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Firefly Hollow #8
Snapdragon Way
When Eli Campbell is discharged after an accident ends his career in the Army, he isn’t sure what kind of homecoming to expect. Shoot, he’s not even sure what kind of homecoming he deserves. He did a lot of stupid things as a teenager, and he made a lot of rash decisions that hurt several people.
Regardless, he’s determined to set things right with his family, particularly his brother Noah. So as dismayed as he is to be facing life with the unforeseen challenges related to his accident, he’s also grateful to have a second chance. A chance to make amends for all the damage he’s done. To prove to his family and to himself that he’s a better person, a good man.
When he meets Haley Buchanan, his physical therapist, he’s turned head-over-heels. With a heart-stopping smile, a kind nature that’s like a balm for his soul, and enough sass and backbone to enchant him, she represents another example of a second chance he’d never thought to have—a second chance at love.
Haley wasn’t expecting anyone like Eli to come along, particularly not as one of her patients. She’s not prepared for the longing and need he stirs up inside her, as her life is nothing approaching simple and uncomplicated at the moment. With the weight of her elderly, invalid grandfather’s care resting on her shoulders alone, she barely has room to breathe, much less fall in love.
Once the professional complications are out of the way, though, she finds herself drawn more and more to Eli, coming to rely on his stability and warmth in a way that she’d never expected.
“Snapdragon Way” is the eighth book in the Firefly Hollow series, Women’s Fiction Romances set in Appalachia. Fair warning - it isn’t a book that deals just with Eli and Haley’s budding romance and all the tangled complications that entails. It also focuses on the rebuilding of a devastated relationship between Eli and Noah, and how the brothers have to find common ground with each other before either of them can get on with other parts of their lives. It’s about second chances and homecomings, forgiveness and hope.
Regardless, he’s determined to set things right with his family, particularly his brother Noah. So as dismayed as he is to be facing life with the unforeseen challenges related to his accident, he’s also grateful to have a second chance. A chance to make amends for all the damage he’s done. To prove to his family and to himself that he’s a better person, a good man.
When he meets Haley Buchanan, his physical therapist, he’s turned head-over-heels. With a heart-stopping smile, a kind nature that’s like a balm for his soul, and enough sass and backbone to enchant him, she represents another example of a second chance he’d never thought to have—a second chance at love.
Haley wasn’t expecting anyone like Eli to come along, particularly not as one of her patients. She’s not prepared for the longing and need he stirs up inside her, as her life is nothing approaching simple and uncomplicated at the moment. With the weight of her elderly, invalid grandfather’s care resting on her shoulders alone, she barely has room to breathe, much less fall in love.
Once the professional complications are out of the way, though, she finds herself drawn more and more to Eli, coming to rely on his stability and warmth in a way that she’d never expected.
“Snapdragon Way” is the eighth book in the Firefly Hollow series, Women’s Fiction Romances set in Appalachia. Fair warning - it isn’t a book that deals just with Eli and Haley’s budding romance and all the tangled complications that entails. It also focuses on the rebuilding of a devastated relationship between Eli and Noah, and how the brothers have to find common ground with each other before either of them can get on with other parts of their lives. It’s about second chances and homecomings, forgiveness and hope.
ebook
First published September 29, 2015
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About the author
T.L. Haddix
40 books229 followersT.L. Haddix is the author of the Firefly Hollow Series, women's fiction romances set in Eastern Kentucky, as well as numerous other projects under various pen names. She's a self-described eccentric, a somewhat reclusive stick in the mud who lives in Eastern Kentucky with her husband and their cat-children. Her hobbies include gardening, cooking, reading, genealogy, casual bird-and-critter watching, and being short.
She writes books about characters who are flawed but who somehow still manage to overcome the challenges thrown in their paths and reach for happiness with their soul mates. And while she can't tell a joke in the real world to save her life, she tries to inject her characters' lives with quirky, unintentional humor that surprises readers at just the right moment.
She writes books about characters who are flawed but who somehow still manage to overcome the challenges thrown in their paths and reach for happiness with their soul mates. And while she can't tell a joke in the real world to save her life, she tries to inject her characters' lives with quirky, unintentional humor that surprises readers at just the right moment.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 23, 2015
With most romance novels the formula seems to be somewhat the same on all of them. The couple meets falls in lurrrve and then has some kind of tension and then they live happily ever after. There is nothing wrong with that. Sometimes that is exactly what I need. Just to curl up on my couch and snuggle up with some romancing. It even sometimes makes me like my husband that day.
T.L. Haddix takes the romance genre and gives it her very own spin. I bet she cackles when she does it.
I've read several of the Campbell clan books aka The Firefly Hollow series and I think they actually get better each time I've read them. This family sucks you in and you become a part of this family. I adore each and every one of them.
