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Memory House #2
The Loft
50 YEARS OF MEMORIES ARE HIDDEN IN THE WALLS OF THE LOFT…
Annie only needs to find one… the one that will save Oliver’s life.
On the day of their wedding, Annie saw nothing but happiness ahead, but when an accident calls her back to Memory House, her world is changed forever. Ophelia Browne, the woman who taught Annie to find the memories in a forgotten object, is leaving the house and she’s leaving all those powerful memories behind.
After only three nights in the loft, Annie must now find the single most meaningful memory in Oliver’s mind. If she finds it in time, she can save his life, if she doesn’t…well that’s something she can’t afford to think about.
Readers will welcome back the much-loved characters from Memory House and enjoy a few new friends!
Annie only needs to find one… the one that will save Oliver’s life.
On the day of their wedding, Annie saw nothing but happiness ahead, but when an accident calls her back to Memory House, her world is changed forever. Ophelia Browne, the woman who taught Annie to find the memories in a forgotten object, is leaving the house and she’s leaving all those powerful memories behind.
After only three nights in the loft, Annie must now find the single most meaningful memory in Oliver’s mind. If she finds it in time, she can save his life, if she doesn’t…well that’s something she can’t afford to think about.
Readers will welcome back the much-loved characters from Memory House and enjoy a few new friends!
190 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2015
291 people are currently reading
710 people want to read
About the author
Bette Lee Crosby
42 books2,185 followersUSA Today Bestselling and Award-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby's books are "Well-crafted storytelling populated by memorable characters caught up in equally memorable circumstances." - Midwest Book Review
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
September 1, 2016
This is not my usual type of book but the author gets such good ratings I felt I must give it a try. I am glad I did. There were moments of over sweetness but mostly it was a good, heart warming story of people surviving and dealing with some serious issues in their lives. The tissues even had to come out once or twice. Short but sweet and a very pleasant way to pass a few hours.
September 4, 2015
Memory House B&B was a happy home; Ophelia Browne was ninety years of age and had known a lifetime of happiness and memories in her home. It was where she and Edward had made their married life; wonderful, happy memories and Ophelia felt when she was lying in bed in the loft looking at Edward’s beloved stars that he was close to her still. When Annie had come into Ophelia’s life only one year ago, everything had fallen into place. It was as though Annie was meant to be at Memory House; meant to be in Ophelia’s life…
Annie couldn’t believe how happy she finally was. She was marrying Oliver; the man of her dreams. Meeting Oliver after meeting Ophelia was like a dream come true. And now they would be together forever, making their own memories. Oliver’s daddy, Ethan Allan had been the link; and the old bicycle had brought them all together.
The suddenness of change affected them all though. When Annie and Oliver rushed back to attend to Ophelia, they didn’t realize that change was quietly occurring in their lives. And a few weeks later the shock of an unexpected visit meant Annie needed to dig deeper than she ever had before; would her strength and the abiding love she had for Oliver save his life? As Annie searched her heart for a meaningful memory to impart, her positive nature plus her love and determination kept her going; but was it enough?
I absolutely adored The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby! The second in the Memory House series, it is a beautiful, gentle story of love; of mystery and of the magic of memories. Catching up with a cast of characters from Memory House was wonderful – meeting new and interesting characters was fun. I can’t wait for book 3 in the series! Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favourite authors, and her books are a treat. I highly recommend all of this author’s work.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Annie couldn’t believe how happy she finally was. She was marrying Oliver; the man of her dreams. Meeting Oliver after meeting Ophelia was like a dream come true. And now they would be together forever, making their own memories. Oliver’s daddy, Ethan Allan had been the link; and the old bicycle had brought them all together.
The suddenness of change affected them all though. When Annie and Oliver rushed back to attend to Ophelia, they didn’t realize that change was quietly occurring in their lives. And a few weeks later the shock of an unexpected visit meant Annie needed to dig deeper than she ever had before; would her strength and the abiding love she had for Oliver save his life? As Annie searched her heart for a meaningful memory to impart, her positive nature plus her love and determination kept her going; but was it enough?
I absolutely adored The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby! The second in the Memory House series, it is a beautiful, gentle story of love; of mystery and of the magic of memories. Catching up with a cast of characters from Memory House was wonderful – meeting new and interesting characters was fun. I can’t wait for book 3 in the series! Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favourite authors, and her books are a treat. I highly recommend all of this author’s work.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
December 8, 2015
For anyone that knows me and my love of books and authors, they will be well aware that Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors who I can't wait to start writing her next book. Her books are so life like and so real. Her characters are so well rounded you never forget them.
This is book 2 in the series. I can honestly tell you that I didn't have to go over book 1 to remind myself of what I had read months ago as her books are so memorable.
The Memory House Collection
Its an apt name, its a house that people always have to, need to, or must return to for one reason or another.
Ophelia is the old lady now. She is the one that helped Annie in many different ways.
I have also learnt things from these books, or should I say, from Ophelia herself.
We all have objects that we hold affection for. Her explanation of how we look at these objects of affection was very thought provoking to me. I didn't think of things this way.
Am I going to explain that to you? Nope. When you come to read this book, remember my words, and you will pick up my understanding for sure.
She is a very wise woman Ophelia. They say wisdom comes in years, and this is true, but for me, Ophelia always had wisdom and a good way at looking and helping others, especially Annie.
The book starts off with Annie's wedding. But life doesn't always go to plan does it, we see this as we turn the pages.
Bette Lee Crosby has a gifted way with words and brings out thoughtful things. Each character that is from book 1 has developed even more, they have grown, but they still remain true to themselves.
Tragedy is a part of most people's lives in one sense or another, and this family is not without theirs.
This author brings warmth to her pages, this authors brings hope, this author brings sense to life.
