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Rose
Please note this is the more explicit version and is only available in print. If you wish to read a Contemporary Version which is suitable for any age group then please view - Beautiful Rose by this author.Mackenzie (Mack) Harper is a twenty-seven year old school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks while his parents are in Europe. Placing storage boxes on top of the kitchen cabinets, Mack finds a diary, opening it to the first page it reads, ‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’. Settling down to read this diary, Mack discovers a love story between Rose and a man named Jacob Evans. Realizing that Jacob is still alive and around eighty-eight years old, Mack tries to contact him to tell him Rose’s story. She leaves a message with Jacob’s housekeeper and hopes that he returns her call. While talking to her sister on the phone, she watches a denim and leather clad guy dismount his Harley and move in next door. Unbeknown to Mack, he’s Jacob’s thirty-two year old grandson, Dean, who has come to Cape Elizabeth to find out why she wants to talk to his grandfather about a diary and to make sure she isn’t after his grandfather’s money. Within an hour of actually meeting Dean has his hands on her legs, although due to spilled coffee, he discovers he can’t stop touching her. Dean was only too glad to escape to Cape Elizabeth, away from his mother, who wants him to be married to Cynthia, her friend’s daughter, who he has no interest in. Together Mack and Dean try to unravel the mystery of what actually happened to Rose in 1947. Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics. All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship. PLEASE Due to sexual content, unsuitable for under 18+.
338 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2013
7 people are currently reading
844 people want to read
About the author
Alison Chaffin Higson
3 books101 followersI was born in Bolton, Lancashire within the United Kingdom, where I lived up until 3 years ago when I moved to Ireland with my husband, 4 kids and pack of animals. I can tell you it isn't pleasant traveling in a car with 5 cats in cat boxes in the back. Getting back into the car after the ferry journey to Ireland was the most unpleasant thing we had to do on moving day!!
We are now settled in a pleasant town called Virginia in County Cavan. The kids love their schools (once they get there!) and the little one loves her play-school where she goes with her imaginary friend, Katie.
My kindle is loaded with too many books to mention and I absolutely love to read when I have the chance.
We are now settled in a pleasant town called Virginia in County Cavan. The kids love their schools (once they get there!) and the little one loves her play-school where she goes with her imaginary friend, Katie.
My kindle is loaded with too many books to mention and I absolutely love to read when I have the chance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 15, 2015
"Rose" Trailer
‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’
Rose CottageMackenzie (Mack) Harper is a twenty-four year old school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks ¬while his parents are in Europe.
Placing storage boxes on top of the kitchen cabinets, Mack finds a diary, opening it to the first page it reads, ‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’. Settling down to read this diary, Mack discovers a love story between Rose and a man named Jacob Evans.
Realizing that Jacob is still alive and around eighty-eight years old, Mack tries to contact him to tell him Rose’s story. She leaves a message with Jacob’s housekeeper and hopes that he returns her call.
While talking to her sister on the phone she watches a, denim and leather clad, guy dismount his Harley and move in next door. Unbeknown to Mack, he’s Jacob’s thirty-two year old grandson, Dean, who has come to Cape Elizabeth to find out why she wants to talk to his grandfather about a diary and to make sure she isn’t after his grandfather’s money.
Within an hour of actually meeting, Dean has his hands on her legs, although due to spilled coffee, he discovers he can’t stop touching her. Dean was only too glad to escape to Cape Elizabeth, away from his mother, who wants him to be married to Cynthia, her friend’s daughter, who he has no interest in.
Together Mack and Dean try to unravel the mystery of what actually happened to Rose in 1947.
Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’
Rose CottageMackenzie (Mack) Harper is a twenty-four year old school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks ¬while his parents are in Europe.
Placing storage boxes on top of the kitchen cabinets, Mack finds a diary, opening it to the first page it reads, ‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’. Settling down to read this diary, Mack discovers a love story between Rose and a man named Jacob Evans.
Realizing that Jacob is still alive and around eighty-eight years old, Mack tries to contact him to tell him Rose’s story. She leaves a message with Jacob’s housekeeper and hopes that he returns her call.
While talking to her sister on the phone she watches a, denim and leather clad, guy dismount his Harley and move in next door. Unbeknown to Mack, he’s Jacob’s thirty-two year old grandson, Dean, who has come to Cape Elizabeth to find out why she wants to talk to his grandfather about a diary and to make sure she isn’t after his grandfather’s money.
Within an hour of actually meeting, Dean has his hands on her legs, although due to spilled coffee, he discovers he can’t stop touching her. Dean was only too glad to escape to Cape Elizabeth, away from his mother, who wants him to be married to Cynthia, her friend’s daughter, who he has no interest in.
Together Mack and Dean try to unravel the mystery of what actually happened to Rose in 1947.
Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
Want to read
May 7, 2013 ooo I like the sound of this! Check out the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=...
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper is a twenty-four year old school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks ¬while his parents are in Europe.
Placing storage boxes on top of the kitchen cabinets, Mack finds a diary, opening it to the first page it reads, ‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’. Settling down to read this diary, Mack discovers a love story between Rose and a man named Jacob Evans.
Realizing that Jacob is still alive and around eighty-eight years old, Mack tries to contact him to tell him Rose’s story. She leaves a message with Jacob’s housekeeper and hopes that he returns her call.
While talking to her sister on the phone she watches a, denim and leather clad, guy dismount his Harley and move in next door. Unbeknown to Mack, he’s Jacob’s thirty-two year old grandson, Dean, who has come to Cape Elizabeth to find out why she wants to talk to his grandfather about a diary and to make sure she isn’t after his grandfather’s money.
