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The Adventures of Agnes Hopper #1
Agnes Hopper Shakes Up Sweetbriar
Summer's steamy haze coats North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, but feisty Agnes Marie Hopper discovers the heat isn't the only thing causing her blood to boil. After a kitchen fire destroys her home, Agnes moves in with her daughter, Betty Jo. Three months later they come to an understanding: neither can tolerate living with the other. So on a sultry August morning, Betty Jo drives Agnes and her few belongings to Sweetbrier Manor, a local retirement home and former house of ill repute.
With no intention of staying, Agnes devises a scheme to sneak out of the Manor and find another place to live. Before she can make her exit, she runs into her best friend from high school, along with some other quirky characters. With a nose for trouble, Agnes learns some of the residents are being robbed, over-medicated, and denied basic cable and Internet access. Armed with nothing more than seventy-one years of common sense and a knack for pushing people's buttons, Agnes sets out to expose the unscrupulous administrator, protect her new friends, and restore Sweetbriar Manor s reputation as a "rewarding and enriching lifestyle. But the real moment of truth comes when Agnes is forced to choose between her feisty self-reliance and the self-sacrifice that comes from caring for others.
With no intention of staying, Agnes devises a scheme to sneak out of the Manor and find another place to live. Before she can make her exit, she runs into her best friend from high school, along with some other quirky characters. With a nose for trouble, Agnes learns some of the residents are being robbed, over-medicated, and denied basic cable and Internet access. Armed with nothing more than seventy-one years of common sense and a knack for pushing people's buttons, Agnes sets out to expose the unscrupulous administrator, protect her new friends, and restore Sweetbriar Manor s reputation as a "rewarding and enriching lifestyle. But the real moment of truth comes when Agnes is forced to choose between her feisty self-reliance and the self-sacrifice that comes from caring for others.
200 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2015
264 people are currently reading
1191 people want to read
About the author
Carol Guthrie Heilman
4 books30 followersCarol Heilman, a coal-miner's daughter, married a farmer's son, her high school sweetheart, over fifty years ago. She and her husband live in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Their children and grandchildren live near the east and west coasts where they often visit. Carol enjoys traveling, reading, writing, hiking, and cooking for friends. She is a recipient of two Carrie McCray Awards for writing excellence. To find out more about Carol, visit: carolheilman.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 26, 2015
This is a must read for anyone who loves Senior Citizens who are full of spunk! I loved the look at retirement living and the thoughts and outspoken remarks of Agnes Hopper, who finds herself moving from her home to her daughter 's home to a retirement home. First reaction is a plan to get out until she finds all kinds of things not measuring up and she's on a mission to do some work to get things in order. Being a natural lover of Senior Citizens having a Mom who is also full of it, so to speak I adored this. Of course my thoughts go to the day I may end up moving in to a retirement home myself. A fun read with a lot of insight as well as to why you need to do your homework on finding a great place to live in your older years. Agnes was adorable and her friends were lots of fun too. I found myself chuckling at many of the people in the book. I got tickled when the young man brought in fruit and all the ladies were glued stuck to him- one lady straightening out her necklace. Lots of fun- mystery, romance and fun. A very enjoyable fast paced read. - PopleBackyardFarm
May 4, 2019
I laughed, I cried and I prayed. The characters were so real that you heart ached for them. Every one over 50 should read this.
September 19, 2018
I thought it was cute, the storyline was predictable. The writing was just ok. It had a nice sweet ending. I will not read any others in the series. EASY read
December 29, 2015
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(taken from Amazon.com)
Summer's steamy haze coats North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, but feisty Agnes Marie Hopper discovers the heat isn't the only thing causing her blood to boil. After a kitchen fire destroys her home, Agnes moves in with her daughter, Betty Jo. Three months later they come to an understanding: neither can tolerate living with the other. So on a sultry August morning, Betty Jo drives Agnes and her few belongings to Sweetbrier Manor, a local retirement home and former house of ill repute.
