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Just in Time
In her most powerful novel yet, New York Times bestselling author Marie Bostwick weaves the uplifting story of three grief support group dropouts--women united in loss and rescued through friendship.
Fifteen years ago, Grace Saunders vowed to take her beloved husband for better or worse. Now she's coming to terms with difficult choices as she crafts a memory quilt from scraps of their life together--a life torn to shreds by an accident that has left him in a coma. Enduring months of limbo, Grace is at least not alone.
Nan has been widowed for twenty years, but now, with her children grown, her home feels painfully empty. Even the company of her golden retriever, Blixen, and a series of other rescue dogs, can't fill the void. Then there's Monica, a feisty woman with a biting wit who's reeling following her husband's death--and the revelation of his infidelity.
As for Grace, a chance evening with a man she barely knows brings a glimmer of joy she hasn't felt since the tragedy--along with feelings of turmoil and guilt. But her struggle to cope will force all three women to face their fears, share their deepest secrets--and lean on one another as they move from grief and isolation to hope, and a second chance at happiness . . .
Fifteen years ago, Grace Saunders vowed to take her beloved husband for better or worse. Now she's coming to terms with difficult choices as she crafts a memory quilt from scraps of their life together--a life torn to shreds by an accident that has left him in a coma. Enduring months of limbo, Grace is at least not alone.
Nan has been widowed for twenty years, but now, with her children grown, her home feels painfully empty. Even the company of her golden retriever, Blixen, and a series of other rescue dogs, can't fill the void. Then there's Monica, a feisty woman with a biting wit who's reeling following her husband's death--and the revelation of his infidelity.
As for Grace, a chance evening with a man she barely knows brings a glimmer of joy she hasn't felt since the tragedy--along with feelings of turmoil and guilt. But her struggle to cope will force all three women to face their fears, share their deepest secrets--and lean on one another as they move from grief and isolation to hope, and a second chance at happiness . . .
328 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2018
299 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
About the author
Marie Bostwick
42 books1,855 followersMarie Bostwick is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of uplifting historical and contemporary fiction. She lives in the state of Washington and travels frequently to sign books, speak to reading groups, and meet her readers. Keep up with Marie, her travels, new releases and lifestyle blog, Fiercely Marie, at www.mariebostwick.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
June 8, 2018
When I read a Marie Bostwick novel, it feels as if I am getting together with friends.
Grace, Nan and Monica meet at a grief support group, and form an immediate bond. As Grace states in the prolouge: "We are what we've done, and said, and thought, and ignored. We are who we have loved and championed. Who we have failed and forgotten, and who we have forgiven. We are what we have believed, and what we have refused to believe. We are star-stuff. But more. We are words and action, moment and place, doubts, and fairh"." This is their story.
As the women navigate the journey to new beginnings, they offer love, support and encouragement to one another. And in the healing process they may even find a second chance at love and happy endings.
Everyone has their favorite comfort foods, Marie Bostwick novels are my comfort read.
Grace, Nan and Monica meet at a grief support group, and form an immediate bond. As Grace states in the prolouge: "We are what we've done, and said, and thought, and ignored. We are who we have loved and championed. Who we have failed and forgotten, and who we have forgiven. We are what we have believed, and what we have refused to believe. We are star-stuff. But more. We are words and action, moment and place, doubts, and fairh"." This is their story.
As the women navigate the journey to new beginnings, they offer love, support and encouragement to one another. And in the healing process they may even find a second chance at love and happy endings.
Everyone has their favorite comfort foods, Marie Bostwick novels are my comfort read.
July 24, 2018
This is my 8th book by Marie Bostwick and I love how she gets a bunch of close friends together and tells a story. I was excited when this newest book came out and was shocked to see it at my library just sitting in the new book section without it being checked out already. I grabbed it immediately!! This book, for me, started out S-L-O-W. After I got more into the book, it picked up speed. Then once I got to know the characters I really really enjoyed the story.