Within an hour of actually meeting, Dean has his hands on her legs, although due to spilled coffee, he discovers he can’t stop touching her. Dean was only too glad to escape to Cape Elizabeth, away from his mother, who wants him to be married to Cynthia, her friend’s daughter, who he has no interest in.
Together Mack and Dean try to unravel the mystery of what actually happened to Rose in 1947.
Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper is a twenty-four year old school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks ¬while his parents are in Europe.
Placing storage boxes on top of the kitchen cabinets, Mack finds a diary, opening it to the first page it reads, ‘This is the diary of a Rose, dated March 4th, 1947’. Settling down to read this diary, Mack discovers a love story between Rose and a man named Jacob Evans.
Realizing that Jacob is still alive and around eighty-eight years old, Mack tries to contact him to tell him Rose’s story. She leaves a message with Jacob’s housekeeper and hopes that he returns her call.
While talking to her sister on the phone she watches a, denim and leather clad, guy dismount his Harley and move in next door. Unbeknown to Mack, he’s Jacob’s thirty-two year old grandson, Dean, who has come to Cape Elizabeth to find out why she wants to talk to his grandfather about a diary and to make sure she isn’t after his grandfather’s money.
Within an hour of actually meeting, Dean has his hands on her legs, although due to spilled coffee, he discovers he can’t stop touching her. Dean was only too glad to escape to Cape Elizabeth, away from his mother, who wants him to be married to Cynthia, her friend’s daughter, who he has no interest in.
Together Mack and Dean try to unravel the mystery of what actually happened to Rose in 1947.
Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
June 12, 2013
This review can be found at My Secret Romance Book Reviews
Rose is a beautiful, sweet contemporary romance filled with passion and intrigue that captured my attention from the start.
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper escapes the city and rents a seaside cottage for the summer. Accompanying her for a few weeks is her six year old nephew, Lucas. Lucas quickly befriends the elderly owner of the cottage. Meanwhile, Mack finds herself engrossed in a mysterious, forbidden romance dating back to the late 1940’s when she discovers an old diary; the diary of a Rose. But who exactly was Rose? What happened to her? And who is the handsome stranger that is staying in the cottage next to hers?
I really loved this one! You get two love stories rolled into one book. I followed along as Mack learned about Rose and her love interest, Jacob. I became as caught up in it as Mack was. I couldn’t wait to see where Rose’s journey took us next. Ms. Higson did an excellent job of making me feel the emotions and love blossoming between Rose and Jacob; that flutter of excitement, the giddiness.
Then there’s, Dean, the handsome stranger renting the cottage next to Mack. He becomes just as intrigued with Rose’s story, but more than that he finds himself enthralled by Mack. Mack is just as taken with him. When those two come together it’s hot and passionate. But Dean hasn't been honest about his identity. Can Mack accept and understand when he comes clean with her?
This story is beautifully written. The whole cast of characters and storyline just flowed perfectly. Keep some tissues handy. Rose’s diary eventually comes to an end, but there is so much more to reveal. Together, Mack and Dean unravel the mystery and that’s when the tears fell for me. Add this to your TBRs.
Rose is a beautiful, sweet contemporary romance filled with passion and intrigue that captured my attention from the start.
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper escapes the city and rents a seaside cottage for the summer. Accompanying her for a few weeks is her six year old nephew, Lucas. Lucas quickly befriends the elderly owner of the cottage. Meanwhile, Mack finds herself engrossed in a mysterious, forbidden romance dating back to the late 1940’s when she discovers an old diary; the diary of a Rose. But who exactly was Rose? What happened to her? And who is the handsome stranger that is staying in the cottage next to hers?
I really loved this one! You get two love stories rolled into one book. I followed along as Mack learned about Rose and her love interest, Jacob. I became as caught up in it as Mack was. I couldn’t wait to see where Rose’s journey took us next. Ms. Higson did an excellent job of making me feel the emotions and love blossoming between Rose and Jacob; that flutter of excitement, the giddiness.
Then there’s, Dean, the handsome stranger renting the cottage next to Mack. He becomes just as intrigued with Rose’s story, but more than that he finds himself enthralled by Mack. Mack is just as taken with him. When those two come together it’s hot and passionate. But Dean hasn't been honest about his identity. Can Mack accept and understand when he comes clean with her?
This story is beautifully written. The whole cast of characters and storyline just flowed perfectly. Keep some tissues handy. Rose’s diary eventually comes to an end, but there is so much more to reveal. Together, Mack and Dean unravel the mystery and that’s when the tears fell for me. Add this to your TBRs.
May 13, 2015
5 beautiful stars
Mack is a school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks. Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
Finding a diary that once belonged to a girl in the 1940’s named Rose, Mack can’t help but read their lovely, with a hint of mystery, yet tragic story. Finding out that the guy in Rose’s diary (Jacob) is still alive, she tries to contact him.
Meanwhile, a hot guy named Dean (who, btw, is Jacob’s grandson) arrives at Rose Cottage, just to make things more interesting. Dean is there to find out what this woman wants with his grandfather. What he doesn’t know is that he’ll get more involved in Rose and Jacob’s mystery and with the lady that found Rose’s diary.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
I really don’t know what I loved most about this story:
1) Maybe it was the relationship Mack has with his nephew
2) Or the friendship between Thomas, who is eighty years old, and Lucas, who is six.
3) Perhaps it was the fact that Rose’s life and death was a mystery.
