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Reading the Sweet Oak
Along the banks of the Sweet Oak River, deep in the heart of the Ozarks, a book club takes five women on stunning journeys of self-discovery.
After losing first her husband, then her daughter, seventy-eight-year-old grandmother Ruby wants to teach her risk-averse granddaughter, Tulsa, that some leaps are worth taking, no matter how high the potential fall. Tulsa loves her grandmother dearly, but she has a business to run and no time for romance—not even the paperback version. But when Ruby ropes her into a book club, Tulsa can’t bring herself to disappoint the woman who raised her.
Together with Ruby’s best friend, Pearl, as well as family friends BJ and Jen, the women embark on an exploration of modern-day love guided by written tales of romance. What they discover is a beautiful story that examines the bonds of friendship and the highs and lows of love in all its forms.
After losing first her husband, then her daughter, seventy-eight-year-old grandmother Ruby wants to teach her risk-averse granddaughter, Tulsa, that some leaps are worth taking, no matter how high the potential fall. Tulsa loves her grandmother dearly, but she has a business to run and no time for romance—not even the paperback version. But when Ruby ropes her into a book club, Tulsa can’t bring herself to disappoint the woman who raised her.
Together with Ruby’s best friend, Pearl, as well as family friends BJ and Jen, the women embark on an exploration of modern-day love guided by written tales of romance. What they discover is a beautiful story that examines the bonds of friendship and the highs and lows of love in all its forms.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
92 people are currently reading
1113 people want to read
About the author
Jan Stites
4 books61 followersJan Stites is the author of the novel, Edgewise, which Wally Lamb called "courageous, heartfelt and unforgettable," numerous screenplays, and Reading the Sweet Oak, a novel her agent sold to Lake Union, Amazon's full-service publishing, mainstream novel imprint. RtSO will be published Sept. 29, 2015. Susan Mallery says, "A charming new voice in women's fiction, Stites writes from the heart about friendship, love, and what it means to find where you belong." Jan has worked at a multitude of jobs, including teaching screenwriting at San Francisco State University and U.C. Berkeley, teaching numerous subjects in villages in Mexico and Kenya, and teaching middle school in various locales. Jan has also worked as secretary, waitress, translator in Mexico for American doctors, and scuba diving travel writer. The affirmative action plan she wrote for a tugboat company is probably the piece of Jan's writing that comes closest to fantasy.
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March 10, 2016
“The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that's what you've given me. That's what I'd hoped to give you forever”
----Nicholas Sparks
Jan Stites, an American author, has penned an evocative and deeply moving tale of love in her new book, Reading the Sweet Oak that is centered around five women- Ruby, Tulsa, Pearl, BJ and Jen, who lives near the Sweet Oak River and this story tells how their lives changes along with the course of the river by indulging themselves in the world of romance novels while dealing with their love life, friendships, business, financial problems, social issues, family secrets and marital problems.
Synopsis:
Along the banks of the Sweet Oak River, deep in the heart of the Ozarks, a romance novel book club takes five women on stunning journeys of self-discovery.
After losing first her husband, then her daughter, seventy-eight-year-old grandmother Ruby wants to teach her risk-averse granddaughter, Tulsa, that some leaps are worth taking, no matter how high the potential fall. Tulsa loves her grandmother dearly, but she has a business to run and no time for romance—not even the paperback version. But when Ruby ropes her into a book club, Tulsa can’t bring herself to disappoint the woman who raised her.
Together with Ruby’s best friend, Pearl, as well as family friends BJ and Jen, the women embark on an exploration of modern-day love guided by written tales of romance. What they discover is a beautiful story that examines the bonds of friendship and the highs and lows of love in all its forms.
Ruby along with her granddaughter, Tulsa lives near the banks of the Sweet oak river and runs a business of canoeing and a lodge for the tourists in the spring seasons. But lately they find it struggling to keep the business afloat adding to their problems is a cunning real estate mane who is vying for their fallout over payments. Ruby also runs a book club in her home where she recommends good romance novels to her friends, reading which they could find a way to solve their own troubles.
Tulsa is a young woman who ran her grandmother's business. Once heart-broken, Tulsa never trusted a man around her. But lately she finds it hard to keep her feelings under control when she meets a tourist who has booked a room in their riverside lodge.
BJ has a son named Guy who was a half-brother to Tulsa. but lately she is getting too much involved in her son's life. It's time to find her own life, since are son is getting mad at her for no reason.
Pearl, an old lady, has a grandson named Daniel, who is gay but lately she is finding it difficult to come to terms with Daniel's sexuality status as well as his lifestyle.
Jen is a young married woman, who is in a marriage where she is not being able to love or comprehend with her husband.
These are the five women who lives are changed after contemplating with the contemporary romance novels that highlighted their problems like theirs own.
Firstly, the book's cover is beautiful and completely enthralling to look at it. Moreover, the book cover captures the charm of the story line aptly with the river, a girl canoeing (Tulsa) and the spring season.
The author's writing style is articulate and layered with perfect emotions. While reading, I felt like the author has poured all her best emotions into this story to make it a poignant read for her readers. The story is quite compelling as chapter after chapter, the stories and problems of each women spiraled through the pages and it certainly kept me hooked on to it and filled my heart with utmost curiosity for these women. The narrative is moving and free-flowing. The pacing of the book is medium paced as the story deals with so meany elements of life in a single as well as married woman's life.
The characters are well-developed, highlighted both with their strongest as well as weakest attributes. The realism among each and every character is very evident from their unpolished demeanor. The problems of each and every character are very relatable and while reading about them, I felt a deep connection to them and had a hard time letting them go after the end of this book. The supporting characters are also quite strongly developed, even the men of this book are projected with enough realism. All these five women had a fighting spirit among them and that's what made me fall for them.
The book is not only about troubles and falling business, but it has plenty of love to make the readers' hearts go crazy over it. There are lots of love scenes which are depicted with lots of passion and emotions that made me go weak in the knees.
Verdict: On this International Women's Day, give your heart something entertaining, emotional and romantic with this book.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Jan Stites, for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
----Nicholas Sparks
Jan Stites, an American author, has penned an evocative and deeply moving tale of love in her new book, Reading the Sweet Oak that is centered around five women- Ruby, Tulsa, Pearl, BJ and Jen, who lives near the Sweet Oak River and this story tells how their lives changes along with the course of the river by indulging themselves in the world of romance novels while dealing with their love life, friendships, business, financial problems, social issues, family secrets and marital problems.
Synopsis:
Along the banks of the Sweet Oak River, deep in the heart of the Ozarks, a romance novel book club takes five women on stunning journeys of self-discovery.
After losing first her husband, then her daughter, seventy-eight-year-old grandmother Ruby wants to teach her risk-averse granddaughter, Tulsa, that some leaps are worth taking, no matter how high the potential fall. Tulsa loves her grandmother dearly, but she has a business to run and no time for romance—not even the paperback version. But when Ruby ropes her into a book club, Tulsa can’t bring herself to disappoint the woman who raised her.
Together with Ruby’s best friend, Pearl, as well as family friends BJ and Jen, the women embark on an exploration of modern-day love guided by written tales of romance. What they discover is a beautiful story that examines the bonds of friendship and the highs and lows of love in all its forms.
