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A Bird on a Windowsill
“Who do you choose, Vannah?”
She’s standing at the door, her dark green eyes slicing open the distance between her gaze and mine. And I’m just staring back at her. And three thoughts are all that are on my mind:
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
She takes a breath. I hold mine. And with that, a silent thought slips into my cadence.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
Choose me.
Choose me.
Salem and Savannah have known each other since childhood, and nearly every memory they each hold, they share together. But when Savannah tells Salem that her family is moving to South Carolina only days into their sophomore year of high school, Salem is devastated.
They vow to spend the rest of Savannah’s time in their small hometown, together, rewinding the last ten years of their young lives, until one day, Salem wakes up, and Savannah’s gone.
But that’s not the last time their paths cross. In fact, life continues to intertwine their stories, until one sunny afternoon, Salem walks into their hometown’s newspaper office and looks up to a familiar face. It’s Savannah, and she’s just the same as the last time he saw her. The only problem is, he’s not.
Based in small-town Missouri, A Bird on a Windowsill tells the story of a boy and a girl who share one past. And now, at twenty-three, having spent the last six years apart, they both must navigate the delicate line of loving and letting go, until they're each faced with a choice that could change their future—and their story.
She’s standing at the door, her dark green eyes slicing open the distance between her gaze and mine. And I’m just staring back at her. And three thoughts are all that are on my mind:
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
She takes a breath. I hold mine. And with that, a silent thought slips into my cadence.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
I love this girl.
Choose me.
Choose me.
Salem and Savannah have known each other since childhood, and nearly every memory they each hold, they share together. But when Savannah tells Salem that her family is moving to South Carolina only days into their sophomore year of high school, Salem is devastated.
They vow to spend the rest of Savannah’s time in their small hometown, together, rewinding the last ten years of their young lives, until one day, Salem wakes up, and Savannah’s gone.
But that’s not the last time their paths cross. In fact, life continues to intertwine their stories, until one sunny afternoon, Salem walks into their hometown’s newspaper office and looks up to a familiar face. It’s Savannah, and she’s just the same as the last time he saw her. The only problem is, he’s not.
Based in small-town Missouri, A Bird on a Windowsill tells the story of a boy and a girl who share one past. And now, at twenty-three, having spent the last six years apart, they both must navigate the delicate line of loving and letting go, until they're each faced with a choice that could change their future—and their story.
285 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2016
12 people are currently reading
974 people want to read
About the author
Laura Miller
13 books434 followersLaura Miller is the best-selling author of small-town romance novels and poetry. She grew up in a small Midwestern town in the United States. Now, she lives in Kansas City, Mo. Look for her latest book of poetry, Echo, available now.
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For signing dates, trailers and more, please visit http://www.lauramillerbooks.com/.
Follow her for signing dates, trailers and more.
Stay connected!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraM...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlaura...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraMiller01
For signing dates, trailers and more, please visit http://www.lauramillerbooks.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 23, 2016
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Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Savannah): 23yrs old – 2/5
Hero (Salem): 23yrs old – 4/5
Plot: 3/5
Grovel: none
Cheating: none but see triggers
HEA: Savannah’s epilogue was better than Salem’s
Triggers: h slept with OM, H has a girlfriend
Average score: 2.5/5
Best Line: Salem: “Vannah builds airplanes, and I build bridges.”
Worst Line: Savannah: “Have you ever thought that maybe the universe just doesn’t want us together? That maybe that’s why it made us friends?” and
“I miss Aaron when I’m here. But when I’m there, I miss Eben”
Personal Review:
This was an angst filled friends-to-lovers romance. This was completely opposite to love stories where the H or h hold on to their loved ones. I can honestly say that I hated almost every part of this story and I think that the H deserved better.
Random Ramblings:
•I really hate it when I feel the h leading the H on because despite being ‘in love’ with the H, she still goes on dates with other men and tells the H about it
•I felt for the H because the h loved to keep his hopes up only to then tell him how little he means to her by saying they are ‘just friends’
•So much angst!
•I can’t get over how clueless the bitchy h is, poor H
•Hated the way the story ended
Overall Feeling:
So tempted to not call this a romance but technically it is. This was essentially the plot:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Savannah): 23yrs old – 2/5
Hero (Salem): 23yrs old – 4/5
Plot: 3/5
Grovel: none
Cheating: none but see triggers
HEA: Savannah’s epilogue was better than Salem’s
Triggers: h slept with OM, H has a girlfriend
Average score: 2.5/5
Best Line: Salem: “Vannah builds airplanes, and I build bridges.”
Worst Line: Savannah: “Have you ever thought that maybe the universe just doesn’t want us together? That maybe that’s why it made us friends?” and
“I miss Aaron when I’m here. But when I’m there, I miss Eben”
Personal Review:
This was an angst filled friends-to-lovers romance. This was completely opposite to love stories where the H or h hold on to their loved ones. I can honestly say that I hated almost every part of this story and I think that the H deserved better.
Random Ramblings:
•I really hate it when I feel the h leading the H on because despite being ‘in love’ with the H, she still goes on dates with other men and tells the H about it
•I felt for the H because the h loved to keep his hopes up only to then tell him how little he means to her by saying they are ‘just friends’
•So much angst!