4) Or maybe it was “dirty” things in Rose’s diary. I have to say I LOLed while reading theses parts. I’m not a prude or anything, but, when you are reading about a (today) eighty-year-old lady it’s… unexpected (do say the least)
5) Possibly because of everything, resulting into a beautiful story.
It doesn’t really matter which one is the right answer. The fact is that I loved this story and I know you’ll too!
Mack is a school teacher who moves to Rose Cottage in Cape Elizabeth for the summer. She arrives with her six year old nephew, Lucas, who’s staying with her for a few weeks. Thomas Degan the owner of Rose Cottage is a loveable eighty year old man who befriends Lucas, taking him fishing and spends time with him reading ‘Our Gang’ Comics.
Finding a diary that once belonged to a girl in the 1940’s named Rose, Mack can’t help but read their lovely, with a hint of mystery, yet tragic story. Finding out that the guy in Rose’s diary (Jacob) is still alive, she tries to contact him.
Meanwhile, a hot guy named Dean (who, btw, is Jacob’s grandson) arrives at Rose Cottage, just to make things more interesting. Dean is there to find out what this woman wants with his grandfather. What he doesn’t know is that he’ll get more involved in Rose and Jacob’s mystery and with the lady that found Rose’s diary.
All these characters come together in a story of loss, love and friendship.
I really don’t know what I loved most about this story:
1) Maybe it was the relationship Mack has with his nephew
2) Or the friendship between Thomas, who is eighty years old, and Lucas, who is six.
3) Perhaps it was the fact that Rose’s life and death was a mystery.
4) Or maybe it was “dirty” things in Rose’s diary. I have to say I LOLed while reading theses parts. I’m not a prude or anything, but, when you are reading about a (today) eighty-year-old lady it’s… unexpected (do say the least)
5) Possibly because of everything, resulting into a beautiful story.
It doesn’t really matter which one is the right answer. The fact is that I loved this story and I know you’ll too!
September 21, 2013
I HATE giving 1 star reviews, like really hate to do it, but I just didn't feel anything for this story. It was such a promising plot and I was excited to start reading it but there was just too many things I didn't like and I only finished because I am one of those people who have to finish a book I start. That said I skimmed the last 40% of the book just to confirm I was right about what was going to happen.
The book trailer was beautiful, as is the book cover, and I know this is rating highly so maybe give it a chance. It just didn't work for me.
The book trailer was beautiful, as is the book cover, and I know this is rating highly so maybe give it a chance. It just didn't work for me.
May 20, 2013
“Rose” by Alison Chaffin Higson is not your conventional or traditional love story and that truly captures you. This novel is special because you get two remarkable love stories in two different time periods. Nevertheless, the story develops beautifully and it’s easy to follow. As you’re reading you don’t confuse whose story is being told. It is exceptionally well written. I have read various books that attempts to tell two love stories in different time periods but the end result isn’t achieved.
In this novel you learn about the love story of Mack and Dean and Rose and Jacob. “This one looked old, especially with all the dust. It must have been up there a long time. Mack stroked the front of the book, before peeling open to the first page….This is the diary of a Rose! March 4, 1947.” In this novel Alison Chaffin Higson successfully tells you about two love stories that take place in different time periods. The connection the characters have with each other is truly noteworthy and unforeseen.
“Rose” is scheduled for publishing on June 8th.
In this novel you learn about the love story of Mack and Dean and Rose and Jacob. “This one looked old, especially with all the dust. It must have been up there a long time. Mack stroked the front of the book, before peeling open to the first page….This is the diary of a Rose! March 4, 1947.” In this novel Alison Chaffin Higson successfully tells you about two love stories that take place in different time periods. The connection the characters have with each other is truly noteworthy and unforeseen.
“Rose” is scheduled for publishing on June 8th.
September 17, 2014
This is one of the sweetest and most captivating love stories, I've read in a long time. It's not what I expected and was most surprised at the variety of emotions I had while reading Rose.
The characters are so real and moreover charming. Apart from the memories created by a diary and a love suddenly brought on by the diary. A precocious little boy named Lukas makes for hilarious reading. Can't wait to read more of your work Alison.
The characters are so real and moreover charming. Apart from the memories created by a diary and a love suddenly brought on by the diary. A precocious little boy named Lukas makes for hilarious reading. Can't wait to read more of your work Alison.
August 14, 2013
Thank you Alison for sending this my way. This was such a beautiful love story that I managed to read in one sitting. I connected so well to all of the characters, each one giving the book something different. Mack was a woman on a mission. She was a hopeless romantic desperate to see Rose and Jacob happy but devastated their story didn’t end that way. I loved that she was determined to make sure Jacob knew the truth. She couldn’t let him live the rest of his life believing the woman he had loved with all his heart hadn’t loved him back. And Dean… the hot guy next door. Wow. Who wouldn’t want a little piece of him? Dark hair, blue eyes, not an ounce of fat, a tattoo, a little rough round the edges… just how we like them… right girls!!! Their relationship developed quickly and it was intense. Within days of meeting, things were heating up:
There were so many aspects of their relationship that mirrored Jacob and Rose’s. Both were fast passed, neither holding back from what they truly wanted and neither refraining from saying how they felt. There were some lovely moments where it was like watching Rose and Jacob all over again, especially their “getting to know each other” part:
It was exactly the way it had happened when Rose had said “So tell me about Jacob.” Such a sweet moment but so many years apart... it made my heart go all fluttery. I’m such a softy when it comes to little touches like that and the fact that I got it twice made me go all gooey!!! Lol.