Ruby along with her granddaughter, Tulsa lives near the banks of the Sweet oak river and runs a business of canoeing and a lodge for the tourists in the spring seasons. But lately they find it struggling to keep the business afloat adding to their problems is a cunning real estate mane who is vying for their fallout over payments. Ruby also runs a book club in her home where she recommends good romance novels to her friends, reading which they could find a way to solve their own troubles.
Tulsa is a young woman who ran her grandmother's business. Once heart-broken, Tulsa never trusted a man around her. But lately she finds it hard to keep her feelings under control when she meets a tourist who has booked a room in their riverside lodge.
BJ has a son named Guy who was a half-brother to Tulsa. but lately she is getting too much involved in her son's life. It's time to find her own life, since are son is getting mad at her for no reason.
Pearl, an old lady, has a grandson named Daniel, who is gay but lately she is finding it difficult to come to terms with Daniel's sexuality status as well as his lifestyle.
Jen is a young married woman, who is in a marriage where she is not being able to love or comprehend with her husband.
These are the five women who lives are changed after contemplating with the contemporary romance novels that highlighted their problems like theirs own.
Firstly, the book's cover is beautiful and completely enthralling to look at it. Moreover, the book cover captures the charm of the story line aptly with the river, a girl canoeing (Tulsa) and the spring season.
The author's writing style is articulate and layered with perfect emotions. While reading, I felt like the author has poured all her best emotions into this story to make it a poignant read for her readers. The story is quite compelling as chapter after chapter, the stories and problems of each women spiraled through the pages and it certainly kept me hooked on to it and filled my heart with utmost curiosity for these women. The narrative is moving and free-flowing. The pacing of the book is medium paced as the story deals with so meany elements of life in a single as well as married woman's life.
The characters are well-developed, highlighted both with their strongest as well as weakest attributes. The realism among each and every character is very evident from their unpolished demeanor. The problems of each and every character are very relatable and while reading about them, I felt a deep connection to them and had a hard time letting them go after the end of this book. The supporting characters are also quite strongly developed, even the men of this book are projected with enough realism. All these five women had a fighting spirit among them and that's what made me fall for them.
The book is not only about troubles and falling business, but it has plenty of love to make the readers' hearts go crazy over it. There are lots of love scenes which are depicted with lots of passion and emotions that made me go weak in the knees.
Verdict: On this International Women's Day, give your heart something entertaining, emotional and romantic with this book.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Jan Stites, for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
May 12, 2016
The novel begins with beautiful descriptions of the Sweet Oak River in the Ozarks region, somewhere in Kansas.
Ruby, a seventy-eight-year-old and her granddaughter, Tulsa (grr, the name), twenty-seven, live by the river and run a business renting out canoes and a few chalets. Their business is struggling. But somehow the bank is lending them six hundred thousand to buy a neighbour’s property. Right, it's fiction. The new loan puts even more pressure on them to get enough clients in order to make repayments. Tulsa is feeling stressed. Despite her grandmother’s pestering, she’s got no time or disposition for romance. Besides, she still remembers her now deceased mom’s heartbreak following the breakup of several relationships.
This novel is not just about Tulsa and her grandmother. Pearl, Ruby’s friend, is a deeply religious widow, who struggles to accept her grandson's homosexuality. Then here's BJ, who used to be Tulsa's mum’s best friend when they were young. Her son, Guy, is now working with Ruby and Tulsa and is thought to be Tulsa's half brother.
And Jen, Tulsa’s friend, a twenty-nine-year-old manicurist, who has dreams of getting married and starting a family with her boyfriend.
We get to learn about each character in separate chapters. All the women come together to a romance novel book club initiated by Ruby. Somehow, the romance novels the women are reading propel them to make changes with their lives or look at things differently.
There was one line in this novel that I highlighted; when BJ, a hypochondriac, sees the doctor yet again, he recommends her to get a life and find a man. Astonished by the suggestion, she says: “Jesus loves me.” The doctor’s reply: “Jesus loves everybody, …, you need someone less promiscuous.”
Reading the Sweet Oak is a charming, well-written novel, with endearing female characters of different ages and backgrounds, who grow and change, as the novel comes to its conclusion.
3.5 stars
Cover: 4 stars
I've received this novel via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
Ruby, a seventy-eight-year-old and her granddaughter, Tulsa (grr, the name), twenty-seven, live by the river and run a business renting out canoes and a few chalets. Their business is struggling. But somehow the bank is lending them six hundred thousand to buy a neighbour’s property. Right, it's fiction. The new loan puts even more pressure on them to get enough clients in order to make repayments. Tulsa is feeling stressed. Despite her grandmother’s pestering, she’s got no time or disposition for romance. Besides, she still remembers her now deceased mom’s heartbreak following the breakup of several relationships.
This novel is not just about Tulsa and her grandmother. Pearl, Ruby’s friend, is a deeply religious widow, who struggles to accept her grandson's homosexuality. Then here's BJ, who used to be Tulsa's mum’s best friend when they were young. Her son, Guy, is now working with Ruby and Tulsa and is thought to be Tulsa's half brother.
And Jen, Tulsa’s friend, a twenty-nine-year-old manicurist, who has dreams of getting married and starting a family with her boyfriend.
We get to learn about each character in separate chapters. All the women come together to a romance novel book club initiated by Ruby. Somehow, the romance novels the women are reading propel them to make changes with their lives or look at things differently.
There was one line in this novel that I highlighted; when BJ, a hypochondriac, sees the doctor yet again, he recommends her to get a life and find a man. Astonished by the suggestion, she says: “Jesus loves me.” The doctor’s reply: “Jesus loves everybody, …, you need someone less promiscuous.”
Reading the Sweet Oak is a charming, well-written novel, with endearing female characters of different ages and backgrounds, who grow and change, as the novel comes to its conclusion.
3.5 stars
Cover: 4 stars
I've received this novel via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
July 13, 2015
This book was absolutely one of my favorites of this summer! I love the Ozarks and the fact that the book was set somewhere so close to home, was a treat. The primary characters, Ruby and Tulsa Riley, were terrific. Ruby is Tulsa's grandmother. Tulsa runs a canoe rental and rents some cabins. She also is an excellent fly fishing (I may have to add fly fishing to my bucket list!) The story involves a number of just regular women who are friends with some regular and some no-so-regular problems. Just any FYI-romance is one of them.
This was a great read. It gave me some things to think about, too. Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a book that held my attention throughout - and made me laugh and cry with the emotion captured by the author.
This was a great read. It gave me some things to think about, too. Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a book that held my attention throughout - and made me laugh and cry with the emotion captured by the author.
September 8, 2015
Beautifully written with the most endearing characters I've encountered in quite some time. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the Ozarks, Reading The Sweet Oak is a novel of family, friendship, love, and the ability to forgive not only others but one's self, as well as a journey of self-discovery. Each of the five women are so well-developed and true to life that I felt as though each one was an old friend with unique qualities and personal experiences that I could easily identify with on some level. Whether it be BJ's diagnosis of ELS (Empty Life Syndrome), Ruby's desire to see her grand-daughter happily married, Pearl's struggle with accepting her grandson's recent revelation, Jen's strained relationship with her mother, or Tulsa's aversion to romance in general, each of these women are absolutely endearing and are sure to tug at any reader's heart. However, the most prevailing characteristic of this novel is the author's ability to evoke such a wide array of emotions; I found myself often laughing aloud and simultaneously reaching for a box of tissues. Only a truly gifted and talented writer can evoke such emotions. With a well-developed plot filled with unsuspecting twists and turns throughout, this would certainly make for an excellent reading group selection and questions for discussions are provided as well. Easily deserving of FIVE stars and highly recommended!