I have currently read book 3 in this series as a Beta read, and let me tell you, it just gets better and better
September 1, 2018
Read it with book one so I rank them the same. This author has a strong following and better reads. I really tired of dandelion tea and lamb stew. I finished reading out of respect. There will be space before I read another.
December 29, 2016
Another one waiting for rating and review after family leaves.
Having bought and read the Memory House some time back, I was beyond excited to get the next three in the Memory House series given to me by my darling husband for Christmas. Plunged straight in and started this one on Christmas Day. I loved catching up with Annie and Ophelia from the Memory House. Changes are ahead. Her life looks to be going beautifully when Annie and Oliver are married. By the very next day it takes a turn for the worse when there is an accident. There were gasps of horror from me and lots of pleading with the author as I rapidly read and turned pages. But they were nothing compared to the cry of ‘NO!’ that echoed around our house some time later when a second accident occurred. Tears followed that cry of outrage too.
I’m not going to say too much more about this book except to say that I enjoyed some of the new characters added. I liked the friendship that springs up between Maxine and Annie and the way the friendship develops between Ophelia, Lillian and others. I also loved the little nuggets of wisdom dropped like sparkling gems throughout. An emotive and heart-warming book that shows the importance of love, family and friends, and building relationships and memories, it leaves you feeling good at the end. So worth reading a book with such endearing characters and a story that thoroughly involved me. The moment I finished this book it was on to book 3 in the Memory House series.
Having bought and read the Memory House some time back, I was beyond excited to get the next three in the Memory House series given to me by my darling husband for Christmas. Plunged straight in and started this one on Christmas Day. I loved catching up with Annie and Ophelia from the Memory House. Changes are ahead. Her life looks to be going beautifully when Annie and Oliver are married. By the very next day it takes a turn for the worse when there is an accident. There were gasps of horror from me and lots of pleading with the author as I rapidly read and turned pages. But they were nothing compared to the cry of ‘NO!’ that echoed around our house some time later when a second accident occurred. Tears followed that cry of outrage too.
I’m not going to say too much more about this book except to say that I enjoyed some of the new characters added. I liked the friendship that springs up between Maxine and Annie and the way the friendship develops between Ophelia, Lillian and others. I also loved the little nuggets of wisdom dropped like sparkling gems throughout. An emotive and heart-warming book that shows the importance of love, family and friends, and building relationships and memories, it leaves you feeling good at the end. So worth reading a book with such endearing characters and a story that thoroughly involved me. The moment I finished this book it was on to book 3 in the Memory House series.
August 21, 2015
I love all of Bette's book - they are a great combination of sweet & happy and a little sorry/conflict. there are so many things to like about this book - watching Annie & Oliver start their new life together, Ophelia realizing that at 90 things don't have to stay the same and the introduction of Max(ine) - an architect that is going to help redesign Memory House but becomes fast friends with Annie. Annie needs a good gal pal to be able to share things with.
When reading the book everything is going along really well and there is a small hiccup but not much to derail Annie's happiness. So the keeper of the Scales of Life has to balance the scale. I loved that analogy, that there is someone that keeps the scales of life balanced - equal amounts of good and bad.
I can't wait until book 3 comes out!!!
When reading the book everything is going along really well and there is a small hiccup but not much to derail Annie's happiness. So the keeper of the Scales of Life has to balance the scale. I loved that analogy, that there is someone that keeps the scales of life balanced - equal amounts of good and bad.
I can't wait until book 3 comes out!!!
August 26, 2015
I love all Bette's book and I'm really hoping there is a part 3 cause the book left me wanting more!
August 22, 2017
I adored the fist book, Memory House, and had high hopes for this second book. And my hopes were met. I enjoyed being back with these characters and learning more about the memories in the loft.
This picks up right where the first book left off. But big changes are happening. Ophelia is moving on, making new friends and finally letting the memories go. Annie is the new keeper of those memories, but before she gets a chance to settle in, Oliver is injured in a car crash and his life hangs in the balance. Annie must find his most precious memories in order to save him.
It’s not often that you have a story pick up right where the last book left off. It sure was nice to find that happening in this one. I knew change was coming. Ophelia always planned for Annie to take her place as keeper of memories, and I wondered how that would work.
Annie and Oliver just got married and it didn’t seem feasible that all three would live at Memory House. How could the author make this work. She did so in shocking yet gentle ways. Guiding you through some traumatic events, giving you hope that things would work out for everyone.
With some other characters stepping in and out of the story, I knew this part of the journey might be coming to an end but saw fun possibilities for more adventures. One character in particular, I’d like to see more of. She has a sad past and I wonder if the author will give us her story now.
Another gem from Bette Lee Crosby and I’m sure it won’t be the last. Her stellar writing and engaging characters keeps me coming back for more.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
This picks up right where the first book left off. But big changes are happening. Ophelia is moving on, making new friends and finally letting the memories go. Annie is the new keeper of those memories, but before she gets a chance to settle in, Oliver is injured in a car crash and his life hangs in the balance. Annie must find his most precious memories in order to save him.
It’s not often that you have a story pick up right where the last book left off. It sure was nice to find that happening in this one. I knew change was coming. Ophelia always planned for Annie to take her place as keeper of memories, and I wondered how that would work.
Annie and Oliver just got married and it didn’t seem feasible that all three would live at Memory House. How could the author make this work. She did so in shocking yet gentle ways. Guiding you through some traumatic events, giving you hope that things would work out for everyone.
With some other characters stepping in and out of the story, I knew this part of the journey might be coming to an end but saw fun possibilities for more adventures. One character in particular, I’d like to see more of. She has a sad past and I wonder if the author will give us her story now.
