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Webs #5
Conflicting Webs
The Toddman-Taylor saga continues in a new direction, exploring love and loss, career and family, forgiveness and redemption in this stand-alone addition to the gripping Web series. Fast-paced chapters propel unforgettable characters through the turmoil of overlapping and often conflicting commitments.
Wedding bells are set to ring. April Toddman, the darling of the Jordon’s retail dynasty, feels blessed. Her handsome, amiable fiancé, Kyle Clark, is passionate and shares her dreams. No couple could ask for a more promising future. And yet, just days before they are to exchange their marriage vows, their perfect world begins to crumble. Fate steps in and puts April and Kyle to the test. Will they successfully thread their way through the conflicting webs to secure their happiness?
With unfamiliar ground beneath their feet, April and Kyle must confront an unrelenting tsunami of obligations: to other—to their budding careers—and to themselves.
A child without a mother . . . A wedding without a honeymoon . . . A mother without a family . . . Beloved characters old and new weave secrets, mistakes, accidents, and lies into intricate webs of conflict as they strive to protect the generation of tomorrow.
Readers young and old will be held captive by the bold decisions these characters make to take charge of their destinies.
Wedding bells are set to ring. April Toddman, the darling of the Jordon’s retail dynasty, feels blessed. Her handsome, amiable fiancé, Kyle Clark, is passionate and shares her dreams. No couple could ask for a more promising future. And yet, just days before they are to exchange their marriage vows, their perfect world begins to crumble. Fate steps in and puts April and Kyle to the test. Will they successfully thread their way through the conflicting webs to secure their happiness?
With unfamiliar ground beneath their feet, April and Kyle must confront an unrelenting tsunami of obligations: to other—to their budding careers—and to themselves.
A child without a mother . . . A wedding without a honeymoon . . . A mother without a family . . . Beloved characters old and new weave secrets, mistakes, accidents, and lies into intricate webs of conflict as they strive to protect the generation of tomorrow.
Readers young and old will be held captive by the bold decisions these characters make to take charge of their destinies.
- GenresFictionContemporary
480 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2015
2 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Darlene Quinn
9 books324 followersDarlene Quinn is an international award winning author and speaker from Long Beach, California.
Darlene writes what she likes to read, which is page-turning-suspense, based on actual events in the world of fashion department stores, while never allowing the facts to get in the way of a good story. The stand-alone Web series explores love and loss, career and family, forgiveness and redemption. Fast-paced chapters propel unforgettable characters through the turmoil of overlapping and often conflicting commitments. As part of a nine-member management team for the Bullocks Wilshire Specialty Department Stores (West Coast Division of the former Federated Department Store conglomerate ~ now Macy's Inc.) She has an insider's perspective on the rise and fall of major department stores. The prologues and first chapters of each stand-alone novel can be read on her website
http://darlenequinn.net/books/
National and International Awards:
Webs of Perception
2019 Book Excellence Awards Fiction
Grand Prize Winner
Conflicting Webs
2015 Beverly Hills Book Awards General Fiction
2015 International Readers Favorite Silver Medal for General Fiction
Unpredictable Webs
2014 International Readers Favorite Gold Medal for General Fiction
2014 Beverly Hills Book Awards and the President's Choice top prize winner!
Twisted Webs
2011 International Book Award Winner for Fiction and Literature, as well as the Winner of the
2011 National Indie Excellence Award for General Fiction.
Webs of Power
2009 National Indie Excellence Award for General Fiction
Webs of Fate
2011 Readers Favorite Award for General Fiction.
Quinn's first published novel, Sizzling Cold Case, published in January of 2007, was a somewhat unusual collaboration as well as labor of love for her dear friend, Buddy Ebsen. His work-in-progress was a Barnaby Jones novel, which at his widow's request, Quinn was thrilled to complete.
Prior to being an author and speaker, Quinn was a teacher in the public school system, a self-improvement and modeling instructor, a private contractor for the city, department stores (Bullock's/Robinson's), and hospitals.
Darlene has two children, John and Jodie, six wonderful grandchildren, and lives with her husband and greatest supporter, Jack, in Long Beach and Big Bear, California.
Darlene is currently working on Just 10 Seconds.
Darlene writes what she likes to read, which is page-turning-suspense, based on actual events in the world of fashion department stores, while never allowing the facts to get in the way of a good story. The stand-alone Web series explores love and loss, career and family, forgiveness and redemption. Fast-paced chapters propel unforgettable characters through the turmoil of overlapping and often conflicting commitments. As part of a nine-member management team for the Bullocks Wilshire Specialty Department Stores (West Coast Division of the former Federated Department Store conglomerate ~ now Macy's Inc.) She has an insider's perspective on the rise and fall of major department stores. The prologues and first chapters of each stand-alone novel can be read on her website
http://darlenequinn.net/books/
National and International Awards:
Webs of Perception
2019 Book Excellence Awards Fiction
Grand Prize Winner
Conflicting Webs
2015 Beverly Hills Book Awards General Fiction
2015 International Readers Favorite Silver Medal for General Fiction
Unpredictable Webs
2014 International Readers Favorite Gold Medal for General Fiction
2014 Beverly Hills Book Awards and the President's Choice top prize winner!
Twisted Webs
2011 International Book Award Winner for Fiction and Literature, as well as the Winner of the
2011 National Indie Excellence Award for General Fiction.
Webs of Power
2009 National Indie Excellence Award for General Fiction
Webs of Fate
2011 Readers Favorite Award for General Fiction.
Quinn's first published novel, Sizzling Cold Case, published in January of 2007, was a somewhat unusual collaboration as well as labor of love for her dear friend, Buddy Ebsen. His work-in-progress was a Barnaby Jones novel, which at his widow's request, Quinn was thrilled to complete.
Prior to being an author and speaker, Quinn was a teacher in the public school system, a self-improvement and modeling instructor, a private contractor for the city, department stores (Bullock's/Robinson's), and hospitals.
Darlene has two children, John and Jodie, six wonderful grandchildren, and lives with her husband and greatest supporter, Jack, in Long Beach and Big Bear, California.
Darlene is currently working on Just 10 Seconds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 9, 2015
I was surprised when I started reading Conflicting Webs. The blurb on the back of the book led to me to think the story was going to be mainly about April and Kyle. Conflicting Webs was so much more than that. It was a multi-generational tale told in multiple POVs. The story begins with Britany, Kyle's baby mama, not wanting their daughter Lindsay to be in April and Kyle's wedding. This one problem sets into motion a series of events and custody questions effecting not only April and Kyle, but Lindsay's entire extended family.
Conflicting Webs grasped my attention from the beginning. The story was quickly paced and moved smoothly between characters' POVs. I liked how each character's POV added to the understanding of the story, especially Britany's. She wasn't a character I will ever love, but reading her thoughts made her a little bit less of a villain to me. Even though Conflicting Webs is part of a series, I found that you could easily follow along without having to have read the previous books.
There were just a few of things that bothered me a bit while reading. First, the dialogue of young adult characters. The way their sentences were phrased just didn't seem natural to me. Most 20-40 year olds I know have a less formal way of arranging their sentences when they speak. Sometimes I forgot April wasn't an older adult woman. Second, Toward the end,
Overall, I really enjoyed Conflicting Webs and it's story of conflicting commitments in a large extended family.