In accordance with current FTC Guidelines, please let it be known this book was received through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
In accordance with current FTC Guidelines, please let it be known this book was received through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 1, 2015
"Dirt is just Ozarks rouge."
Even though Ruby's granddaughter Tulsa isn't looking for love, it may just find her. But the novel isn't the usual sappy formula, these women use their romance book club to understand themselves and the atmosphere along Sweet Oak River lends a beauty to the telling. Tulsa's sole focus is on running her business, but her heart is set to please the grandmother who raised her. Bj is a darling character from the start, with the doctor telling her she has ELS (Empty Life Syndrome) and that she needs a man's love to which she replies "Jesus loves me." and he replies "Jesus loves everybody", he said "You need someone less promiscuous." I knew this was going to be a charmingly delightful read. Is Slade going to be the man who wakes up Tulsa's romantic yearnings? Will BJ fill her prescribtion to "find a man." The moment when Daniel tells Pearl his 'type' of romantic partner rings true, with the adjective for 'happy' confusing the situation. It was a fun story for the summer. My usual leanings are heavier but sometimes a sweet romantic story full of lovable characters is a nice escape from life. Makes me want to go find myself a cabin and get some Ozark perfume.
Even though Ruby's granddaughter Tulsa isn't looking for love, it may just find her. But the novel isn't the usual sappy formula, these women use their romance book club to understand themselves and the atmosphere along Sweet Oak River lends a beauty to the telling. Tulsa's sole focus is on running her business, but her heart is set to please the grandmother who raised her. Bj is a darling character from the start, with the doctor telling her she has ELS (Empty Life Syndrome) and that she needs a man's love to which she replies "Jesus loves me." and he replies "Jesus loves everybody", he said "You need someone less promiscuous." I knew this was going to be a charmingly delightful read. Is Slade going to be the man who wakes up Tulsa's romantic yearnings? Will BJ fill her prescribtion to "find a man." The moment when Daniel tells Pearl his 'type' of romantic partner rings true, with the adjective for 'happy' confusing the situation. It was a fun story for the summer. My usual leanings are heavier but sometimes a sweet romantic story full of lovable characters is a nice escape from life. Makes me want to go find myself a cabin and get some Ozark perfume.
September 10, 2015
The banks of the Sweet Oak River, lies a canoe and cabin rental business run by the feisty Ruby and her reserved grand daughter Tulsa. While Ruby and Tulsa work their socks off trying to keep their business afloat, Ruby devises a book club, a romance book club for five women, Ruby, Tulsa, BJ, Jen and Pearl.
Each of the women have a story, a challenge to overcome, which the books they read, funnily enough help the surmount, to some extent.
This was a book that I started with great expectations, maybe that resulted in the 3 rating. It didn't match up with what I wanted to read. It felt too set up, too predictable, and the books they read, sadly, didn't do it for me. It left me wishing that it was less predictable. Having read other wonderful books about books, this one sadly didn't hit the right place for me.
Thank you, Netgalley for the review copy of this book.
Each of the women have a story, a challenge to overcome, which the books they read, funnily enough help the surmount, to some extent.
This was a book that I started with great expectations, maybe that resulted in the 3 rating. It didn't match up with what I wanted to read. It felt too set up, too predictable, and the books they read, sadly, didn't do it for me. It left me wishing that it was less predictable. Having read other wonderful books about books, this one sadly didn't hit the right place for me.
Thank you, Netgalley for the review copy of this book.
November 2, 2015
I won this book on Goodreads Giveaways. I did not like this book, I loved it!!! I never wanted it to end. I felt like the characters were my family and friends. Tulsa, Jan, BJ, Ruby and Pearl form a romance book club and it really teaches them about what true love and romance is. There is the love of friends and family in this novel and a lesson about secrets you should never keep. Tulsa learns what kind of love she really wants. I want to live by the Sweet Oak River in the Ozarks. What a beautiful place. There was a lot of hard work, but so rewarding. This book reminds me of what is truly important in life. I hope Jan Stites writes more books soon.
July 11, 2015
Tulsa loves her grandmother Ruby who raised her. Ruby has lost a husband and a daughter, Tulsa's mother, but still tries to live life to its fullest. Ruby is reserved and a hard worker and thinks she has no room in her life for love, especially love stories that Ruby's book club like to read. Set along the Sweet Oak river in the Ozarks, this is a story of love, faith, friends and community. A wonderful read by author Jan Stites who also wrote Edgewise, another remarkable story about friendship.
October 8, 2015
Rating: 4.5
Multiple character story lines appear in this chick-lit tale. However, all inter-related and mesh well.
The added treat is a romance book club. Loved how the book club selections and discussions from the meetings blended into the lives of each woman.
It was also interesting to get perspectives from women of different ages and states of relationships.
Got me thinking of the meaning of romance and love.
Multiple character story lines appear in this chick-lit tale. However, all inter-related and mesh well.
The added treat is a romance book club. Loved how the book club selections and discussions from the meetings blended into the lives of each woman.
It was also interesting to get perspectives from women of different ages and states of relationships.
Got me thinking of the meaning of romance and love.
October 9, 2015
Lovely story
I liked the way the story was told from different t characters viewpoints. Now I want to float down a river.
I liked the way the story was told from different t characters viewpoints. Now I want to float down a river.
January 28, 2016
Just Thot boring. Unable to finish
March 12, 2023
A romance story of friends told in six parts spanning six months. A story of friendship, love and great books will take you on a journey of the heart and soul.
I received and advance reader copy for a fair and honest review.
I received and advance reader copy for a fair and honest review.
May 12, 2023
I loved the story of the five main characters in the Ozarks and how they read romance novels. The story centers on Tulsa and her grandmother Ruby who run a canoe/river/camping place in the Ozarks. The three other woman are Ruby's friend Pearl, Tulsa's friend Jen and Guy's mother BJ.
October 11, 2018
A new to me author, the cover caught my attention when I was in the Library
January 8, 2019
Lovely Ozark river setting.
As author says in her notes, it's not really a romance novel. It's a story of women who learn more about themselves by sharing in a romance novel book club.
As author says in her notes, it's not really a romance novel. It's a story of women who learn more about themselves by sharing in a romance novel book club.
July 26, 2020
Sweet, predictable love story.
September 29, 2015
4.5 stars
Set against the gorgeous backdrop of the Ozarks, Reading the Sweet Oak is a beautiful novel of family, friendship and love. This engrossing novel by Jan Stites is a wonderful journey of self-discovery for all of the characters after they form a romance novel book club. It is a thought-provoking and charming story that I strongly recommend to readers of contemporary women's fiction.