As with any relationship, along with the emotional connection comes the physical side of things and boy did we get a look at that. Yup, we got 1947 Jacob and Rose sex and we got Mack and Dean Sex…. And it was steamy!!!! In fact so steamy, the first line of one of the diary entries was:
Shower sex, beach sex, kitchen table sex, wall sex…. You name it, the couples experienced it!!!! Lol
And then there was Lucas, the little rug rat who listened in to adult conversations and was quite happy to repeat what he’d heard:
Lucas bought an element of humour to the book. He was quite happy mentioning granny’s sagging boobs, granny and grandpa playing strip poker, granny going skinny dipping…. Yup images you really didn’t need popping into your head about your parents but coming from a child’s mouth, these comments were so innocent yet just so funny. The friendship that developed between Thomas and Lucas was lovely to watch. Thomas was like a child at heart and their friendship was so innocent yet so beautiful, it was refreshing to read.
But Thomas did have a secret, one he’d been hiding since the day Rose disappeared, the guilt eating at him slowly:
He hadn’t talked about Rose in years but he had loved her. For some reason, he found comfort in talking about her to Mack. When Mack first told Thomas about the diary, she had offered it to him, after all she'd found it in his cottage, so rightfully it belonged to him:
Fear had stopped him taking the diary. For years he had held on to the belief that Rose had hated him and he blamed himself for her disappearance. He was afraid the diary would prove him right. How wrong could he be? I’m so glad that it was Mack that told him the truth. It was time to lay his ghosts to rest.
And finally Rose and Jacob. What a love story. These characters fell in love fast and the fell in love hard. Despite all of the interfering from others, all the secrets people were hiding and all the obstacles they faced, they belonged together, they were meant to be but in those days things were different:
I was really praying for these two, hoping everything would work out but when Mack got to the last page of the diary and it wasn’t good news and my heard broke for them. God how times have changed and thank god Mack and Dean didn’t have to go through quite the same scenario (although with his mother and Cynthia, they weren’t far off!!!!).
“Rose” was told in the present day but all of the diary excerpts were included which meant not only did I get to experience the love story of Mack and Dean, but I was able to see the development of Rose and Jacob’s story first hand too. This book had my heart doing all sorts but in such a good way. Watching love blossom, watching friendships grow and watching those who had experienced loss move forward was wonderful to read, There were definitely a few twists and turns along the way, some unexpected, but others that I did manage to work out. This for me, is a lazy Sunday read where all I want to do is sit back in the garden with a glass of wine, kick my shoes off and read a good book that won't leave me broken and my heart shattered. "Rose" is a stand alone and will give you the "Happy ever after" you crave.
I have rated this book 3.5 Hearts
(My little issue with "Rose" was that I wish the diary excerpts had been more like proper diary entries and not like reading a book)
“You feel so right, Mack., in my arms and in my life.”
There were so many aspects of their relationship that mirrored Jacob and Rose’s. Both were fast passed, neither holding back from what they truly wanted and neither refraining from saying how they felt. There were some lovely moments where it was like watching Rose and Jacob all over again, especially their “getting to know each other” part:
“Tell me about Mackenzie?” he asked
It was exactly the way it had happened when Rose had said “So tell me about Jacob.” Such a sweet moment but so many years apart... it made my heart go all fluttery. I’m such a softy when it comes to little touches like that and the fact that I got it twice made me go all gooey!!! Lol.
As with any relationship, along with the emotional connection comes the physical side of things and boy did we get a look at that. Yup, we got 1947 Jacob and Rose sex and we got Mack and Dean Sex…. And it was steamy!!!! In fact so steamy, the first line of one of the diary entries was:
Oh my, I was introduced to a wall tonight….
Shower sex, beach sex, kitchen table sex, wall sex…. You name it, the couples experienced it!!!! Lol
And then there was Lucas, the little rug rat who listened in to adult conversations and was quite happy to repeat what he’d heard:
“…. all granny said, was that she gets some herbs from the Jamaicans at the market, and put them in her cakes. Mrs Green was there one day and she said they were the bestcakes this side of Boston, but Grandma never lets me eat them. I don’t know why,but she said I’m not old enough to take an aphrodizzyache.”
Lucas bought an element of humour to the book. He was quite happy mentioning granny’s sagging boobs, granny and grandpa playing strip poker, granny going skinny dipping…. Yup images you really didn’t need popping into your head about your parents but coming from a child’s mouth, these comments were so innocent yet just so funny. The friendship that developed between Thomas and Lucas was lovely to watch. Thomas was like a child at heart and their friendship was so innocent yet so beautiful, it was refreshing to read.
Thomas headed to the kitchen trying to remember the last time he’d had so much fun, and he couldn’t. His wife, Janet, died when they were both fifty-six. That was twenty-four years ago.
But Thomas did have a secret, one he’d been hiding since the day Rose disappeared, the guilt eating at him slowly:
Maybe one day soon he would be ready to talk to Mack about the night Rose died and the regret he’d lived with all these years. If only he’s talked back then, things might have worked out differently.
He hadn’t talked about Rose in years but he had loved her. For some reason, he found comfort in talking about her to Mack. When Mack first told Thomas about the diary, she had offered it to him, after all she'd found it in his cottage, so rightfully it belonged to him:
“It’s okay, you found it, so you read it first, and then pass it on to me to read.”
Fear had stopped him taking the diary. For years he had held on to the belief that Rose had hated him and he blamed himself for her disappearance. He was afraid the diary would prove him right. How wrong could he be? I’m so glad that it was Mack that told him the truth. It was time to lay his ghosts to rest.