•I can’t get over how clueless the bitchy h is, poor H
•Hated the way the story ended
Overall Feeling:
So tempted to not call this a romance but technically it is. This was essentially the plot:
June 17, 2016
Amazing chemistry, palpable tension, and skillful writing make this a winner and recommendation. No one can transport me to small town, middle America with realistic characters like Laura Miller. A Bird on a Windowsill is a soothing splendor. From the closeness of family to the close-knit friendships that form when we're small children, a sense of community was evident throughout this book. I'm sure we've all wanted to change something in our past, rid ourselves of old regrets, have a do-over, or simply change our story. Salem and Savannah's isn't just a story as much as it is a "change of story." Salem and Savannah have an opportunity to rewrite their history, change their story in this book that is told in number of days. Seeing Day 1, Day 6,586, etc. at the beginning of each chapter was enough to heighten my tension and question where the author was taking me.
I've come to learn two truths about love. One: The fall is the easy part. Two: It's best not to fall.
A Bird on a Windowsill spans the course of around eighteen years in the lives of Salem and Savannah. From the time they were around five years old and through the teen years, their characters acted and reacted in such a way that I felt as if I knew them personally. The relationship between Salem and his grandfather is sweet in such a simple way. Whatever his grandfather says in their short conversations, Salem takes to heart as words to live by with a seriousness only a child can muster and hold on to for always. Salem is someone I consider to be an old soul. He feels compassion for others with his whole heart, words are golden to him, and he has a seriousness and maturity about him even as a small child.
"A very wise man once told me, 'You find a girl that gives you a piece of her treasure, you hold onto that treasure. And better yet, you hold onto that girl.'"
The tension between the characters in this book is intense and kept me reading well into the night, yet the author has a tendency to relax me in the middle of anxiety with her smooth and fluid writing. I thoroughly enjoy coming of age stories in which the friendship begins when the characters are children and blossoms into something more as they grow. When a little faith and patience are added in with good measure, my enjoyment becomes a love fog that envelopes me, as did this book.
And really, in the end, I just wish we had more time. I wish we had a dozen lifetimes to get this right. But of course, we don't. We only have this one -- and it's short. Way too short.
Laura Miller has hit another home run with A Bird on a Windowsill. This novel meets expectations while introducing new characters and reacquainting me with the memories of childhood friendships, childhood crushes, and taking in life on faith that it will all work out. The epilogues, particularly Salem's, are tender and broke my heart in a good way, as it brings the story full circle. The well-paced plot, engaging and well-defined characters, and an inviting setting make Laura Miller's latest novel one to add to your bookshelves. If you love Butterfly Weeds (one of my favorites of 2012) and By Way of Accident, then you will love their love child, A Bird on a Windowsill, too..
I've come to learn two truths about love. One: The fall is the easy part. Two: It's best not to fall.
A Bird on a Windowsill spans the course of around eighteen years in the lives of Salem and Savannah. From the time they were around five years old and through the teen years, their characters acted and reacted in such a way that I felt as if I knew them personally. The relationship between Salem and his grandfather is sweet in such a simple way. Whatever his grandfather says in their short conversations, Salem takes to heart as words to live by with a seriousness only a child can muster and hold on to for always. Salem is someone I consider to be an old soul. He feels compassion for others with his whole heart, words are golden to him, and he has a seriousness and maturity about him even as a small child.
"A very wise man once told me, 'You find a girl that gives you a piece of her treasure, you hold onto that treasure. And better yet, you hold onto that girl.'"
The tension between the characters in this book is intense and kept me reading well into the night, yet the author has a tendency to relax me in the middle of anxiety with her smooth and fluid writing. I thoroughly enjoy coming of age stories in which the friendship begins when the characters are children and blossoms into something more as they grow. When a little faith and patience are added in with good measure, my enjoyment becomes a love fog that envelopes me, as did this book.
And really, in the end, I just wish we had more time. I wish we had a dozen lifetimes to get this right. But of course, we don't. We only have this one -- and it's short. Way too short.
Laura Miller has hit another home run with A Bird on a Windowsill. This novel meets expectations while introducing new characters and reacquainting me with the memories of childhood friendships, childhood crushes, and taking in life on faith that it will all work out. The epilogues, particularly Salem's, are tender and broke my heart in a good way, as it brings the story full circle. The well-paced plot, engaging and well-defined characters, and an inviting setting make Laura Miller's latest novel one to add to your bookshelves. If you love Butterfly Weeds (one of my favorites of 2012) and By Way of Accident, then you will love their love child, A Bird on a Windowsill, too..
July 27, 2016
Release Date: June 20, 2016
Genre: Emotional, Friends to Lovers, Second Chance Romance
:: 6 Pretty Little Stars ::
This is probably one of the most beautiful books that I have EVER read. I picked up this book on a whim because I loved the cover (it’s gorgeous) and because the blurb doesn’t give too much information as to what the story is going to be about so I thought it would be fun to go into it knowing nothing. OMG, I am so glad I read this beautiful, breathtaking, and emotional novel. The author writes a story that makes us want to fall in love all over again. The kind of love that will steal your breath every time your soulmate walks into your sight- the kind of love that never changes – and the kind of love that will last forever. Yeah, it did take Savannah and Salem awhile to get it together, but the journey was worth it in the end. How I have never heard of this author is beyond me, but you can bet that I will be reading more of her work in the future. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading this gorgeous love story. If you are like me, you will be utterly captivated by this one. Love, friendship, pain, and second chances are key themes throughout the novel, but once you get to the end (which you will need tissues for) every ounce of worry will be gone. Gosh, I simply cannot say enough good things about this book besides the fact that it is one of my favorite reads of 2016.