Tulsa Riley and her grandmother Ruby love their home on the banks of the Sweet Oak River. Together, they run a canoeing and cabin rental business and although it is risky decision, they decide to purchase an adjacent property when the opportunity arises. With the help of her half-brother, Guy Smith, Tulsa devises a clever advertising strategy to draw in new customers but they are fighting an uphill battle when bad weather strikes and a neighbor sets out to destroy their business. In the midst of trouble, Ruby's ingenious plan to use a romance novel book club to convince Tulsa to open her heart to love seems to be working after Tulsa meets Slade Morrison, a wealthy business who comes to Sweet Oak in search of adventure.
The romance novel book club is a clever plot device and the members range from Tulsa's age on up to Ruby's. Each are facing their own unique set of challenges and the books that Ruby selects vary from contemporary to historical and the lead characters are as varied as the storylines. After completing each book, the women apply the lessons they learn to their own lives, often with surprising results.
Tulsa's resistance to Ruby's attempts to convince her to read the selections is fruitless and she is definitely a reluctant participant. Tulsa is a strong woman who loves Ruby dearly but her early life with her mother left its mark on her. Her mother flitted from one failed relationship to another and unfortunately, Tulsa's few attempts at romance have been unsuccessful. After watching her mother get her heart broken time and again, she has decided not to risk her heart, but her recent break up hurt more than anticipated. After meeting Slade, Tulsa tries to keep their relationship purely physical but despite her best efforts to remain emotionally detached, she entertains the possibly of a future with him.
Ruby also includes Tulsa's friend Jen Haskell in the monthly book group and after reading the novels, she finds herself reassessing her relationship with her live-in boyfriend. While on paper he is picture perfect, she begins noticing how unequal their roles are and how little he values her needs and desires. But after her tumultuous upbringing, Jen craves a family of her own but is the safe choice the best option for her?
Guy's mother, BJ Smith, is also a member of the book group and she is probably the most troubled of the women. Her past is full of poor decisions and she still harbors a great deal of guilt and shame from her long ago actions. After a heated exchange over her excessive involvement in his life, Guy convinces her to take the initative and ask a recent widower out on a date. She works up the nerve and much to her surprise, he accepts. Using the romance novels to guide her, BJ takes their relationship to the next level, but will her secrets destroy her chance for happiness?
The book club would not be complete without Ruby's childhood friend Pearl. Like Ruby, Pearl is widowed but unlike Ruby, she does not mourn the loss of her late husband. A devout Christian, Pearl's literal interpretation of scripture lead to miserable marriage where she was more indentured servant than wife. A shocking revelation from her beloved grandson forces her to rethink her long held beliefs but can she put aside the convictions of a lifetime for his sake?
Reading the Sweet Oak is a captivating novel that is quite heartwarming. The characters are vibrantly developed, immensely appealing and incredibly easy to relate to. The issues they are facing ring true and the resolution of the various story arcs is believable. Jan Stites brings the setting vividly to life and the lush beauty of the Ozarks leaps off the pages. The phenomenal character growth, engaging storyline and stunning location are the perfect ingredients for an incredibly satisfying and entertaining reading experience. An absolutely marvelous novel that I highly recommend.
Set against the gorgeous backdrop of the Ozarks, Reading the Sweet Oak is a beautiful novel of family, friendship and love. This engrossing novel by Jan Stites is a wonderful journey of self-discovery for all of the characters after they form a romance novel book club. It is a thought-provoking and charming story that I strongly recommend to readers of contemporary women's fiction.
Tulsa Riley and her grandmother Ruby love their home on the banks of the Sweet Oak River. Together, they run a canoeing and cabin rental business and although it is risky decision, they decide to purchase an adjacent property when the opportunity arises. With the help of her half-brother, Guy Smith, Tulsa devises a clever advertising strategy to draw in new customers but they are fighting an uphill battle when bad weather strikes and a neighbor sets out to destroy their business. In the midst of trouble, Ruby's ingenious plan to use a romance novel book club to convince Tulsa to open her heart to love seems to be working after Tulsa meets Slade Morrison, a wealthy business who comes to Sweet Oak in search of adventure.
The romance novel book club is a clever plot device and the members range from Tulsa's age on up to Ruby's. Each are facing their own unique set of challenges and the books that Ruby selects vary from contemporary to historical and the lead characters are as varied as the storylines. After completing each book, the women apply the lessons they learn to their own lives, often with surprising results.
Tulsa's resistance to Ruby's attempts to convince her to read the selections is fruitless and she is definitely a reluctant participant. Tulsa is a strong woman who loves Ruby dearly but her early life with her mother left its mark on her. Her mother flitted from one failed relationship to another and unfortunately, Tulsa's few attempts at romance have been unsuccessful. After watching her mother get her heart broken time and again, she has decided not to risk her heart, but her recent break up hurt more than anticipated. After meeting Slade, Tulsa tries to keep their relationship purely physical but despite her best efforts to remain emotionally detached, she entertains the possibly of a future with him.
Ruby also includes Tulsa's friend Jen Haskell in the monthly book group and after reading the novels, she finds herself reassessing her relationship with her live-in boyfriend. While on paper he is picture perfect, she begins noticing how unequal their roles are and how little he values her needs and desires. But after her tumultuous upbringing, Jen craves a family of her own but is the safe choice the best option for her?
Guy's mother, BJ Smith, is also a member of the book group and she is probably the most troubled of the women. Her past is full of poor decisions and she still harbors a great deal of guilt and shame from her long ago actions. After a heated exchange over her excessive involvement in his life, Guy convinces her to take the initative and ask a recent widower out on a date. She works up the nerve and much to her surprise, he accepts. Using the romance novels to guide her, BJ takes their relationship to the next level, but will her secrets destroy her chance for happiness?
The book club would not be complete without Ruby's childhood friend Pearl. Like Ruby, Pearl is widowed but unlike Ruby, she does not mourn the loss of her late husband. A devout Christian, Pearl's literal interpretation of scripture lead to miserable marriage where she was more indentured servant than wife. A shocking revelation from her beloved grandson forces her to rethink her long held beliefs but can she put aside the convictions of a lifetime for his sake?
Reading the Sweet Oak is a captivating novel that is quite heartwarming. The characters are vibrantly developed, immensely appealing and incredibly easy to relate to. The issues they are facing ring true and the resolution of the various story arcs is believable. Jan Stites brings the setting vividly to life and the lush beauty of the Ozarks leaps off the pages. The phenomenal character growth, engaging storyline and stunning location are the perfect ingredients for an incredibly satisfying and entertaining reading experience. An absolutely marvelous novel that I highly recommend.
March 5, 2017
I did enjoy the descriptions of the Ozarks and a beautiful river, small town, etc. I also enjoyed the characters. Having it centered around a bookclub did help the ages of the women come together and the romance books that were chosen to read developed their characters. It does broach sex a lot, as they were reading romance novels. Overall, a three star for me.
October 14, 2015
This review of “Reading the Sweet Oak” by Jan Stites.
The Story: The book is broken into parts; each part represents a calendar month. The book takes place around the Ozark Mountains and some of the people who live in the small town of Fiddle. The main characters are:
Ruby Riley, 78, a widow who wants her granddaughter to find love before Ruby passes. Ruby co-owns Sweet Oaks River Oasis, a business along the Ozark river with her granddaughter. However, the family business is in trouble, thanks in part to a man named Rupert Clancy, who has personal reasons for hurting the Riley family.