This is Eli's story but it's not just a romance. Back years ago when they were teenagers Eli was in love with a psycho bitch from hell named Erica. She manipulated him without him even seeing her for what she was. She even caused a big fight in his family with his brother Noah.
Eli later married the she devil and suffered the consequences.
Erica is no longer in the picture but she left her mark on the whole family. This story goes over the romance genre because it's a story about asking for forgiveness about hurts you caused and took part in. It's two brothers coming back together. Even if it's awkward for them at times.
Eli had left home and joined the military to get away from some of the demons that had haunted him and a freak accident sends him home. Now he must learn to live without a part of him. His physical therapist Haley, helps him through the process.
Their romance is a very slow, sweet burn. They don't have insta-love and they face several obstacles that each must over-come.
Book source: I beta-read this book for the author. I know that you are supposed to be objectionable in doing a beta read but I really did like this book. The only fault and it's such a small thing that I didn't even mention it to her, was the winking of the characters. Several characters used winking as a way to get their points across but the only way I noticed it was the fact that I was reading the chapters twice. I'm an OCD beta-reader.
T.L. Haddix takes the romance genre and gives it her very own spin. I bet she cackles when she does it.
I've read several of the Campbell clan books aka The Firefly Hollow series and I think they actually get better each time I've read them. This family sucks you in and you become a part of this family. I adore each and every one of them.
This is Eli's story but it's not just a romance. Back years ago when they were teenagers Eli was in love with a psycho bitch from hell named Erica. She manipulated him without him even seeing her for what she was. She even caused a big fight in his family with his brother Noah.
Eli later married the she devil and suffered the consequences.
Erica is no longer in the picture but she left her mark on the whole family. This story goes over the romance genre because it's a story about asking for forgiveness about hurts you caused and took part in. It's two brothers coming back together. Even if it's awkward for them at times.
Eli had left home and joined the military to get away from some of the demons that had haunted him and a freak accident sends him home. Now he must learn to live without a part of him. His physical therapist Haley, helps him through the process.
Their romance is a very slow, sweet burn. They don't have insta-love and they face several obstacles that each must over-come.
Book source: I beta-read this book for the author. I know that you are supposed to be objectionable in doing a beta read but I really did like this book. The only fault and it's such a small thing that I didn't even mention it to her, was the winking of the characters. Several characters used winking as a way to get their points across but the only way I noticed it was the fact that I was reading the chapters twice. I'm an OCD beta-reader.
January 20, 2018
FULL REVIEW POSTED! Win 2 paperbacks at Starcrossed Bookblog
What a sneaky bunch, these Campbells. If I had to choose one thing that impress me the most about these books, it would have to be that they slowly sink into your heart until you fall in love without even realizing it. Indeed I was ready to give it 3 stars, maybe 3.5, because as much as I genuinely liked the first half, there were aspects that bothered me (I'll come back to that in my review). Yet here I am, a strong 4 stars in hands and my love for this family confirmed. Sneaky sweethearts indeed.
Eli is full of guilt because of his actions toward his family back when he was a teenager and in his early years as an adult. You see, he was in couple with a woman who acted like a total sociopath.... And this, my friends, is what prevented me from fully enjoying the story at first. Let me explain : I know I can't say that it never happens, because it does. Sometimes our love - or what we think is love - for someone drives us to act in a way we wouldn't have otherwise. In no way does that excuse whatever mean things we do, but unfortunately it does happen. Humans, especially teenagers, tend to crave for fitting in, and it needs a strong personality, family and friendship to resist the sirens of acceptation, whether by a group, or a love partner. I do know that. Sadly, I can't deny that the way this - now dead - woman was portrayed irked me during the first half of the book, and even if I got past it in the end (I'll explain why after), I'm really sensitive about how women's behaviors are described and I struggled to accept it.
How could I accept it, then? Because when I tried to switch roles and imagine how I would have reacted if the devilish character was a man, I realized that I was fucking hypocrite, because it wouldn't have bothered me one bit. Moreover, Snapdragon Way does picture other women in a completely different way, so I was able to accept that Erika's character wasn't, in any case, meant to lead to a generalization that all women are bitches.
Haley appears to be our typical quiet girl, who doesn't want to be involved in conflicts and such. However, she is aware of her strengths and doesn't belittle herself : yes she's pretty ; no she won't use her charms on Eli (yet). Big deal. To be frank, I found her refreshing. Moreover, I appreciated the fact that she wouldn't go all judgmental on other women's dating habits, and even though her friendship with Jenna made me narrow my eyes a few times, I'm looking forward to seeing her relationship with Sophie evolve, because mark my words : Sophie is my girl. I can see it.