Usually, I will give a bit of information about this book so readers know what they are getting into, but I will not do it with this one. I simply think this is the type of book that you need to sit down and read without too much information going into it. Just be aware, once you get started with this book it is going to be VERY hard to put down. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put my kindle away. I had to see where everything was going and how it all panned out. So just take it from me… This is a beautiful, sometimes heartbreaking, emotional, and stunning read. It’s about friendship, love, and second chances. It is brilliant, unique, sweet, and charming. And most of all, it is about finding the one you love and holding onto it in your heart forever. READ THIS BOOK.
Genre: Emotional, Friends to Lovers, Second Chance Romance
:: 6 Pretty Little Stars ::
This is probably one of the most beautiful books that I have EVER read. I picked up this book on a whim because I loved the cover (it’s gorgeous) and because the blurb doesn’t give too much information as to what the story is going to be about so I thought it would be fun to go into it knowing nothing. OMG, I am so glad I read this beautiful, breathtaking, and emotional novel. The author writes a story that makes us want to fall in love all over again. The kind of love that will steal your breath every time your soulmate walks into your sight- the kind of love that never changes – and the kind of love that will last forever. Yeah, it did take Savannah and Salem awhile to get it together, but the journey was worth it in the end. How I have never heard of this author is beyond me, but you can bet that I will be reading more of her work in the future. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading this gorgeous love story. If you are like me, you will be utterly captivated by this one. Love, friendship, pain, and second chances are key themes throughout the novel, but once you get to the end (which you will need tissues for) every ounce of worry will be gone. Gosh, I simply cannot say enough good things about this book besides the fact that it is one of my favorite reads of 2016.
Usually, I will give a bit of information about this book so readers know what they are getting into, but I will not do it with this one. I simply think this is the type of book that you need to sit down and read without too much information going into it. Just be aware, once you get started with this book it is going to be VERY hard to put down. I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put my kindle away. I had to see where everything was going and how it all panned out. So just take it from me… This is a beautiful, sometimes heartbreaking, emotional, and stunning read. It’s about friendship, love, and second chances. It is brilliant, unique, sweet, and charming. And most of all, it is about finding the one you love and holding onto it in your heart forever. READ THIS BOOK.
December 13, 2016
This book is short so I was able to read it in one sitting.... I liked the story...
Two childhood friends who are in love with each other but none of them can find the courage to say how she/he feels for the other... Then life happens and they have to figure out if they'll fight for what they want or if they'll keep their feeling hidden and seperate ways for good...
I'm not going to say if they end up together or not, if you want to find out you'll have to read the book, all I'm saying is that I really liked it and it was time well spend....
Two childhood friends who are in love with each other but none of them can find the courage to say how she/he feels for the other... Then life happens and they have to figure out if they'll fight for what they want or if they'll keep their feeling hidden and seperate ways for good...
I'm not going to say if they end up together or not, if you want to find out you'll have to read the book, all I'm saying is that I really liked it and it was time well spend....
January 21, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Although I quite enjoyed this book as a fifteen-year-old, right now I just find it very very annoying. Are they in love? Are they not in love? Do they want to be with each other? Do they not? The characters (especially the heroine) are confusing and completely unable to make any decisions. I lost interest at some point because there was just so much miscommunication and it felt like the story was going nowhere.
Although I quite enjoyed this book as a fifteen-year-old, right now I just find it very very annoying. Are they in love? Are they not in love? Do they want to be with each other? Do they not? The characters (especially the heroine) are confusing and completely unable to make any decisions. I lost interest at some point because there was just so much miscommunication and it felt like the story was going nowhere.
June 23, 2016
They took so long to get together that I just lost interest tbh and they both said they loved the other people they were with so I was like um okay then?? If they had both just stayed single for a bit longer, maybe I would've liked it more. Even though the writing was really good, the plot just did not work for me AT ALL. There were too many other boyfriends/other girlfriends, i just wanted to bang my head against the wall and i don't even know how i managed to finish this book.
July 31, 2016
Perfect!
I am in awe of this book. It's the kind of book that reminds you what love feels like...how important love is. This story is so beautiful. I cried my eyes out and lost my breath. I laughed and swooned, then just sat and smiled at the concept of a bird on a windowsill. Beautifully and poetically written! Highly recommend!!!
I am in awe of this book. It's the kind of book that reminds you what love feels like...how important love is. This story is so beautiful. I cried my eyes out and lost my breath. I laughed and swooned, then just sat and smiled at the concept of a bird on a windowsill. Beautifully and poetically written! Highly recommend!!!
June 20, 2016
A Bird on a Windowsill is a beautiful, breathtaking love story that captures the true essence of friendship and falling in love. I am always drawn to a book in which the characters have grown to know each other over the course of several years, allowing their relationship and feelings to develop, grow, change, and intensify with each passing day. From the simplest joys of childhood to the ever-changing adolescent years, the one thing that never seemed to falter for Salem and Savannah was their friendship. Though years, time, and circumstances had separated them, their feelings for each other remained constant.
It was so easy to get swept away into the small town life of Salem and Savannah and to watch them grow up together. I loved the ease and simplicity of their friendship. I could visualize all of their favorite spots to hang out, but more importantly, I could feel all of the emotions that they were feeling with every turn of the page. Through her thoughtful words and her exquisite storytelling, Laura Miller has written a love story that I can only describe as having an epic feel.