Another gem from Bette Lee Crosby and I’m sure it won’t be the last. Her stellar writing and engaging characters keeps me coming back for more.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
October 13, 2016
Another magical story by Bette Lee Crosby who is indeed a masterful storyteller. Ophelia and Annie are back in this book entering new phases in their lives, Annie just having married Oliver and Ophelia realizing she will be alone once again in Memory House. Not wanting to give anything away about the story, there are some things that occur for both Ophelia and Annie that affects their futures and causes them to make some important decisions. There are new friendships that develop for both with new lovable characters. I loved this book and felt very connected to the characters and to the story itself. It felt very real to me. Ms. Crosby truly knows how to bring characters to life in her stories. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
September 8, 2015
REVIEW: THE LOFT by Betty Lee Crosby
The main two descriptions for THE LOFT are:
HEARTWARMING
and
MEMORABLE.
This is high praise indeed, from a reviewer who eschews romance and never approves happy endings. From the first lines my spirit was taken up with the characters, the story line, and the gently metaphysical overtones and undertones. I guess an "old dog" can learn new tricks, or new enjoyment.
THE LOFT is part of author Betty Lee Crosby' s MEMORY HOUSE COLLECTION, and releases on September 15 (2015).
The main two descriptions for THE LOFT are:
HEARTWARMING
and
MEMORABLE.
This is high praise indeed, from a reviewer who eschews romance and never approves happy endings. From the first lines my spirit was taken up with the characters, the story line, and the gently metaphysical overtones and undertones. I guess an "old dog" can learn new tricks, or new enjoyment.
THE LOFT is part of author Betty Lee Crosby' s MEMORY HOUSE COLLECTION, and releases on September 15 (2015).
September 11, 2015
I thought Memory House was a really great book but The Loft is even better. (The second book in the Memory House series). The book is very well written and will make you laugh and cry. The characters all work so well together and seem to come alive and you are right there with them. A heartwarming and memorable story about life. Looking forward to part three of the series. Beautiful cover to the book too!
February 24, 2016
Review to follow. Let me just say that it was an amazing book!
September 15, 2015
A special thank you to Bent Pine Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Master Southern storyteller, Bette Lee Crosby returns with her second installment of the captivating Memory House Collection, THE LOFT where readers revisit with familiar characters, and the Keeper of the Scale, to learn what is in store for the journey; as it tips from sorrow to happiness, and somewhere in between.
They say that somewhere far beyond what mortals see there is a scale of life, and for each moment of happiness a stone of sorrow is dropped onto the scale.
When the Keeper of the Scale saw Annie’s life had been weighted with sorrow for far too long, he selected a stone, round, worn smooth and without jagged edges. He dropped the stone onto the happiness side of Annie’s scale. That was the day she knocked on Judge Oliver Doyle’s door.
Annie’s story began the previous year when she knocked on Ophelia Brown’s door. She thought at the time she was a sweet little old lady with a bed and breakfast, with a magical potpourri that smells like whatever you’re thinking of. However Ophelia is a woman who can find the magic hidden in everyday things.
Annie had thought she was in love with Michael, a man who thought way more of himself that he did of her. He made her feel worthless and before long he was believing it to be true. However, the day Michael walked out on her was the luckiest day of her life. If not, she would never have come to Memory House. Once she experienced the magic of memories, she could not wait until the next weekend to draw her back to a new adventure. Then she met Oliver.
When Ophelia first told Annie it was possible to connect to a memory someone had left behind in a forgotten object, she thought she was joking. But once she experienced it for herself, she knew it was true. Annie turned into a believer—if you want to live life to the fullest, you’ve got to be open-minded about the things that seem unbelievable.
Ophelia taught her how to touch an object and find the memory in it. Thinking it was the magical dandelion tea, at first; however, Ophelia claimed the ability is a gift given only to those with sensitive souls.
As we pick up from the first book, Memory House Collection #1, it all began when Annie was shown the bicycle in the storage shed. She heard a boy’s laughter and was so intrigued she had to learn more about him. Little by little it came to her…She knew of his fear…but she never knew his name. Then one day she found a book called The Wisdom of Judicial Judgment in the Practice of Law. The minute she touched the book, she knew the author, Ethan Allen Doyle was her bicycle boy, turning out to be the father of Oliver. This is when the magic began.
In Book #2, THE LOFT, we are gathered at the wedding of Annie and Oliver, with fond memories from Ophelia, as the same location as the marriage so long ago with Ophelia and her husband, Edward, now deceased. Today the couple will start to create their own memories, memories Annie hopes will one day be found in the objects they leave behind.
However, soon after the marriage, less than two days, the scale is shifted once again. Once a stone has been added to the scale of life, it can never be removed. The Keeper of the Scale knew this when he added the rose-colored stone to the happiness side of Annie’s scale. He looked into the future and saw what was to come, but at the time he believed the loneliness and sorrow of her early years were weighty enough to hold the scale in balance. Not even the Keeper of the Scale could foretell a happiness so great it would topple the scale itself. Annie’s happiness remained unshakable, until it was dropped onto the side of sorrow.
We hear from Oliver, Annie, and Ophelia’s POV - will Edwards’s stars, Ophelia’s memories, and possibly some miracles fill the holes in their heart? Will the scales be shifted towards happiness again?
When Ophelia first told Annie about her ability to find memories, she thought it was the strangest thing ever. However, now she is starting to believe any number of people might possess it. They just never discover it because they do not know where to look for it.
There are changes —for the first time Ophelia considers moving away from Memory House, and the special Loft may be turned into a bedroom for Oliver and Annie, to enable them to star gaze as Edward and Ophelia. Her wishes have always been to give the Memory House to someone who would love it like Annie.
As readers get to revisit with past book friends and the Baylor Towers, new adventures and another tragedy which shatters their world. The scales have once again tilted. One good gift, then another sadness.
Nothing is all good or bad; that’s how you’ve got to look at life. If you see it from one side or the other, you’re just going to make yourself crazy. Treasured memories are meant to stay with the person they belong to. Only the scattered memories with trouble stuck to them stay behind waiting for someone to stumble on them.