And finally Rose and Jacob. What a love story. These characters fell in love fast and the fell in love hard. Despite all of the interfering from others, all the secrets people were hiding and all the obstacles they faced, they belonged together, they were meant to be but in those days things were different:
“As your only daughter, you should want me to marry for love and to someone who can make me happy just by being with them. Money shouldn’t come into it at all.”
I was really praying for these two, hoping everything would work out but when Mack got to the last page of the diary and it wasn’t good news and my heard broke for them. God how times have changed and thank god Mack and Dean didn’t have to go through quite the same scenario (although with his mother and Cynthia, they weren’t far off!!!!).
“Rose” was told in the present day but all of the diary excerpts were included which meant not only did I get to experience the love story of Mack and Dean, but I was able to see the development of Rose and Jacob’s story first hand too. This book had my heart doing all sorts but in such a good way. Watching love blossom, watching friendships grow and watching those who had experienced loss move forward was wonderful to read, There were definitely a few twists and turns along the way, some unexpected, but others that I did manage to work out. This for me, is a lazy Sunday read where all I want to do is sit back in the garden with a glass of wine, kick my shoes off and read a good book that won't leave me broken and my heart shattered. "Rose" is a stand alone and will give you the "Happy ever after" you crave.
I have rated this book 3.5 Hearts
(My little issue with "Rose" was that I wish the diary excerpts had been more like proper diary entries and not like reading a book)
October 18, 2019
Liked the book
Very interesting, not to predictable and lovable in relation to the older gentleman and his young friend. I liked it.
Very interesting, not to predictable and lovable in relation to the older gentleman and his young friend. I liked it.
October 14, 2013
“This is the diary of a Rose”
A very cute and heart-warming story about a woman finding a diary of Rose.
Mack was taking a break from teaching and rented a cottage bringing along his little nephew Lucas. That little boy is, hands down, the most amazing, charming, cute and a little devil. There were a lot of scenes that were just LOL. Literally. There they met Thomas who was the owner and caretaker of the grounds. All of them hit it off. But when Mack found the diary, she learned it was from Thomas sister, Rose. In that diary was a sense of love, passion, heart breaks and mystery. Mack could not contain her excitement in finding the answers to her questions. She was so intrigued that she had to call Jacob, the love of Rose, who is still alive just to ask the questions she's been dying to ask. There, it lead to Dean, Jacob's grandson. Just like the love story of Rose and Jacob, both Mack and Dean fell in love at first sight. When, both tried to unveil the mystery of the diary and "Rose Cottage" they did not expect the turn of events that would lead them to their happy ending.
“Just then the back door opened and in walked Thomas.
“Morning, folks.”
He walked over and gave Mack a bunch of peonies.
She leaned over to give Thomas a big hug and a kiss on the cheek.
“I think you need to marry me, Thomas.” He was so sweet and would make a good grandfather.
“Hey, not funny. He can get his own girl. You’re mine.”
Dean pulled Mack into his arms, laughing.”
Dean was just so hot, hot, hot! Made me swoon from every chapter. Heeheehee. Really perfect for Mack.
The starting was a little bit about of flashbacks in the diary when Mack was reading it. Rose and Jacob's love story was too good to be true. But I do hope there is that kind of love out there too. It was little bit a romance-mystery in it but it was very obvious, for me, what happened and who happened. More like I got my answers before the unveiling was formed.
Cute, heart warming and very mellow. A nice read on a beautiful weather. :)
June 11, 2013
This book has just the right amount of romance and mystery in it.
Mackenzie and her nephew Lucas go to Cape Elizabeth, Maine on vacation for the summer. It is beautiful, relaxing and a slower pace than Boston. Upon arriving she meets Thomas the eighty year old owner of Rose Cottage and their friendship grows stronger with each day. Thomas has no family so in a way he adopts them.
Shortly after arriving Mack finds a diary. She asks Thomas about it to see if he knew about it. He knew nothing about it, but once she mention who was writing in it he knew who's it was. She has no idea who Rose is until she was half way into it. Mack feels a connection with Rose and is determined to find out who Jacob is. She does an online search and finds a Jacob that fits the description. She calls and leaves a message with his house keeper to please have him call her as soon as possible. Is he the Jacob from the Diary?
Dean is a smoking hot graphic designer. He is Jacob's grandson. He over hears the house keeper talking to Mack on the phone and decides that he needs to investigate this lady. He doesn't want anyone trying to take advantage of his grandpa. He uses this as a reason to get away from his mother, who is trying to marry him off. So he books the cottage right next door to Mack. He instantly has a connection with Lucas and Mack. Is his grandpa the guy in the journal?
This is a sweet romance novel. I love all the mystery around the journal. Nothing like trying to solve a mystery, while getting an extra bonus of two blooming romances.
Mackenzie and her nephew Lucas go to Cape Elizabeth, Maine on vacation for the summer. It is beautiful, relaxing and a slower pace than Boston. Upon arriving she meets Thomas the eighty year old owner of Rose Cottage and their friendship grows stronger with each day. Thomas has no family so in a way he adopts them.
Shortly after arriving Mack finds a diary. She asks Thomas about it to see if he knew about it. He knew nothing about it, but once she mention who was writing in it he knew who's it was. She has no idea who Rose is until she was half way into it. Mack feels a connection with Rose and is determined to find out who Jacob is. She does an online search and finds a Jacob that fits the description. She calls and leaves a message with his house keeper to please have him call her as soon as possible. Is he the Jacob from the Diary?