I would like to thank Goodreads First Reads and Magdalene Thomas of Greenleaf Book Group for giving me the opportunity to read and honestly review an ARC of Conflicting Webs
Conflicting Webs grasped my attention from the beginning. The story was quickly paced and moved smoothly between characters' POVs. I liked how each character's POV added to the understanding of the story, especially Britany's. She wasn't a character I will ever love, but reading her thoughts made her a little bit less of a villain to me. Even though Conflicting Webs is part of a series, I found that you could easily follow along without having to have read the previous books.
There were just a few of things that bothered me a bit while reading. First, the dialogue of young adult characters. The way their sentences were phrased just didn't seem natural to me. Most 20-40 year olds I know have a less formal way of arranging their sentences when they speak. Sometimes I forgot April wasn't an older adult woman. Second, Toward the end,
Overall, I really enjoyed Conflicting Webs and it's story of conflicting commitments in a large extended family.
I would like to thank Goodreads First Reads and Magdalene Thomas of Greenleaf Book Group for giving me the opportunity to read and honestly review an ARC of Conflicting Webs
February 21, 2015
Conflicting Webs by Author Darlene Quinn
Wow…another intriguing fictional novel by talented Author Darlene Quinn. Adorable four year old Lindsay Levin is the product of a one night stand. Precious to the core and dearly loved by her doting grandmother, Nora Levin, Lindsay becomes a pawn in a custody battle by her irresponsible mother’s reckless behavior. Kyle Clark, biological dad to Lindsay takes full financial responsibility for her well-being but finds that he comes to love this precious daughter more than he ever dreamed possible. Soon to be married to loving bride, April Toddman, the unthinkable happens just a few short days before the wedding ceremony. Britany Levin is released from a drug rehabilitation facility before the upcoming wedding with just enough time to wreak havoc with their nuptial plans. With Lindsay as flower girl, Britany along with fellow drug addict Chloe, work at disrupting the wedding. Many unforeseen complications ensue…
As if this isn’t causing enough stress for April…Madison Monroe, her lifelong friend and matron of honor, is late for the ceremony. Unbeknownst to the bride, a horrific accident is about to rob April of the usual joy a wedding day brings. Bill Boyd a passing stranger is witness to an incredible car accident which involves Madison and her family. He subsequently manages to become deeply involved in their physical and emotional struggles for reasons of his own…
Each character in the well-written novel is skillfully intertwined and connected in such a way that nothing short of a miracle will make it all work out. Likable personalities combined with obnoxious ones like Britany’s dad Dr. Levin, add to the realism of this down-to-earth captivating novel. Although fictional, I always enjoy a story with a plausible and uplifting plot. “Conflicting Webs” is another fantastic read by Author Darlene Quinn. At the end of it all, it left me with a “feel good” experience. It is always a pleasure to read and review her books!
Inspirational Author & Book Reviewer ~ Dolores Ayotte
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007K8QO28
Wow…another intriguing fictional novel by talented Author Darlene Quinn. Adorable four year old Lindsay Levin is the product of a one night stand. Precious to the core and dearly loved by her doting grandmother, Nora Levin, Lindsay becomes a pawn in a custody battle by her irresponsible mother’s reckless behavior. Kyle Clark, biological dad to Lindsay takes full financial responsibility for her well-being but finds that he comes to love this precious daughter more than he ever dreamed possible. Soon to be married to loving bride, April Toddman, the unthinkable happens just a few short days before the wedding ceremony. Britany Levin is released from a drug rehabilitation facility before the upcoming wedding with just enough time to wreak havoc with their nuptial plans. With Lindsay as flower girl, Britany along with fellow drug addict Chloe, work at disrupting the wedding. Many unforeseen complications ensue…
As if this isn’t causing enough stress for April…Madison Monroe, her lifelong friend and matron of honor, is late for the ceremony. Unbeknownst to the bride, a horrific accident is about to rob April of the usual joy a wedding day brings. Bill Boyd a passing stranger is witness to an incredible car accident which involves Madison and her family. He subsequently manages to become deeply involved in their physical and emotional struggles for reasons of his own…
Each character in the well-written novel is skillfully intertwined and connected in such a way that nothing short of a miracle will make it all work out. Likable personalities combined with obnoxious ones like Britany’s dad Dr. Levin, add to the realism of this down-to-earth captivating novel. Although fictional, I always enjoy a story with a plausible and uplifting plot. “Conflicting Webs” is another fantastic read by Author Darlene Quinn. At the end of it all, it left me with a “feel good” experience. It is always a pleasure to read and review her books!
Inspirational Author & Book Reviewer ~ Dolores Ayotte
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007K8QO28
April 12, 2015
This is the first book I’ve read in the Webs series, and it’s definitely a stand-alone book.
Intriguing premise. Rich, beautiful, successful April is marrying rich, handsome, successful Kyle. April has planned the perfect wedding and Lindsey, Kyle’s daughter, is set to be the flower girl. One hitch. Lindsey’s mother, Britany, back from a three-month rehab, does not go along with this idea. Britany has not previously shown much interest in her daughter, but her resentment toward Kyle and, in particular, April, surfaces in one frightening act.
What follows is disturbing and tense with custody of Lindsey at stake. Nora, the grandmother who has temporary custody of Lindsey, is a reasonable voice in the fray while her ex-husband Howard does his high-handed best to turn this into a battle. April, despite being in the throes of her upcoming wedding, does what she can to mediate the mess.
The conflict pulled me in, and the dramatic scenes kept me turning the pages except for a few places where the story dragged a bit. Compelling characters. Steady, understanding Nora who despite having lupus, always rises to the occasion. Pampered, self-destructive Britany, who considers herself a victim. Little Lindsey, who shows she has guts and a mind of her own. Level-headed April who tries to help even at the cost of her own plans.
Spoiler alert.
This book left an unresolved question about Nora, the grandmother, who has lupus. This is referred to on numerous occasions, how she feels dizzy, unwell, and has to make a big effort to appear okay. Her lupus lurks like an undercurrent, but never comes to the surface. I was waiting for something to happen, but nothing did. It left me wondering what is the story reason for Nora’s lupus. Or will we find out in the next Webs book?
I was the recipient of an ARC and this is an honest review.
Intriguing premise. Rich, beautiful, successful April is marrying rich, handsome, successful Kyle. April has planned the perfect wedding and Lindsey, Kyle’s daughter, is set to be the flower girl. One hitch. Lindsey’s mother, Britany, back from a three-month rehab, does not go along with this idea. Britany has not previously shown much interest in her daughter, but her resentment toward Kyle and, in particular, April, surfaces in one frightening act.
What follows is disturbing and tense with custody of Lindsey at stake. Nora, the grandmother who has temporary custody of Lindsey, is a reasonable voice in the fray while her ex-husband Howard does his high-handed best to turn this into a battle. April, despite being in the throes of her upcoming wedding, does what she can to mediate the mess.
The conflict pulled me in, and the dramatic scenes kept me turning the pages except for a few places where the story dragged a bit. Compelling characters. Steady, understanding Nora who despite having lupus, always rises to the occasion. Pampered, self-destructive Britany, who considers herself a victim. Little Lindsey, who shows she has guts and a mind of her own. Level-headed April who tries to help even at the cost of her own plans.
Spoiler alert.
This book left an unresolved question about Nora, the grandmother, who has lupus. This is referred to on numerous occasions, how she feels dizzy, unwell, and has to make a big effort to appear okay. Her lupus lurks like an undercurrent, but never comes to the surface. I was waiting for something to happen, but nothing did. It left me wondering what is the story reason for Nora’s lupus. Or will we find out in the next Webs book?