Time of Change— A new galaxy to travel—Sorrows to bear. Prayers to be said. Fears surface. Dreams are shattered. Memories found. Mountains move. A book. New miracles. A father’s powerful love. New memories. Celebrations. A future. A new life. A bridge between what is and was.
When the Keeper of the Scale watches over the loft, he gives a sigh of relief. The scale is in balance; however, it may be short lived. As we approach the next book, (#3), Annie’s scale will again be weighted on the happiness side. The Keeper knows things will come to pass but he has no power to ordain the events of life; his job is simply to maintain the balance of sorrow and happiness. When the time is right, he will balance each mortals scale, just as he has done for all these many centuries.
Readers will love revisiting with characters from previous books, and as always, Bette creates a magical enchanting mood, through her characters’ voices and their lives, with her unique gift of storytelling. Not only in the lives of her characters, Bette eloquently passes the "awe-inspiring" through her words, onto the captivating pages of each of her books, to her readers—spilling over into their lives. Spellbinding!
If you have not read Bette’s books, highly recommend!The characters come alive, assured to touch your heart and your life, with inspiring words of compassion, and always left with a pondering thought.
Fans of Lisa Wingate, will be drawn to the stories, treasures, and the unique way of combining past and present. Beautifully crafted, both talented authors begin with a story, an inspiration, and a journey of discovery, peeling back the layers with —precious words for the soul, of hope and healing.
JDCMustReadBooks
Master Southern storyteller, Bette Lee Crosby returns with her second installment of the captivating Memory House Collection, THE LOFT where readers revisit with familiar characters, and the Keeper of the Scale, to learn what is in store for the journey; as it tips from sorrow to happiness, and somewhere in between.
They say that somewhere far beyond what mortals see there is a scale of life, and for each moment of happiness a stone of sorrow is dropped onto the scale.
When the Keeper of the Scale saw Annie’s life had been weighted with sorrow for far too long, he selected a stone, round, worn smooth and without jagged edges. He dropped the stone onto the happiness side of Annie’s scale. That was the day she knocked on Judge Oliver Doyle’s door.
Annie’s story began the previous year when she knocked on Ophelia Brown’s door. She thought at the time she was a sweet little old lady with a bed and breakfast, with a magical potpourri that smells like whatever you’re thinking of. However Ophelia is a woman who can find the magic hidden in everyday things.
Annie had thought she was in love with Michael, a man who thought way more of himself that he did of her. He made her feel worthless and before long he was believing it to be true. However, the day Michael walked out on her was the luckiest day of her life. If not, she would never have come to Memory House. Once she experienced the magic of memories, she could not wait until the next weekend to draw her back to a new adventure. Then she met Oliver.
When Ophelia first told Annie it was possible to connect to a memory someone had left behind in a forgotten object, she thought she was joking. But once she experienced it for herself, she knew it was true. Annie turned into a believer—if you want to live life to the fullest, you’ve got to be open-minded about the things that seem unbelievable.
Ophelia taught her how to touch an object and find the memory in it. Thinking it was the magical dandelion tea, at first; however, Ophelia claimed the ability is a gift given only to those with sensitive souls.
As we pick up from the first book, Memory House Collection #1, it all began when Annie was shown the bicycle in the storage shed. She heard a boy’s laughter and was so intrigued she had to learn more about him. Little by little it came to her…She knew of his fear…but she never knew his name. Then one day she found a book called The Wisdom of Judicial Judgment in the Practice of Law. The minute she touched the book, she knew the author, Ethan Allen Doyle was her bicycle boy, turning out to be the father of Oliver. This is when the magic began.
In Book #2, THE LOFT, we are gathered at the wedding of Annie and Oliver, with fond memories from Ophelia, as the same location as the marriage so long ago with Ophelia and her husband, Edward, now deceased. Today the couple will start to create their own memories, memories Annie hopes will one day be found in the objects they leave behind.
However, soon after the marriage, less than two days, the scale is shifted once again. Once a stone has been added to the scale of life, it can never be removed. The Keeper of the Scale knew this when he added the rose-colored stone to the happiness side of Annie’s scale. He looked into the future and saw what was to come, but at the time he believed the loneliness and sorrow of her early years were weighty enough to hold the scale in balance. Not even the Keeper of the Scale could foretell a happiness so great it would topple the scale itself. Annie’s happiness remained unshakable, until it was dropped onto the side of sorrow.
We hear from Oliver, Annie, and Ophelia’s POV - will Edwards’s stars, Ophelia’s memories, and possibly some miracles fill the holes in their heart? Will the scales be shifted towards happiness again?
When Ophelia first told Annie about her ability to find memories, she thought it was the strangest thing ever. However, now she is starting to believe any number of people might possess it. They just never discover it because they do not know where to look for it.
There are changes —for the first time Ophelia considers moving away from Memory House, and the special Loft may be turned into a bedroom for Oliver and Annie, to enable them to star gaze as Edward and Ophelia. Her wishes have always been to give the Memory House to someone who would love it like Annie.
As readers get to revisit with past book friends and the Baylor Towers, new adventures and another tragedy which shatters their world. The scales have once again tilted. One good gift, then another sadness.
Nothing is all good or bad; that’s how you’ve got to look at life. If you see it from one side or the other, you’re just going to make yourself crazy. Treasured memories are meant to stay with the person they belong to. Only the scattered memories with trouble stuck to them stay behind waiting for someone to stumble on them.
Time of Change— A new galaxy to travel—Sorrows to bear. Prayers to be said. Fears surface. Dreams are shattered. Memories found. Mountains move. A book. New miracles. A father’s powerful love. New memories. Celebrations. A future. A new life. A bridge between what is and was.
When the Keeper of the Scale watches over the loft, he gives a sigh of relief. The scale is in balance; however, it may be short lived. As we approach the next book, (#3), Annie’s scale will again be weighted on the happiness side. The Keeper knows things will come to pass but he has no power to ordain the events of life; his job is simply to maintain the balance of sorrow and happiness. When the time is right, he will balance each mortals scale, just as he has done for all these many centuries.