January 17, 2020
This was a book from the office exchange. I didn't think I wanted to read it, but last minute I changed my mind. I am ever so glad I did.
This is the story of three women, Grace, Monica, and Nan who meet at a failed attempt of a widow's support group. Monica the 40-ish widow of a man who more wanted someone to run his restaurant so he could have fun with his other women. Nan is 60-ish and a long-time widow after her husband is killed in a plane crash. And Grace, a young woman whose husband hasn't died yet, but has been in a coma for 2 years. The chance meeting in the parking lot brings about a beautiful friendship, one of loss, love, trials, and that God always puts the right person for you in your life . . . Just in Time.
I really enjoyed this book, more than I thought. It is good to get a little chick-lit in once in awhile.
This is the story of three women, Grace, Monica, and Nan who meet at a failed attempt of a widow's support group. Monica the 40-ish widow of a man who more wanted someone to run his restaurant so he could have fun with his other women. Nan is 60-ish and a long-time widow after her husband is killed in a plane crash. And Grace, a young woman whose husband hasn't died yet, but has been in a coma for 2 years. The chance meeting in the parking lot brings about a beautiful friendship, one of loss, love, trials, and that God always puts the right person for you in your life . . . Just in Time.
I really enjoyed this book, more than I thought. It is good to get a little chick-lit in once in awhile.
May 9, 2018
Just in Time by Marie Bostwick takes readers to Portland, Oregon. Grace Saunders is looking for a support group, but none of them are the right fit for her or her situation. Grace meets Nan Wilja and Monica Romano who are also looking for a different type of support group situation. The three of them form their own support group that meets each Monday night. They are helping each other move on and the three women became more than friends. Grace’s husband, Jamie is in a permanent vegetative state. Monica’s husband died in a boating accident with his girlfriend and she is left to run his restaurant as well as raise his children. Nan has been widowed for twenty years, but now her children are out of the house which leaves it very quiet despite her dogs. While visiting with Jamie in the evenings, Grace works on a memory quilt. Each block represents Jamie and their relationship. One evening, Monica sets up Grace with Luke Pascal (she tricks her). Luke is a lawyer turned furniture craftsman. Grace is attracted to Luke (and he makes her smile), but she feels that she cannot move on while Jamie is still alive. Each of these women must work to overcome their grief, heartaches and fears. It is time to move forward with their lives and with each other’s encouragement, they can get their second chance at happiness.
Just in Time is nicely written and has a good pace. It is a lovely story about three women that are ready to move forward, but they each need support (compassion, comfort, encouragement). These women have loved and lost. We follow them as they work through grief and heartache to get a second chance at having a joyful future. I liked the inclusion of the dog rescue, Rainbow Gate in the story and the therapy dogs. I did, though, feel that Just in time was predictable. Why do the women have to have a man in their lives to be fulfilled? I would love to see a something different (a better role model for the younger generation). Just in Time is a heartwarming story about women getting a second opportunity. Grace’s story was the dominant one, and I felt that the business world was portrayed realistically. Grace’s company is bought out and in order for her to keep her job, she is required to do twice the work along with working long hours (she needs her job for the insurance for Jamie). I wish the quilting had been more prominent. It was an aspect I wanted to see woven throughout the story. I am giving Just in Time 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). Just in Time is not the author’s best work. I have read all of her books, and I know she can do better (her Cobbled Court series is wonderful). I keep hoping Ms. Bostwick will go back to what she does best.
Just in Time is nicely written and has a good pace. It is a lovely story about three women that are ready to move forward, but they each need support (compassion, comfort, encouragement). These women have loved and lost. We follow them as they work through grief and heartache to get a second chance at having a joyful future. I liked the inclusion of the dog rescue, Rainbow Gate in the story and the therapy dogs. I did, though, feel that Just in time was predictable. Why do the women have to have a man in their lives to be fulfilled? I would love to see a something different (a better role model for the younger generation). Just in Time is a heartwarming story about women getting a second opportunity. Grace’s story was the dominant one, and I felt that the business world was portrayed realistically. Grace’s company is bought out and in order for her to keep her job, she is required to do twice the work along with working long hours (she needs her job for the insurance for Jamie). I wish the quilting had been more prominent. It was an aspect I wanted to see woven throughout the story. I am giving Just in Time 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). Just in Time is not the author’s best work. I have read all of her books, and I know she can do better (her Cobbled Court series is wonderful). I keep hoping Ms. Bostwick will go back to what she does best.