A Bird on a Windowsill takes the reader on a journey through the pivotal years of Salem and Savannah’s lives. Through the good times and the bad, the heartache and the joy, I was completely invested in their story from beginning to end.
While the bond that kept them tethered together seemed unbreakable, circumstances beyond their control changed their young lives. When Savannah’s family moved to South Carolina, Salem was understandably distraught at the distance that would be between him and his closest friend. Every corner of that small town held a memory of his time with Savannah, and it was difficult for him to picture being there and making new memories without her. But time goes on, and the six years that they were apart had brought changes to their lives.
A Bird on a Windowsill is filled with an abundance of emotions that will have you smiling at the sweetness, your heart palpitating with the love, and your tears flowing with the angst, heartbreak and pure love. The story goes around full circle, leaving no stone left unturned. I couldn’t have asked for a better love story for Savannah and Salem. This is an absolutely stunning book that will definitely be gracing my list of favorite books of 2016!
It was so easy to get swept away into the small town life of Salem and Savannah and to watch them grow up together. I loved the ease and simplicity of their friendship. I could visualize all of their favorite spots to hang out, but more importantly, I could feel all of the emotions that they were feeling with every turn of the page. Through her thoughtful words and her exquisite storytelling, Laura Miller has written a love story that I can only describe as having an epic feel.
A Bird on a Windowsill takes the reader on a journey through the pivotal years of Salem and Savannah’s lives. Through the good times and the bad, the heartache and the joy, I was completely invested in their story from beginning to end.
While the bond that kept them tethered together seemed unbreakable, circumstances beyond their control changed their young lives. When Savannah’s family moved to South Carolina, Salem was understandably distraught at the distance that would be between him and his closest friend. Every corner of that small town held a memory of his time with Savannah, and it was difficult for him to picture being there and making new memories without her. But time goes on, and the six years that they were apart had brought changes to their lives.
A Bird on a Windowsill is filled with an abundance of emotions that will have you smiling at the sweetness, your heart palpitating with the love, and your tears flowing with the angst, heartbreak and pure love. The story goes around full circle, leaving no stone left unturned. I couldn’t have asked for a better love story for Savannah and Salem. This is an absolutely stunning book that will definitely be gracing my list of favorite books of 2016!
June 27, 2016
I'm a bit disappointed 2.5 stars
This could yave epic but I don't know. Nothing really happened to make me beleive in them. Especially Savannah never seemed as connected as Eben. I actually disliked her. I usually like slow paced stories, but this never really turned into something real. This was not for me I guess. It was wellwritten though, but the storyline and characters never got to me.
This could yave epic but I don't know. Nothing really happened to make me beleive in them. Especially Savannah never seemed as connected as Eben. I actually disliked her. I usually like slow paced stories, but this never really turned into something real. This was not for me I guess. It was wellwritten though, but the storyline and characters never got to me.
July 12, 2016
the writing is brilliant but the story just annoyed me so much. it was like a merry go round never ending. its pretty much the same through out the book and nothing really happening. the only reason it got 3*s was because of the writing.
November 28, 2016
And here I thought I've exhausted all my reads about second-chance romance, and that not much of it will make me fall. Then comes A Bird on a Windowsill.
I have this thing for quotes in almost all the books I read, and this one definitely got me from the very first page. The title is more than just fitting, but perfect. From there, the story from past to present, to future were captivating. I loved how it wasn't necessarily flashbacks, but more of entries of their lives from childhood to adulthood.
Salem Ebenezer & Savannah Catesby. Salem has always been Salem, until she called him Eben. Savannah has always been Savannah, until he called her Vannah. They may not have known it yet, but that was when they belonged to one another. It was the best illustration of how children can be the epitome of love.
I wish I could say A Bird on a Windowsill was just about their happy lives being best friends into lovers, but it wouldn't be the case. While there was no particular gut-wrenching twist, Vannah & Eben didn't turn out as they should either. Circumstances happened, and as kids, they weren't able to do anything about it at all. Eventually things change, and the "us" they formed was nothing but a mere memory.
Still, love and fate has a lot to do with how things come in full circle. Now Vannah is back in their hometown, and seeing Eben was something she didn't prepare for. What she expected to be an awkward reunion didn't happen, instead he acted like nothing happened. But neither of them can deny that both of them are no longer the kids they used to be, and they have to own up to their decisions.
That editorial, oh my heart was too busy swooning for it. Everything about is was so amazing. The letters were all part of them. The days, the numbers, everything.
The star tower was found, but not the structure alone. It was where dreams were realized, and has come true.
I have this thing for quotes in almost all the books I read, and this one definitely got me from the very first page. The title is more than just fitting, but perfect. From there, the story from past to present, to future were captivating. I loved how it wasn't necessarily flashbacks, but more of entries of their lives from childhood to adulthood.
Salem Ebenezer & Savannah Catesby. Salem has always been Salem, until she called him Eben. Savannah has always been Savannah, until he called her Vannah. They may not have known it yet, but that was when they belonged to one another. It was the best illustration of how children can be the epitome of love.
I wish I could say A Bird on a Windowsill was just about their happy lives being best friends into lovers, but it wouldn't be the case. While there was no particular gut-wrenching twist, Vannah & Eben didn't turn out as they should either. Circumstances happened, and as kids, they weren't able to do anything about it at all. Eventually things change, and the "us" they formed was nothing but a mere memory.