Readers will love revisiting with characters from previous books, and as always, Bette creates a magical enchanting mood, through her characters’ voices and their lives, with her unique gift of storytelling. Not only in the lives of her characters, Bette eloquently passes the "awe-inspiring" through her words, onto the captivating pages of each of her books, to her readers—spilling over into their lives. Spellbinding!
If you have not read Bette’s books, highly recommend!The characters come alive, assured to touch your heart and your life, with inspiring words of compassion, and always left with a pondering thought.
Fans of Lisa Wingate, will be drawn to the stories, treasures, and the unique way of combining past and present. Beautifully crafted, both talented authors begin with a story, an inspiration, and a journey of discovery, peeling back the layers with —precious words for the soul, of hope and healing.
JDCMustReadBooks
September 6, 2017
Annie and Oliver have married and are leaving on their honeymoon. Oliver is excited, he has plans for them as a married couple including dinner that night in an exclusive restaurant in New York. Annie is trying to reach Ophelia, her 92 year old friend to check on her but can't reach her. She is very worried. She finally gets a call telling her that Ophelia is in the hospital after having suffered a heart attack. Ophelia will be fine but it will take time.
Another heartwarming story from Crosby. She reminds us what friendship and love are all about. These are always a pleasure to read, I feel as if they bring back good friends and we meet new ones that we are eager to learn more about.
Another heartwarming story from Crosby. She reminds us what friendship and love are all about. These are always a pleasure to read, I feel as if they bring back good friends and we meet new ones that we are eager to learn more about.
September 13, 2015
The magic of memories, the healing power of love and a home where hearts beat on, welcome to The Loftby Bette Crosby is a heart-warming tale of lives shared, times remembered and the joy of true love at its finest. Ophelia Browne knows what love is and the memories are alive for her at memory House, but it’s time to move on, to make a new life, to thrive and find friends. Leaving Memory house to the newly wed Annie, she believes she has entrusted her home to a loving steward who will honor each day lived there.
Little did Ophelia and Annie know how important memories would become when Oliver needs one special memory to bring him back from the brink of death.
Once again, Bette Crosby creates a symphony of emotions and relationships with her words. From the gentle sonnets of the past to the crescendos of the immediate present, she conducts a beautiful score honoring love. Do not look for torrid scenes f love, look for the true passion and depth that shines on each page as her characters give of themselves without pause and embrace the changes around them.
Sit back and gently fall into this read, as you are welcomed into the fold of diverse characters.
I received an ARC edition from Bette Crosby in exchange for my honest review. Pick it up, brew some tea, read it!
Series: Memory House Series - Book 2
Publication Date: September 15, 2015
Publisher: Bent Pine Publishing
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 216 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Little did Ophelia and Annie know how important memories would become when Oliver needs one special memory to bring him back from the brink of death.
Once again, Bette Crosby creates a symphony of emotions and relationships with her words. From the gentle sonnets of the past to the crescendos of the immediate present, she conducts a beautiful score honoring love. Do not look for torrid scenes f love, look for the true passion and depth that shines on each page as her characters give of themselves without pause and embrace the changes around them.
Sit back and gently fall into this read, as you are welcomed into the fold of diverse characters.
I received an ARC edition from Bette Crosby in exchange for my honest review. Pick it up, brew some tea, read it!
Series: Memory House Series - Book 2
Publication Date: September 15, 2015
Publisher: Bent Pine Publishing
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 216 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 12, 2016
Crosby is such a masterful storyteller and The Loft was delightful. We have several threads that interweave creating a story that will keep the reader reading “just one more chapter.”
Oliver and Annie are just embarking on their new life together, and Ophelia will once again be alone in the Memory House. When an unexpected accident occurs, Oliver and Annie find themselves staying at Memory House and poor Ophelia ends up in the hospital.
The first half of the book really focused on Ophelia and we see a transformation in her as she meets new people and has to make some important life decisions. Between her stories, we see Oliver and Annie creating memories and working to weave Ophelia into their daily lives. We also meet a wonderful character named Max, who has the gift like Ophelia and Annie. She can sense, or feel memories in objects. I am curious to see what develops with her. Crosby set things up in this book and we will get her story in What the Heart Remembers.
The second half of the book focuses more on Oliver and Annie as their future is threatened. Annie must find the strength to save Oliver and make a home for them. I cried, and prayed right along with Annie. I admired her determination. Oliver was supportive throughout the novel, and introduced us to Max.
Crosby introduced many secondary characters. These characters were older and delightfully outspoken and full of life. Both Annie and Ophelia learned things from one character in particular. Crosby brought all the different threads together weaving a tale that made me want to visit Memory House and these wonderful characters.
Memory House, Ophelia’s home has a magic all of its own from the memories captured in each item. It seems to create magic and breath love. Crosby made me feel the magic this house held, and it welcomed me with open arms. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Oliver and Annie are just embarking on their new life together, and Ophelia will once again be alone in the Memory House. When an unexpected accident occurs, Oliver and Annie find themselves staying at Memory House and poor Ophelia ends up in the hospital.
The first half of the book really focused on Ophelia and we see a transformation in her as she meets new people and has to make some important life decisions. Between her stories, we see Oliver and Annie creating memories and working to weave Ophelia into their daily lives. We also meet a wonderful character named Max, who has the gift like Ophelia and Annie. She can sense, or feel memories in objects. I am curious to see what develops with her. Crosby set things up in this book and we will get her story in What the Heart Remembers.
The second half of the book focuses more on Oliver and Annie as their future is threatened. Annie must find the strength to save Oliver and make a home for them. I cried, and prayed right along with Annie. I admired her determination. Oliver was supportive throughout the novel, and introduced us to Max.