Dean is a smoking hot graphic designer. He is Jacob's grandson. He over hears the house keeper talking to Mack on the phone and decides that he needs to investigate this lady. He doesn't want anyone trying to take advantage of his grandpa. He uses this as a reason to get away from his mother, who is trying to marry him off. So he books the cottage right next door to Mack. He instantly has a connection with Lucas and Mack. Is his grandpa the guy in the journal?
This is a sweet romance novel. I love all the mystery around the journal. Nothing like trying to solve a mystery, while getting an extra bonus of two blooming romances.
March 16, 2014
I really enjoyed this book but I must warn readers that there is a lot of sex in here and the area where Rose looses her virginity is very explicit. I loved how the author was so real in that scene. She did not make it into a something it isn't for the average woman and that was great. So if you are a prude and can't handle some sex this is not a book for you but if you can take the sex this book is excellent. The reason I put this is some people blast authors because they find things they are not expecting and that is not fair to the author so I am putting the warning right here in my review.
As for the rest of the book I loved how Mack and Dean's romance was sort of like Rose and Jacob's. The love at first sight thing. The parent that was a bit of a road block. It was fun to read and compare in your mind as you are reading. I also fell in love with Lucas. He reminds me so much of my own nephew now knowing what is going to come out of his mouth and some of his one liners in this book had me laughing out loud. I was glad I was reading the book at home or I am sure I would have been getting strange looks because I was going from tears to laughs in a matter of minutes in some parts of the book and that shows the pure talent of Higson to get readers to get so invested in her book. This book was excellent all the way around and I don't want to ruin it for the reader but it is an excellent read and I promise you that you will enjoy it if you like a book that will grab at your heart and hold on until the end.
As for the rest of the book I loved how Mack and Dean's romance was sort of like Rose and Jacob's. The love at first sight thing. The parent that was a bit of a road block. It was fun to read and compare in your mind as you are reading. I also fell in love with Lucas. He reminds me so much of my own nephew now knowing what is going to come out of his mouth and some of his one liners in this book had me laughing out loud. I was glad I was reading the book at home or I am sure I would have been getting strange looks because I was going from tears to laughs in a matter of minutes in some parts of the book and that shows the pure talent of Higson to get readers to get so invested in her book. This book was excellent all the way around and I don't want to ruin it for the reader but it is an excellent read and I promise you that you will enjoy it if you like a book that will grab at your heart and hold on until the end.
June 26, 2013
**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
ROSE
By Alison Chaffin Higson
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper and her nephew Lucas stay at Rose cottage for the summer, the elderly owner Thomas, Lucas and Mack become friends and when Mack discovers and old diary on top of the kitchen cupboards she is eager to read it. The diary is written by Rose back in 1947, Rose is also Thomas's sister.
As Mack gets deeper into the diary she tries to contact the man that Rose was dating at the time Jacob. Out of curiosity Jacob's grandson Dean decides to check her out, Dean and Mack hit it off right away!
Rose is a really sweet romantic story, it is a little confusing at first the switching between the diary and Mack's pov but once I got used to that I settled into it really well. The sex scenes were great, well written and quite graphic and that just added to the romance of the story.
A well written read that I enjoyed from the moment I started till I had finished. I really wanted to find out what had happened to all the characters and it didn't disappoint, It all ties together nicely that had me shedding a few tears too.
Big thanks to Alison for sending me an ARC copy for an honest review. This truly is a beautiful story.
5 stars for Amazon and 4 stars for Goodreads
ROSE
By Alison Chaffin Higson
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper and her nephew Lucas stay at Rose cottage for the summer, the elderly owner Thomas, Lucas and Mack become friends and when Mack discovers and old diary on top of the kitchen cupboards she is eager to read it. The diary is written by Rose back in 1947, Rose is also Thomas's sister.
As Mack gets deeper into the diary she tries to contact the man that Rose was dating at the time Jacob. Out of curiosity Jacob's grandson Dean decides to check her out, Dean and Mack hit it off right away!
Rose is a really sweet romantic story, it is a little confusing at first the switching between the diary and Mack's pov but once I got used to that I settled into it really well. The sex scenes were great, well written and quite graphic and that just added to the romance of the story.
A well written read that I enjoyed from the moment I started till I had finished. I really wanted to find out what had happened to all the characters and it didn't disappoint, It all ties together nicely that had me shedding a few tears too.
Big thanks to Alison for sending me an ARC copy for an honest review. This truly is a beautiful story.
5 stars for Amazon and 4 stars for Goodreads
July 15, 2013
**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
ROSE
By Alison Chaffin Higson
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper and her nephew Lucas stay at Rose cottage for the summer, the elderly owner Thomas, Lucas and Mack become friends and when Mack discovers and old diary on top of the kitchen cupboards she is eager to read it. The diary is written by Rose back in 1947, Rose is also Thomas's sister.
As Mack gets deeper into the diary she tries to contact the man that Rose was dating at the time Jacob. Out of curiosity Jacob's grandson Dean decides to check her out, Dean and Mack hit it off right away!
Rose is a really sweet romantic story, it is a little confusing at first the switching between the diary and Mack's pov but once I got used to that I settled into it really well. The sex scenes were great, well written and quite graphic and that just added to the romance of the story.
A well written read that I enjoyed from the moment I started till I had finished. I really wanted to find out what had happened to all the characters and it didn't disappoint, It all ties together nicely that had me shedding a few tears too.
Big thanks to Alison for sending me an ARC copy for an honest review. This truly is a beautiful story.