July 1, 2020
Richly developed characterization with a realistic plot line, Just In Time tells a story of three women all in stages of grief but not all because of the same reason. Finding a grief support group not meeting their needs, they form their own. They give each other support as they work through their hardships and find the joy in life again. Ms Bostwick writes in a compelling style, making her books difficult to put down. A happy and satisfying ending makes this a book to read for these times, when we all want to see that things will turn out OK. Recommend!!
April 13, 2018
This definitely wasn’t my favourite of this author’s books( and I’ve read them all) To me, it seemed predictable and almost formulaic. As I’ve never experienced widowhood or extreme tragedy in my own life, thank God, I couldn’t identify with the grief processes these characters experienced. I felt that the author had a checklist of issues that needed to be dealt with in this story so as to make it a relevant and current novel: sexting, substance abuse, drug addiction, obesity, homelessness, philandering partners. Also, there was a happy, romantic, married ending for each of the three main characters; I can’t say that’s always the best choice for everyone, and a woman’s happiness and fulfillment isn’t necessarily dependent on the presence of a man.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed this as a light, time-passing read. The story flowed well, and the characters were adequately developed. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the sights and sounds of Portland, and it made me want to visit. I think that because I’ve been reading more literary fiction lately(Margaret Atwood, Ivan Doig) that this story just failed to meet my expectations. It was okay, but not great.
Having said all that, I still enjoyed this as a light, time-passing read. The story flowed well, and the characters were adequately developed. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the sights and sounds of Portland, and it made me want to visit. I think that because I’ve been reading more literary fiction lately(Margaret Atwood, Ivan Doig) that this story just failed to meet my expectations. It was okay, but not great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2018
While this tale is on the surface about coping with grief, it actually becomes up-lit, taking us to a better place for the characters through sharing, acting and growing.
Three women meet after deciding that a counselling group is not for them. They have all lost or are losing husbands, and two need to earn a living while the eldest rescues and rehomes dogs. If you enjoy women's fiction or reading dog stories, even some better written chick lit, this is a fine read.
I was sent an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
Three women meet after deciding that a counselling group is not for them. They have all lost or are losing husbands, and two need to earn a living while the eldest rescues and rehomes dogs. If you enjoy women's fiction or reading dog stories, even some better written chick lit, this is a fine read.
I was sent an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
November 1, 2025
A really lovely story (unfortunately set in Portland, a city I did not enjoy) about a bond between three women of different ages who are all ready to propel their lives forward. I was impressed with the pacing of the novel, and I liked that the perspectives shifted from one to the other. I loved that all three ladies sometimes needed support and sometimes were the ones giving the support. I liked the men introduced for Nan, Grace, and Monica, but I felt like the romantic aspect of the stories were not written as well as the rest of the novel, and since those met their climax in the end, I was definitely ready for the book to be over. A mostly clean, feel-good novel. 3.5 stars
May 3, 2019
Absolutely LOVED this book! The characters were real and relatable. The setting of Portland, OR, was reminding me of places I can visit in the near future- definitely planning a stop at "Salt & Straw", a unique ice cream place with unusual flavors for Mother's Day! Sadly, the Fabric Depot store has closed, but there are plenty of fabric stores still in our area. Grace, Nan & Marcia have all dealt with loss and they become close friends as they help one another in their life journeys. Highly recommend.