Still, love and fate has a lot to do with how things come in full circle. Now Vannah is back in their hometown, and seeing Eben was something she didn't prepare for. What she expected to be an awkward reunion didn't happen, instead he acted like nothing happened. But neither of them can deny that both of them are no longer the kids they used to be, and they have to own up to their decisions.
That editorial, oh my heart was too busy swooning for it. Everything about is was so amazing. The letters were all part of them. The days, the numbers, everything.
The star tower was found, but not the structure alone. It was where dreams were realized, and has come true.
June 17, 2016
h My Gosh. A Bird on a Windowsill is a book that pulled at my heart throughout the entire story. From the first page when a young girl meets a young boy and ask if he was hers I was invested. I wanted to be part of the story seeing the friendship develop, seeing the feelings grow, and watching these two wonderful children become what they were meant to be.
The story is not complex. It is a story of best friends that have the potential of becoming more. The story of two young people trying to figure out life. It is sweet, loving, beautiful, and simple.
Vannah and Eben are lifelong friends. Every memory of growing up includes them being together. I am not sure I have ever read a book that was more true to friendship. They were friends, best friends, for so long that it was impossible for them not to have stronger feelings. I was torn on whether I wanted them to take the next step. Would moving on change the relationship for the better or the worse? All the way to the end I could not decide.
I am a fan of Laura Millers. Laura has to put her entire heart into each book and it shows in her writing. I highly recommend picking up your copy of A Bird on a Windowsill immediately.
The story is not complex. It is a story of best friends that have the potential of becoming more. The story of two young people trying to figure out life. It is sweet, loving, beautiful, and simple.
Vannah and Eben are lifelong friends. Every memory of growing up includes them being together. I am not sure I have ever read a book that was more true to friendship. They were friends, best friends, for so long that it was impossible for them not to have stronger feelings. I was torn on whether I wanted them to take the next step. Would moving on change the relationship for the better or the worse? All the way to the end I could not decide.
I am a fan of Laura Millers. Laura has to put her entire heart into each book and it shows in her writing. I highly recommend picking up your copy of A Bird on a Windowsill immediately.
May 7, 2016
I had the privilege to read an ARC of this book - full review to come - and I can say already that Laura Miller has surpassed herself with this one and delivered her best work so far.
I was up all night reading it because I just couldn't put it down. I couldn't put those beautiful characters down. Laura's writing is so beautiful, simple but deep at the same time. Her narrative is fluid. She builds up the story in such an amazing way. This one is so unique, full of beautiful details that will warm your heart.
For those of you who have read Laura´s novels, especially Butterfly Weeds, believe me when I say Laura exceeded herself. I'm in awe for this book. And for those who haven't had the pleasure of reading one of Laura's book, but love Colleen Hoover or Amy Harmon, for example, or loved Lovie, Rosie or The Last Letter from Your Lover, you'll definetely love this book! <3
I was up all night reading it because I just couldn't put it down. I couldn't put those beautiful characters down. Laura's writing is so beautiful, simple but deep at the same time. Her narrative is fluid. She builds up the story in such an amazing way. This one is so unique, full of beautiful details that will warm your heart.
For those of you who have read Laura´s novels, especially Butterfly Weeds, believe me when I say Laura exceeded herself. I'm in awe for this book. And for those who haven't had the pleasure of reading one of Laura's book, but love Colleen Hoover or Amy Harmon, for example, or loved Lovie, Rosie or The Last Letter from Your Lover, you'll definetely love this book! <3
June 21, 2016
This is by far one of the best, most uniquely, written second chance romances that I have ever read. From the Prologues to the Epilogues, my stomach was in knots. The story captivated me. A story of friendship from a young age that blossoms into much more later on in life. The story spans decades of love, friendship, and loss. It shows what the truest form of love is, and also what the meaning of love is. Every detail, every chapter, and every piece of this story surpassed every other second chance love story that I have ever read. This book was not only beautifully written, it was also pieced together perfectly. A Bird on a Windowsill was written with alternating POVS, that blew my mind. The chapters are full of the feels, the longing, and the building of what's to come later in life, for these two perfect characters.
October 3, 2018
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment:: 3/5
Writing style: 5/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 3/5
Hotness/chemistry: 2/5
Romance: 4/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 1/5
Humor: 1/5
Depth of the book: 5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
Enjoyment:: 3/5
Writing style: 5/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 3/5
Hotness/chemistry: 2/5
Romance: 4/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 1/5
Humor: 1/5
Depth of the book: 5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
October 6, 2017
A very enjoyable read. I preferred the male lead far more than the female, but their story is memorable, clean, sweet, and heartfelt. There was more dialogue and less description used pertaining to speech than most books I read. So overall I felt the thoughts of the reader can alter how each character is perceived. The themes throughout the book make the read come to a wonderful and happy conclusion.
June 24, 2016
Laura Miller did it again...Phenomenal, Breathtaking and Emotional. I am always prepared to feel every emotion while reading a Laura Miller book and this one was no different.
The characters draw you in to the story and make you a part of it. You get so emotionally attached that it seems your living the story instead of reading it.
Simply Amazing and a definite MUST READ!!!!
The characters draw you in to the story and make you a part of it. You get so emotionally attached that it seems your living the story instead of reading it.
Simply Amazing and a definite MUST READ!!!!
August 24, 2016
[First of all, sorry. Sorry my bad English. I know I've much likely killed it. So my apologies.]