5 stars for Amazon and 4 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
ROSE
By Alison Chaffin Higson
Mackenzie (Mack) Harper and her nephew Lucas stay at Rose cottage for the summer, the elderly owner Thomas, Lucas and Mack become friends and when Mack discovers and old diary on top of the kitchen cupboards she is eager to read it. The diary is written by Rose back in 1947, Rose is also Thomas's sister.
As Mack gets deeper into the diary she tries to contact the man that Rose was dating at the time Jacob. Out of curiosity Jacob's grandson Dean decides to check her out, Dean and Mack hit it off right away!
Rose is a really sweet romantic story, it is a little confusing at first the switching between the diary and Mack's pov but once I got used to that I settled into it really well. The sex scenes were great, well written and quite graphic and that just added to the romance of the story.
A well written read that I enjoyed from the moment I started till I had finished. I really wanted to find out what had happened to all the characters and it didn't disappoint, It all ties together nicely that had me shedding a few tears too.
Big thanks to Alison for sending me an ARC copy for an honest review. This truly is a beautiful story.
5 stars for Amazon and 4 stars for Goodreads
~Jane~
June 22, 2013
It was a good idea for a story and the characters were, for the most part, well developed. However, I found the story very slow moving in lots of places as the author took us where we really didn't need to go, spending time detailing what they had for breakfast, etc. The dialog was unnatural, many times. I also didn't find the tone of Rose's diary in keeping with a young lady of 18 in 1947, at least not in the United States.
Additionally, the diary part was written as if it were in the far past, not as Rose experienced it and wrote it. For example, while describing the man her father wanted her to marry, Rose talks about him in the past tense saying things like he WAS tall, not "Richard is tall". It made it sound as if Rose were writing it not as it happened but a long time after.
Also, in both story lines the sex was extremely graphic. There should have been some hint of this before we started reading a story about an elementary school teacher and her six year old nephew, thinking it would be suitable for all audiences. I found myself skipping all of that gratuitous sex after the first couple of times I came across it...and there was a lot to skip!
Additionally, the diary part was written as if it were in the far past, not as Rose experienced it and wrote it. For example, while describing the man her father wanted her to marry, Rose talks about him in the past tense saying things like he WAS tall, not "Richard is tall". It made it sound as if Rose were writing it not as it happened but a long time after.
Also, in both story lines the sex was extremely graphic. There should have been some hint of this before we started reading a story about an elementary school teacher and her six year old nephew, thinking it would be suitable for all audiences. I found myself skipping all of that gratuitous sex after the first couple of times I came across it...and there was a lot to skip!
June 11, 2013
Where to start? This is yet another amazing book from Alison, The way this author portrays the characters is amazing, they develop so well that you feel like you know them, like they are part of your family. The story is yet again well written, I love the fact that the story flicks from past to present. They roll together very well, linking well. I love the diary entries.
We have a lovely little Lucas, who is so adorable. Then Dean is the hot man that makes you Swoon. Not forgetting Mack who is the lead female, she is such a sweetheart, one of those girls you love straight away. What else do you need in a book. Oh and Thomas the lovely old gentleman that stole my heart, he is so sweet.
The story is so amazing, so much emotion in it, so griping and real. I was hooked from the start.
Not forgetting the twist that you don't expect that made me cry. Yes I admitted it. I cried.
Thank you for yet another amazing Book Alison..
We have a lovely little Lucas, who is so adorable. Then Dean is the hot man that makes you Swoon. Not forgetting Mack who is the lead female, she is such a sweetheart, one of those girls you love straight away. What else do you need in a book. Oh and Thomas the lovely old gentleman that stole my heart, he is so sweet.
The story is so amazing, so much emotion in it, so griping and real. I was hooked from the start.
Not forgetting the twist that you don't expect that made me cry. Yes I admitted it. I cried.
Thank you for yet another amazing Book Alison..
June 17, 2013
This book tells 2 stories one set in 1947 and the other set in present day. The thing I loved about this book was that you got 2 love stories in one book that is not an easy thing to write as what normally happens is that one takes over the other. I was a little wary of the fact main characters fell in love within a matter of days, but the more I read I could understand why (hey just because it doesn't happen to everyone doesn't mean it doesn't happen). For me the Lucus was the cutest little boy ever and reminds me that you should always be careful what you say in front of children unless you want it re told at the most inappropriate time. I cant wait to read Alison's next book.
August 2, 2013
Well written...
Every moment it makes me anticipate what will happen next....
Even though iv'e guess earlier what becomes of Rose, it didn't discourage me or made me jump to the last part just to find out what the end, instead it made me giddy and excited and reading so fast just to find out every bit of the information Mack found out...
Erotic scenes are very much erotic and catching... It made me stop reading for a bit, just to rest my imagination...
After i finish the book, It made me call my cousin immediately just to recommend to read this book, she's very fond of those scene, lol:) and as well as a good read...
So, thanks thanks for a good read:))
Every moment it makes me anticipate what will happen next....
Even though iv'e guess earlier what becomes of Rose, it didn't discourage me or made me jump to the last part just to find out what the end, instead it made me giddy and excited and reading so fast just to find out every bit of the information Mack found out...
Erotic scenes are very much erotic and catching... It made me stop reading for a bit, just to rest my imagination...
After i finish the book, It made me call my cousin immediately just to recommend to read this book, she's very fond of those scene, lol:) and as well as a good read...
So, thanks thanks for a good read:))
June 15, 2013
Blog review coming 5/15 along with a give away on my blog iloveladyporn.blogspot.com
This book has 2 love stories rolled in one!
As Mack read Rose's dairy I was crying it was such a sad heart wrenching love story.