With no intention of staying, Agnes devises a scheme to sneak out of the Manor and find another place to live. Before she can make her exit, she runs into her best friend from high school, along with some other quirky characters. With a nose for trouble, Agnes learns some of the residents are being robbed, over-medicated, and denied basic cable and Internet access. Armed with nothing more than seventy-one years of common sense and a knack for pushing people's buttons, Agnes sets out to expose the unscrupulous administrator, protect her new friends, and restore Sweetbriar Manor's reputation as a "rewarding and enriching lifestyle. But the real moment of truth comes when Agnes is forced to choose between her feisty self-reliance and the self-sacrifice that comes from caring for others.
MY REVIEW
I have not read a lot of cozy mysteries and I've never read one of Carol's books but I found this pretty entertaining. She does a good job of bringing you into the story, so much so that I find myself thinking about maybe having to go into a nursing home and so far as to even dream that I was in the nursing home one night, Oh yeah, that was an experience, a scary one at that, hehe! So if I was dreaming about the story that must mean I will have to watch for additions to this series. Carol makes you admire Agnes for what she accomplishes in Sweetbriar.
(taken from Amazon.com)
Summer's steamy haze coats North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, but feisty Agnes Marie Hopper discovers the heat isn't the only thing causing her blood to boil. After a kitchen fire destroys her home, Agnes moves in with her daughter, Betty Jo. Three months later they come to an understanding: neither can tolerate living with the other. So on a sultry August morning, Betty Jo drives Agnes and her few belongings to Sweetbrier Manor, a local retirement home and former house of ill repute.
With no intention of staying, Agnes devises a scheme to sneak out of the Manor and find another place to live. Before she can make her exit, she runs into her best friend from high school, along with some other quirky characters. With a nose for trouble, Agnes learns some of the residents are being robbed, over-medicated, and denied basic cable and Internet access. Armed with nothing more than seventy-one years of common sense and a knack for pushing people's buttons, Agnes sets out to expose the unscrupulous administrator, protect her new friends, and restore Sweetbriar Manor's reputation as a "rewarding and enriching lifestyle. But the real moment of truth comes when Agnes is forced to choose between her feisty self-reliance and the self-sacrifice that comes from caring for others.
MY REVIEW
I have not read a lot of cozy mysteries and I've never read one of Carol's books but I found this pretty entertaining. She does a good job of bringing you into the story, so much so that I find myself thinking about maybe having to go into a nursing home and so far as to even dream that I was in the nursing home one night, Oh yeah, that was an experience, a scary one at that, hehe! So if I was dreaming about the story that must mean I will have to watch for additions to this series. Carol makes you admire Agnes for what she accomplishes in Sweetbriar.
February 1, 2017
What a fun book! I really enjoy books that are set in senior's homes/care centres: likely because I had the wonderful opportunity to work in one before I got married. My memories from that time are very fond and precious ones.
Not only did this book bring up those happy memories, the characters were FUN! Agnes was a hoot and a half: I especially liked how she kept up a conversation with her dear, departed Charlie. Smiley was a dear, and Pearl, William, Francesca, Lollipop, and Alice rounded out the crew quite nicely. I could see each of these characters in my mind's eye as I was reading along, and I grew to really enjoy them.
This was a 'cozy mystery', and while there were some intriguing bits, I felt like the mystery itself wasn't so mysterious. I think this worked better as a story about the value of family and community rather than a mystery, but s a story about family and community, it worked spectacularly well!
Not only did this book bring up those happy memories, the characters were FUN! Agnes was a hoot and a half: I especially liked how she kept up a conversation with her dear, departed Charlie. Smiley was a dear, and Pearl, William, Francesca, Lollipop, and Alice rounded out the crew quite nicely. I could see each of these characters in my mind's eye as I was reading along, and I grew to really enjoy them.
This was a 'cozy mystery', and while there were some intriguing bits, I felt like the mystery itself wasn't so mysterious. I think this worked better as a story about the value of family and community rather than a mystery, but s a story about family and community, it worked spectacularly well!