I was the recipient of an ARC and this is an honest review.
October 1, 2015
This is the first book I've read both in this series, and by Darlene Quinn. At the time I selected it, I didn't realize it was part of a series, but when I did find out, after I finished the book, I was surprised. At no point during this novel did I feel like I was missing part of the story that may have come before so I am pretty comfortable in saying this (and probably the other books in the series) could be read as stand alone novels.
Most of the characters were very down to earth, caring and the types of characters that immediately made me care about them. I was immediately drawn into the novel and couldn't stop reading because I wanted so much to find out how things worked out with April and Kyle as well as Nora, Lindsey, Madison and eventually, even Brittany. There were so many people in this novel that I was rooting for, hoping that things would turn out well that I just didn't want to stop reading.
I will say that the ending felt very rushed, almost as if the author decided one day that she'd written enough and had better wrap it up. I realize there will be more books in this series, but I typically like a better ending, whether happily ever after or not, just some type of ending that feels like it fit both the story and the way it happened. For that reason, I'd rate this 4.5 if Goodreads allowed 1/2 stars.
I would like to thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. I will be checking out the first novel in this series and going from there, I think, because I'd like to know the back story.
Most of the characters were very down to earth, caring and the types of characters that immediately made me care about them. I was immediately drawn into the novel and couldn't stop reading because I wanted so much to find out how things worked out with April and Kyle as well as Nora, Lindsey, Madison and eventually, even Brittany. There were so many people in this novel that I was rooting for, hoping that things would turn out well that I just didn't want to stop reading.
I will say that the ending felt very rushed, almost as if the author decided one day that she'd written enough and had better wrap it up. I realize there will be more books in this series, but I typically like a better ending, whether happily ever after or not, just some type of ending that feels like it fit both the story and the way it happened. For that reason, I'd rate this 4.5 if Goodreads allowed 1/2 stars.
I would like to thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. I will be checking out the first novel in this series and going from there, I think, because I'd like to know the back story.
October 14, 2015
First let me say that I received a free eBook from Net Galley for an honest review and honestly, I thought it was a terrific story. The author touches on a lot of the day-to-day issues faced by many people. Some of the topics in this story are promiscuous sex, teenagers engaging in unprotected sex, teen motherhood, psychological issues such as BPD, drug use, parenting, divorce, spousal abuse, and how one incident can have such a ripple effect on the lives of people who probably never would have crossed paths. I thought the author did a great job of “weaving” these issues together in the story. The story flows and is believable. The characters are well developed and have their own voice. In some stories there isn’t always a distinction to the character’s voices and you have to skip back to see who is “speaking”. Bravo Ms. Quinn on a great story.
February 9, 2015
The fact that this is a series was not enticing to me as a reader at first because I wasn't sure I would commit to read an entire series. Okay I'll admit I was wrong. This is more than a series ~ it's an addition!
Darlene has managed to hook me as a reader into a suspenseful second reality, and I was pulled in deeper with each turn of the page.
I love the fact that there are old and new characters in Conflicting Webs so when I settled down to read this newest addition to the Web Series I was at home.
For those of you that haven't read the entire series don't hold back from reading Conflicting Webs, which is a stand alone novel. No need to have read the rest of the series, but certainly should be added to your 'must read list'.
Darlene has managed to hook me as a reader into a suspenseful second reality, and I was pulled in deeper with each turn of the page.
I love the fact that there are old and new characters in Conflicting Webs so when I settled down to read this newest addition to the Web Series I was at home.
For those of you that haven't read the entire series don't hold back from reading Conflicting Webs, which is a stand alone novel. No need to have read the rest of the series, but certainly should be added to your 'must read list'.
December 7, 2015
Sometimes you sit down to read a book and are so drawn in, you feel as though you’ve come home. Rarely do I find an author with this ability and Darlene Quinn now joins my short list. I’m amazed at how she kept so many characters, with such diverse (yet connected) stories on track in a way that makes sense. I now find that there are 4 more books in Quinn’s Web Series that I want to read – this time in order. I love Conflicting Webs and can’t wait to delve into the others to learn the back story of these fascinating characters. Conflicting Webs is a great read that I will recommend to everyone.
~ Linda Thompson, Host of www.TheAuthorsShow.com
~ Linda Thompson, Host of www.TheAuthorsShow.com
January 19, 2015
Conflicting webs by Darlene Quinn.
The characters in this one are so believable. The descriptions of the family dynamics are right on target.
The author gives us a good look into the lives of her department store families. the original characters are aging gracefully and the younger one are growing up as you read on.
I became so engrossed that I wanted to tell one of the characters to go away and grow up; to tell another to mind his own business and stop enabling one of the family members.
This book is easy to read and I can't wait for the next one to see what happens.
February 16, 2015
The cover of “Conflicting Webs” is beautiful and the characters are so convincing. The clothing descriptions are so fashionably elegant too. There are so many creative solutions to the characters’ problems in the book. “Conflicting Webs” has such an optimistic ending which leaves me completely content and wanting to read more.
Sally Fritch
Sally Fritch
February 2, 2016
I won this book in a GOODREADS GIVEAWAY. I absolutely loved this book. I loved April and Kyle...who they were as human beings. I felt like I knew each character personally. Brittany...well till the end of the book I may have started to like her a little bit...not much. This was a fantastic read. I will read more from this Author.
February 9, 2018
This is the fifth book in the Webs Series by Darlene Quinn. I am so sad to see this series come to an end but it has been so so good. I am anxious to see what Darlene Quinn come up with next to write about.
April and Kyle are getting married so it should be one of the happiest days of their lives, right? Well when there is an attack by the mother of Kyle's daughter the night before the wedding and a crazy accident as well, the happiness tends to fade away quickly. April and Kyle will need the support of their families now more than ever just to get through this trying time.
We meet April in on of the previous books and she is a very kind person that deserves all the happiness that can be given to her. April has done so much for charities in her time, she deserves a little good luck and happiness. I have to admit that April dealt with the drama of her fiance/husbands daughter's mom butting in their business very well along with all the vicious things she did to them. I can't say that I would have handled everything as well.
We also get more of Madison and Lindsey in this story which makes it all that much better. I don't want to give away too much of the story because with this being the last book in the series we do get answers to questions that we have been wondering about. I was very pleased with how the series ended. It felt complete to me.
I think that this was a great series that readers of all genres will enjoy. I can't wait to see what is next from Darlene Quinn!
April and Kyle are getting married so it should be one of the happiest days of their lives, right? Well when there is an attack by the mother of Kyle's daughter the night before the wedding and a crazy accident as well, the happiness tends to fade away quickly. April and Kyle will need the support of their families now more than ever just to get through this trying time.
We meet April in on of the previous books and she is a very kind person that deserves all the happiness that can be given to her. April has done so much for charities in her time, she deserves a little good luck and happiness. I have to admit that April dealt with the drama of her fiance/husbands daughter's mom butting in their business very well along with all the vicious things she did to them. I can't say that I would have handled everything as well.
We also get more of Madison and Lindsey in this story which makes it all that much better. I don't want to give away too much of the story because with this being the last book in the series we do get answers to questions that we have been wondering about. I was very pleased with how the series ended. It felt complete to me.