Crosby introduced many secondary characters. These characters were older and delightfully outspoken and full of life. Both Annie and Ophelia learned things from one character in particular. Crosby brought all the different threads together weaving a tale that made me want to visit Memory House and these wonderful characters.
Memory House, Ophelia’s home has a magic all of its own from the memories captured in each item. It seems to create magic and breath love. Crosby made me feel the magic this house held, and it welcomed me with open arms. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 29, 2016
I am a fairly new reader of this author, and I loved Memory House. This book put me right back there. Bette Lee's writing is homey and comfortable, her characters are so likeable I loved the magical realism, the whimsical notion of a potpourri taking on the fragrance of whatever you were thinking of. The teas and potions, the belief in a magical life. Especially compelling for me was the "Keeper of the Scale" who maintains the balance between sorrow and happiness for all mortals. Really interesting concept. Annie's life continues from book 1 with the predictable joys and trials. A really well told story about the power of memories, family, friendship, and of course...love.
August 26, 2015
I finished reading Bette Lee Crosby’s new book The Loft on the platform Social Book. Annie’s favorite part of the house of course is the loft bedroom from which they can lie in bed and see the stars. Although the book is part of a series it can be read as a stand- alone as well. It is so wonderful to read about the doctor that takes care of Annie’s husband Oliver. Dr Sharma is truly a doctor that cares in these days when you hear of many who do not. I believe the book will be available next month and I can hardly wait for the next one!
August 18, 2015
This book is the second in the Memory House series and was amazing. Bette has a way of getting her characters to come to life in her books. The story once again follows Annie Ophelia and Oliver centering around the Memory House. From the opening quote to the last page, I was hooked. Annie continues to grow with Ophelia's help. Lots of drama and even some nail biting. I loved the new characters and their fabulous fit into the story. I loved it and can't wait to read more.
February 22, 2016
Ophelia. A special lady who makes you feel special. Annie's relationship with her is amazing. Her life with Oliver is amazing. But all that changes when Oliver is in a car accident and Annie has to put her heart and soul into bringing him out of his coma. With a little help from her friends this heartwarming story will stay with you forever because love always finds a way.
August 25, 2015
This is the second book in the Memory House series and it is wonderful! I love revisiting with the old characters and meeting the new ones. If you like a nice heartwarming book with a little bit of suspense, then read this book. Just be sure to read book #1, Memory House, first!
September 29, 2015
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is Book II in The Memory House Series. I have read all of Bette’s books and her writing blows me away. Her novels read as if all is possible, if we just open our hearts. The characters are real and will tug at your heartstrings, demanding to be heard.
Ethan Allen has come a long way since I first met him as a child. Now, he has a family of his own and it is growing. Annie and Oliver, Ethan’s son, are getting married.
Ophelia had taught Annie about the memories attached to some objects and her ability to be able to connect with them…which brought her to Ethan and Oliver. Do you believe in miracles? In magic? Do you believe if we just open ourselves up to the endless possibilities, that we can all tap into something bigger than us?
The Keeper of the Scale maintains the balance of sorrow and happiness. I LOVE it. Most of the time he uses small, round river rocks to balance the scale, but sometimes there is such a huge discrepancy, he has to toss a boulder on there.
If you look hard enough in the stars at night, maybe you will see it.
Geez, Bette, I am only 6% into the story and have pulled out the tissues. I blink to see the words through my tears, my throat tightens and I find myself holding my breath.
Bette Lee Crosby’s characters are so real, they can be YOUR husband, YOUR friend…She takes me from a happy place to deep sorrow and back again. The rollercoaster ride drains me, as if I am going through it too.
When you think you know what’s going to happen, Bette Lee Crosby introduces a new character, a new wrinkle. There is so much happiness, I am waiting for the inevitable. Do the scales have to balance? Good with the bad? Happy with sad?
How many times have you sat, worried, when someone is late? How often have you yelled saying, “Why didn’t you call? For all I know you were lying hurt or dead in a ditch on the side of the road?” I sit…waiting…waiting for something to happen, knowing it is coming.
Bette is not afraid to put here characters to the test. The question is…how bad will it be?
Have your ever commented on how small the world is? How things seem to connect in the oddest way?
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is filled with intense emotion and a story that put me through all of them. I soared with the eagles, riding high and feeling free. I sank like a rock thrown into the water, going down further and further, unable to reach the surface. On that note, I can only say, “What comes next, Bette?”
I received The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby in return for an honest and unbiased review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
Ethan Allen has come a long way since I first met him as a child. Now, he has a family of his own and it is growing. Annie and Oliver, Ethan’s son, are getting married.
Ophelia had taught Annie about the memories attached to some objects and her ability to be able to connect with them…which brought her to Ethan and Oliver. Do you believe in miracles? In magic? Do you believe if we just open ourselves up to the endless possibilities, that we can all tap into something bigger than us?
The Keeper of the Scale maintains the balance of sorrow and happiness. I LOVE it. Most of the time he uses small, round river rocks to balance the scale, but sometimes there is such a huge discrepancy, he has to toss a boulder on there.
If you look hard enough in the stars at night, maybe you will see it.
Geez, Bette, I am only 6% into the story and have pulled out the tissues. I blink to see the words through my tears, my throat tightens and I find myself holding my breath.
Bette Lee Crosby’s characters are so real, they can be YOUR husband, YOUR friend…She takes me from a happy place to deep sorrow and back again. The rollercoaster ride drains me, as if I am going through it too.
When you think you know what’s going to happen, Bette Lee Crosby introduces a new character, a new wrinkle. There is so much happiness, I am waiting for the inevitable. Do the scales have to balance? Good with the bad? Happy with sad?
How many times have you sat, worried, when someone is late? How often have you yelled saying, “Why didn’t you call? For all I know you were lying hurt or dead in a ditch on the side of the road?” I sit…waiting…waiting for something to happen, knowing it is coming.