May 30, 2018
This feel good book is about three women who become friends when they form their grief support group. There is Nan who has been a widow for twenty years and gives her time to dog rescue to help her through feeling lonely. Monica is in her forties and is stepmother to two teenagers who drive her crazy. Finally there is Grace who is not a widow but whose husband is not dead but is in a state of not knowing anyone or being able to do anything. Through their friendship each woman begins to expand their lives. The book was a quick easy read.
March 6, 2020
A wonderful story about friendship and how our lives are intertwined.
August 12, 2025
Another enjoyable 'beat girl friends' story. It held my interest & was super easy to read.
June 7, 2018
Book review
I absolutely loved this book. Marie Bostwick is got to be one of my favorite authors. From the depths of death , there is still life out there to be lived and loved
I absolutely loved this book. Marie Bostwick is got to be one of my favorite authors. From the depths of death , there is still life out there to be lived and loved
May 20, 2018
This year I'm trying to read a book from each state of the United States so was surprised that this book was set in Oregon, so I not only got to mark off another state but also read about one of my favorite cities to visit. About a year ago I went to an author event with Marie Bostwick and a member of the audience asked her if she ever planned to write anymore books in the Cobbled Court series and sadly she did not have any immediate plans to continue the series. As a fan of this series myself, I sort of felt like I got my Cobbled Court series fix when I read "Just in Time." Although it's not set in Connecticut and doesn't have any of the CC cast of characters, "Just in Time" still has the same themes of friendship, love, heartbreak, and quilting/sewing as a Cobbled Court series book. It's fun for me to live vicariously through characters who have a passion for sewing and are able to actually make a living at it. (I have two young kids right now so finding time for crafting is a little difficult.) I like how the author was able to tackle difficult issues, but also leave her readers with the feeling that hope, peace, and love are still possible if you allow others the chance to help you get over all of the bridges of troubling waters that you encounter in life.
May 18, 2018
I have read everyone of Marie’s books and have loved them all. I have especially enjoyed Marie’s newer works even though I miss all my dear friends at the Cobbled Court Quilt Shop. I do believe it is good to go beyond the world of quilting and explore themes that don’t rely on it. I stay interested and I think it keeps an author fresh when she or he moves outside her/his genre. Marie’s newest, Just in Time, is set in Portland, Oregon, a city I love and visit frequently so that made it especially fun for me. It is the story of three women who form a friendship born out of grief. All three women deal with realistic problems and overcome them. Marie always leaves us with a happy ending and for that I am always grateful. If you like Marie’s style, her character development, her use of location as a character then Just in Time is sure to please.
July 7, 2018
Wonderful book. This is the fourth book I have read by this author and they have all been really good and I thought this one was outstanding. Story of three ladies who walked out of a grief group and met in the parking lot and became wonderful friends. Different ages yet they fused into being perfect for each other. They each had their story and had total empathy for each other. One of the better books I have read. Totally enjoyable. Highly recommend reading.
March 4, 2018
Marie Bostwick goes back to her crafting/quilting roots and writes another beautiful story. Nan, Monica and Grace are all wonderful, deep characters who could easily have a spin-off novel. I cannot wait for her to explore Grace's quilting support group - as long as Nan and Monica make an appearance.
What I loved:: I think the two things that stuck with me most through this novel were Alex's change as he matured and removed the anger towards Monica once he finally had a mentor in his life. It doesn't sound like his father was a great role model and to see him change what beautiful - there's hope for the teenagers! I was also touched by how Grace struck up a friendship with Sunny - she didn't see Sunny as another annoying, strung out homeless person but showed her that someone still could care.
What I didn't love: It was a little predictable but you still rooted for the characters to come together and fall in love.
What I learned: I need more dogs in my life!
Overall Grade: B+
www.FluffSmutandMurder.com
What I loved:: I think the two things that stuck with me most through this novel were Alex's change as he matured and removed the anger towards Monica once he finally had a mentor in his life. It doesn't sound like his father was a great role model and to see him change what beautiful - there's hope for the teenagers! I was also touched by how Grace struck up a friendship with Sunny - she didn't see Sunny as another annoying, strung out homeless person but showed her that someone still could care.