I think that this was a great series that readers of all genres will enjoy. I can't wait to see what is next from Darlene Quinn!
July 20, 2017
Conflicting Webs
: Darlene Quinn
A continuation of the Webs series finds April Toddman about to get married. There are many events that will have the listener wondering if the wedding will actually happen. We get plenty of drama, angst, suspense and romance to keep us on the edge of our seat. I totally enjoyed this book that focuses more on personal lives than careers.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Karin Allers draws the listener inside the story.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
: Darlene Quinn
A continuation of the Webs series finds April Toddman about to get married. There are many events that will have the listener wondering if the wedding will actually happen. We get plenty of drama, angst, suspense and romance to keep us on the edge of our seat. I totally enjoyed this book that focuses more on personal lives than careers.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Karin Allers draws the listener inside the story.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
June 5, 2017
worth a read, it has a lot to offer and really does become interesting after the first few chapters.
I enjoyed this book and would give it another read.
I was given this free copy, in return for my unbiased review
I enjoyed this book and would give it another read.
I was given this free copy, in return for my unbiased review
June 9, 2019
I love the way the author tells this story. Jumping from perspectives at just the right moments... leaving us hanging just enough. It’s beautifully written.
November 13, 2015
Conflicting Webs by Darlene Quinn was in some ways, a difficult book for me to read. I started on it a few weeks ago, and realized that one of the main characters has the same psychiatric problem that someone close to me has very recently been diagnosed with. Within the very first chapter or two, the distress of Brittany and her mom, Nora, was too personally painful and I needed to lay the story aside. Yesterday, I picked up where I left off, hoping against hope for a hea. The author's decision to suggest the cause of this illness was based on Brittany's upbringing, though often the case, needs clarification so that readers understand the sense of abandonment that can bring on this disorder is many times perceived by the victim and not reality based. I certainly empathised with Nora's sorrow and feelings of maternal guilt. Parents, especially moms, tend to feel guilty for the problems and consequences of their children's decisions, even when there isn't a mental health issue. Brittany's father's character may have been drawn a bit heavy handed. The author suggested later that he suffered even as a young man from insecurities and a sense of low self-esteem due to painful experiences incurred due to his Jewish ancestry, and possibly that why he was overbearing. This was based on Nora's input and discounted by other characters, as were her efforts to explain that Brittany was not a bad person. I was relieved at least minimally that the author eventually provides at least some qualified hope for the possibility of a brighter future for this young woman, whose blighted perceptions caused so much pain in her life and in those of others.
Quinn also dealt with the topic of survivor's guilt, tying Bill, the man who witnessed Madeline's accident, into the story. As a retired nurse, I found Madeline's physical recovery pretty impractical within the timeline (specifically her knitting a Christmas gift.) While Bill was sanctified in the eyes of others, at least he realized that his need to help was as great as the other's need for assistance. He did not however, show the insight that helping others is often a way to avoid dealing with your own issues, although it may temporarily make one feel better about them. I suspect that there may be another book in the works involving them. If so, I hope Ms. Quinn doesn't miss the the issue of possible co-dependency in their relationship. April's character was perhaps lacking in that she came across more angelic than human. I just can't see any bride shine as she did with the multiple responsibilities and catastrophes surrounding her wedding. Her new husband's character was not well developed in comparison with some others. The two affluent families that the story is built around, seem to be ones anybody could wish for, far from the typecast that the wealthy are consummately self centered. April's family certainly is exceptionally self sacrificing, and she most of all puts others first consistently and with a very positive attitude. Altogether, I guess I felt that some of the characters were either a little too sanctified or vilified to feel real.
Although the book had action enough to turn the pages, it is definitely within the genre of women's literature, less action oriented and more about people and relationships. It is not a light read. Given the serious topics dealt with in this novel, I would recommend predominately mature readers despite the omission of graphic scenes. It is not as likely to appeal to the majority of the male population, if I may generalize a bit. I thank Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read Conflicting Webs. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own and most likely deeply colored by my own experiences. Had I been capable of writing a more objective review, I believe the rating would be higher and the review more positively oriented. Perhaps my response to the book is an indication of the power of the writing, that it evoked such a profound reaction.
Quinn also dealt with the topic of survivor's guilt, tying Bill, the man who witnessed Madeline's accident, into the story. As a retired nurse, I found Madeline's physical recovery pretty impractical within the timeline (specifically her knitting a Christmas gift.) While Bill was sanctified in the eyes of others, at least he realized that his need to help was as great as the other's need for assistance. He did not however, show the insight that helping others is often a way to avoid dealing with your own issues, although it may temporarily make one feel better about them. I suspect that there may be another book in the works involving them. If so, I hope Ms. Quinn doesn't miss the the issue of possible co-dependency in their relationship. April's character was perhaps lacking in that she came across more angelic than human. I just can't see any bride shine as she did with the multiple responsibilities and catastrophes surrounding her wedding. Her new husband's character was not well developed in comparison with some others. The two affluent families that the story is built around, seem to be ones anybody could wish for, far from the typecast that the wealthy are consummately self centered. April's family certainly is exceptionally self sacrificing, and she most of all puts others first consistently and with a very positive attitude. Altogether, I guess I felt that some of the characters were either a little too sanctified or vilified to feel real.
Although the book had action enough to turn the pages, it is definitely within the genre of women's literature, less action oriented and more about people and relationships. It is not a light read. Given the serious topics dealt with in this novel, I would recommend predominately mature readers despite the omission of graphic scenes. It is not as likely to appeal to the majority of the male population, if I may generalize a bit. I thank Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read Conflicting Webs. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own and most likely deeply colored by my own experiences. Had I been capable of writing a more objective review, I believe the rating would be higher and the review more positively oriented. Perhaps my response to the book is an indication of the power of the writing, that it evoked such a profound reaction.
April 26, 2015
Sweeping sagas are something I love, particularly because it allows me to go in and read a few books before I have to worry about not having anything else to read by the author. And, when I was given an opportunity by publisher Greenleaf book Group Press to read the newest in Darlene Quinn’s Conflicting Webs (the newest in the Toddman-Taylor saga), I jumped at the chance to read an e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
The Wedding of April Toddman and Kyle Clark should be one of the happiest days of the Toddman and Taylor families, but a vicious attack by the mother of Kyle’s daughter (and flower girl) and a horrific accident the night before shakes the very fabric of the happy nuptials. April and Kyle will need their friends and extended families now more than ever, just to survive their honeymoon and the holidays. But, are the couple strong enough to face these challenges together?
This was a welcome return to the world Quinn created, nestled amongst the world of the rich and luxury department stores (and the people behind them). I loved the focus on April Toddman, whom longtime readers may connect from another novel. April is a very sympathetic and happiness-deserving character. I really enjoyed the focus on her charitable work. Being stuck in between your fiancee/husband and his ‘baby mama’ is never easy, and April juggles this in a mature and believeable way. She handled it so well, and with a grace that was admirable.
I was saddened by the storyline involving Madison, the maid of honor and her terrible accident. The recovery was very real, and I felt like there was extensive research done in order to give this an extra level of realism. It would be extremely frustrating to not be able to use hands or your voice to communicate. And, while I feel like it would be excruciating, Quinn handled it really well. Luckily, Madison was a friend to a fortunate family, but there are many people who are in a very similar situation without the financial help of friends.