Tulsa Riley, 27, Ruby’s granddaughter. Tulsa has lived with her grandmother ever since her mother, Faith, passed; Tulsa’s father, Buddy, was killed years earlier while in the Army.
Brenda June “B.J.” Smith, 46. B.J. works part-time at a local hardware store and is a bit of a hypochondriac; she is told she doesn’t have any illness and to “find a man.” B.J. is the mother of a son, Guy, and was Faith Riley’s best friend before they had a falling out before Faith’s death.
Jen Haskell, 29. Jen is a manicurist and works at a beauty salon. Jen lives with her boyfriend, Jack, an insurance agent. Jen wants to get married; Jack isn’t in a hurry to do so. Making matters a bit more strained, Jen’s mother-whom she doesn’t have a great relationship with-comes to live with them after she gets injured.
Pearl Jacobs, almost 80. Ruby’s friend, she, like Ruby, is a widow. Pearl has a grandson, Daniel, whom she loves; however, they also have a major break in their relationship over something he tells her.
Ruby, Tulsa, B.J., Jen and Pearl belong to a romance novel club. They read various romance novels by prolific authors and learn things from the books to use in in their own lives.
The book focuses on these five women and their lives, mostly personal, but in the case of Ruby and Tulsa, also professional.
The book is like a Hallmark Channel movie. (That’s not an indictment; I actually have both Hallmark Channels bookmarked in my favorites on my cable system.), but “Reading the Sweet Oak” a small-town favoring book. Having said that, this is not a great book. There are some good parts about the book but there are things that prevent me from calling it great.
In order to love a book-or television show, movie, etc-the “Six Questions” need to be addressed. Who? What? Where? When? How? Why?, and the assorted sub-questions that arise from that. Ms. Stites doesn’t do that in this book. Not until the last 40% or so of the book does Ms. Stites make me care about these people. The characters are shallowly drawn and not terribly deep, and too many storylines are not explored to the depth that would make this a better book.
Sex: A few scenes, but they are rather mild and not terribly hot nor romantic.
Violence: No actual violence, although there is one near violent scene.
Bottom Line: I’m more inspired to read the books Ruby recommends for her book club than I am in reading “Reading the Sweet Oak” again.
The Story: The book is broken into parts; each part represents a calendar month. The book takes place around the Ozark Mountains and some of the people who live in the small town of Fiddle. The main characters are:
Ruby Riley, 78, a widow who wants her granddaughter to find love before Ruby passes. Ruby co-owns Sweet Oaks River Oasis, a business along the Ozark river with her granddaughter. However, the family business is in trouble, thanks in part to a man named Rupert Clancy, who has personal reasons for hurting the Riley family.
Tulsa Riley, 27, Ruby’s granddaughter. Tulsa has lived with her grandmother ever since her mother, Faith, passed; Tulsa’s father, Buddy, was killed years earlier while in the Army.
Brenda June “B.J.” Smith, 46. B.J. works part-time at a local hardware store and is a bit of a hypochondriac; she is told she doesn’t have any illness and to “find a man.” B.J. is the mother of a son, Guy, and was Faith Riley’s best friend before they had a falling out before Faith’s death.
Jen Haskell, 29. Jen is a manicurist and works at a beauty salon. Jen lives with her boyfriend, Jack, an insurance agent. Jen wants to get married; Jack isn’t in a hurry to do so. Making matters a bit more strained, Jen’s mother-whom she doesn’t have a great relationship with-comes to live with them after she gets injured.
Pearl Jacobs, almost 80. Ruby’s friend, she, like Ruby, is a widow. Pearl has a grandson, Daniel, whom she loves; however, they also have a major break in their relationship over something he tells her.
Ruby, Tulsa, B.J., Jen and Pearl belong to a romance novel club. They read various romance novels by prolific authors and learn things from the books to use in in their own lives.
The book focuses on these five women and their lives, mostly personal, but in the case of Ruby and Tulsa, also professional.
The book is like a Hallmark Channel movie. (That’s not an indictment; I actually have both Hallmark Channels bookmarked in my favorites on my cable system.), but “Reading the Sweet Oak” a small-town favoring book. Having said that, this is not a great book. There are some good parts about the book but there are things that prevent me from calling it great.
In order to love a book-or television show, movie, etc-the “Six Questions” need to be addressed. Who? What? Where? When? How? Why?, and the assorted sub-questions that arise from that. Ms. Stites doesn’t do that in this book. Not until the last 40% or so of the book does Ms. Stites make me care about these people. The characters are shallowly drawn and not terribly deep, and too many storylines are not explored to the depth that would make this a better book.
Sex: A few scenes, but they are rather mild and not terribly hot nor romantic.
Violence: No actual violence, although there is one near violent scene.
Bottom Line: I’m more inspired to read the books Ruby recommends for her book club than I am in reading “Reading the Sweet Oak” again.
November 5, 2015
Reading the Sweet Oak is by Jan Stites. It is set on the imaginary Sweet Oak River in the middle of the Ozarks. The place, characters, and plot are all fiction. However, there are enough details from the Ozarks to make you visualize any river in the Ozarks where they have canoe rentals.
Tulsa lives with her grandmother Ruby and runs Sweet Oak River Oasis canoe rental. They usually make enough during the summer months to make it through the slower winter months. Now, however, Rupert Clancy tells Tulsa that their neighbor Ed Logan who has cabins that help their business, is selling out. Rupert intends to buy out Ed and then buy out Ruby and Tulsa so he can stop the canoe rental nonsense and have this stretch of the river to himself. Tulsa and Ruby are determined not to let this happen. Tulsa intends to start looking for other jobs while Ruby goes to the bank and mortgages the land, house, and business to purchase Ed’s land. She also puts everything in Tulsa’s name to avoid probate if that is ever needed. Now it is up to them, especially Tulsa, to get enough business to hold them over the winter months and now make the loan payments. If they miss even one payment, Rupert could get the land.
Ruby is concerned with Tulsa’s life. Tulsa’s life is entirely the business. She has tried romance and got burned twice and that was enough. Tulsa was not about to take a risk on her heart again. She does not believe love lasts nor does marriage. Ruby gets Tulsa involved with her romance book club in hopes that the books will help Tulsa see that risks are there to be taken and that love does last. She believes there are lessons to be learned in the romance books. The other members of the group are Pearl, BJ, and Jen.
Pearl, BJ, and Jen also have their problems. Pearl is grappling with the news that her darling grandson is gay and it goes against her religion; but she loves him. BJ is a single mother who brought up her son Guy elsewhere. He came to see what the area was like that his Mother came from and fell in love with it. He and Tulsa work together as the siblings they think they are. BJ dotes on Guy and smothers him. She is also a hypochondriac. Jen is in love with and has been living with her boyfriend for years. She wants to get married and have children; but he keeps putting her off. She is beginning to question his love for her. All are convinced by Ruby that the answers to their problems lie in the romance books they are reading.
It is a great and fun read. I love the references to many of the romance books and authors I have read. Besides being a pleasure to read, it also addresses many topics that need to be addressed in our society.