Bette is not afraid to put here characters to the test. The question is…how bad will it be?
Have your ever commented on how small the world is? How things seem to connect in the oddest way?
The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby is filled with intense emotion and a story that put me through all of them. I soared with the eagles, riding high and feeling free. I sank like a rock thrown into the water, going down further and further, unable to reach the surface. On that note, I can only say, “What comes next, Bette?”
I received The Loft by Bette Lee Crosby in return for an honest and unbiased review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
November 8, 2015
Annie Cross’s life changed completely a year ago. The change began the day she found Memory House Bed and Breakfast and met Ophelia Browne. Annie thought Ophelia was just a sweet old lady who had a way with herbs and wonderfully scented and seemingly magical potpourri. But Ophelia taught Annie things she never would have believed. And now she was marrying Oliver, in the same church where Ophelia married her late husband, Edward, as a direct result of finding memories in forgotten objects. The minute Annie touched the old bicycle, and began working on sprucing it up, the memories started with an echo of a boy’s laughter. That’s what lead her to Ethan Allen Doyle and from there to his son, Oliver.
Alone again in Memory House after Annie and Oliver’s marriage, Ophelia decides to drive to church. What happens next changes her life and her outlook. Annie loves Ophelia as if she were her own mother. She and Oliver move back into Memory House in order to look after Ophelia when she’s well enough to come home. While spending time in a rehabilitation centre Ophelia comes to a decision after making new friends and seeing the promise of a new life. A life lived in the present instead of the past.
Ophelia wants Annie and Oliver to make their own memories, in, among other places, the loft under a canopy of stars. She knows they won’t be able to do that if they are spending their time looking after her. She also realises she needs to live her life as well, her memories are not tied to any one place and will always be with her. Of course, that’s not the extent of the story as the Keeper of the Scale adds some river rocks to the sorrow side of Annie’s scale. Annie and Oliver are forced to travel a rocky road and Annie needs to find the memory which will bring Oliver back.
I love the way Ms Crosby weaves such wonderful stories, bringing in characters from previous books, as well as new ones, characters who are so real and believable they could be people you know or have met, engaging and well defined with depth and personality. I loved Annie’s new friend, Max Martinelli and, as always, the passages with different points of view between chapters. The narrative is full of emotion, happiness, sorrow and wisdom. A very well crafted story about love, friendship and the possibilities of life.
Only the Keeper of the Scale can maintain the balance between sorrow and happiness. The Keeper knows certain things will occur, but has no power over how life unfolds.
Alone again in Memory House after Annie and Oliver’s marriage, Ophelia decides to drive to church. What happens next changes her life and her outlook. Annie loves Ophelia as if she were her own mother. She and Oliver move back into Memory House in order to look after Ophelia when she’s well enough to come home. While spending time in a rehabilitation centre Ophelia comes to a decision after making new friends and seeing the promise of a new life. A life lived in the present instead of the past.
Ophelia wants Annie and Oliver to make their own memories, in, among other places, the loft under a canopy of stars. She knows they won’t be able to do that if they are spending their time looking after her. She also realises she needs to live her life as well, her memories are not tied to any one place and will always be with her. Of course, that’s not the extent of the story as the Keeper of the Scale adds some river rocks to the sorrow side of Annie’s scale. Annie and Oliver are forced to travel a rocky road and Annie needs to find the memory which will bring Oliver back.
I love the way Ms Crosby weaves such wonderful stories, bringing in characters from previous books, as well as new ones, characters who are so real and believable they could be people you know or have met, engaging and well defined with depth and personality. I loved Annie’s new friend, Max Martinelli and, as always, the passages with different points of view between chapters. The narrative is full of emotion, happiness, sorrow and wisdom. A very well crafted story about love, friendship and the possibilities of life.
Only the Keeper of the Scale can maintain the balance between sorrow and happiness. The Keeper knows certain things will occur, but has no power over how life unfolds.
October 4, 2015
I love everything Bette writes and The Loft is another one of her stories that I just fell in love with. She writes such beautiful prose with amazing and very likable characters. I want to enter the worlds she creates and never leave.
The following is the first line from the book and I just absolutely love the thought of this idea.
'They say that somewhere far beyond what mortals see there is a scale of life, and for each moment of happiness a stone of sorrow is dropped onto the scale.'
The Loft takes us back to Ophelia and Annie, who we first met in The Memory House. Annie is getting married and moving on with her life. These two women have formed such a strong and loving relationship. And they share the love of Memory House. Ophelia comes to a point where she feels she should leave the house and let those younger than herself experience the love she has found there and to make their own memories. But can she leave the memory of her true love, Edward?
'I don’t live here in this house. I’m alive inside your heart. I’ll go wherever you go.'
Bette's books are always filled with such sweet stories, all laced with a little magic. And so much wisdom. I love marking so many of the great passages she writes, they are words to treasure. And reading her books is always such a treat because she intertwines her characters from other books and it is always so wonderful to visit them again.
'Memories are a big comfort, but there are times when you just need a live friend to talk and laugh with.'
One last bit of Bette's wisdom. Read the rest of the book to experience this wonderful journey to the Memory House.
'Nothing is all good or all bad; that’s how you’ve got to look at life. If you see it from one side or the other, you’re just going to make yourself crazy.'
The following is the first line from the book and I just absolutely love the thought of this idea.
'They say that somewhere far beyond what mortals see there is a scale of life, and for each moment of happiness a stone of sorrow is dropped onto the scale.'
The Loft takes us back to Ophelia and Annie, who we first met in The Memory House. Annie is getting married and moving on with her life. These two women have formed such a strong and loving relationship. And they share the love of Memory House. Ophelia comes to a point where she feels she should leave the house and let those younger than herself experience the love she has found there and to make their own memories. But can she leave the memory of her true love, Edward?
'I don’t live here in this house. I’m alive inside your heart. I’ll go wherever you go.'
Bette's books are always filled with such sweet stories, all laced with a little magic. And so much wisdom. I love marking so many of the great passages she writes, they are words to treasure. And reading her books is always such a treat because she intertwines her characters from other books and it is always so wonderful to visit them again.
'Memories are a big comfort, but there are times when you just need a live friend to talk and laugh with.'
One last bit of Bette's wisdom. Read the rest of the book to experience this wonderful journey to the Memory House.
'Nothing is all good or all bad; that’s how you’ve got to look at life. If you see it from one side or the other, you’re just going to make yourself crazy.'
September 16, 2015
This is book 2 in Bette Lee Crosby's Memory House Collection and if you like great books with believable characters, this is the book for you! The book begins with the wedding of Annie and Oliver but it is as much about the growth and changes in Ophelia's life as it is Annie and Oliver's. Max, a new character who is an architect, is introduced and it looks like she will be the main focus of book 3, which I am anxious to read. The characters are well done and the reader wants to find out what happens to everyone because they feel like they know them. There is a some drama and nail biting in this book but that makes it even more real-life. The other thing that I really liked about the series is that it made me remember some of the memories in my life. I highly recommend this series.
(Book was supplied by the author on Socialbook but the review was not influenced by that)
(Book was supplied by the author on Socialbook but the review was not influenced by that)
September 5, 2015
The Loft: Memory House Collection (Memory House Series Book 2)
By Bette Lee Crosby
Ophelia is leaving memory house, but she taught Annie how to find memories. Annie moves into the loft and finds that she must help Oliver find that one special memory to save his life.
A heart warming story, beautifully written. all of the characters are likable, and play a special role in this story. I really liked Ophelia and Annie. The plot is original, and the air of magic just adds to an already captivating, heart-felt read. I highly recommendThe Loft: Memory House Collection to readers of all genres.
By Bette Lee Crosby
Ophelia is leaving memory house, but she taught Annie how to find memories. Annie moves into the loft and finds that she must help Oliver find that one special memory to save his life.
A heart warming story, beautifully written. all of the characters are likable, and play a special role in this story. I really liked Ophelia and Annie. The plot is original, and the air of magic just adds to an already captivating, heart-felt read. I highly recommendThe Loft: Memory House Collection to readers of all genres.
September 6, 2015
This book is populated with some of my very favorites among Bette Lee Crosby's characters, who seem so real you feel like you could just knock on their door and sit down to a cup of tea with them. Ophelia is a captivating and spunky 90-year-old, bent on sharing her wisdom with her protege Annie as Annie begins her married life.
Two accidents change everything for Ophelia, Annie and Annie's husband Oliver--but the more things change, the more they stay the same. This novel explores the power of friendship, love, and memory. I was sad to see it end and look forward to the next chapter in the Memory House story.
I was provided with an advance reader copy of The Loft, but no other compensation, in exchange for my honest review.
Two accidents change everything for Ophelia, Annie and Annie's husband Oliver--but the more things change, the more they stay the same. This novel explores the power of friendship, love, and memory. I was sad to see it end and look forward to the next chapter in the Memory House story.
I was provided with an advance reader copy of The Loft, but no other compensation, in exchange for my honest review.
September 11, 2015
I like this much better than the first book. There is still that element of magic that I think got a little overboard in the first installment, but here, there were just enough sprinkles, it was very believable.
Both Ophelia and Annie enter new phases in their lives. Both are happier, yet the "scale of life" needs to be balanced, and so trials come. With love and faith though, anything is possible, and no hurdle is too high to reach and overcome.
Bette Lee Crosby's stories showcase a host of good-hearted characters. It is always a refreshing experience to read them. One thing I didn't like about The Loft is that I know from the story that there is definitely more to it, but I would have to wait for a third book before I know what happens next.
Both Ophelia and Annie enter new phases in their lives. Both are happier, yet the "scale of life" needs to be balanced, and so trials come. With love and faith though, anything is possible, and no hurdle is too high to reach and overcome.
Bette Lee Crosby's stories showcase a host of good-hearted characters. It is always a refreshing experience to read them. One thing I didn't like about The Loft is that I know from the story that there is definitely more to it, but I would have to wait for a third book before I know what happens next.
October 4, 2015
One thing about books by Bette Lee Crosby, they grab you into the story from the very beginning and don't let go until the last page! The Loft is second in the Memory House series and I may say this with each of her books that this is my favorite yet. But everytime you think they can't get better, they do!
I love the characters in this book. They made me laugh and they made me cry. The author is a natural at getting the story told in a way that you feel as if you know the characters. And you hurt when they hurt and are happy when they are happy.
Naturally, I highly recommend this book! But I also recommend any book that is written by Bette Lee Crosby. She never fails at touching your heart with her books!
I love the characters in this book. They made me laugh and they made me cry. The author is a natural at getting the story told in a way that you feel as if you know the characters. And you hurt when they hurt and are happy when they are happy.
Naturally, I highly recommend this book! But I also recommend any book that is written by Bette Lee Crosby. She never fails at touching your heart with her books!
September 15, 2015
I was soooo very excited to get my hands on this book! Thank you Ms. Crosby!
The Loft picks up where The Memory House left off. You go through lives and memories right along with her characters. I had forgotten the gamut of emotions Ms. Crosby very deftly takes you through with her very talented writing and believable characters.
I adore this series, each book in it, is like a hidden jewel just waiting to be discovered!
I received a copy from the author for review. Thank you Ms. Bette Lee Crosby.
The Loft picks up where The Memory House left off. You go through lives and memories right along with her characters. I had forgotten the gamut of emotions Ms. Crosby very deftly takes you through with her very talented writing and believable characters.
I adore this series, each book in it, is like a hidden jewel just waiting to be discovered!
I received a copy from the author for review. Thank you Ms. Bette Lee Crosby.
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