Kyle’s daughter, Lindsay was a treat. Raised by her Grandmother, Nora, she’s an honest and real child, who may have grown up a little sooner than normal, based on the interactions she has with her mother, Brittany. Brittany’s storyline is almost ludicrous, but even the most critical reader will have a hard time denying the character’s growth throughout the novel. If anything, Nora’s ex-husband is possibly the only real villain of the novel. Nora nurtures Lindsay’s relationship with her father and stepmother knowing it is for the good of the child—which is a very tough decision to make.
Darlene Quinn creates a dramatic (and very filmic, a la Lifetime) story which compels the reader to not only keep turning the page, but also seek out more books in the series. As someone familiar with her work, I was happy to read this and be returned to that world. I think this is a perfect beach read or a women’s fiction read. The work Darlene has done in the past is detailed at the end of the book, along with real-time social issues and a message that runs as an undercurrent of the book. Which will make even the most savvy reader thing. One of the things I realized was that she was slated to visit my local Barnes and Noble store. And, she and I also live in the same city!
The Wedding of April Toddman and Kyle Clark should be one of the happiest days of the Toddman and Taylor families, but a vicious attack by the mother of Kyle’s daughter (and flower girl) and a horrific accident the night before shakes the very fabric of the happy nuptials. April and Kyle will need their friends and extended families now more than ever, just to survive their honeymoon and the holidays. But, are the couple strong enough to face these challenges together?
This was a welcome return to the world Quinn created, nestled amongst the world of the rich and luxury department stores (and the people behind them). I loved the focus on April Toddman, whom longtime readers may connect from another novel. April is a very sympathetic and happiness-deserving character. I really enjoyed the focus on her charitable work. Being stuck in between your fiancee/husband and his ‘baby mama’ is never easy, and April juggles this in a mature and believeable way. She handled it so well, and with a grace that was admirable.
I was saddened by the storyline involving Madison, the maid of honor and her terrible accident. The recovery was very real, and I felt like there was extensive research done in order to give this an extra level of realism. It would be extremely frustrating to not be able to use hands or your voice to communicate. And, while I feel like it would be excruciating, Quinn handled it really well. Luckily, Madison was a friend to a fortunate family, but there are many people who are in a very similar situation without the financial help of friends.
Kyle’s daughter, Lindsay was a treat. Raised by her Grandmother, Nora, she’s an honest and real child, who may have grown up a little sooner than normal, based on the interactions she has with her mother, Brittany. Brittany’s storyline is almost ludicrous, but even the most critical reader will have a hard time denying the character’s growth throughout the novel. If anything, Nora’s ex-husband is possibly the only real villain of the novel. Nora nurtures Lindsay’s relationship with her father and stepmother knowing it is for the good of the child—which is a very tough decision to make.
Darlene Quinn creates a dramatic (and very filmic, a la Lifetime) story which compels the reader to not only keep turning the page, but also seek out more books in the series. As someone familiar with her work, I was happy to read this and be returned to that world. I think this is a perfect beach read or a women’s fiction read. The work Darlene has done in the past is detailed at the end of the book, along with real-time social issues and a message that runs as an undercurrent of the book. Which will make even the most savvy reader thing. One of the things I realized was that she was slated to visit my local Barnes and Noble store. And, she and I also live in the same city!
March 4, 2015
Review of Conflicting Webs
By Darlene Quinn
I loved this book! If you don’t mind losing sleep because you can’t stop reading, “Conflicting Webs” is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it’s time to do something else—such as sleep. I read “one more chapter,” and then another “one more chapter,” on and on until this rather large book was finished.
In “Conflicting Webs” you will find characters whose problems ring true to real life. The author is careful not to find magical solutions for the kinds of issues, such as drug use, that have no easy answers. The plotting shows imagination, and the conflicts are invariably interesting and keep the reader cheering for the “good guys.” Sometimes you long to punch the bad guys in the nose. ln other passages I found myself wishing I could offer conflicted characters some advice. Darlene Quinn is indeed a great story-teller.
Maralys Wills
Author, “The Tail on My Mother’s Kite”
Review of Conflicting Webs
By Darlene Quinn
I loved this book! If you don’t mind losing sleep because you can’t stop reading, “Conflicting Webs” is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it’s time to do something else—such as sleep. I read “one more chapter,” and then another “one more chapter,” on and on until this rather large book was finished.
I loved this book! If you don't mind losing sleep because you can't stop reading, "Conflicting Webs" is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it's time to do something else--like sleep. I read "one more chapter," and then another "one more chapter," on and on until this rather large book was finished.
In “Conflicting Webs” you will find characters whose problems ring true to real life. The author is careful not to find magical solutions for the kinds of issues, such as drug use, that have no easy answers. The plotting shows imagination, and the conflicts are invariably interesting and keep the reader cheering for the “good guys.” Sometimes you long to punch the bad guys in the nose. ln other passages I found myself wishing I could offer conflicted characters some advice. Darlene Quinn is indeed a great story-teller.
Maralys Wills
Author, “The Tail on My Mother’s Kite”
By Darlene Quinn
I loved this book! If you don’t mind losing sleep because you can’t stop reading, “Conflicting Webs” is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it’s time to do something else—such as sleep. I read “one more chapter,” and then another “one more chapter,” on and on until this rather large book was finished.
In “Conflicting Webs” you will find characters whose problems ring true to real life. The author is careful not to find magical solutions for the kinds of issues, such as drug use, that have no easy answers. The plotting shows imagination, and the conflicts are invariably interesting and keep the reader cheering for the “good guys.” Sometimes you long to punch the bad guys in the nose. ln other passages I found myself wishing I could offer conflicted characters some advice. Darlene Quinn is indeed a great story-teller.
Maralys Wills
Author, “The Tail on My Mother’s Kite”
Review of Conflicting Webs
By Darlene Quinn
I loved this book! If you don’t mind losing sleep because you can’t stop reading, “Conflicting Webs” is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it’s time to do something else—such as sleep. I read “one more chapter,” and then another “one more chapter,” on and on until this rather large book was finished.
I loved this book! If you don't mind losing sleep because you can't stop reading, "Conflicting Webs" is your story. With great skill, Darlene Quinn has twisted her plot so conflicts and characters, both good and bad, come at warp speed, making it impossible to stop reading when it's time to do something else--like sleep. I read "one more chapter," and then another "one more chapter," on and on until this rather large book was finished.
In “Conflicting Webs” you will find characters whose problems ring true to real life. The author is careful not to find magical solutions for the kinds of issues, such as drug use, that have no easy answers. The plotting shows imagination, and the conflicts are invariably interesting and keep the reader cheering for the “good guys.” Sometimes you long to punch the bad guys in the nose. ln other passages I found myself wishing I could offer conflicted characters some advice. Darlene Quinn is indeed a great story-teller.
Maralys Wills
Author, “The Tail on My Mother’s Kite”
April 11, 2015
I received Conflicting Webs as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
Beginning in the days before retail heiress April Toddman's marriage to reporter Kyle Clark, the fairy-tale couple is plagued with problems: Britany Levin, a recovering drug addict with borderline personality disorder and the mother of Kyle's daughter Lindsay, a product of the couple's one-night stand, is threatening to pull the child from the wedding in a fit of bitterness. In the days and weeks before and after the wedding, the couple faces crises involving Lindsay, her paternal family, and April's best friend Madison. As the dust settles on a holiday season wracked with tragedy, how will the young couple and their extended families cope with the losses and heartache.
I...just didn't like this one. First of all, I absolutely could not stand April, which I don't think is what the author was going for. Don't get me wrong; I think humanity is generally good, but people make mistakes--they react poorly or irrationally, they have uncharitable thoughts and selfish moments. However, April is a perfectly serene, calm, kind angel in all situations, no matter how stressful or emotional. It's completely aggravating and unrealistic. Kyle is the same way, though he's less of a main character.
The dialogue didn't ring true to how humans speak. Just opening to a random page (133):
"Quite a mess YOU created here, by trying to use MY daughter in your uppity wedding without consulting the one person who mattered." She dramatically lifted her hand to her heart. "And that would be ME!"
It sounds like a line from a soap opera. Keep in mind this is a 23 year old speaking as well. I know of literally no 23 year olds who use the word "uppity."
I'll be honest: the first third of the book or so, I had this pegged as a one-star review, mostly due to my antipathy toward April and the rest of her Mary Sue clan. However, I bumped it up to two stars, because as the book went on, some of the characters did increase in complexity, though I think it came at the cost of introducing way too many storylines and not really wrapping them up in any meaningful way. I understand that this is just the latest volume in a series and that certain resolutions will happen in future books, but there was too much surface stuff happening at the cost of any depth.
I don't think I will be seeking out any previous or future books in this particular series.
Beginning in the days before retail heiress April Toddman's marriage to reporter Kyle Clark, the fairy-tale couple is plagued with problems: Britany Levin, a recovering drug addict with borderline personality disorder and the mother of Kyle's daughter Lindsay, a product of the couple's one-night stand, is threatening to pull the child from the wedding in a fit of bitterness. In the days and weeks before and after the wedding, the couple faces crises involving Lindsay, her paternal family, and April's best friend Madison. As the dust settles on a holiday season wracked with tragedy, how will the young couple and their extended families cope with the losses and heartache.
I...just didn't like this one. First of all, I absolutely could not stand April, which I don't think is what the author was going for. Don't get me wrong; I think humanity is generally good, but people make mistakes--they react poorly or irrationally, they have uncharitable thoughts and selfish moments. However, April is a perfectly serene, calm, kind angel in all situations, no matter how stressful or emotional. It's completely aggravating and unrealistic. Kyle is the same way, though he's less of a main character.
The dialogue didn't ring true to how humans speak. Just opening to a random page (133):
"Quite a mess YOU created here, by trying to use MY daughter in your uppity wedding without consulting the one person who mattered." She dramatically lifted her hand to her heart. "And that would be ME!"
It sounds like a line from a soap opera. Keep in mind this is a 23 year old speaking as well. I know of literally no 23 year olds who use the word "uppity."
I'll be honest: the first third of the book or so, I had this pegged as a one-star review, mostly due to my antipathy toward April and the rest of her Mary Sue clan. However, I bumped it up to two stars, because as the book went on, some of the characters did increase in complexity, though I think it came at the cost of introducing way too many storylines and not really wrapping them up in any meaningful way. I understand that this is just the latest volume in a series and that certain resolutions will happen in future books, but there was too much surface stuff happening at the cost of any depth.
I don't think I will be seeking out any previous or future books in this particular series.
April 7, 2015
Professions that typically make for thrilling fiction are law enforcement, legal, medical, military, spy. High-end retail isn’t on the average reader’s radar. Yet that is the world Darlene Quinn dramatizes in her “Web” series. The latest installment, “Conflicting Webs,” continues Quinn’s tradition of suspense, woven about a tapestry of overlapping personal relationships.
One brewing conflict pits drug-addicted mom Britany against affluent couple Kyle and April, with Britany’s mother, Nora, caught in between, and her doting father, Howard, determined to be the ultimate problem solver. In their past, Kyle and Britany had a brief encounter which produced a child, Lindsay. On the eve of Kyle and April’s wedding, in which the family plans to have Lindsay as their flower girl, Britany has other ideas. Her bitterness about Kyle leads her to put her own daughter at risk, just for spite.
Quinn wants you to know her world as well as she does. Beyond those named above, it takes a while to sort out some of the others. Determining their relative degrees of importance is a lesson in futility until later in the story. In the meantime, be drawn in by expressions of unconditional love, fear, hatred, peacemaking, control and chaos.
How far will Britany go to stick it Kyle? Will her father save her or make matters worse? Will April and Kyle have a happy wedding? Will Lindsay be part of their lives?
Getting to the answers is an engaging journey.
However, there are speed bumps along the way.
The numerous changes of viewpoint within scenes can be dizzying. It's a tactic that worked well in Quinn's "Webs of Fate" because there were fewer characters to keep track of and a greater sense of urgency. Unfortunately, it's more of a crutch in "Conflicting Webs." Scenes tend to stall when the director yells, "Cut!" in the middle of a conversation, repositions the camera crew, and the conversation picks up where it left off, but from another character's perspective.
Too much of this can get in the way of a well-paced and otherwise excellent story.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed. Others who are reading Quinn for the first time may have to work a little harder, but can still come away with a rewarding experience.
One brewing conflict pits drug-addicted mom Britany against affluent couple Kyle and April, with Britany’s mother, Nora, caught in between, and her doting father, Howard, determined to be the ultimate problem solver. In their past, Kyle and Britany had a brief encounter which produced a child, Lindsay. On the eve of Kyle and April’s wedding, in which the family plans to have Lindsay as their flower girl, Britany has other ideas. Her bitterness about Kyle leads her to put her own daughter at risk, just for spite.
Quinn wants you to know her world as well as she does. Beyond those named above, it takes a while to sort out some of the others. Determining their relative degrees of importance is a lesson in futility until later in the story. In the meantime, be drawn in by expressions of unconditional love, fear, hatred, peacemaking, control and chaos.
How far will Britany go to stick it Kyle? Will her father save her or make matters worse? Will April and Kyle have a happy wedding? Will Lindsay be part of their lives?
Getting to the answers is an engaging journey.
However, there are speed bumps along the way.
The numerous changes of viewpoint within scenes can be dizzying. It's a tactic that worked well in Quinn's "Webs of Fate" because there were fewer characters to keep track of and a greater sense of urgency. Unfortunately, it's more of a crutch in "Conflicting Webs." Scenes tend to stall when the director yells, "Cut!" in the middle of a conversation, repositions the camera crew, and the conversation picks up where it left off, but from another character's perspective.
Too much of this can get in the way of a well-paced and otherwise excellent story.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed. Others who are reading Quinn for the first time may have to work a little harder, but can still come away with a rewarding experience.
March 13, 2015
I absolutely loved Conflicting Webs by Darlene Quinn. Conflicting Webs, which happens to be a stand-alone story, is the fifth addition to Quinn’s Web series. The Web series contains four other books. This is the first book I have read in the Web series so I was happy that Quinn fills the reader in on some of the things from the other books in the series. This book focuses on the wedding of April Toddman and Kyle Clark. It also revolves around a custody battle for Lindsay Levin. There is also a lot more that happens, but I will not spoil it. This story is filled with just the right about of drama and everything that occurs is believable. The characters are mostly loveable and all of them are unique.