January 2, 2015
A feisty lady is moved to a retirement home. Agnes does not want to be there. She wants a place where she can live happily with her pet pig. But her daughter has moved her here. The bright side to this is that she runs into he best friend from childhood, but Pearl doesn't seem quite right. Things are not quite right. It seems ike every one n this lovely little rest home is crazy or not quite right in some way. As Agnes stays, while planning her escape, she befriends the other residents and seems to break the "rules" every other day. As she is about to get moved to another rest home for breaking those rules- everything seems to come together and the residents all seem to revolt. What is going on behind the scenes? You will need to read this to find out.
This was a totally enjoyable book. I was given a copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a totally enjoyable book. I was given a copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 16, 2016
Carol Heilman’s look at an elderly woman in a retirement home was both humorous and disturbing. Humorous to view the old folks home through Agnes Hopper’s eyes and disturbing as Agnes discovers things aren’t as they seem. She is quick-witted and determined to do things her way which leads to some hilarious consequences. Carol handles the subject of aging with respect and grace. We see Agnes come to grips with this unwanted change in her life and discover maybe she doesn’t know what’s best for herself.
As a daughter who is dealing with aging parents there were times I wanted to tell Agnes give Bettie Jo a break she’s doing the best she can. Anytime I want to talk to the characters makes it a more enjoyable story. The cast of characters are quirky yet believable and the setting has a you-are-there feeling. A delightful read.
As a daughter who is dealing with aging parents there were times I wanted to tell Agnes give Bettie Jo a break she’s doing the best she can. Anytime I want to talk to the characters makes it a more enjoyable story. The cast of characters are quirky yet believable and the setting has a you-are-there feeling. A delightful read.
January 12, 2015
Agnes Hopper is an engaging, independent, spirited character who ends up an unwitting sleuth at her new residence, the local retirement home, Sweetbriar Manor. She uncovers embezzlement, abuse, and intrigue and deals with this deception-beneath-the-decorum as only she could: with humor, intelligence, and determination. The reader will revel in the flow of "southern speak and southern manner" and be encouraged that more "Agnes" books are in process, as this heroine is one to be enjoyed and followed for years to come.
February 1, 2015
Written with a Southern flair, this book is a captivating story about eccentric and irresistible characters who weave their lives together. Set in a small-town retirement home this book is filled with laughter, suspense, and wisdom. You will find yourself curled up with this page-turner, unable to put it down!
January 12, 2015
A perfect mixture of smooth Southern style and gentle fiction that will have you laughing, crying and cheering at the end.
April 24, 2015
Loved Agnes and can't wait to read more of her adventures!!
March 28, 2015
A feisty book that entertains and satisfies. Get a cup of tea and settle in for an engaging visit with Agnes Hopper.
October 16, 2025
I adored this story!
Widowed Agnes Hopper's farm accidentally burns down, forcing her to move in with her selfish daughter & son-in-law. After three months, it's agreed mother & daughter cannot live together, so Betty Jo packs up her mother's things & sends her to a retirement home. Immediately, Agnes knows something's off at Sweetbriar Manor. The residents act strange, personal items go missing, & the rules are strangely strict as well. Miss Agnes doesn't like to be bossed around, especially by "Prissy", the uptight director of Sweetbriar, so she decides to do some snooping.
The story is bittersweet, and warm. Almost every character is lovable, & the whole story oozes southern charm. It doesn't shy away from the issues concerning elder care, but neither does it focus on it. The novel is largely light-hearted, with some sweetly sad moments, yet the relationships add warmth. You'll know who the culprit is pretty much from the start, but that's not the point. The point is the humorous & sweet situations Agnes & her new friends get into to prove their suspicions correct.
The only criticism I have is that a few small details should be added to clarify moments. One example: when Agnes first walks through the door of Sweetbriar, she hears the tune "Dixie" play. She describes a piano nearby, but no one is playing it. It takes a few pages to understand that the music she heard was the door's bell, announcing her arrival. Little things like that make the story slightly confusing for a bit. Also, several characters "slurp" their food. What happened to Southern manners? My misophonia is screaming over that description. But I can't wait to read more from Carol Guthrie Heilman.