Wow Dean he is one hot hunk of man meat lol. Dean and Mack are the perfect love story but they just have to get over the hurdle of his mother. Rose, Jacob, Richard and Thomas what's to say other than it's one crazy, wonderful, heart wrenching story. Lots of hot steamy sex. Fabulous ending.
This book has 2 love stories rolled in one!
As Mack read Rose's dairy I was crying it was such a sad heart wrenching love story.
Wow Dean he is one hot hunk of man meat lol. Dean and Mack are the perfect love story but they just have to get over the hurdle of his mother. Rose, Jacob, Richard and Thomas what's to say other than it's one crazy, wonderful, heart wrenching story. Lots of hot steamy sex. Fabulous ending.
March 27, 2014
Wonderful premise but the diaries lack reality in style and format. I collect and have read many antique/vintage diaries. Young women of the time did not write long entries in their diaries in conversational style. They had a handle on past and present tense, which this author does not. In addition, much of the narrative in this book is repetitious. The ending was predictable. About one-third of the way through the book, the "mystery" could be solved. I am disappointed with the weak writing style and would have enjoyed knowing more about the time and place of the characters in the diary.
January 31, 2015
Honsetly, this was such a good book to read after all these NA books I have been reading lately. The characters were very likeable and the story was beautiful. I had a hunch about the ending but it was still surprising how everything played out.
Now, be warned, if you are not into insta-love, then you might not enjoy it as much because there's a lot of insta love in this book.
But I think that sometimes you just meet the right people at the right time and why wait when you can have your paradise now?
Now, be warned, if you are not into insta-love, then you might not enjoy it as much because there's a lot of insta love in this book.
But I think that sometimes you just meet the right people at the right time and why wait when you can have your paradise now?
June 12, 2013
What a fantastic read!! I stumbled upon this book on Amazon, and I'm so glad I "one-clicked" it.
About half way through I had an idea what the secret was. Although the ending seemed a little rushed; it just took all those wonderful chapters to tell the story and then the last chapter & epilogue gave you the HEA that I so was hoping for, but I wish it would have gave a little more in the future with everyone involved.
But other than that, it was just a terrific book!!
About half way through I had an idea what the secret was. Although the ending seemed a little rushed; it just took all those wonderful chapters to tell the story and then the last chapter & epilogue gave you the HEA that I so was hoping for, but I wish it would have gave a little more in the future with everyone involved.
But other than that, it was just a terrific book!!
June 18, 2013
Rose by Alison Chaffin Higson is one book that I will read over and over. It is five love stories in one story line. So heart warming, patient, and suspenseful. My favorite read this year. I cried so, so much. I love the writing style that makes you become so attached to the characters. A must read all around.
June 13, 2013
Just finished Rose and would def recommend you read it! It's kinda love at first sight for the characters but I totally didn't mind that cause it was a lovely, heartwarming story. It was refreshing and there wasn't too much angst and drama in it. Sometimes you can read a book and it leaves you exhausted, I finished this book and felt happy and content :)
Well done to Alison :)
Well done to Alison :)
July 5, 2013
DNF
I just couldnt get into this book at all, the synopsis came across as a really sweet 'Letter to Juliet' type story but for whatever reason I just wasn't able to immerse myself. I may go back some day and try again but when I have so many books on my to read list, forcing myself to turn page after page of a book that just doesn't spark for me, well, its not going to happen.
I just couldnt get into this book at all, the synopsis came across as a really sweet 'Letter to Juliet' type story but for whatever reason I just wasn't able to immerse myself. I may go back some day and try again but when I have so many books on my to read list, forcing myself to turn page after page of a book that just doesn't spark for me, well, its not going to happen.
March 30, 2014
Really enjoyed this sweet romance story. It's actually two love stories in one. Nice & light just what l needed. Dean & Mack were great together. Loved Thomas & Macks nephew Lucas was hilarious. I enjoyed Rose & Jacob's beautiful love story too! It's funny, had me in tears & there are steamy parts. Great read
September 26, 2013
Phenomenal. Two love stories built into one. While renting a cottage for the summer Mack finds a diary from 1947, a wonderful old man who quickly becomes family, and true love.
This is my first experience with Alison Chaffin Higson and I can guarantee it will not be my last. Very well written with just enough hot and steamy and laughter.
This is my first experience with Alison Chaffin Higson and I can guarantee it will not be my last. Very well written with just enough hot and steamy and laughter.
October 25, 2013
I was so touched by this book. It was really amazing. This story Im sure has and will touch many readers. I cried and laughed but it was well worth it. Mack was so sweet and caring. Time was waiting for her to find that diary and help Rose. I loved Her neohew Lucas he was just too much.
JUST READ THIS BOOK I PROMISE YOU WONT REGRET IT!!!
I LOVED IT!
JUST READ THIS BOOK I PROMISE YOU WONT REGRET IT!!!
I LOVED IT!
December 30, 2013
this was such a beautiful love story, I loved it! I loved that not only did you get Rose/Jacobs story but you also get Mack/Deans...so we get two! Both stories were hot, steamy and so beautiful. I'm so glad everyone got their hea....even Thomas. I really wanted more at the end, some babies would've been great but I still loved it!
March 23, 2014
I loved this book
I always like a good mystery and a good romance and this book did not disappoint. I love all the characters and it kept me wondering about the ending. There are a few ups and downs that make up the suspense of the entire book. a good read!
I always like a good mystery and a good romance and this book did not disappoint. I love all the characters and it kept me wondering about the ending. There are a few ups and downs that make up the suspense of the entire book. a good read!
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