Conflicting Webs contains a cast of characters which the book focuses on. At first I felt there were too many characters to focus on but when I continued reading I appreciated that Quinn tells each character’s side of the story and point of view. Every character has a reason for being in this book. I also like how everyone of Quinn’s characters, no matter how bad they are, all have a little good in them. I liked the character of April Toddman because she is a strong female who always tries to do the right thing. I hated Howard Levin, but so did everyone else in the book. Nora Levin is a saint for putting up with him and not hiring a hitman. Lindsay Levin is the character my heart went out to the most. She is surrounded by love but no one person can really take care of her.
Overall I really enjoyed Conflicting Webs. It reminded me of the television show “Brothers & Sisters” in that everyone is related or their paths cross in some way. I liked that Quinn wrote about Survivor’s Guilt. It helped me to realize that people in my own life are suffering from it. I will be looking into reading the rest of the Web series as well as Quinn’s other book. I recommend this book for anyone who like reading drama and family stories.
*I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Conflicting Webs contains a cast of characters which the book focuses on. At first I felt there were too many characters to focus on but when I continued reading I appreciated that Quinn tells each character’s side of the story and point of view. Every character has a reason for being in this book. I also like how everyone of Quinn’s characters, no matter how bad they are, all have a little good in them. I liked the character of April Toddman because she is a strong female who always tries to do the right thing. I hated Howard Levin, but so did everyone else in the book. Nora Levin is a saint for putting up with him and not hiring a hitman. Lindsay Levin is the character my heart went out to the most. She is surrounded by love but no one person can really take care of her.
Overall I really enjoyed Conflicting Webs. It reminded me of the television show “Brothers & Sisters” in that everyone is related or their paths cross in some way. I liked that Quinn wrote about Survivor’s Guilt. It helped me to realize that people in my own life are suffering from it. I will be looking into reading the rest of the Web series as well as Quinn’s other book. I recommend this book for anyone who like reading drama and family stories.
*I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review
May 27, 2016
I received this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
‘Conflicting Webs’ is filled with all manner of family drama, tragedy, and long-held anger, but through it all, is the thread of forgiveness and acceptance, of love and strength. It is a very poignant book as it brings to light the damage a family can do to itself. And the healing grace of love.
What should have been the happiest time of her life has instead turned out to be anything but. April Toddman is set to marry the man she loves with all of her heart, Kyle Clark. But Kyle has a young daughter from a one-night-stand. Darling little Lindsey and her doting Grandmother Nora Levin have become a welcomed part of April’s extended family. But when Lindsey’s Mother, Britany Levin is released from rehab, all H___ breaks loose. Lindsey is caught in the middle of a power struggle between Nora and her ex-husband and between Nora and Britany. All little Lindsey wants is to be the flower girl for her daddy’s marriage and wear the beautiful dress she was given for the occasion.
While all of this is going on, April’s longtime friend, and her matron of honor, Madison, is involved in a tragic car accident that takes the life of her husband, two of her children and an unborn child. Madison’s marriage was anything but blissful, her controlling husband was destroying their family. Now Madison has to find the resolve to move forward.
Enter Bill Boyd, the man who witnessed the accident. Bill is also a man dealing with his own loss. When he starts to involve himself into Madison’s life, as well as that of April, Kyle and the extended family, many questions arise. What is he up to? Does he have an ulterior motive? Bill seems too good to be true.
‘Conflicting Webs’ is filled with all manner of family drama, tragedy, and long-held anger, but through it all, is the thread of forgiveness and acceptance, of love and strength. It is a very poignant book as it brings to light the damage a family can do to itself. And the healing grace of love.
What should have been the happiest time of her life has instead turned out to be anything but. April Toddman is set to marry the man she loves with all of her heart, Kyle Clark. But Kyle has a young daughter from a one-night-stand. Darling little Lindsey and her doting Grandmother Nora Levin have become a welcomed part of April’s extended family. But when Lindsey’s Mother, Britany Levin is released from rehab, all H___ breaks loose. Lindsey is caught in the middle of a power struggle between Nora and her ex-husband and between Nora and Britany. All little Lindsey wants is to be the flower girl for her daddy’s marriage and wear the beautiful dress she was given for the occasion.
While all of this is going on, April’s longtime friend, and her matron of honor, Madison, is involved in a tragic car accident that takes the life of her husband, two of her children and an unborn child. Madison’s marriage was anything but blissful, her controlling husband was destroying their family. Now Madison has to find the resolve to move forward.
Enter Bill Boyd, the man who witnessed the accident. Bill is also a man dealing with his own loss. When he starts to involve himself into Madison’s life, as well as that of April, Kyle and the extended family, many questions arise. What is he up to? Does he have an ulterior motive? Bill seems too good to be true.
October 10, 2015
Title: Conflicting Webs
Author: Darlene Quinn
Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Conflicting Webs" by Darlene Quinn
My Thoughts....
"Conflicting Webs" was the perfect title for this suspenseful intriguing fictional read that was about April who was marrying Kyle. Now you would think with all of the planning that April had done...the wedding would go smoothly however, that was not to be. Why? Issues and much conflict comes from the right and left from Brittany[Kyle's baby mama] who happened to not want their daughter[Lindsay] to be in his wedding. Be ready for a plot that will have some twist and turns as the conflict will pull you into all the drama of it all and will definitely will keep you turning the pages to see what will be coming next, The characters were off the chart...being well developed, defined, portrayed and believable helping to give the reader a spellbound suspenseful and emotional story. The title: 'Conflicting Web' really lives up to it name because there many conflicting commitments in this novel. So, if you are ready for a engaging wonderful story where you maybe caught in the web of it all, then I would recommend this read to you.
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2016
Conflicting Webs had a little too much going on for me. There are two very major story lines - which do overlap and interact nicely - but I felt like I neve really got to focus on one or the other.
In one story we have the April and her wedding - which seems destined to be sabotaged. If it can go wrong - it seems like it will. From accidents to the flower girl's birth mother trying to steal her away. A lot of the story revolves around this mother and her attempt to ruin Kyle and April's life while trying to start over with her own. Her story was actually my favorite part of the book. It was gritty and real, a part of life not everyone (thankfully) gets to see everyday.
On the other hand - and I'm going to be vague here to avoid spoilers - we have a horrible accident and some deaths that really made me want to cry. While her story was touching - it seemed like it was there to create more drama and have a few influences on the other story line. It never quite seemed complete somehow.
This was not my favorite of the series. Too much going on that meant I had a hard time really connecting to any one part of it. But till a good story.
*This book was received in exhange for an honest review*
- See more at: http://www.hotofftheshelves.com/2016/...
In one story we have the April and her wedding - which seems destined to be sabotaged. If it can go wrong - it seems like it will. From accidents to the flower girl's birth mother trying to steal her away. A lot of the story revolves around this mother and her attempt to ruin Kyle and April's life while trying to start over with her own. Her story was actually my favorite part of the book. It was gritty and real, a part of life not everyone (thankfully) gets to see everyday.
On the other hand - and I'm going to be vague here to avoid spoilers - we have a horrible accident and some deaths that really made me want to cry. While her story was touching - it seemed like it was there to create more drama and have a few influences on the other story line. It never quite seemed complete somehow.
This was not my favorite of the series. Too much going on that meant I had a hard time really connecting to any one part of it. But till a good story.
*This book was received in exhange for an honest review*
- See more at: http://www.hotofftheshelves.com/2016/...
April 2, 2015
Like to Stay up Late? This one’s for you!
Conflicting Webs by Darlene Quinn is another page turner by this prolific author. Pulling known characters from her best selling Web series and pairing them with new personalities in intriguing circumstances is designed to enthrall the reader and keep you reading!
A young girl unwanted by her drug addicted mother, but adored by her grandmother; a young couple’s wedding just days away face decisions that may include postponement. A close friend is the victim of a horrendous crash that has left her disfigured, a widow, and the survivor with only one of her three children.
You want more? Mix in the conflict of a manipulative grandfather trying to force his daughter into motherhood of her child while positioning the grandmother into the background, setting demands that jeopardize the affairs of all. Add a mysterious stranger who happens on the crash scene only to appear later at the hospital offering help and advice. Who is the man, and what could he possibly want?
Romance, intrigue, deception, self serving actions and futures at stake: pick up this book at once!
But it comes with a warning: you may not be able to put it down! Thanks Darlene Quinn – no conflict here – just enjoyable and exciting reading!
Conflicting Webs by Darlene Quinn is another page turner by this prolific author. Pulling known characters from her best selling Web series and pairing them with new personalities in intriguing circumstances is designed to enthrall the reader and keep you reading!
A young girl unwanted by her drug addicted mother, but adored by her grandmother; a young couple’s wedding just days away face decisions that may include postponement. A close friend is the victim of a horrendous crash that has left her disfigured, a widow, and the survivor with only one of her three children.
You want more? Mix in the conflict of a manipulative grandfather trying to force his daughter into motherhood of her child while positioning the grandmother into the background, setting demands that jeopardize the affairs of all. Add a mysterious stranger who happens on the crash scene only to appear later at the hospital offering help and advice. Who is the man, and what could he possibly want?
Romance, intrigue, deception, self serving actions and futures at stake: pick up this book at once!
But it comes with a warning: you may not be able to put it down! Thanks Darlene Quinn – no conflict here – just enjoyable and exciting reading!
October 21, 2015
I received this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
I give this book 3.5 stars.
The author could not have a more fitting title, this novel is full of webs that surround April and Kyle's wedding. Some webs are of the person's own making and others are given to them. They all impact, in one way or another, the wedding.
Although the blurb says the novel covers April and Kyle's relationship and how they deal with unexpected trails, I see the novel more as the exploration and progression of April's character through unpredictable events. I say exploration because April is a great person from the beginning but still is able to grow throughout the story. She meets and surpasses each demand handed to her. I would like to have seen more of her relationship with Kyle after their wedding. With everything that is going around them, it is understandable why their new marriage is put on the back burner.
Overall, I do agree with the blurb, the book was a page turner because of the many issues it contains. I was always wondering and wanting to know what was going to happen. I love how the book ends, its a beginning more than anything.
I give this book 3.5 stars.
The author could not have a more fitting title, this novel is full of webs that surround April and Kyle's wedding. Some webs are of the person's own making and others are given to them. They all impact, in one way or another, the wedding.
Although the blurb says the novel covers April and Kyle's relationship and how they deal with unexpected trails, I see the novel more as the exploration and progression of April's character through unpredictable events. I say exploration because April is a great person from the beginning but still is able to grow throughout the story. She meets and surpasses each demand handed to her. I would like to have seen more of her relationship with Kyle after their wedding. With everything that is going around them, it is understandable why their new marriage is put on the back burner.
Overall, I do agree with the blurb, the book was a page turner because of the many issues it contains. I was always wondering and wanting to know what was going to happen. I love how the book ends, its a beginning more than anything.
December 14, 2015
I won this book in Goodreads First Reads and I really enjoyed it. I was not familiar with this author but I hope to read more books by her. April and Kyle are to be married when everything starts to go wrong. Kyle had a one night stand and a daughter was produced. The mother of the child is not stable and the child has been raised by the grandmother. The mother is let out of rehab before the wedding and her feelings toward Kylie are bad and she does not want her daughter, Lindsey to be the flower girl. The matron of honor is in a wreck the night of the rehearsal dinner and her husband and 2 children are killed. Madison is severely injured and unable to take car of her remaining daughter Jena. April and her family step up to take care of Madison and Jena as well as trying to help care for Lindsay. This is a hard way to start a marriage but they work thru it and with the help of others it looks like there will be a happy ending. A good story on survivors guilt and the true meaning of friendship. SO glad I won this book and learned about this author.
April 23, 2016
This is the first book I've read in this series, and by This author. Even though this is the first book I have read in the Web Series it is definitely a stand-alone read and at no point during the novel did I find I was missing part of the story to understand what was going on.
I was immediately drawn into the story line and wanted to find out how things worked out with April and Kyle as well as Nora, Lindsey, Madison and eventually, even Brittany. There were so many people in this novel that grab your attention for different reasons and you feel compelled to read just one more page to find out how things will work out for them.
The conflict in the story pulled me in and kept me involved, however there are a few places where the story line did seem to drag out a little too much. I do have to say that the ending felt very rushed to wrap things up. I do understand that there will be another book in the series to continue the story, however I would have preferred a little more detail in the ending. That being said, I will be looking at reading other books by this author.
I was immediately drawn into the story line and wanted to find out how things worked out with April and Kyle as well as Nora, Lindsey, Madison and eventually, even Brittany. There were so many people in this novel that grab your attention for different reasons and you feel compelled to read just one more page to find out how things will work out for them.
The conflict in the story pulled me in and kept me involved, however there are a few places where the story line did seem to drag out a little too much. I do have to say that the ending felt very rushed to wrap things up. I do understand that there will be another book in the series to continue the story, however I would have preferred a little more detail in the ending. That being said, I will be looking at reading other books by this author.
June 24, 2015
This book started out a little slow for me. Once I did get into, I was absorbed in the story right to the end. Parts of it were very intense. There were a lot of characters in this book. Each one was well developed and had a large part in how the story moved forward and ended. At times I made assumptions on how things were going to turn out and each time I was surprised at the turns the story took.
This is my first book by Darlene Quinn. I did not feel like I was missing anything since I had not read the previous books. This book felt complete.
The ending left me wanting more. Not that it was a bad ending, I just wanted to know more. I guess that is because it is part of a series.
This is my first book by Darlene Quinn. I did not feel like I was missing anything since I had not read the previous books. This book felt complete.
The ending left me wanting more. Not that it was a bad ending, I just wanted to know more. I guess that is because it is part of a series.
May 19, 2015
A mesmerizing story that will captivate you from the first paragraph and not let you go until you are done! Do not start this book at night! I knew the minute I started this book, like all her others, I would be hooked from the beginning and not be able to put it down. I found myself saying one more chapter, just one more and before I knew it I was up late every time. It is filled with believable characters that you can relate to. You will love the twists and turns, many you won't see coming. The worst part about this was when it was over and you were done reading it. I look forward to more and more amazing books by this talented author.
May 12, 2015
A beautiful wedding is planned. An entitled young woman plots it’s ruin. Terrible loss for a young wife and mother, as a tragic accident leaves her broken. A gracious, but mysterious stranger offers comfort.
I truly enjoyed the evolvement of the characters of the Web Series. Webs of Conflict brings familiar forces and places, together with new characters in this hard to put down novel. Hoping for volume six. There is so much more intrigue to savor.
“Weave more Webs for us!”
Dianne Barkis
I truly enjoyed the evolvement of the characters of the Web Series. Webs of Conflict brings familiar forces and places, together with new characters in this hard to put down novel. Hoping for volume six. There is so much more intrigue to savor.
“Weave more Webs for us!”
Dianne Barkis
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