Widowed Agnes Hopper's farm accidentally burns down, forcing her to move in with her selfish daughter & son-in-law. After three months, it's agreed mother & daughter cannot live together, so Betty Jo packs up her mother's things & sends her to a retirement home. Immediately, Agnes knows something's off at Sweetbriar Manor. The residents act strange, personal items go missing, & the rules are strangely strict as well. Miss Agnes doesn't like to be bossed around, especially by "Prissy", the uptight director of Sweetbriar, so she decides to do some snooping.
The story is bittersweet, and warm. Almost every character is lovable, & the whole story oozes southern charm. It doesn't shy away from the issues concerning elder care, but neither does it focus on it. The novel is largely light-hearted, with some sweetly sad moments, yet the relationships add warmth. You'll know who the culprit is pretty much from the start, but that's not the point. The point is the humorous & sweet situations Agnes & her new friends get into to prove their suspicions correct.
The only criticism I have is that a few small details should be added to clarify moments. One example: when Agnes first walks through the door of Sweetbriar, she hears the tune "Dixie" play. She describes a piano nearby, but no one is playing it. It takes a few pages to understand that the music she heard was the door's bell, announcing her arrival. Little things like that make the story slightly confusing for a bit. Also, several characters "slurp" their food. What happened to Southern manners? My misophonia is screaming over that description. But I can't wait to read more from Carol Guthrie Heilman.
September 13, 2019
Seventy-one year old Agnes Hopper suddenly loses her home, her driver's license, and her independence. When her own daughter can't put up with her, she's placed in a retirement home, where she soon find reasons to suspect that something nefarious is afoot.
Agnes' struggles to retain her independence in the face of all attempts to steal it from her, as well as her determination to see justice done for her new friends carries this story forward and makes it interesting. It brings to light the way many older folks are treated and probably feel in the face of a society that values youth over wisdom.
However, I found it difficult to see the book through to the end simply because Agnes' moxie is perhaps a bit over the top. As one of her new friends calls her, she is "selfish and thoughtless." Consequently, I often felt that the ills that befell her were deserved, the natural results of her recklessness and refusal to consider the results her actions would have on others. I was also never quite certain whether what she claimed was happening was real; it seemed entirely possible that is was a product of her overactive imagination, her refusal to fulfill simple expectations (like reading the rules given her), and her inability to take the needs/explanations of others into account.
I received a free copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
Agnes' struggles to retain her independence in the face of all attempts to steal it from her, as well as her determination to see justice done for her new friends carries this story forward and makes it interesting. It brings to light the way many older folks are treated and probably feel in the face of a society that values youth over wisdom.
However, I found it difficult to see the book through to the end simply because Agnes' moxie is perhaps a bit over the top. As one of her new friends calls her, she is "selfish and thoughtless." Consequently, I often felt that the ills that befell her were deserved, the natural results of her recklessness and refusal to consider the results her actions would have on others. I was also never quite certain whether what she claimed was happening was real; it seemed entirely possible that is was a product of her overactive imagination, her refusal to fulfill simple expectations (like reading the rules given her), and her inability to take the needs/explanations of others into account.
I received a free copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2018
Spoilers Below
Very well written, a tad on the drama side of the genres. I was expecting something a bit more humorous or whimsical based on the cover. While there were moments of levity, for me the book was very sad. Agnes's daughter packs her up and takes her to an assisted living center. While mother and daughter constantly sniped at one another, and it was just as much Agnes's fault as her daughter's fault, the situation felt terribly sad to me. Then at Sweetbriar there are several what in my mind seems like throw away older people whose relatives simply do not care enough about them to visit or make sure they are ok. And we find out the residents of Sweetbriar are definitely not ok. Agnes struggles with wanting to help versus wanting her independence by trying to get her own rental. The ending was awesome. It was a fast read as the story truly was well told and I found I could not put the book down until I found out how it ended.
Very well written, a tad on the drama side of the genres. I was expecting something a bit more humorous or whimsical based on the cover. While there were moments of levity, for me the book was very sad. Agnes's daughter packs her up and takes her to an assisted living center. While mother and daughter constantly sniped at one another, and it was just as much Agnes's fault as her daughter's fault, the situation felt terribly sad to me. Then at Sweetbriar there are several what in my mind seems like throw away older people whose relatives simply do not care enough about them to visit or make sure they are ok. And we find out the residents of Sweetbriar are definitely not ok. Agnes struggles with wanting to help versus wanting her independence by trying to get her own rental. The ending was awesome. It was a fast read as the story truly was well told and I found I could not put the book down until I found out how it ended.
