Starting with kids.
Y’all might think I’m reading into it too much but I don’t care. This is all very harmful stuff. I’m gonna give the author the benefit of the doubt and hope she has educated herself and learned since it was published 10 years ago, but hoping is all I can do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
This is a family drama story. Ivy & Nick can't have kids and this is causing tension in their relationship as well as with Nick's family. Ivy makes a decision to bring the neighbor kids into their home when they are abandoned by their mom and tells Nick what they are going to do rather than discuss it with him. I felt like they rarely talked about things and acted more like roommates than husband and wife. It was Nick that I didn't like at first but then it switched to me not liking Ivy's attitude and actions. Nick grew on me the more time I spent with his point of view and he realizes the problems between him and Ivy and he is trying to improve. There is also a storyline going on with Ivy's sister that I did not like. I was interesting in seeing if Nick and Ivy could repair their relationship and what was going to happen with the kids. The creativity of DeShawn with the grilled cheese sandwiches was an interesting addition to the story. The ending left me wanting more, it felt like they things were resolved without any communication. This story covers topics such as forgiveness, choosing how you decide to respond and learning that past actions can have consequences on your future.
July 27, 2020
Gardner understands relationships so well that her book is very believable. All Right Here deals with a lot of heavy topics: alcoholism, drug addiction, racism, adultery, child abuse, abandonment, loveless marriage, abortion, mean in-laws, etc. It is a very heavy book, and while the ending is hopeful, the book can be overwhelming. If you are looking for a pick-me-up, choose a different book. If you are looking for a book that will encourage you to press on through difficult times, this book might be one to read. However, there are some theological points that I differ with Gardner on. For instance, Gardner writes that we go to church to pour back into God the love that He has given us. In my church, we teach that we go to church to receive the gifts of forgiveness, life and salvation poured into us through the Word and Sacraments.
May 8, 2020
Ivy Darling and Nick Mason have been married for six years and their marriage has pretty much settled into a rut. Things change, however, when Ivy and Nick become foster parents for three neglected children who are abandoned by their mother ...
Editing oversights found in the Kindle version of All Right Here: Page 9, that's what everybody tells me? / that's what everybody tells ME. (not a question) ; 165, just cream please / just CREAM, please ; 185, You're darn right no / You're darn RIGHT, no ; 185, Okay then / OKAY, then ; 213, other anonymous bits of cultch / other anonymous bits of KITSCH ; 385, who would ever have thought it. / who would ever have thought IT? (a question)
Editing oversights found in the Kindle version of All Right Here: Page 9, that's what everybody tells me? / that's what everybody tells ME. (not a question) ; 165, just cream please / just CREAM, please ; 185, You're darn right no / You're darn RIGHT, no ; 185, Okay then / OKAY, then ; 213, other anonymous bits of cultch / other anonymous bits of KITSCH ; 385, who would ever have thought it. / who would ever have thought IT? (a question)
April 5, 2019
Some difficult topics of infertility are covered in a realistic fashion. I enjoyed the characters and felt a connection with this family.
The foster children were portrayed in a believable way and it was nice to see that the story showed just how much children can be affected when is this situation.
I loved so much about this novel. The writing style held my interest and I felt saddened at times and extremely happy at others. To me, this is a sign of a talented author. Gardner was able to draw out a lot of emotion from me.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
The foster children were portrayed in a believable way and it was nice to see that the story showed just how much children can be affected when is this situation.
I loved so much about this novel. The writing style held my interest and I felt saddened at times and extremely happy at others. To me, this is a sign of a talented author. Gardner was able to draw out a lot of emotion from me.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
January 27, 2023
Excellent read about contemporary family life. All of sorts of problems faced, some solved, and some unresolved. All in reasonable ways without crazy amounts of drama. Pretty much like life. Good to see a book cover many different kinds of issues (racism, infidelity, infertility, alcoholism, selfishness) rather than over focusing on a single one as real life is very messy. Overall message of looking into yourself and seeing that you may need to change instead of expecting others to change for us. Very relatable and I plan to read more in the series.
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