Sadly, as far as Campbells heroines are concerned, Haley is probably one of my least favorite. This being said, did she annoy me? No. Did I want to strangle her? No. Did I respect her opinions? Yes. If I'm being honest, even though I can't relate to her, I know that she will move many readers. Yes, I am aware that as far as life is concerned, there's no right choice, but the ones that will make you happy, and if anything, I respect that.
As usual in this series, family ties own the show - and what family! I can't begin to express how much I love the Campbells. Generation after generation, their struggles and loyalty speak to me and make me care for them like few characters can. Noah, Eli's brother, particularly interested me, and I can't wait to read his book - because a book there will be, right? RIGHT? As Noah rightly said, family isn't about keeping score. If there's something in what I believe, it's that. Noah and Eli's relationship was heartwarming and beautiful. What can I say? Brothers always undo me.
The romance contains no instalove but a slow burn... Aren't those the BEST? Their shyness toward each other is adorable, not to mention that there's this *cough* annoying *cough* concept as doctor/patient no fraternization policies... Yet it doesn't prevent them from flirting, but shhh I did not say it *wink*
Not to mention that as usual the inability of the Campbells to mind their own business led to the best embarrassed scenes that made my day :D (Bad, bad Anna :P)
But limiting this book to a romance would be a mistake : indeed Eli's journey is one of forgiveness and acceptation. How to move on with your life when you don't even know who you are anymore and what you want? How to overtake the past and create a new life without forgetting the mistakes that have been done? In the end, I appreciated that Eli was willing to redeem himself and to own his past actions.
Finally, I CAN'T WAIT TO READ NOAH AND SOPHIE'S STORY.
"She glanced at him and nodded. "I'm fine. I slept wrong last night, kinked up my hip. It's nothing."
The frown turned to a scowl. "How'd you manage that?"
"Well, the wild orgy didn't help," she said, lifting her chin. Her arms, which had been by her sides, crossed loosely over her chest as she narrowed her eyes. "I think it was the threesome with the acrobats that really put the kink in. It was worth it, though."
Oh boy. She. Is. My. Girl.
As for Noah...
"I'm thirty-one years old, pratically a virgin and a hermit to boot, I talk to ghosts, and I have a cat. Fig [said cat], I think I need a life."
It's bound to be fucking awesome right?
*The book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review (thank you!). It did not, in any case, influence my opinion.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
October 8, 2015
Gathering thoughts...
September 23, 2015
I'll start by explaining why this book fell a star shy of perfection. First, the profanity. I understood Eli to a degree, what with him making a career out of the Army and all. It was everyone else that drove me nuts. I literally cringed every time I read any profanity. Second, Erica is dead and I expected people there to be a bit more respect shown towards her memory. Considering Noah's gift, I really couldn't believe he would be that disrespectful, even if she was the devil's own.
In other news, I'm not sure which brother I connected with more, Noah or Eli. I fell in love with both of them. I found myself laughing at their jibes and jokes, and I felt real pain over the hurt they each suffered. Oh, and that chapter where Haley receives Erica's letters!!! Talk about a tear jerker! I'm still trying to decide which scene hurt worse, the letters or Fred's death.
I received a free ARC via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
In other news, I'm not sure which brother I connected with more, Noah or Eli. I fell in love with both of them. I found myself laughing at their jibes and jokes, and I felt real pain over the hurt they each suffered. Oh, and that chapter where Haley receives Erica's letters!!! Talk about a tear jerker! I'm still trying to decide which scene hurt worse, the letters or Fred's death.
I received a free ARC via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2015
Well, I have a perfect description for this book, Awesome! I fell in love with the Campbell's from book one and every single book has been as good or better as the one before.
Eli has had a tough decade. He's been estranged from his family because of a manipulative and pathological wife that has destroyed his relationships with everyone in his life. Then, on top of all she has put him through he has a freak accident in the Army that nearly costs him his life.
Eli wakes to discover his life will never be the same, he has lost his foot and he realizes that he needs to fix the relationships broken by his stubbornness and the evil lies of his now deceased wife.
On his road to recovery he is discharged from service and is sent home to try to heal physically and emotionally.
During this time he begins physical therapy with a lovely young therapist named Haley that has a smile that warms his heart and gives him hope.
He begins to rebuild the relationships with his family and hopes for a future with Haley, but the past seems to rear its ugly head just when he starts to find happiness. Will he ever be free of the lies and destruction that was Erica's favorite pastime?
Eli has had a tough decade. He's been estranged from his family because of a manipulative and pathological wife that has destroyed his relationships with everyone in his life. Then, on top of all she has put him through he has a freak accident in the Army that nearly costs him his life.
Eli wakes to discover his life will never be the same, he has lost his foot and he realizes that he needs to fix the relationships broken by his stubbornness and the evil lies of his now deceased wife.
On his road to recovery he is discharged from service and is sent home to try to heal physically and emotionally.
During this time he begins physical therapy with a lovely young therapist named Haley that has a smile that warms his heart and gives him hope.
He begins to rebuild the relationships with his family and hopes for a future with Haley, but the past seems to rear its ugly head just when he starts to find happiness. Will he ever be free of the lies and destruction that was Erica's favorite pastime?
September 11, 2015
This was just an okay read for me. This story was a quick read. I really wanted to see them talk to Grandpa, but it didn't happen. Some of their family's special abilities were briefly mentioned and I felt like I was missing part of the story.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
December 28, 2016
Cried like a baby
I was so happy to see that Eli was getting his own book. Then as I was reading and learned that he and his brother were going to connect, I lost it. I cried through most of this book. Once again, the Campbell's rally to help the entire family bond and grow.
I was so happy to see that Eli was getting his own book. Then as I was reading and learned that he and his brother were going to connect, I lost it. I cried through most of this book. Once again, the Campbell's rally to help the entire family bond and grow.
April 19, 2022
5 Stars.
The Good:
• Eli & Noah
• Eli's personality & how he was welcomed back
The Bad:
• Not a lot of struggle
The Book:
Yes! This book got me excited about the Firefly Hollow series again. I don't know what it was but the past few books just didn't do it for me, this one brought it back. Which might be why I'm rating it 5 instead of 4 or 4.5 stars. I was excited to read about Eli since we heard about him in Sydney's book. I was really curious on why Eli & Noah had split since they were obviously so close as kids from when we saw them. I really liked how this book wasn't just about romance but about Eli fixing the past & fixing his relationship with Noah, I really liked that. I liked how different his voice felt, Sydney was supposed to be the rebellious one but Eli's voice really felt rebellious which was great. I liked how he grew & changed over the book from a angsty guy to a nice, responsible guy. Plus I liked that he didn't automatically get married or engaged at the end, (yes he does fairly early in Noah's book) but it got a little tiring to be honest because I knew all these characters would marry each other but it felt like such a rush, it's cool if the book ends & they're just in a committed relationship, they don't have to get engaged. The one thing I wanted to see more of was how much Eli struggled with physical therapy & his prosthetic leg in the book. I assume from other books & movies how hard it is & how much people struggle with it, but it just seemed like Eli breezed through the whole thing. Like he only went there to meet Haley & hang out, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, just something I would like to see more of. Overall, it was a good book, definitely refreshed the series for me. Next one up: Noah (yay!)
The Good:
• Eli & Noah
• Eli's personality & how he was welcomed back
The Bad:
• Not a lot of struggle
The Book:
Yes! This book got me excited about the Firefly Hollow series again. I don't know what it was but the past few books just didn't do it for me, this one brought it back. Which might be why I'm rating it 5 instead of 4 or 4.5 stars. I was excited to read about Eli since we heard about him in Sydney's book. I was really curious on why Eli & Noah had split since they were obviously so close as kids from when we saw them. I really liked how this book wasn't just about romance but about Eli fixing the past & fixing his relationship with Noah, I really liked that. I liked how different his voice felt, Sydney was supposed to be the rebellious one but Eli's voice really felt rebellious which was great. I liked how he grew & changed over the book from a angsty guy to a nice, responsible guy. Plus I liked that he didn't automatically get married or engaged at the end, (yes he does fairly early in Noah's book) but it got a little tiring to be honest because I knew all these characters would marry each other but it felt like such a rush, it's cool if the book ends & they're just in a committed relationship, they don't have to get engaged. The one thing I wanted to see more of was how much Eli struggled with physical therapy & his prosthetic leg in the book. I assume from other books & movies how hard it is & how much people struggle with it, but it just seemed like Eli breezed through the whole thing. Like he only went there to meet Haley & hang out, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, just something I would like to see more of. Overall, it was a good book, definitely refreshed the series for me. Next one up: Noah (yay!)
September 28, 2015
4.5
Originally posted here
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I would like to send a big thank you to NetGalley for this book, and also to everyone at Streetlight GraphicsPublishing, as well as T.L.Haddix herself.
This is the first book I’ve read written by T.L. Haddix. I’ve noticed that Snapdragon Way is part of a series, since it’s numbered as book 8. However, it is not a traditional series, most of them can be read as a stand alone novels. Every book is focused on different characters. In order to understand all the character, it might be a good idea to read the books in order, but the main plot and characters are separate, and clear.
This is contemporary adult fiction, but I think it can be read by young adults as well. At least this particular book, not sure about the rest of the series.
Snapdragon Way is about family, second chances, redemption, friendship, and love.
I would say that the main plot is about Eli making amends with his family, especially with his brother Noah. It is also about Eli accommodating to his new body, and life.
Eli is a veteran, even though he is only 28 years old. He was badly injured, and he ended up being an amputee. As a result, he goes back to US. His accident was what causes him to think to what he has done to his family, and instead of being a tragedy, it became a new beginning. He lost a limb, but he regained his family, and he also found a nice girl.
In regards to Eli and his lost limb. I liked the fact that he didn’t have an instant recovery. It was described realistically, which is great. We see Eli suffering, moaning, having nightmares, having low self-esteem, and so on. In other words, his recovery was not auger-coated.
At first it read a little bit slow. It took me a few chapters to get completely into the story. It does pick up the pace towards the middle of the book. It might be just me, not the book itself.
The story is told from different points of view. We read from Eli, Noah, and Haley’s perspective, but we also get a few scenes from other minor characters. I thought it was a nice way to get to know, and understand the main characters better. However, I don’t think it was necessarily to add the minor character’s point of view. It can get a little bit confusing. It is not a major problem.
I liked the fact that the first few chapters (8 of them, I believe) were focused only on Eli. This way we got to know him and his family a little bit, before the romance starts. It was a nice introduction. Haley is introduced in Chapter 9, right before she and Eli met.
I think everybody knows some novels where the main characters fall in love instantly, even though they only know each other for 5 minutes. And then they cannot be together for some reason, either is forbidden, or they’re children who cannot communicate, and keep secrets. Well, Snapdragon Way is not like that; it’s realistic.
The romance between Eli and Haley was not instant. Sure, there was some physical attraction when they saw each other for the first time, but nobody proclaimed their loved right away. They became friends, they met each others families, they had conversations, and then, towards the end of the book, they finally became an item. I think it took them around 3 months to get together (and not because of silly drama between them).
There was a problem between Eli and Haley at some point, after they started dating. However, it is resolved in a couple of chapters, and it is not the main conflict between them. They took some time apart (around a week), and then they sat down like adults, and discussed their problem. Bonus point.
It was nice to see how Eli and Noah’s fragile relationship evolved, and strengthened. The moments between them were my favorites. <3
I also liked the fact that Eli has a nice family, instead of being from a broken home, like it seems to be the new trend. Haley has a good relationship with her grandfather as well. I loved her for taking care of him, even though he was old and sick. It speaks volumes about her character.
I think the relationship between Eli and Erica was a little bit exaggerated. Sure, Erica was manipulative, and mean. She’s not in the picture anymore, but she’s still haunting Eli and his family. Eli and the others cannot blame her for his/their actions. Eli chose her over his family. He took her back repeatedly. He chose to close his eyes, and so on. And yes, Eli is sorry for what he’s done, but he still blames his ex-wife for most of the problems. I also think it would’ve help him to go to therapy.
I also think Noah was a little bit immature, especially for his age. Not just because the way he reacted towards Eli when he was younger, but also because the way he judged Eli’s best friend. At least he matures a little bit at the end of the novel.
There is some paranormal in this book. I didn’t expect it. It is not the main plot, is more like a minor sub-plot. The book is not focused on it. It is more like how a characters deals with “normal” people, and life while being paranormal, as oppose to how s/he deals with the paranormal in general. I liked it.
There are some technical problems, like grammar and badly phrased sentences. Maybe they were already dealt with, since the book comes out tomorrow (Sept. 29th, 2015).
In general, it was a nice read. Snapdragon Way is the kind of book you read while is rainy outside, and you sit in a chair with a hot tea. It is an easy and relaxing read. I recommend it to everyone who likes romance.
Originally posted here
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I would like to send a big thank you to NetGalley for this book, and also to everyone at Streetlight GraphicsPublishing, as well as T.L.Haddix herself.
This is the first book I’ve read written by T.L. Haddix. I’ve noticed that Snapdragon Way is part of a series, since it’s numbered as book 8. However, it is not a traditional series, most of them can be read as a stand alone novels. Every book is focused on different characters. In order to understand all the character, it might be a good idea to read the books in order, but the main plot and characters are separate, and clear.
This is contemporary adult fiction, but I think it can be read by young adults as well. At least this particular book, not sure about the rest of the series.
Snapdragon Way is about family, second chances, redemption, friendship, and love.
I would say that the main plot is about Eli making amends with his family, especially with his brother Noah. It is also about Eli accommodating to his new body, and life.
Eli is a veteran, even though he is only 28 years old. He was badly injured, and he ended up being an amputee. As a result, he goes back to US. His accident was what causes him to think to what he has done to his family, and instead of being a tragedy, it became a new beginning. He lost a limb, but he regained his family, and he also found a nice girl.
In regards to Eli and his lost limb. I liked the fact that he didn’t have an instant recovery. It was described realistically, which is great. We see Eli suffering, moaning, having nightmares, having low self-esteem, and so on. In other words, his recovery was not auger-coated.
At first it read a little bit slow. It took me a few chapters to get completely into the story. It does pick up the pace towards the middle of the book. It might be just me, not the book itself.
The story is told from different points of view. We read from Eli, Noah, and Haley’s perspective, but we also get a few scenes from other minor characters. I thought it was a nice way to get to know, and understand the main characters better. However, I don’t think it was necessarily to add the minor character’s point of view. It can get a little bit confusing. It is not a major problem.
I liked the fact that the first few chapters (8 of them, I believe) were focused only on Eli. This way we got to know him and his family a little bit, before the romance starts. It was a nice introduction. Haley is introduced in Chapter 9, right before she and Eli met.
I think everybody knows some novels where the main characters fall in love instantly, even though they only know each other for 5 minutes. And then they cannot be together for some reason, either is forbidden, or they’re children who cannot communicate, and keep secrets. Well, Snapdragon Way is not like that; it’s realistic.
The romance between Eli and Haley was not instant. Sure, there was some physical attraction when they saw each other for the first time, but nobody proclaimed their loved right away. They became friends, they met each others families, they had conversations, and then, towards the end of the book, they finally became an item. I think it took them around 3 months to get together (and not because of silly drama between them).
There was a problem between Eli and Haley at some point, after they started dating. However, it is resolved in a couple of chapters, and it is not the main conflict between them. They took some time apart (around a week), and then they sat down like adults, and discussed their problem. Bonus point.
It was nice to see how Eli and Noah’s fragile relationship evolved, and strengthened. The moments between them were my favorites. <3
I also liked the fact that Eli has a nice family, instead of being from a broken home, like it seems to be the new trend. Haley has a good relationship with her grandfather as well. I loved her for taking care of him, even though he was old and sick. It speaks volumes about her character.
I think the relationship between Eli and Erica was a little bit exaggerated. Sure, Erica was manipulative, and mean. She’s not in the picture anymore, but she’s still haunting Eli and his family. Eli and the others cannot blame her for his/their actions. Eli chose her over his family. He took her back repeatedly. He chose to close his eyes, and so on. And yes, Eli is sorry for what he’s done, but he still blames his ex-wife for most of the problems. I also think it would’ve help him to go to therapy.
I also think Noah was a little bit immature, especially for his age. Not just because the way he reacted towards Eli when he was younger, but also because the way he judged Eli’s best friend. At least he matures a little bit at the end of the novel.
There is some paranormal in this book. I didn’t expect it. It is not the main plot, is more like a minor sub-plot. The book is not focused on it. It is more like how a characters deals with “normal” people, and life while being paranormal, as oppose to how s/he deals with the paranormal in general. I liked it.
There are some technical problems, like grammar and badly phrased sentences. Maybe they were already dealt with, since the book comes out tomorrow (Sept. 29th, 2015).
In general, it was a nice read. Snapdragon Way is the kind of book you read while is rainy outside, and you sit in a chair with a hot tea. It is an easy and relaxing read. I recommend it to everyone who likes romance.
January 27, 2023
I discovered this series midway but will definitely go back and start at the beginning. Why? The writing is exceptional in that you are drawn into the daily lives and trials of the characters rapidly; the Campbell family is awesome in their love for each other, their morals and their ability to genuinely forgive. The paranormal touch added a spark and increased interest.
In this story, the first chapter left me speechless. I reread it to be sure that I had not missed an important point. Wow what a punch.
I have met a few Ericka's and am blessed that they are not part of my family! The h's uncles were almost as bad. These guys were slime but Ericka was evil.
Am looking forward to starting this series from the beginning and this will be a reread.
In this story, the first chapter left me speechless. I reread it to be sure that I had not missed an important point. Wow what a punch.
I have met a few Ericka's and am blessed that they are not part of my family! The h's uncles were almost as bad. These guys were slime but Ericka was evil.
Am looking forward to starting this series from the beginning and this will be a reread.
March 1, 2023
The Campbell clan is a loyal, family-oriented group of people that can thank their ancestors for sprinkling some very extraordinary abilities throughout their generations. The most important factors of this story are the strained relationships between Eli and his family members and Noah and his high school girlfriend. When Eli is injured and discovers that he will have to depend on his family until he can be rehabilitated, he has time to understand just how much damage he has caused and to decide it's time for him to make amends. This fast moving, emotional narrative filled with unique and interesting characters, held my attention until the very end. Good Read!!!!
October 3, 2024
Wonderful story
So many times, for me, these longer stories just seem to have "filler" , kind of meaningless sentences that jut take up space to make the story longer and I skip hem because they don't really add to th story line, but not this one. I read every word. It all added to give a complete picture to the story. Plus there's a wounded warrior and that's big draw for me. This one will stay on my kindle for a re-read in the future.
So many times, for me, these longer stories just seem to have "filler" , kind of meaningless sentences that jut take up space to make the story longer and I skip hem because they don't really add to th story line, but not this one. I read every word. It all added to give a complete picture to the story. Plus there's a wounded warrior and that's big draw for me. This one will stay on my kindle for a re-read in the future.
September 5, 2023
Great story!
The main male character is an injured war veteran. Besides focusing on his adjusting to his injury, he's falling in love, also. It's a great story, with a good plot, and a bit of the supernatural on the side. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
The main male character is an injured war veteran. Besides focusing on his adjusting to his injury, he's falling in love, also. It's a great story, with a good plot, and a bit of the supernatural on the side. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
May 24, 2017
Another home run!
What can I say, this woman is my favorite author! This book is a true diamond and I would recommend this story to any mature reader. You rock Miss Tabitha!
What can I say, this woman is my favorite author! This book is a true diamond and I would recommend this story to any mature reader. You rock Miss Tabitha!
May 26, 2017
Owen isn't the only one working on genealogy! That's the main reason it took me so long to read this book! Another wonderful story!
March 20, 2018
Really enjoyed this story. No sex but lots of kindness and heat :)
November 24, 2024
Spellbinding
A spellbinding story with the right balance of drama, angst, family, love! It is also great to meet other Campbells again.
A spellbinding story with the right balance of drama, angst, family, love! It is also great to meet other Campbells again.
December 14, 2024
Love the cover
But can’t figure out who this book is about
It’s very confusing
But can’t figure out who this book is about
It’s very confusing
Read
January 19, 2023FREE today (January 8, 2023) on Amazon.
September 20, 2015
I really enjoyed this book, in fact I fell a little bit in love with many of the Campbells, but especially Eli and Noah. Because this book is about those brothers and their broken relationship every bit as much as it’s about Eli and Hayley. In fact Hayley doesn’t appear until several chapters into the book, by which time we’ve already got to know Eli and Noah fairly well.
Oh, Eli. If ever a man wanted a second chance, it’s this one. A rebellious teenage phase compounded by a disastrous marriage saw him estranged from the majority of his family for ten years, especially from his older brother Noah. The manipulative girlfriend from hell (later turned wife) did everything she could to drive a wedge between the brothers and sadly succeeded. I felt a bit bad for Eli in some of the flashback scenes, since it’s obvious he felt jealous of Noah and that he didn’t really understand why Noah was so “special”. It doesn’t excuse his behaviour or his actions, because he definitely said some terrible things, but boy did he pay the price.
As for Noah, without giving too much away, there is a slight paranormal element to this book that I wasn’t expecting. It completely works and explains so much about Noah, but if ghosts and having a touch of the Sight isn’t your kind of thing, then you might want to give this book a miss. Which would be a shame, because he’s lovely. Wounded, a little broken and very, very introverted, there’s so much promise in his character that I loved reading any scene he was in – especially when he and Eli truly start mending their relationship. The pair of them together was just wonderful.
There’s a lot going on in this book and a lot of characters to wrap your head around. This is my first taste of the Firefly Hollow series and I didn’t feel too adrift, despite the huge size of the Campbell clan. It might have been nicer to have fewer viewpoint characters at the start, but once things settled down I really enjoyed this. I loved that Eli’s recovery isn’t sugarcoated. He grieves, he struggles, but he comes through by working hard. I also really appreciated that he and Hayley’s relationship grows steadily. Their attraction might be swift, but neither of them are ready to rush into anything and she has her job to consider. It made a pleasant change to read about a “no fraternisation policy” being respected.
I really liked Hayley – as I did most characters in this book. She hasn’t had the easiest of lives, but she’s hardworking and goodhearted and her relationship with her grandfather was beautiful to read. It was also lovely to see the stealthy way the Campbells dragged her into their family. They’re a pretty irresistible bunch – poor Hayley didn’t stand a chance.
However, much though I enjoyed this book, there are some aspects which I wasn’t fond of. There are a few scenes that are recapped or even told in flashback that could as easily have been told in the story and I’m not sure quite so many characters needed to have POV scenes. I also found one particular aspect of the plot a bit too convenient in causing trouble, especially as it seemed to come out of nowhere.
Overall, though, this is a lovely, enjoyable family tale with a slow-build romance that definitely doesn’t cut any convenient corners or gloss over any issues. It’s about second chances, grief and rebuilding relationships, not to mention the protective love that is family. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be tracking down the rest of the series, while impatiently waiting for Noah to get his turn. T.L. Haddix definitely has a new fan.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Oh, Eli. If ever a man wanted a second chance, it’s this one. A rebellious teenage phase compounded by a disastrous marriage saw him estranged from the majority of his family for ten years, especially from his older brother Noah. The manipulative girlfriend from hell (later turned wife) did everything she could to drive a wedge between the brothers and sadly succeeded. I felt a bit bad for Eli in some of the flashback scenes, since it’s obvious he felt jealous of Noah and that he didn’t really understand why Noah was so “special”. It doesn’t excuse his behaviour or his actions, because he definitely said some terrible things, but boy did he pay the price.
As for Noah, without giving too much away, there is a slight paranormal element to this book that I wasn’t expecting. It completely works and explains so much about Noah, but if ghosts and having a touch of the Sight isn’t your kind of thing, then you might want to give this book a miss. Which would be a shame, because he’s lovely. Wounded, a little broken and very, very introverted, there’s so much promise in his character that I loved reading any scene he was in – especially when he and Eli truly start mending their relationship. The pair of them together was just wonderful.
There’s a lot going on in this book and a lot of characters to wrap your head around. This is my first taste of the Firefly Hollow series and I didn’t feel too adrift, despite the huge size of the Campbell clan. It might have been nicer to have fewer viewpoint characters at the start, but once things settled down I really enjoyed this. I loved that Eli’s recovery isn’t sugarcoated. He grieves, he struggles, but he comes through by working hard. I also really appreciated that he and Hayley’s relationship grows steadily. Their attraction might be swift, but neither of them are ready to rush into anything and she has her job to consider. It made a pleasant change to read about a “no fraternisation policy” being respected.
I really liked Hayley – as I did most characters in this book. She hasn’t had the easiest of lives, but she’s hardworking and goodhearted and her relationship with her grandfather was beautiful to read. It was also lovely to see the stealthy way the Campbells dragged her into their family. They’re a pretty irresistible bunch – poor Hayley didn’t stand a chance.
However, much though I enjoyed this book, there are some aspects which I wasn’t fond of. There are a few scenes that are recapped or even told in flashback that could as easily have been told in the story and I’m not sure quite so many characters needed to have POV scenes. I also found one particular aspect of the plot a bit too convenient in causing trouble, especially as it seemed to come out of nowhere.
Overall, though, this is a lovely, enjoyable family tale with a slow-build romance that definitely doesn’t cut any convenient corners or gloss over any issues. It’s about second chances, grief and rebuilding relationships, not to mention the protective love that is family. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be tracking down the rest of the series, while impatiently waiting for Noah to get his turn. T.L. Haddix definitely has a new fan.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
October 4, 2015
T. L. Haddix is my favorite author. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I love how a new member of the family is the main character in each book. We not only get more details about our main character but can check in with past favorites. This book was a little different from the others, but still exceptional. Eli was the main focus but Noah also shared the spotlight. Neither story really concluded ( which is not the norm). I hope this means both characters will be back next time...maybe with Noah taking the lead, and further develop both stories. Haddix creates character driven stories that really suck you in. They are all good people and you want to see them happy. She also overlaps timeframes. It really is impressive! Great book, read the rest in the series you won't be sorry!
October 7, 2015
This may be the best book,,,,,,I love this autbor. I bought all her books and now that they are read, I am wondering what happens to the rest of the family. I want to read about Noah and his love Sophie. I can' t get over that I am done with this series. If you say you dob't like paranormal books, you have to read this series. Excellent. The Shadow series is excellent thriller/murder mysteries. This author is talented and can write excellent books in different types and styles.
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January 8, 2016
This families story just keeps getting better and better with each book. When you think the Campbell's story has stopped new life story begins.
It's warm, inviting, heartbreaking, funny and loving.
Now on to STARDUST VALLEY...
It's warm, inviting, heartbreaking, funny and loving.
Now on to STARDUST VALLEY...
January 10, 2016
Wonderful love story, and redemption story.
I love a good book that truly redeems the characters, has them grow, and learn. Truly a fantastic story, just like the rest of the series.
I love a good book that truly redeems the characters, has them grow, and learn. Truly a fantastic story, just like the rest of the series.
October 18, 2015
Firefly Hollow
Once I read first one had to download all 8 books.
Excellent, love the stories of several generations of the family.
Once I read first one had to download all 8 books.
Excellent, love the stories of several generations of the family.
June 13, 2017
it was good to see how zanny's kids grown up and what they are doing with their lives
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 3, 2017
I love following the Campbell clan, can't wait to see what the next book holds.
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