January 16, 2018
This was an amusing book provided an insight to what some older individual encounter in their twilight years, an unexpected or unwanted trip to a nursing home. It was interesting to read the Agnes' reaction followed by how oblivious her daughter was to the feelings of her mother. I wish it there was more character development. For example, she keeps having conversations with her dead husband, Charlie.
Several traits that were an immediate benefit are proactive, curious, and caring. In her youth, she definitely did not allow anyone to advantage or belittle her. Her curious nature enabled her to widen her shrinking circle and create a safety net. This eventually allowed her daughter to become privy to the circumstances she had forced upon her mother. Her caring nature finally enabled to ensure a final wish is realized.
Several traits that were an immediate benefit are proactive, curious, and caring. In her youth, she definitely did not allow anyone to advantage or belittle her. Her curious nature enabled her to widen her shrinking circle and create a safety net. This eventually allowed her daughter to become privy to the circumstances she had forced upon her mother. Her caring nature finally enabled to ensure a final wish is realized.
December 13, 2017
A fun read about a group of quirky senior citizens led by Agnes who refuses to go quietly into elder-hood when placed in a senior care home against her will. Inspired by Agnes and aided by some equally quirky non-seniors, these oldsters find their courage and take back their voice. It is a fun read but underlying the frolic is the serious and often ignored issue of seniors being discounted, neglected, and even abused. The characters are well defined and the writing reminds me of Fannie Flagg. I recommend this book.
May 12, 2020
A Winner
Carol Guthrie Heilman touched my heart with Agnes Hopper Shakes Up Sweetbriar and that is hard to do. I've been hurt so much in the past 25 years, I sometimes wonder if I have a heart.
Agnes is forced to move into a retirement home and like me she worries mainly about #1. After all who else is going to. She finds she's not the only one with problems and reminds me I'm not really alone. If you are past retirement, have lost your spouse, or maybe your health is not too good, then this book is guaranteed to pick you up.
Carol Guthrie Heilman touched my heart with Agnes Hopper Shakes Up Sweetbriar and that is hard to do. I've been hurt so much in the past 25 years, I sometimes wonder if I have a heart.
Agnes is forced to move into a retirement home and like me she worries mainly about #1. After all who else is going to. She finds she's not the only one with problems and reminds me I'm not really alone. If you are past retirement, have lost your spouse, or maybe your health is not too good, then this book is guaranteed to pick you up.
June 10, 2019
This was a sweet mystery set in a retirement home that Agnes' daughter puts her into after her home burns down. It shows the struggle some people experience as they get older. This book deals with issues like Dementia and aging in a slightly humorous yet respectful way.
Agnes is stubborn and determined to make a difference, ultimately saving the day against a corrupt carer.
It's an easy read, it's clean and I'd recommend reading it.
Agnes is stubborn and determined to make a difference, ultimately saving the day against a corrupt carer.
It's an easy read, it's clean and I'd recommend reading it.
May 25, 2020
When I started this book, I almost put it down. It sounded too cutesy at the beginning, but I decided to give it a chance. So glad I did! It's a wonderful story about several people who live in an assisted living home and how they become "family".
Agnes is labeled a trouble-maker by the manager of the home; and she is an instigator, but everyone in the home and even outside the home is touched by her kindness.
Agnes is labeled a trouble-maker by the manager of the home; and she is an instigator, but everyone in the home and even outside the home is touched by her kindness.
October 12, 2021
Fire, conflict, and schemes lead home! Living in the same house wasn't working for Agnes and her daughter, Betty Jo; Agnes is dropped off at Sweetbrier Manor retirement home. She's not thrilled to be there.
Enjoyed the antics of Agnes and the other senior mavericks! A different cozy, clean story that shows symptoms of aging in this country. (Though there are many others, good and bad.) 3 1/2 stars.