Tulsa lives with her grandmother Ruby and runs Sweet Oak River Oasis canoe rental. They usually make enough during the summer months to make it through the slower winter months. Now, however, Rupert Clancy tells Tulsa that their neighbor Ed Logan who has cabins that help their business, is selling out. Rupert intends to buy out Ed and then buy out Ruby and Tulsa so he can stop the canoe rental nonsense and have this stretch of the river to himself. Tulsa and Ruby are determined not to let this happen. Tulsa intends to start looking for other jobs while Ruby goes to the bank and mortgages the land, house, and business to purchase Ed’s land. She also puts everything in Tulsa’s name to avoid probate if that is ever needed. Now it is up to them, especially Tulsa, to get enough business to hold them over the winter months and now make the loan payments. If they miss even one payment, Rupert could get the land.
Ruby is concerned with Tulsa’s life. Tulsa’s life is entirely the business. She has tried romance and got burned twice and that was enough. Tulsa was not about to take a risk on her heart again. She does not believe love lasts nor does marriage. Ruby gets Tulsa involved with her romance book club in hopes that the books will help Tulsa see that risks are there to be taken and that love does last. She believes there are lessons to be learned in the romance books. The other members of the group are Pearl, BJ, and Jen.
Pearl, BJ, and Jen also have their problems. Pearl is grappling with the news that her darling grandson is gay and it goes against her religion; but she loves him. BJ is a single mother who brought up her son Guy elsewhere. He came to see what the area was like that his Mother came from and fell in love with it. He and Tulsa work together as the siblings they think they are. BJ dotes on Guy and smothers him. She is also a hypochondriac. Jen is in love with and has been living with her boyfriend for years. She wants to get married and have children; but he keeps putting her off. She is beginning to question his love for her. All are convinced by Ruby that the answers to their problems lie in the romance books they are reading.
It is a great and fun read. I love the references to many of the romance books and authors I have read. Besides being a pleasure to read, it also addresses many topics that need to be addressed in our society.
October 17, 2015
Welcome to "Sweet Oak River Oasis". Ruby and Tulsa's conoeing sight seeing and camping resort! There is so much in store for this reading adventure.
When I read the description of this book I knew I had to read and review this. Not only did I love the cover, I loved the first page of this story. Jen Stites sets up this story with such a beautiful background, it was like watching a movie right in front of my eyes. I could definitely put my myself in the place of one of the main characters Tulsa, it was like looking right through her eyes. Canoeing down the Sweet Oak river in Ozarks. Hills and country land was spread out before me.
Tulsa and her grandmother Ruby live in a farmhouse, they run a conoeing and cabin getaway that is all around them. This is the life Tulsa knows and loves. A true country girl with so much spunk. She is who she is and is not gonna change for anyone. She loves the out doors, getting her hands dirty and all the things in her life. It hasnt been easy but she's been tough and has accomplished so much except falling in love. She is okay with it, but her sweet grandmother Ruby isn't. What does Ruby do to help? She introduces Sunny Chandler's Return, the first book to start five women's journey through their reading eyes. And let me tell you.....Ruby is a genius!
"I may be old and my 'womanhood' withered", but reading and dreaming about hot sex and true love sure perks up my day." ~ Pearl
These girls cracked me up. They reminded me of my book girls and myself! Ruby, Pearl, Jen, BJ and Tulsa are a one of a kind group. A group that anyone would be so lucky to be apart of. These girls made me laugh, cry and feel so lucky to see their lives and revelations they had. Each of their stories and lives are very different. Thier love for books and friendships gave them courage to change things for the better. I fell in love with each of these women's stories, they are so relatable to all our lives. I felt like their personal cheerleader, cheering them on though the rough and easy times.
I loved this book and give it 5 glorious stars. Its so much more than a romance book. Its about friendships, family, strength, respect, love and so much more. There are twists and turns, herions and villians. Come meet the girls from a town called Fiddle, they would love for you to join their reading club!
When I read the description of this book I knew I had to read and review this. Not only did I love the cover, I loved the first page of this story. Jen Stites sets up this story with such a beautiful background, it was like watching a movie right in front of my eyes. I could definitely put my myself in the place of one of the main characters Tulsa, it was like looking right through her eyes. Canoeing down the Sweet Oak river in Ozarks. Hills and country land was spread out before me.
Tulsa and her grandmother Ruby live in a farmhouse, they run a conoeing and cabin getaway that is all around them. This is the life Tulsa knows and loves. A true country girl with so much spunk. She is who she is and is not gonna change for anyone. She loves the out doors, getting her hands dirty and all the things in her life. It hasnt been easy but she's been tough and has accomplished so much except falling in love. She is okay with it, but her sweet grandmother Ruby isn't. What does Ruby do to help? She introduces Sunny Chandler's Return, the first book to start five women's journey through their reading eyes. And let me tell you.....Ruby is a genius!
"I may be old and my 'womanhood' withered", but reading and dreaming about hot sex and true love sure perks up my day." ~ Pearl
These girls cracked me up. They reminded me of my book girls and myself! Ruby, Pearl, Jen, BJ and Tulsa are a one of a kind group. A group that anyone would be so lucky to be apart of. These girls made me laugh, cry and feel so lucky to see their lives and revelations they had. Each of their stories and lives are very different. Thier love for books and friendships gave them courage to change things for the better. I fell in love with each of these women's stories, they are so relatable to all our lives. I felt like their personal cheerleader, cheering them on though the rough and easy times.
I loved this book and give it 5 glorious stars. Its so much more than a romance book. Its about friendships, family, strength, respect, love and so much more. There are twists and turns, herions and villians. Come meet the girls from a town called Fiddle, they would love for you to join their reading club!
November 17, 2015
Thank you to Goodreads for selecting me as one of the Giveaways lucky winners! As such, I want to post an honest review of this book. "Reading the Sweet Oak" is a charming story about a strong-willed, independent young woman, Tulsa, and her aging, wise grandmother, Ruby. It is set in the Ozarks where the backdrop of the Sweet Oaks River provides a flowing current of the ever-changing lives of Tulsa, Ruby and their three friends; Pearl, Jen and BJ. Ruby initiates a book club where the women read a different romance novel every few weeks. It is her hope that the books will spark romance in the lives of the women; especially her granddaughter, Tulsa.
My favorite "take-away" from this book was the sage advice that Ruby offers about the difference between surrender and compromise. I also loved the development of the idea that there are all kinds of love, and no two people need to necessarily fit the mold that creates the "perfect" relationship. The bond of loyalty and friendship between women of varying ages is a theme that is endless and portrayed in a loving, warm and endearing light.
In my opinion, the focus on the romance novels was sappy and detracted from the story. Using the characters from the novels to then create "real romance" in the women's' lives seemed contrived and borderline silly. I would have preferred the development of the storyline, minus the scenes that tried duplicating encounters from the romance novels. These scenes are not intended for a young reader and parents should be cautioned. This book is not advertised as a romance novel (the author herself says it "isn't a romance novel but is more general women's fiction about a romance novel book group") but it has much of that genre in its pages that was not necessary to include. In fact, I wish they were eliminated entirely.
Overall, I think Ms. Stites is a talented author with a real gift for dialogue. It was an enjoyable story (albeit very predictable); more along the lines of a light beach read. Because I received a free version, I was really hoping to give it a 5 star review, but it landed pretty much in the middle for me.