---
Before we start reading this review, two words must be emphasized:
- Love: to adore; have affection for; worship;
- Persist: to express constancy; in which there is insistence; continue or proceed;
The two words above already define this beautifully constructed plot by American author, Laura Miller.
A Bird on a Windowsill is a book about love and the persistence of those who love. About the transience of things and about knowing how to see and value its simplicity, because rumor has it, it’s the little things that make the difference. And we really identify how much Savannah Catesby and Salem Ebenezer enjoy every minute they share together.
We see how fondly the two characters keep the moments they lived and the stories they shared by the way the chapters are composed. These chapters – told and alternated from Eben and Vannah’s point of view - are divided into days, being counted from day 1 that was the day they met, and so on. This is something very interesting to witness, especially if you’re the kind of person who keeps with all the affection and love in the world the moments experienced in any stage of your life, that today define a little bit of who you are. Because, if we stop to think, it’s very easy to forget things and not always pay attention to that minor detail, almost unnoticeable that can turn into something great. That’s almost a chaos theory, but it’s true. Under a pretty private perspective, the great emotional load of the book is worked on top of that, the simple, the fleeting. Fleeting that doesn’t need to necessarily be finite. Everything that can be properly recognized and appreciated can also be enriched and stored. Just remember a moment that has marked you. Was it ephemeral? Yes. But you still remember it, don’t you? It was important enough to be kept within the box of what is unforgettable. With Salem and Vannah the days were like that. Tons of stories, lots of moments, a lot to share.
Based in a small town called Allandale, the narrative is clear, easy. It tells the story of these two characters – Eben and Vannah – whom have met during childhood, going through all this phase together, getting to know friendship, discovering things and learning to deal with unexpected situations. The plot has the ability to convey a feeling so… spontaneous. It has such a sensibility and naturalness that the will to keep reading is huge.
Finally, I need to point it out: the book has two epilogues. They are short but destructing. Short but summarize the essence of the story. It is ephemeral, but can last forever.
Blog: http://www.livrosminhaterapia.com/201...
---
Before we start reading this review, two words must be emphasized:
- Love: to adore; have affection for; worship;
- Persist: to express constancy; in which there is insistence; continue or proceed;
The two words above already define this beautifully constructed plot by American author, Laura Miller.
A Bird on a Windowsill is a book about love and the persistence of those who love. About the transience of things and about knowing how to see and value its simplicity, because rumor has it, it’s the little things that make the difference. And we really identify how much Savannah Catesby and Salem Ebenezer enjoy every minute they share together.
We see how fondly the two characters keep the moments they lived and the stories they shared by the way the chapters are composed. These chapters – told and alternated from Eben and Vannah’s point of view - are divided into days, being counted from day 1 that was the day they met, and so on. This is something very interesting to witness, especially if you’re the kind of person who keeps with all the affection and love in the world the moments experienced in any stage of your life, that today define a little bit of who you are. Because, if we stop to think, it’s very easy to forget things and not always pay attention to that minor detail, almost unnoticeable that can turn into something great. That’s almost a chaos theory, but it’s true. Under a pretty private perspective, the great emotional load of the book is worked on top of that, the simple, the fleeting. Fleeting that doesn’t need to necessarily be finite. Everything that can be properly recognized and appreciated can also be enriched and stored. Just remember a moment that has marked you. Was it ephemeral? Yes. But you still remember it, don’t you? It was important enough to be kept within the box of what is unforgettable. With Salem and Vannah the days were like that. Tons of stories, lots of moments, a lot to share.
Based in a small town called Allandale, the narrative is clear, easy. It tells the story of these two characters – Eben and Vannah – whom have met during childhood, going through all this phase together, getting to know friendship, discovering things and learning to deal with unexpected situations. The plot has the ability to convey a feeling so… spontaneous. It has such a sensibility and naturalness that the will to keep reading is huge.
Finally, I need to point it out: the book has two epilogues. They are short but destructing. Short but summarize the essence of the story. It is ephemeral, but can last forever.
Blog: http://www.livrosminhaterapia.com/201...
June 18, 2016
Oh my heart! This book had the sweetest and most precious love story. Young love at it finest and the kind of ending we all dream about. Things weren't always all rainbows and butterflies though.
Salem and Savannah have been best friends their whole lives. They loved each other from day one but as were growing up they didn't realize what it was as their feelings transformed. Not only could they not place what exactly it was what they were feeling but then they also had to figure out how to let each other know and what to do from there. Unfortunately by the time they bare their souls its too late. Savannah moves away and the only moments they have left are when the starts happen to align and bring them back for the summer. Years and years later Savannah comes back to town but everything that she thought would still be waiting for her didn't turn out that way. The town and everyone in it had moved on. Now she has to find her place again but how can she move on when Salem reminds her of everything they once had.
I can't tell you how much I loved Salem. I'm so happy that he didn't just wait for her forever. I mean he did but he dated as it made it less pathetic haha. When Savannah came back to town, I was so happy that she wasn't the same selfish girl that she was growing up. She had this power over Salem and I swear she would just trample his heart after piecing it together.
I really did love this book. Laura Miller is one of my favorite authors. She writes such great love stories that you can put yourself into the characters shoes and feel the emotions and ride the roller coaster with them. This book lived up to her reputation. I couldn't put it down and there was a moment I had to walk away to control all the feels. Trust me you will all love it. Plus you guys know how much I love dual POV.
Salem and Savannah have been best friends their whole lives. They loved each other from day one but as were growing up they didn't realize what it was as their feelings transformed. Not only could they not place what exactly it was what they were feeling but then they also had to figure out how to let each other know and what to do from there. Unfortunately by the time they bare their souls its too late. Savannah moves away and the only moments they have left are when the starts happen to align and bring them back for the summer. Years and years later Savannah comes back to town but everything that she thought would still be waiting for her didn't turn out that way. The town and everyone in it had moved on. Now she has to find her place again but how can she move on when Salem reminds her of everything they once had.
I can't tell you how much I loved Salem. I'm so happy that he didn't just wait for her forever. I mean he did but he dated as it made it less pathetic haha. When Savannah came back to town, I was so happy that she wasn't the same selfish girl that she was growing up. She had this power over Salem and I swear she would just trample his heart after piecing it together.
I really did love this book. Laura Miller is one of my favorite authors. She writes such great love stories that you can put yourself into the characters shoes and feel the emotions and ride the roller coaster with them. This book lived up to her reputation. I couldn't put it down and there was a moment I had to walk away to control all the feels. Trust me you will all love it. Plus you guys know how much I love dual POV.
October 14, 2016
5 unbelievably beautiful stars *****
First of all, the cover is just beautiful, i got this book last spring completely blind and not knowing anything bout it at all. I completely judged this by it's cover and i barely do that. It was just so pretty. :)
I finally got around to reading this story and i loved every moment of it. It was a mixture of emotions since this couple gave a new meaning to pushing and pulling.
They were in denial for so long and it was just heartbreaking.
Even us, as a reader is unsure how the ending will turn out, and usually as readers, we can do that. we can predict. But this one gave so many turns on situations that i was so thrown off.
Some spoiler alert ***
When it was told that Salem was up to no good and he was building something in Shepard Hill, i was literally thinking the worst as well. But damn, i was so thrown off that he was actually building a star tower for Savannah and him.... i just died right there....T^T
It was so beautiful .... and such a sweet moment.
**********
Anyways this story is one of the most romantic out there....
It's not necessarily sad in some aspect but it's real and relatable....
It doesn't matter if you're in a relationship right now, single or even married...
You'll go back to being young adult and relate to these two...
and you'll smile and tear your way through the ending....
But you'll love it :)
Some advice: Read this while listening to Boys like Girls: Be your Everything....
You will just swoon.... :) Happy reading and give this book the hype it deserves :)
First of all, the cover is just beautiful, i got this book last spring completely blind and not knowing anything bout it at all. I completely judged this by it's cover and i barely do that. It was just so pretty. :)
I finally got around to reading this story and i loved every moment of it. It was a mixture of emotions since this couple gave a new meaning to pushing and pulling.
They were in denial for so long and it was just heartbreaking.
Even us, as a reader is unsure how the ending will turn out, and usually as readers, we can do that. we can predict. But this one gave so many turns on situations that i was so thrown off.
Some spoiler alert ***
When it was told that Salem was up to no good and he was building something in Shepard Hill, i was literally thinking the worst as well. But damn, i was so thrown off that he was actually building a star tower for Savannah and him.... i just died right there....T^T
It was so beautiful .... and such a sweet moment.
**********
Anyways this story is one of the most romantic out there....
It's not necessarily sad in some aspect but it's real and relatable....
It doesn't matter if you're in a relationship right now, single or even married...
You'll go back to being young adult and relate to these two...
and you'll smile and tear your way through the ending....
But you'll love it :)
Some advice: Read this while listening to Boys like Girls: Be your Everything....
You will just swoon.... :) Happy reading and give this book the hype it deserves :)
June 27, 2016
Alright - FUCK IT.
I can't do this. I've been sitting here for the last HOUR trying to write this fuckin review, and I can't. I've got about two sentences and they are bullshit.
I've been thinking about it since last night, because I was up until 130 in the damn morning finishing it.
So here it is. I read A Bird on a Windowsill by Laura Miller last night.
And now I can't seem to string more than two sentences together to do the fucker justice.
Seriously Laura. I'm trying to be all eloquent and shit here and I've got nothing.
>>The journey between Eben and Vannah was executed flawlessly. I couldn't put it down. <<
There's my two fuckin cents. But here's my actual review:
*********************************************
READ IT. JUST FUCKIN READ IT.
*********************************************
I laughed,
I loved,
I was filled with hope,
I was heartbroken,
and was put back together.
But I cried. Ohhh I cried until I couldn't tell if I was wiping up snot or tears.
then I called the book stupid - and my husband laughed.
and I smiled.
Because it was the good stupid, the kind that has you smiling while your sobbing. happy tears. loving tears. forever tears.
So, good job Laura for making a grown woman cry at 130 in the morning in front of her husband over fictional characters. Bravo.
seriously? you're still reading this? here - http://amzn.to/28WXOrb
that will be much better!
I can't do this. I've been sitting here for the last HOUR trying to write this fuckin review, and I can't. I've got about two sentences and they are bullshit.
I've been thinking about it since last night, because I was up until 130 in the damn morning finishing it.
So here it is. I read A Bird on a Windowsill by Laura Miller last night.
And now I can't seem to string more than two sentences together to do the fucker justice.
Seriously Laura. I'm trying to be all eloquent and shit here and I've got nothing.
>>The journey between Eben and Vannah was executed flawlessly. I couldn't put it down. <<
There's my two fuckin cents. But here's my actual review:
*********************************************
READ IT. JUST FUCKIN READ IT.