Enjoyed the antics of Agnes and the other senior mavericks! A different cozy, clean story that shows symptoms of aging in this country. (Though there are many others, good and bad.) 3 1/2 stars.
September 28, 2017
To be (here) or not to be!
Agnes is forced into a retirement home because of a fire and the incompatibility of living with her daughter. The first minute in the home she decides that this is not the place for her. Within a few days she finds that something isn't quite what it should be. Read to find out what is going on. Agnes will become your favorite older person.
Agnes is forced into a retirement home because of a fire and the incompatibility of living with her daughter. The first minute in the home she decides that this is not the place for her. Within a few days she finds that something isn't quite what it should be. Read to find out what is going on. Agnes will become your favorite older person.
March 29, 2018
Agnes Hopper Shakes Up SweetBriar ( The Adventures of Agnes Series) by Carol Heilman
A wonderful read! I enjoyed this book so much that I can't wait to read the next book by Carol Heilman. I loved reading this book by you. I suggest it for all readers. Thank you Author Carol Heilman!
A wonderful read! I enjoyed this book so much that I can't wait to read the next book by Carol Heilman. I loved reading this book by you. I suggest it for all readers. Thank you Author Carol Heilman!
April 22, 2018
Agnes Is Wonderful
I liked Agnes who is a feisty woman. Her daughter put in a home and she is determined to escape from there and get a little house of her own. Agnes soon smells a rat and fights for the rights of the residents. The characters are well crafted and very believable. They evoke emotions in the readers, which is the sign of a good writer.
I liked Agnes who is a feisty woman. Her daughter put in a home and she is determined to escape from there and get a little house of her own. Agnes soon smells a rat and fights for the rights of the residents. The characters are well crafted and very believable. They evoke emotions in the readers, which is the sign of a good writer.
May 14, 2018
Agnes Tests The Rules
If you're looking for a clean mystery with no foul language and a feisty senior, this is your book. Agnes brakes all the rules of Sweetbriar because she hasn't read them. In one week at the senior residence she brings down a crooked money scheme that has been cheating the oldsters.
If you're looking for a clean mystery with no foul language and a feisty senior, this is your book. Agnes brakes all the rules of Sweetbriar because she hasn't read them. In one week at the senior residence she brings down a crooked money scheme that has been cheating the oldsters.
October 29, 2020
Uplifting,funny and believable
Everything about this story, made me happy. The characters were strong, the writing was great. The author's turn of phase will make You smile. Sometimes You may even laugh. A wholesome ENTERTAINING novel. Can't wait to ready the next Agnes Hopper story.
Everything about this story, made me happy. The characters were strong, the writing was great. The author's turn of phase will make You smile. Sometimes You may even laugh. A wholesome ENTERTAINING novel. Can't wait to ready the next Agnes Hopper story.
November 13, 2017
How cute!
Agnes was one terrific lady. She and the crew from Sweetbriar Manor were just great. I totally enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author. I definitely recommend this book.
Agnes was one terrific lady. She and the crew from Sweetbriar Manor were just great. I totally enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author. I definitely recommend this book.
April 5, 2018
Senior citizens break the case.
After being put into a retirement home, Agnes sees all is not as it seems. Her wit and stubborn personality takes over and she digs until everything is exposed. A good guide on how to enlarge your family of friends.
After being put into a retirement home, Agnes sees all is not as it seems. Her wit and stubborn personality takes over and she digs until everything is exposed. A good guide on how to enlarge your family of friends.
May 26, 2018
Sweet read
I enjoyed this book. I found it to be full of emotion, but funny as well. Really made you think how the elderly are treated, but also how much they have to offer. Looking forward to more adventures with Agnes and her friends.
I enjoyed this book. I found it to be full of emotion, but funny as well. Really made you think how the elderly are treated, but also how much they have to offer. Looking forward to more adventures with Agnes and her friends.
August 28, 2018
Fun read, it is sad as well
The book was humorous, yet sad at the plight of the old folks in the home. They should have been honored because of their age instead of ignored, cast aside, and even terrorized.
The book was humorous, yet sad at the plight of the old folks in the home. They should have been honored because of their age instead of ignored, cast aside, and even terrorized.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews