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Too Much, Texas #2
From Here To Home
"Marie Bostwick is my go-to author…always powerful, inspiring, and uplifting." –Robyn Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author
New York Times bestselling author Marie Bostwick welcomes readers to the quirky, unforgettable town of Too Much, Texas, in a heartwarming, richly satisfying story of friendship and moving forward…
Mary Dell Templeton prefers the quiet charms of Too Much to the bright lights of Dallas any day. She's relieved to be moving back to her hometown--and bringing her cable TV show, Quintessential Quilting, with her. There are just a couple of wrinkles in her plan. Her son, Howard, who is her talented co-host and color consultant, and happens to have Down syndrome, wants to stay in Dallas and become more independent. Meanwhile, Mary Dell's new boss hopes to attract a different demographic--by bringing in a younger co-host.
What Holly Whittaker knows about quilting wouldn't fill a thimble, but she's smart and ambitious. Her career hinges on outshining the formidable Mary Dell in order to earn her own show. Yet as Holly adapts to small-town living and begins a new romance, and Mary Dell considers rekindling an old one, the two find unlikely kinship. For as Mary Dell knows, the women of Too Much have a knack for untangling the knottiest problems when they work together. And sometimes the pattern for happiness is as simple and surprising as it is beautiful…
Praise for Marie Bostwick and Her Novels
"Fans of Debbie Macomber and Robyn Carr will enjoy this warm, witty novel of rediscovery and personal growth." --Booklist on The Second Sister
"A story that touches women on many levels and yet is filled with humor and a bit of pathos." --Kirkus on Between Heaven and Texas
"A brilliant storyteller." --Las Vegas Review-Journal on Threading the Needle
New York Times bestselling author Marie Bostwick welcomes readers to the quirky, unforgettable town of Too Much, Texas, in a heartwarming, richly satisfying story of friendship and moving forward…
Mary Dell Templeton prefers the quiet charms of Too Much to the bright lights of Dallas any day. She's relieved to be moving back to her hometown--and bringing her cable TV show, Quintessential Quilting, with her. There are just a couple of wrinkles in her plan. Her son, Howard, who is her talented co-host and color consultant, and happens to have Down syndrome, wants to stay in Dallas and become more independent. Meanwhile, Mary Dell's new boss hopes to attract a different demographic--by bringing in a younger co-host.
What Holly Whittaker knows about quilting wouldn't fill a thimble, but she's smart and ambitious. Her career hinges on outshining the formidable Mary Dell in order to earn her own show. Yet as Holly adapts to small-town living and begins a new romance, and Mary Dell considers rekindling an old one, the two find unlikely kinship. For as Mary Dell knows, the women of Too Much have a knack for untangling the knottiest problems when they work together. And sometimes the pattern for happiness is as simple and surprising as it is beautiful…
Praise for Marie Bostwick and Her Novels
"Fans of Debbie Macomber and Robyn Carr will enjoy this warm, witty novel of rediscovery and personal growth." --Booklist on The Second Sister
"A story that touches women on many levels and yet is filled with humor and a bit of pathos." --Kirkus on Between Heaven and Texas
"A brilliant storyteller." --Las Vegas Review-Journal on Threading the Needle
421 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2016
286 people are currently reading
1278 people want to read
About the author
Marie Bostwick
42 books1,817 followersMarie Bostwick is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of uplifting historical and contemporary fiction. She lives in the state of Washington and travels frequently to sign books, speak to reading groups, and meet her readers. Keep up with Marie, her travels, new releases and lifestyle blog, Fiercely Marie, at www.mariebostwick.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
March 13, 2025
Years ago, I won the author’s book, “The Restoration of Celia Fairchild.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
She personally sent it to me, so, I mailed her a thank you note. She then sent me a message back, saying thank you for the thank you note. I guess she wasn’t use to hearing from a reader in this personal way. For me, it seemed only natural to tell her my feelings so openly.
So, when I found this book in a Little Free Library in Monterey, CA, on a recent trip, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to crawl inside the pages.
This is the heart-felt story of Mary Dell and her son, Howard who has Down’s Syndrome. Apparently, this is the second book in the series, which I didn’t realize until I got into it. The first book is considered a prequel and called, “Between Heaven and Texas.” The author does a relatively good job of keeping readers up-to-speed on their back history, which makes this a fairly reasonable stand-alone. Still, it is always recommended to read the first book for a deeper connection to the characters.
At this stage of their story, Howard is ready to seek an independent lifestyle. Which means that Mary has to learn how to live a life as an empty nester. As Mary starts to gain some momentum into her own newly felt independence, Howard faces a life-threatening illness. How will this circumstance affect both of them and the people who have come into their present lives?
The characters feel so real. They are complex, well-developed, resilient, likable and multi-faceted. And, anyone who has a love for quilting will enjoy a visit to Cobble Court Quilts. The story is also heart-warming and an easy-read.
She personally sent it to me, so, I mailed her a thank you note. She then sent me a message back, saying thank you for the thank you note. I guess she wasn’t use to hearing from a reader in this personal way. For me, it seemed only natural to tell her my feelings so openly.
So, when I found this book in a Little Free Library in Monterey, CA, on a recent trip, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to crawl inside the pages.
This is the heart-felt story of Mary Dell and her son, Howard who has Down’s Syndrome. Apparently, this is the second book in the series, which I didn’t realize until I got into it. The first book is considered a prequel and called, “Between Heaven and Texas.” The author does a relatively good job of keeping readers up-to-speed on their back history, which makes this a fairly reasonable stand-alone. Still, it is always recommended to read the first book for a deeper connection to the characters.
At this stage of their story, Howard is ready to seek an independent lifestyle. Which means that Mary has to learn how to live a life as an empty nester. As Mary starts to gain some momentum into her own newly felt independence, Howard faces a life-threatening illness. How will this circumstance affect both of them and the people who have come into their present lives?
The characters feel so real. They are complex, well-developed, resilient, likable and multi-faceted. And, anyone who has a love for quilting will enjoy a visit to Cobble Court Quilts. The story is also heart-warming and an easy-read.
May 4, 2016
From Here to Home was an engaging and fun read, with plenty to think about along the way. There was a wide variety of characters - it took me a little while to get my head around them all. However once I got them all sorted I was into it.
Marie Bostwick has written a small town romance, with the addition of a Texas country feel to it and just a touch of quilting which of course endeared the book to me. The is a follow up to a previous book about Mary Dell and Howard, and while I will go back and read that at some point, it didn't really hinder my enjoyment of this one.
Mary Dell is a quilter, ranch owner and owner of a quilt shop and presents a TV Quilt Show. Rather busy! Her thirtyish son Howard is a co-host of the show, he has a flare for color and is gifted in art and design. He is now wanting to expand his horizons and become more independent, which just might break his mother's heart. Mary Dell has a new suitor on the block, he is keen to take the relationship further, but... Mary Dell is still married to Donny, even though she hasn't seen him for decades.
Holly is the young woman who is assigned by the network to co-host with Mary Dell on the show, when they want to just get rid of the show and make it fail. However Holly is a really nice person and is soon genuinely involved in the local life. She has a love for horses and one in particular. And soon she is also feeling an attraction for a Afghanistan veteran, who has many problems and challenges with the residue of war.
The was a warm, witty story that also addressed issues like Down's Syndrome, divorce, mother-daughter relationships, old age and more. A delight to read.
Marie Bostwick has written a small town romance, with the addition of a Texas country feel to it and just a touch of quilting which of course endeared the book to me. The is a follow up to a previous book about Mary Dell and Howard, and while I will go back and read that at some point, it didn't really hinder my enjoyment of this one.
Mary Dell is a quilter, ranch owner and owner of a quilt shop and presents a TV Quilt Show. Rather busy! Her thirtyish son Howard is a co-host of the show, he has a flare for color and is gifted in art and design. He is now wanting to expand his horizons and become more independent, which just might break his mother's heart. Mary Dell has a new suitor on the block, he is keen to take the relationship further, but... Mary Dell is still married to Donny, even though she hasn't seen him for decades.
Holly is the young woman who is assigned by the network to co-host with Mary Dell on the show, when they want to just get rid of the show and make it fail. However Holly is a really nice person and is soon genuinely involved in the local life. She has a love for horses and one in particular. And soon she is also feeling an attraction for a Afghanistan veteran, who has many problems and challenges with the residue of war.
The was a warm, witty story that also addressed issues like Down's Syndrome, divorce, mother-daughter relationships, old age and more. A delight to read.
March 27, 2016
WOMEN - This book deals with women who are mothers, grandmothers, aunts, nieces, granddaughters, friends, single, married, abandoned, widowed, professionals, mentors, quilters, ranchers, TV personalities, lovers and a whole lot more. I believe this is a story that will speak to the women who read it because it definitely spoke to me.
This book dealt with some big issues that included Down syndrome and both animals and humans dealing with PTSD. I was drawn into the story, cared about the characters and eagerly read to find out what would happen next. I was more than satisfied with the conclusion and how the various people within the story eventually ended up living their lives.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it will not be my last.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the copy of this book to read and review.
4.5 Stars
This book dealt with some big issues that included Down syndrome and both animals and humans dealing with PTSD. I was drawn into the story, cared about the characters and eagerly read to find out what would happen next. I was more than satisfied with the conclusion and how the various people within the story eventually ended up living their lives.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it will not be my last.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the copy of this book to read and review.
4.5 Stars
February 16, 2016
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. I cannot believe I have never read a book by Marie Bostwick before now. I really enjoyed this book, it was a heartwarming read that has you feeling all the feels! I loved the storyline and all of the characters! I highly recommend this book!
March 24, 2016
4.5 stars.
From Here to Home by Marie Bostwick is an absolutely heartwarming novel of love, family and moving forward.
With her beloved quilting show up for renewal, the last thing Mary Dell Templeton needs are complications on the family ranch in Too Much, TX. The show's ratings are slipping and Mary Dell knows that without the show, the quilt store in her small hometown will lose business so she comes up with a pretty ingenious plan to film the upcoming season in Too Much. Unbeknownst to Mary Dell, a newcomer to the network wants to cancel the show and a co-host has been hired to replace Mary Dell's son, Howard. When Mary Dell breaks the news to Howard, she is stunned by Howard's reaction to the news and although she is happy that her son wants to stretch his wings, she is worried about him living on his own.
Howard's replacement, Holly Silva, relocates from California to Too Much and immediately begins a crash course in quilting. Holly is surprised by Mary Dell's warm reception and the two women form a fast friendship. Determined not to allow the network's programming executive pit them against one another, Holly and Mary Dell present a united front but the show's inept new producer refuses to listen to their suggestions. Despite their hard work and their innovative ideas, Holly is still under pressure to sabotage the show and when Mary Dell faces a personal crisis, the future of the series remains in jeopardy.
Romance is also in the air for both Mary Dell and Holly. Mary Dell's close friendship with hotel owner Hub Jay turns to love but since she has not completely made peace over her estrangement with her husband, she is very reluctant to act on her feelings. Holly's surprising romance with Mary Dell's nephew Rob Lee is complicated by his unresolved issues stemming from survivor's guilt, untreated depression and PTSD. With time, patience and good humor, Mary Dell and Holly work through their respective issues, but will either of them find their happily ever after with the man of the dreams?
From Here to Home is a captivating novel that is brimming with humor and down home country charm. All of the characters are richly developed and watching them grow as they work through their individual problems is incredibly gratifying. Marie Bostwick brings the town of Two Much and its quirky but lovable residents vividly to life. Although this newest release the second installment in the Two Much, Texas series, it can be read as a standalone (but I highly recommend the entire series).
From Here to Home by Marie Bostwick is an absolutely heartwarming novel of love, family and moving forward.
With her beloved quilting show up for renewal, the last thing Mary Dell Templeton needs are complications on the family ranch in Too Much, TX. The show's ratings are slipping and Mary Dell knows that without the show, the quilt store in her small hometown will lose business so she comes up with a pretty ingenious plan to film the upcoming season in Too Much. Unbeknownst to Mary Dell, a newcomer to the network wants to cancel the show and a co-host has been hired to replace Mary Dell's son, Howard. When Mary Dell breaks the news to Howard, she is stunned by Howard's reaction to the news and although she is happy that her son wants to stretch his wings, she is worried about him living on his own.
Howard's replacement, Holly Silva, relocates from California to Too Much and immediately begins a crash course in quilting. Holly is surprised by Mary Dell's warm reception and the two women form a fast friendship. Determined not to allow the network's programming executive pit them against one another, Holly and Mary Dell present a united front but the show's inept new producer refuses to listen to their suggestions. Despite their hard work and their innovative ideas, Holly is still under pressure to sabotage the show and when Mary Dell faces a personal crisis, the future of the series remains in jeopardy.
Romance is also in the air for both Mary Dell and Holly. Mary Dell's close friendship with hotel owner Hub Jay turns to love but since she has not completely made peace over her estrangement with her husband, she is very reluctant to act on her feelings. Holly's surprising romance with Mary Dell's nephew Rob Lee is complicated by his unresolved issues stemming from survivor's guilt, untreated depression and PTSD. With time, patience and good humor, Mary Dell and Holly work through their respective issues, but will either of them find their happily ever after with the man of the dreams?
From Here to Home is a captivating novel that is brimming with humor and down home country charm. All of the characters are richly developed and watching them grow as they work through their individual problems is incredibly gratifying. Marie Bostwick brings the town of Two Much and its quirky but lovable residents vividly to life. Although this newest release the second installment in the Two Much, Texas series, it can be read as a standalone (but I highly recommend the entire series).
December 1, 2023
A heartwarming story of family and trust with a bit of romance, plus a dollop of quilting and a dab of horse training too.
I enjoyed the optimistic attitude of main character Mary Dell Templeton, a single mother of an adult son with Down syndrome who created a TV show based on her skill as a quilter. Her positive perspective propels the story, for example when she thinks, “You never knew what might happen or who might come out on top. The sun rose anew every morning, and when it did, you might be about to have the best day of your life. Even on days when it was too dark to see clearly, there was a plan, and if you just kept going, you were bound to find it.”
The novel has realistic characters with real-world problems, and a thread of hope running through the story. It was this hopefulness that kept me turning the pages of this inspirational tale full of heartfelt connections and sprinkled with humor.
Relationships are front and center in this novel, both mother-daughter kinship as well as friendships between women. Even with the normal friction of day-to-day relationships, the author writes with warmth and honesty, as her main character explains, “That was the trick to life: to cling to family and the people you love. People, Mary Dell had discovered, far more than any particular longitude or latitude, were the anchors of the heart’s true home.”
This is my third novel by author Marie Bostwick, and I’ve just discovered she’s written nearly 30. Looks like I’ll be adding her books to my TBR list.
If you’re looking for a satisfying, encouraging, feel-good novel about family, friendship, trust, and hope, this is the book for you.
I enjoyed the optimistic attitude of main character Mary Dell Templeton, a single mother of an adult son with Down syndrome who created a TV show based on her skill as a quilter. Her positive perspective propels the story, for example when she thinks, “You never knew what might happen or who might come out on top. The sun rose anew every morning, and when it did, you might be about to have the best day of your life. Even on days when it was too dark to see clearly, there was a plan, and if you just kept going, you were bound to find it.”
The novel has realistic characters with real-world problems, and a thread of hope running through the story. It was this hopefulness that kept me turning the pages of this inspirational tale full of heartfelt connections and sprinkled with humor.
Relationships are front and center in this novel, both mother-daughter kinship as well as friendships between women. Even with the normal friction of day-to-day relationships, the author writes with warmth and honesty, as her main character explains, “That was the trick to life: to cling to family and the people you love. People, Mary Dell had discovered, far more than any particular longitude or latitude, were the anchors of the heart’s true home.”
This is my third novel by author Marie Bostwick, and I’ve just discovered she’s written nearly 30. Looks like I’ll be adding her books to my TBR list.
If you’re looking for a satisfying, encouraging, feel-good novel about family, friendship, trust, and hope, this is the book for you.
June 10, 2024
I absolutely loved how every major character mentioned was given a point of view. I love the romance that was built between characters and friendships and even conflicts. Everything that was written was so smoothly introduced and explained. I love Marie so so much
March 29, 2016
From Here to Home By Marie Bostwick
Have read other works by this author and have enjoyed the reads. Especially like the quilting that is mentioned as I also dabble in the fabrics.
This one starts out with Mary Dell and her autistic son Howard who are hosts on the Home Network, Quintessential Quilting.
She is summoned home to not only help with the ailing relatives but help run the shop. She also has unexpected agents come to tell her of her job ending if the ratings don't pick up.
She has other plans and will try a few of them to keep the show going....Jason, the head guy wants to make the show more appealing to the under 55 age group and brings in a model that just might do the trick.
She and Mary Dell have some time to work together to make the show a hit. Holly has NO idea what quilting is all about and is only the eye candy the show needs....Her mother is a huge movie star and is still wanted for movies.
Howard has plans of his own when she informs him the show no longer wants him to host....story follows HubJay who's bought up hotels and turned them into showpieces=he's in love with Mary Dell.
Story also follows Mary Dell's nephew who's returned from the war and he will be the manager of the ranch and do farm chores and other tasks... At times it's hard to keep a handle on who is who but after a few chapters you fall into it all.
Amazing how Mary is able to put everything aside to help out the new hostess and still keep her plans intact. What some people will do, crazy things abound!
The trouble some people get into...Medical emergencies and the past catch up with some....lots of mysteries, twists and turns to keep you really interested in this book.
I received this book from The Kennsington Books in exchange for my honest review.
Have read other works by this author and have enjoyed the reads. Especially like the quilting that is mentioned as I also dabble in the fabrics.
This one starts out with Mary Dell and her autistic son Howard who are hosts on the Home Network, Quintessential Quilting.
She is summoned home to not only help with the ailing relatives but help run the shop. She also has unexpected agents come to tell her of her job ending if the ratings don't pick up.
She has other plans and will try a few of them to keep the show going....Jason, the head guy wants to make the show more appealing to the under 55 age group and brings in a model that just might do the trick.
She and Mary Dell have some time to work together to make the show a hit. Holly has NO idea what quilting is all about and is only the eye candy the show needs....Her mother is a huge movie star and is still wanted for movies.
Howard has plans of his own when she informs him the show no longer wants him to host....story follows HubJay who's bought up hotels and turned them into showpieces=he's in love with Mary Dell.
Story also follows Mary Dell's nephew who's returned from the war and he will be the manager of the ranch and do farm chores and other tasks... At times it's hard to keep a handle on who is who but after a few chapters you fall into it all.
Amazing how Mary is able to put everything aside to help out the new hostess and still keep her plans intact. What some people will do, crazy things abound!
The trouble some people get into...Medical emergencies and the past catch up with some....lots of mysteries, twists and turns to keep you really interested in this book.
I received this book from The Kennsington Books in exchange for my honest review.
June 30, 2016
I loved From Here To Home by Marie Bostwick. It is the story of Mary Del Templeton and her son Howard who is now a 30-year-old man. They have been hosting a quilting show that is now in jeopardy and Howard is wanting to become an independent man.
From Here To Home to really a story of courage: courage to allow a Down Syndrome child to grow to his fullest potential, courage to face new professional challenges with odds stacked against you, and courage to face the actions of both animals and humans suffering from PTSD. Marie Bostwick does a marvelous job with all these topics while still infusing humor with all the various characters. I was so happy to catch up with Mary Del and Howard; what a beautiful story all around.
Go Cards! L1C4!!
From Here To Home to really a story of courage: courage to allow a Down Syndrome child to grow to his fullest potential, courage to face new professional challenges with odds stacked against you, and courage to face the actions of both animals and humans suffering from PTSD. Marie Bostwick does a marvelous job with all these topics while still infusing humor with all the various characters. I was so happy to catch up with Mary Del and Howard; what a beautiful story all around.
Go Cards! L1C4!!
October 19, 2025
Full review @ Smoke & Mirrors: http://books-n-music.blogspot.com/201.... Wasn't sure what to expect from this book. It seemed to start out a bit "romancy," but quickly became another amazing story with these well-defined rather complex characters, just as I like! Glad I read this and truly hope she's serious about another book to follow these peoples' lives, for it feels as if they are now my friends!
May 22, 2023
3 1/2 stars. An intriguing and engrossing continuation—30 years later—of Between Heaven and Texas, which continues the story of Mary Dale Templeton and her son, Howard, who is a highly functioning adult with Down’s syndrome and the co-star of Mary Dale’s quilting show.
The characters are well developed, for the most part, except for several obvious “baddies” whose manners and personalities match their lack of character.
An enjoyable read, especially for people who enjoy stories with extended families, books set in the South, and ladies who like to quilt, sew, or embroider, etc.
The characters are well developed, for the most part, except for several obvious “baddies” whose manners and personalities match their lack of character.
An enjoyable read, especially for people who enjoy stories with extended families, books set in the South, and ladies who like to quilt, sew, or embroider, etc.
September 11, 2018
Nice well written read ...relationships, quilting, horses, love and redemption.
January 18, 2019
The story speaks to a wide range of women..the quilting was a plus,with the family connection endearing. I need to go back and read the first story about Howard and Mary dell
March 10, 2023
Such a good story and clean language also.
March 30, 2016
Mary Dell Templeton prefers the quiet charms of Too Much to the bright lights of Dallas any day. She's relieved to be moving back to her hometown--and bringing her cable TV show, Quintessential Quilting, with her. There are just a couple of wrinkles in her plan. Her son, Howard, who is her talented co-host and color consultant, and happens to have Down syndrome, wants to stay in Dallas and become more independent. Meanwhile, Mary Dell's new boss hopes to attract a different demographic--by bringing in a younger co-host.
What Holly Silva knows about quilting wouldn't fill a thimble, but she's smart and ambitious. Her career hinges on outshining the formidable Mary Dell in order to earn her own show. Yet as Holly adapts to small-town living and begins a new romance, and Mary Dell considers rekindling an old one, the two find unlikely kinship. For as Mary Dell knows, the women of Too Much have a knack for untangling the knottiest problems when they work together. And sometimes the pattern for happiness is as simple and surprising as it is beautiful....
My Review:
Although its categorized as romance its more inspirational than romantic despite having a few romantic moments in it. It felt more Lifetime movie than the Harlequin super channel kind of book but that being said I really enjoyed From Here to Home.
From Here to Home was a a story that felt more life inspiring with less fiction and more realism than most romances you find lately even with ones that include flawed characters as this one does.
In most romances with character handicaps readers don't get a deeper grasp on how a person and their life can be affected by those around them when someone they're connected to has a mental/physical/emotional handicap or how much that can really affect everything else in their lives. I enjoyed that you get a better understanding of what it takes to attempt to let go and trust and find that the things you clung to for so long aren't always as big a burden as you once assumed them to be.
I loved the family dynamic and I loved the courage Bostwick had writing about such topics. She pulled it off beautifully.
My Rating:
Reviewed By:
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Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Source:
Received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Kensington Publishing via Netgalley
Note:
If any of Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! Thank you!
What Holly Silva knows about quilting wouldn't fill a thimble, but she's smart and ambitious. Her career hinges on outshining the formidable Mary Dell in order to earn her own show. Yet as Holly adapts to small-town living and begins a new romance, and Mary Dell considers rekindling an old one, the two find unlikely kinship. For as Mary Dell knows, the women of Too Much have a knack for untangling the knottiest problems when they work together. And sometimes the pattern for happiness is as simple and surprising as it is beautiful....
My Review:
Although its categorized as romance its more inspirational than romantic despite having a few romantic moments in it. It felt more Lifetime movie than the Harlequin super channel kind of book but that being said I really enjoyed From Here to Home.
From Here to Home was a a story that felt more life inspiring with less fiction and more realism than most romances you find lately even with ones that include flawed characters as this one does.
In most romances with character handicaps readers don't get a deeper grasp on how a person and their life can be affected by those around them when someone they're connected to has a mental/physical/emotional handicap or how much that can really affect everything else in their lives. I enjoyed that you get a better understanding of what it takes to attempt to let go and trust and find that the things you clung to for so long aren't always as big a burden as you once assumed them to be.
I loved the family dynamic and I loved the courage Bostwick had writing about such topics. She pulled it off beautifully.
My Rating:
Reviewed By:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Booklikes
Goodreads
Google Plus
Blogger
Amazon
Disclaimer:
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Source:
Received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Kensington Publishing via Netgalley
Note:
If any of Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! Thank you!
July 23, 2021
Such a wonderful read!!
February 23, 2017
I just loved this book!
December 4, 2015
Every time I read a Marie Bostwick book, it is all I can do to tear myself away from her books and do the normal household chores that need to be done. The comfy chair and cups of hot tea have been calling my name during this hectic season especially when my newest book from Marie is sitting there begging to be read.
I love Marie's books. I have read every single one of them. I love how she has progressed in her writing from her very first book, and she has churned out lovely books every single time. The ONLY issue I have with her books is ... she makes me want to sit down and whip out a quilt. The issue is, my sewing machine is buried beneath boxes as we have just moved and we're still working on renovating the basement. True. I can dig it out and start whipping out a quilt ... but you haven't seen my basement. ;o)
This book is a second book in the Texas series. If you have read the first one, "Between Heaven and Texas," you would be familiar with Mary Dell and Howard, the dynamite mother/son team who has taken over the quilting world with grace, wit and charm. This is the follow up. (It also works really well as a stand alone if you want to read this one first.)
Mary Dell's television series is in trouble. She also need to return to Too Much, Texas and to her ranch, to take care of her errant nephew, help her niece run the store and keep her daft mother in line as well as dealing with a new show host who replaced Howard. It is a very chaotic time for Mary Dell, and you can't help but root for her, even through the darkest times of her life.
If you have never picked up a Marie Bostwick book, you really are missing out on an excellent author. There is simply no one else like her.
I love Marie's books. I have read every single one of them. I love how she has progressed in her writing from her very first book, and she has churned out lovely books every single time. The ONLY issue I have with her books is ... she makes me want to sit down and whip out a quilt. The issue is, my sewing machine is buried beneath boxes as we have just moved and we're still working on renovating the basement. True. I can dig it out and start whipping out a quilt ... but you haven't seen my basement. ;o)
This book is a second book in the Texas series. If you have read the first one, "Between Heaven and Texas," you would be familiar with Mary Dell and Howard, the dynamite mother/son team who has taken over the quilting world with grace, wit and charm. This is the follow up. (It also works really well as a stand alone if you want to read this one first.)
Mary Dell's television series is in trouble. She also need to return to Too Much, Texas and to her ranch, to take care of her errant nephew, help her niece run the store and keep her daft mother in line as well as dealing with a new show host who replaced Howard. It is a very chaotic time for Mary Dell, and you can't help but root for her, even through the darkest times of her life.
If you have never picked up a Marie Bostwick book, you really are missing out on an excellent author. There is simply no one else like her.
February 1, 2018
Another likeable, pleasant read from Marie Bostwick, a sequel to From Heaven to Texas, building on the lives of Mary Dell Templeton and her son, Howard, as spin-offs from Bostwick's "Cobbled Court Quilts" series, which is equally if not more enjoyable. I hope she writes more about the characters in Too Much, Texas--as a fifth-generation Texan, I enjoyed being transported back to the language and environs of small-town life there. I looked forward each day to settling down with this book before bedtime. Some of the characters shade toward stereotypes, but not enough to irritate, the insights into life with Down syndrome are enlightening without being didactic, and the story can be more fun than a picnic with a passle of fireworks.
June 5, 2016
Bostwick has quickly become my favorite author. I love all eight of her books I have read. I had my book club read Between Heaven and Texas and it was spectacularly accepted by them. One person told me that she felt Mary Dell was her friend and she actually missed her after finishing the book. This book was great!
May 9, 2016
This sequel to Between Heaven and Texas, may be read as a standalone, but why would you want to? You will want to get to know Mary Dell and Howard from the very beginning. A heartwarming story of courage, love, and family, Bostwick will make you laugh and cry. Read my review at http://bit.ly/1rNcmgU.
June 1, 2016
You can't help but love and root for Texan, Mary Dell Templeton, a colorful host of a quilting program with her son Howard on a cable television network. She is loud, funny, loyal and has a heart as biggest as the lone-star state. I read the last chapters slowly because I didn't want the story to end.
March 19, 2024
Pretty good. A bit of a boilerplate but interesting characters and felt fitting for Thanksgiving time.
December 1, 2016
I didn't like the Prologue, because it tried to set a totally different tone for the book. Keep that in mind, when you choose this book. The rest of the book is not centered around this bar scene. However, the scene does make sense later. I'm reading this book again and understanding the characters and scenes clearer.
I liked the short chapters. The multitude of characters kept my head spinning at first. Perhaps some were introduced in a previous book of the series. Since this is the first Marie Bostwick book I've read I didn't know them. Once I learned more about them, I liked the author's characterizations.
I laughed. I cried. I related to many of the people and situations. I especially liked the quilt shop/show scenarios since my mother owned a quilt shop and taught lessons for about 20 years. I'm not a Down Syndrome expert, but I wondered if a DS would be as capable as Donny. I expect there are different levels of the condition. Perhaps this was a true reflection of those who are this capable. I suspended disbelief a few times, like the coincidence when Hub-Jay's hotel manager's brother knew Donny's bartender in a totally different town and just happened to be listening in on a conversation. I know sometimes it's a small world, but I wanted a better connection for this to be believable.
I usually want to know the significance of the book title. In this case, I still don't know. The reasoning of the town's name Too Much is too cute and so are the fabric names for Mary Dell's relations. Although, I like the nicknames for them.
Other than the above I enjoyed the book and will lead the discussion on it next week at the Halls Book Club in Knoxville, TN. This should be interesting as there are many scenes to discuss.
I liked the short chapters. The multitude of characters kept my head spinning at first. Perhaps some were introduced in a previous book of the series. Since this is the first Marie Bostwick book I've read I didn't know them. Once I learned more about them, I liked the author's characterizations.
I laughed. I cried. I related to many of the people and situations. I especially liked the quilt shop/show scenarios since my mother owned a quilt shop and taught lessons for about 20 years. I'm not a Down Syndrome expert, but I wondered if a DS would be as capable as Donny. I expect there are different levels of the condition. Perhaps this was a true reflection of those who are this capable. I suspended disbelief a few times, like the coincidence when Hub-Jay's hotel manager's brother knew Donny's bartender in a totally different town and just happened to be listening in on a conversation. I know sometimes it's a small world, but I wanted a better connection for this to be believable.
I usually want to know the significance of the book title. In this case, I still don't know. The reasoning of the town's name Too Much is too cute and so are the fabric names for Mary Dell's relations. Although, I like the nicknames for them.
Other than the above I enjoyed the book and will lead the discussion on it next week at the Halls Book Club in Knoxville, TN. This should be interesting as there are many scenes to discuss.
July 26, 2020
This is the last book in the series and continues the story of Mary Dell and her son, Howard. Changes are coming to the family. Mary Dell has concerns about her show and based on some issues with the ranch and the quilt shop, she has convinced the network to allow her to film back in her hometown. However, Howard will no longer be part of the show and she is getting a new co-host. Howard is actually happy to stay in Dallas as he continues classes and spends time with his girlfriend. Mary Dell is shocked to find out that her new co-host, Holly is a beauty but she knows nothing about quilting. The new show producer also has a reality TV type approach and tries to drive the two women against each other, but Mary Dell has other ideas. While they work through some struggles, with a little help from her family, she makes some progress. In the meantime, Holly is finding her own way in town with the help of a horse and a troubled man. When a crisis threatens the family, Mary Dell gets support from an unexpected source and may finally move forward in her own romantic life. This was a nice conclusion to the series.
July 20, 2023
Mary Dell is 60+ and just as vivacious yet tender, loud and bright southern woman you can picture as Dolly Parton larger than life personality. She owns a quilt store and ranch and is the star of a quilting series on TV. Her son Howard has been her cohost and has Downs Syndrome. Producers want to bring in Holly as a new co-host to entice the under 55 crowd. What they don't know is that Mary Dell and Holly provide a united front to take the show in a new way.
Bostwick creates a multitude of storylines that all flow and come together. Family drama, relationships, PTSD, and a medical journey of Downs Syndrome make you root for the drama of this family.
Great narration by Kathleen Early. Even though "From Here to Home" is a sequel, it can stand alone.
Bostwick creates a multitude of storylines that all flow and come together. Family drama, relationships, PTSD, and a medical journey of Downs Syndrome make you root for the drama of this family.
Great narration by Kathleen Early. Even though "From Here to Home" is a sequel, it can stand alone.
November 5, 2017
This is the third book by Marie Bostwick that I have read and my favorite one so far. Her characters and the situations they are in are so realistic and relateable. I could picture this novel in my head as I was reading. There is enough description for that but it is sparse enough to not slow down the story.
This story is really heartwarming. Although there has been a lot of bad times and heartache, the characters still persevere as best they can and are there for each other. As I reached the end of the book, I was a little sad to be leaving Too Much, Texas but as is this Book 1, I will be looking forward to catching up with Mary Dell and her family and friends again in the future.
This story is really heartwarming. Although there has been a lot of bad times and heartache, the characters still persevere as best they can and are there for each other. As I reached the end of the book, I was a little sad to be leaving Too Much, Texas but as is this Book 1, I will be looking forward to catching up with Mary Dell and her family and friends again in the future.
March 2, 2019
A great sequel by Marie Bostwick!
After reading her previous book, “From Heaven to Texas”, I was hungering to see where Mary Dell went after finishing that book. This story takes us 30 years down the road to events that Mary Dell and her son Howard experience. The changes to family and circumstances draw you into another delightful story of family and fing their way through all of life’s ups and downs along the way. A great snowy day read! Marie Bostwick hits it out of the par with such a great follow up.
After reading her previous book, “From Heaven to Texas”, I was hungering to see where Mary Dell went after finishing that book. This story takes us 30 years down the road to events that Mary Dell and her son Howard experience. The changes to family and circumstances draw you into another delightful story of family and fing their way through all of life’s ups and downs along the way. A great snowy day read! Marie Bostwick hits it out of the par with such a great follow up.
January 28, 2020
I enjoyed the audio version of this book. The author deals with some current and serious topics in an effective way. More characters are introduced into this series and I thought the author did a good job in character development. The author did a good job wrapping up the ending, I thought. About strong women, people who make mistakes and work to recover, building and saving relationship, and best of all, learning to quilt.
June 11, 2020
I am not this authors target audience. I would never have read a Harlequins romance novel and that is the category I would put this book in. The author refers to her readers as “gentle reader” in the Afterwords. Not the kind of reader I am. I feel Goodreads review that pops up when you search this novel is way over the top. This is not a “powerful, inspiring or uplifting” as stated. It definitely does not warrant 4.5 stars.
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