My favorite "take-away" from this book was the sage advice that Ruby offers about the difference between surrender and compromise. I also loved the development of the idea that there are all kinds of love, and no two people need to necessarily fit the mold that creates the "perfect" relationship. The bond of loyalty and friendship between women of varying ages is a theme that is endless and portrayed in a loving, warm and endearing light.
In my opinion, the focus on the romance novels was sappy and detracted from the story. Using the characters from the novels to then create "real romance" in the women's' lives seemed contrived and borderline silly. I would have preferred the development of the storyline, minus the scenes that tried duplicating encounters from the romance novels. These scenes are not intended for a young reader and parents should be cautioned. This book is not advertised as a romance novel (the author herself says it "isn't a romance novel but is more general women's fiction about a romance novel book group") but it has much of that genre in its pages that was not necessary to include. In fact, I wish they were eliminated entirely.
Overall, I think Ms. Stites is a talented author with a real gift for dialogue. It was an enjoyable story (albeit very predictable); more along the lines of a light beach read. Because I received a free version, I was really hoping to give it a 5 star review, but it landed pretty much in the middle for me.
October 11, 2015
Thanks to NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION PUBLISHING for the chance to read this amazing novel. I loved it! This is true woman's fiction, it's all about family, friends, relationships and the dynamics that brings us altogether.
This novel is about five different women, I loved all five women, they reminded me of some of the women I know. The author did a great job letting the readers get to each woman, her weaknesses and her strengths, you become involved in their day to day lives.
Each woman serves a different purpose in this novel, they are full of love for each other, there is mutual respect for each one.
Ruby is the matriarch of the group, she's the glue that holds them altogether. Tulsa is Ruby's granddaughter, Pearl is Ruby's friend, BJ is a friend of Ruby's daughter(deceased)Jen is a lifelong friend of Tulsa's, all of these woman are intertwined into each others life. They all want to be happy.
Ruby decides its a good idea to get together for dinners and she surprises everyone with a book to read, start a dinner book club, the book is a romance novel, the author introduces the romances into the story which I loved. Each book touches each woman in a profound way. These books help Tulsa to open up her heart to love, BJ was finally able to tell everyone her big secret, and she begins to forgive herself. Jen finds out that there is a certain way a woman deserves to be loved, and Pearl finds out that love is love, no matter whom you choose to love.
This novel has it all, family, love, drama, loyalty, respect, forgiveness, hope, new beginnings. I was happy reading this novel.
Thanks again goes to NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION PUBLISHING!
This novel is about five different women, I loved all five women, they reminded me of some of the women I know. The author did a great job letting the readers get to each woman, her weaknesses and her strengths, you become involved in their day to day lives.
Each woman serves a different purpose in this novel, they are full of love for each other, there is mutual respect for each one.
Ruby is the matriarch of the group, she's the glue that holds them altogether. Tulsa is Ruby's granddaughter, Pearl is Ruby's friend, BJ is a friend of Ruby's daughter(deceased)Jen is a lifelong friend of Tulsa's, all of these woman are intertwined into each others life. They all want to be happy.
Ruby decides its a good idea to get together for dinners and she surprises everyone with a book to read, start a dinner book club, the book is a romance novel, the author introduces the romances into the story which I loved. Each book touches each woman in a profound way. These books help Tulsa to open up her heart to love, BJ was finally able to tell everyone her big secret, and she begins to forgive herself. Jen finds out that there is a certain way a woman deserves to be loved, and Pearl finds out that love is love, no matter whom you choose to love.
This novel has it all, family, love, drama, loyalty, respect, forgiveness, hope, new beginnings. I was happy reading this novel.
Thanks again goes to NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION PUBLISHING!
June 6, 2016
* Grins * Just thinking back on this book makes me smile. Tulsa is as stubborn as her grandmother, especially when she's set on avoiding any man helping her out, which she needs on multiple occasions throughout the book. Running a canoe business is tough work, especially when unexpected and unwanted obstacles get in the way. And what kind of book addict am I not to be attracted by characters having a book club?!
I adored the close-knit community and family feel of the book. There's a lot of humour considering all the life issues that crop out. I was amused when the truth was revealed for why Tulsa's grandmother Ruby has quite so many visitors (I'm seriously hoping I haven't got this muddled with a different book, if I have I'm sorry!), I liked how surprised Tulsa was when there were ways around obstacles that she hadn't thought of. It was fascinating to witness life from several women with different outlooks and at different stages of life, because they all had something to offer each other eventually, even if they did feel they were too different. Everyone has secrets and struggles, and often the essential parts of them are the same.
This is a superb read, one I'm looking forward to reread. There's nothing wrong with it, it just didn't quite hit the top grade for me. Set aside a few hours to read this, be prepared to gain some insight into your own life and broaden your perspective too.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
I adored the close-knit community and family feel of the book. There's a lot of humour considering all the life issues that crop out. I was amused when the truth was revealed for why Tulsa's grandmother Ruby has quite so many visitors (I'm seriously hoping I haven't got this muddled with a different book, if I have I'm sorry!), I liked how surprised Tulsa was when there were ways around obstacles that she hadn't thought of. It was fascinating to witness life from several women with different outlooks and at different stages of life, because they all had something to offer each other eventually, even if they did feel they were too different. Everyone has secrets and struggles, and often the essential parts of them are the same.
This is a superb read, one I'm looking forward to reread. There's nothing wrong with it, it just didn't quite hit the top grade for me. Set aside a few hours to read this, be prepared to gain some insight into your own life and broaden your perspective too.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
December 17, 2016
After reading my last book, I was really in need of something lighter, something a bit frivolous. I found the perfect thing in Reading the Sweet Oak by Jan Stites. This book mostly features Tulsa, a young woman who lives on the Sweet Oak river in the Ozarks with her grandmother, Ruby. The two of them, along with Tulsa's half-brother Guy, run a canoe business. Living on the river is all Tulsa ever wants in her life, but Ruby would like her to add in a little romance as well. With this in mind, Ruby asks Tulsa to read a romance novel, something that Tulsa scoffs at but does to please her grandmother, then surreptitiously begins a romance book club in their home. We are then introduced to Pearl, Ruby's childhood friend; BJ, Guy's mother; and Jen, Tulsa's friend. Each of these women is in their own time of life, romantically, and we get to hear each of their perspectives. This all happens as Tulsa and Ruby struggle to keep their business afloat.
I don't read romance novels. I think they are silly and I really don't enjoy reading the more... amorous descriptions they usually include. I prefer a fade-to-black approach to love scenes. This book itself was very light on those scenes, but the characters did discuss some of those descriptions in the books they were reading. As I said, I was looking for something easy and silly and I found it in this book. If romance novels are your thing, you may really enjoy this. If not, you still may like it as a beach read. I like multi-generational stories about women like this, so that's what I took from it.
Check out more of my reviews at SmartGirlsRead!
www.smartgirlsread.blogspot.com
I don't read romance novels. I think they are silly and I really don't enjoy reading the more... amorous descriptions they usually include. I prefer a fade-to-black approach to love scenes. This book itself was very light on those scenes, but the characters did discuss some of those descriptions in the books they were reading. As I said, I was looking for something easy and silly and I found it in this book. If romance novels are your thing, you may really enjoy this. If not, you still may like it as a beach read. I like multi-generational stories about women like this, so that's what I took from it.