*********************************************
I laughed,
I loved,
I was filled with hope,
I was heartbroken,
and was put back together.
But I cried. Ohhh I cried until I couldn't tell if I was wiping up snot or tears.
then I called the book stupid - and my husband laughed.
and I smiled.
Because it was the good stupid, the kind that has you smiling while your sobbing. happy tears. loving tears. forever tears.
So, good job Laura for making a grown woman cry at 130 in the morning in front of her husband over fictional characters. Bravo.
seriously? you're still reading this? here - http://amzn.to/28WXOrb
that will be much better!
July 3, 2016
My goodness!! What a beautiful & touching love story!! So. Good. This was fabulously-written - it grabbed ahold of my heart from the beginning and did not let go. This was my first book by Laura Miller and I cannot wait to read more from her! I had the privilege of meeting her last weekend and she is an absolute sweetheart. It doesn't surprise me that this lovely book came from someone as sweet & kind as her.
There were so many beautiful quotes, I swear I wanted to highlight the whole damn book! *sigh*
"For when you stole my heart, You also took my last:
My last dream,
My last love,
My last kiss,
My last breath.
It’s only fitting; you had them first."
Please just read it. It's such a simple, yet beautiful love story. Read this book and fall in love with Eben & Vannah. <3
There were so many beautiful quotes, I swear I wanted to highlight the whole damn book! *sigh*
"For when you stole my heart, You also took my last:
My last dream,
My last love,
My last kiss,
My last breath.
It’s only fitting; you had them first."
Please just read it. It's such a simple, yet beautiful love story. Read this book and fall in love with Eben & Vannah. <3
July 15, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
- She's mine-my forever girl. I'll always think of her that way.
- I missed her voice. In fact, I vowed I'd never forget her voice. Every day, I'd replay her saying my name in my head. I think I figured that if I always had her voice, I always had her.
I wish that were true.
- "I'll remember you," I say. "I know I won't always be able to say your name, but for the rest of this life and even into the next one, I'll remember you."
- "I belong wherever you are."
- "Vannah, all I know how to do is love you."
September 12, 2016
I'll keep this short and sweet. Friends to lovers romance. Full of angst, sheltered feelings and misunderstandings. Just not particularly for me. Told from dual first person points of view. There was an air of mystery in the story telling where I was expecting a big twist with the heroine that led to some confusion and back tracking on my part. It was a shorter read and I read rather quickly, I'm pretty sure because I was hoping for something to happen. The misunderstandings and half truths told and used as romance tropes leave a lot to be desired in my reading world. Lovers of lots of undo angst because H/h keep their feelings hidden will enjoy this read.
June 15, 2020
I've read quite a few of Laura Miller's books.
Like all the rest Laura has a way of infusing these characters into your hearts. I loved the characters of Vannah and Eban. Told in each's point of view, you see a love grow and you also see so many things left unsaid that could have changed the course of the story. This small town story follows a boy and a girl, who first meet when they are 5 and follow them thru both childhood, teenage years and beyond. It will leave you heartsick, in tears and consumed by love.
If you love a heartwarming read that gives you life, you want to dig into this book ASAP!
Like all the rest Laura has a way of infusing these characters into your hearts. I loved the characters of Vannah and Eban. Told in each's point of view, you see a love grow and you also see so many things left unsaid that could have changed the course of the story. This small town story follows a boy and a girl, who first meet when they are 5 and follow them thru both childhood, teenage years and beyond. It will leave you heartsick, in tears and consumed by love.
If you love a heartwarming read that gives you life, you want to dig into this book ASAP!
August 8, 2016
What I loved about this book: As always, the perfectly imperfect lead characters, the undeniable chemistry between Salem and Savannah, and the infinity amount of perfect quotes in it. Has a lot of emotional scenes that I loved, but there is this one particular part, an open letter written by Savannah which she posted on her newspaper and had a big impact to change their story.
But in the end, his past is all I have,
But please don’t think I love him less.
For that boy who stole my heart,
Is now the man who holds my past.
But in the end, his past is all I have,
But please don’t think I love him less.
For that boy who stole my heart,
Is now the man who holds my past.
July 3, 2016
Laura Miller's books are alway spectacular and the storylines unique and touching. This book is just full of emotion and tension. You will cry, cheer and ache for these characters. It is a beautiful example of a second-chance romance. I loved how so many pieces of the story were inter-woven. The key was the best. Laura Miller another 5-star book, you are a master storyteller! It is a favorite of 2016.
"A very wise man once told me, 'You find a girl that gives you a piece of her treasure, you hold onto that treasure. Better yet, you hold onto that girl.'"
"A very wise man once told me, 'You find a girl that gives you a piece of her treasure, you hold onto that treasure. Better yet, you hold onto that girl.'"
July 26, 2016
A Bird on a Windowsill was a charming coming of age romance. I loved the childhood friendship to the difficult adult relationship. Lauren made her characters learn about themselves and life before they could fully invest in their love for one another. It was a realistic and believable romance.
January 30, 2017
This is the first book I have read of Laura's and it for sure won't be the last. A Bird On A Windowsill is written exceptionally well and flows so smoothly and effortlessly over the course of Salem and Savannah's lives. I loved reading about them from the time they were little and met for the first time until the end of their story. A Bird On A Windowsill is a sweet, heartbreaking and heartwarming story all at the same time. If you like friends to lovers romances or just plain "clean" romances this is a book for you!
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