Check out more of my reviews at SmartGirlsRead!
www.smartgirlsread.blogspot.com
September 26, 2015
Reading the Sweet Oak by Jan Stites is a wonderful book celebrating romance novels, women’s friendships and hope for the future. The setting is in the Ozarks by a river that in turn meanders and rushes. Ruby has decided to start a book club with old romance books. She invites four other women to join her. All four need to make changes in their lives.
Ruby’s granddaughter, Tulsa works too hard and is trying to make a living running a camping and canoe business against steep odds. Pearl, Ruby’s best friend needs to see love is more encompassing than she ever imagined. Jen is Tulsa’s best friend. She thinks that she is happy and in love, but things aren’t always what they seem. If that isn’t enough for Jen, her mother always a difficult person has moved in with her broken leg. BJ the other participant has never really known romantic love. Her son helps out Ruby and Tulsa often, but she harbors secrets about his life. Each woman needs help, including Ruby. As the summer progresses into fall and their lives continue to change, all find the romance books helpful.
I really enjoyed this book. I felt the pattern of the book in the river. I loved the blue herons and kingfishers. I loved the romance books Ruby chose, all books I have read! I love how the author was able to keep the story moving while not leaving out the love, heartache, companionship and care of the women, with maybe a miracle or two!!!
A wonderful read – certainly one I would recommend to book clubs, including mine. A great read!
Ruby’s granddaughter, Tulsa works too hard and is trying to make a living running a camping and canoe business against steep odds. Pearl, Ruby’s best friend needs to see love is more encompassing than she ever imagined. Jen is Tulsa’s best friend. She thinks that she is happy and in love, but things aren’t always what they seem. If that isn’t enough for Jen, her mother always a difficult person has moved in with her broken leg. BJ the other participant has never really known romantic love. Her son helps out Ruby and Tulsa often, but she harbors secrets about his life. Each woman needs help, including Ruby. As the summer progresses into fall and their lives continue to change, all find the romance books helpful.
I really enjoyed this book. I felt the pattern of the book in the river. I loved the blue herons and kingfishers. I loved the romance books Ruby chose, all books I have read! I love how the author was able to keep the story moving while not leaving out the love, heartache, companionship and care of the women, with maybe a miracle or two!!!
A wonderful read – certainly one I would recommend to book clubs, including mine. A great read!
November 12, 2015
I was given an electronic copy by Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Reading the Sweet Oak shows how the bonds of friendship and family run deep, regardless of the circumstances. Despite the author's best efforts, most of the characters in the book are one dimensional. The love between Ruby and her granddaughter Tulsa is evident, which is not surprising since their relationship is the strongest in the book. When her love for her granddaughter prompts Ruby to start a romance book club, it was fun to see which books she would come up with next. The best part of the book is when Tulsa realizes her integrity and her self respect is more important than trying to fit into someone else's mold. The problems with Clancy are annoying, as it did not seem likely that Tulsa's concerns would not be taken seriously by the law. Being that the entire plot can be summed up in one short sentence, I was disappointed that the author wrapped up all of the conflicts and problems in a neat little package with speed and efficiency. The descriptions of the scenery are beautiful and the author really captured the setting with her words. Although this was just middle of the road for me, Reading the Sweet Oak might appeal to readers who enjoy a good beach read.
Reading the Sweet Oak shows how the bonds of friendship and family run deep, regardless of the circumstances. Despite the author's best efforts, most of the characters in the book are one dimensional. The love between Ruby and her granddaughter Tulsa is evident, which is not surprising since their relationship is the strongest in the book. When her love for her granddaughter prompts Ruby to start a romance book club, it was fun to see which books she would come up with next. The best part of the book is when Tulsa realizes her integrity and her self respect is more important than trying to fit into someone else's mold. The problems with Clancy are annoying, as it did not seem likely that Tulsa's concerns would not be taken seriously by the law. Being that the entire plot can be summed up in one short sentence, I was disappointed that the author wrapped up all of the conflicts and problems in a neat little package with speed and efficiency. The descriptions of the scenery are beautiful and the author really captured the setting with her words. Although this was just middle of the road for me, Reading the Sweet Oak might appeal to readers who enjoy a good beach read.
February 18, 2017
I enjoyed this book. The five main characters were well-developed and interesting. Their story lines are interwoven with each other and their individual problems helped along to resolution by the romance novels they are reading as a part of a book club. This is a quick read and a nice uplifting story.
September 14, 2015
I would recommend that everyone who likes contemporary women's fiction should run out and buy this as soon as you can! I loved all the characters, the women the most, because they were strong (even though some of them don't realize how strong they are), hardworking and so giving. I enjoyed that everyone was on a personal journey of one type or another and things that happened in the book really opened their eyes.
This is great for people that like girlfriend stories, where women build each other up and support each other. Ruby was fantastic and certainly got more than she planned when she started her book club. I LOVE Ruby, in fact, I want to KNOW Ruby!
I was rooting for Tulsa, Ruby and the canoe business right from the beginning and hoping that Clancy would have a great visit from karma. This is the first book by Jan Stites that I've read, but it won't be the last. I've already recommended this book to a number of friends and am now headed over to Amazon to see what else this author's written!
Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
This is great for people that like girlfriend stories, where women build each other up and support each other. Ruby was fantastic and certainly got more than she planned when she started her book club. I LOVE Ruby, in fact, I want to KNOW Ruby!
I was rooting for Tulsa, Ruby and the canoe business right from the beginning and hoping that Clancy would have a great visit from karma. This is the first book by Jan Stites that I've read, but it won't be the last. I've already recommended this book to a number of friends and am now headed over to Amazon to see what else this author's written!
Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
July 7, 2015
Tulsa loves the river, canoeing, the birds and critters, the scenery in the Ozarks and she especially loves her grandmother Ruby. Together they run the Sweet Oak River Oasis - a canoe rental business that sits on a river that threads the Ozark hills.
Widowed for thirty years and still missing her husband, Ruby knows the joys that love can bring and wants her granddaughter to experience those joys herself. But Tulsa has no time for anything except running the Oasis. When her grandmother suggests she read a romance novel Tulsa reluctantly agrees out of the love she has for Ruby.
Unbeknownst to Tulsa, Ruby has created a romance novel book club. Their friends Pearl, BJ, and Jen get together to discuss books but end up learning about forgiveness, taking chances, and love.
I really loved the setting of this book and the strong bond of friendship these women shared. I also loved when BJ responded to her doctor's orders to find a man's love with "Jesus loves me" and he told her "Jesus loves everybody. You need to find someone less promiscuous." A well-written, cozy novel.
Widowed for thirty years and still missing her husband, Ruby knows the joys that love can bring and wants her granddaughter to experience those joys herself. But Tulsa has no time for anything except running the Oasis. When her grandmother suggests she read a romance novel Tulsa reluctantly agrees out of the love she has for Ruby.
Unbeknownst to Tulsa, Ruby has created a romance novel book club. Their friends Pearl, BJ, and Jen get together to discuss books but end up learning about forgiveness, taking chances, and love.
I really loved the setting of this book and the strong bond of friendship these women shared. I also loved when BJ responded to her doctor's orders to find a man's love with "Jesus loves me" and he told her "Jesus loves everybody. You need to find someone less promiscuous." A well-written, cozy novel.
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