What I didn't love: It was a little predictable but you still rooted for the characters to come together and fall in love.
What I learned: I need more dogs in my life!
Overall Grade: B+
www.FluffSmutandMurder.com
March 29, 2018
Just in Time by Marie Bostwick
Three women meet in a parking lot after attending part of a grief support group. The group is not for them BUT the three find they may have reason to spend time supporting one another in their own smaller group and thus begins a friendship that is one all women would like to someday have. The ages are 60’s, 40’s and 30’s. Two of the women have lost their husbands to death and the other woman’s husband has been in a coma for almost two years. All have issues to contend with that their friendship helps alleviate. Whether the issue is money, difficult children or finding money that is needed they are there for one another through thick and thin AND all three find a way forward that brings them a great deal of happiness.
If you are looking for a feel good story with strong women that have great stories to tell then this book is one I can and do recommend. It made me think, care and want to be friends with these three women. Great story by a wonderful writer and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Three women meet in a parking lot after attending part of a grief support group. The group is not for them BUT the three find they may have reason to spend time supporting one another in their own smaller group and thus begins a friendship that is one all women would like to someday have. The ages are 60’s, 40’s and 30’s. Two of the women have lost their husbands to death and the other woman’s husband has been in a coma for almost two years. All have issues to contend with that their friendship helps alleviate. Whether the issue is money, difficult children or finding money that is needed they are there for one another through thick and thin AND all three find a way forward that brings them a great deal of happiness.
If you are looking for a feel good story with strong women that have great stories to tell then this book is one I can and do recommend. It made me think, care and want to be friends with these three women. Great story by a wonderful writer and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
May 3, 2018
I enjoyed reading Just in Time. I purchased it at Powell's Bookstore in Portland, so it was fun to read about some of the places we visited (hello Salt and Straw!). It was a quick, enjoyable read. Three stars means "liked it" and I did, but it didn't move me the way I need to give it a fourth star. That's not necessarily the fault of the author, I just couldn't relate to all the quilting and sewing references, and I NEVER wear a dress, so that angle wasn't catching me at all. I would recommend this for someone who loves to express themselves through sewing and quilting. I bought this book because I thought there would be more about the dogs, but that's just me!
January 1, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This was an easy and enjoyable read, however the story moved very slowly for me and it took a bit for the characters to come to life. I appreciate the story about second chances and finding your way out of grief, I just wish it was a more engaging story from start to finish.
January 18, 2021
This was a great story about three women who have all been widowed. They all lost their husbands under various circumstances and were left in different situations. Grace Saunders is technically not a widow, as her husband is living in a rehabilitation home, being kept alive by machines. She is still dealing with grief and has no desire to meet anyone or date because in her mind and heart, she is still married. Nan has been widowed for twenty years. Her children are grown and she is alone. Her dog, Blitzen, works with her to help people dealing with grief. She is extremely well off financially and runs a dog rescue. Our third character is Monica. She is not only dealing with grief, but with betrayal when she finds out he was unfaithful to her. Not only that, but she has two step-children that she is responsible for and they are not always easy. These three women meet at a grief group and become friends, helping each other deal with whatever comes their way.
I loved this story and these women. They were all dealing with so much, yet were still functioning, productive women. They became fast friends who supported each other, were loyal, caring and were women that I wish I knew. All their difficulties were realistic from trying to fun a business, trying to keep your job during restructuring, dealing with school issues, and more. I really liked the theme of homelessness and addiction. I don't want to spoil the story so will say no more about it, except that they are important plotlines in the story. If you are looking for an uplifting story, where women support one another to become more successful, then this is the book for you. Yes there is some romance, but it is more of a vehicle to move the story forward than a major plot. I definitely recommend this one to lovers of Women's Fiction. The narration by Emily Sutton-Smith, Kate Marcin, and Carol Monda was wonderful. Each woman had their own voice and it was perfect as the various chapters were told from different points of view. Tone, expression and inflection were used to make this a wonderful listening experience.
I loved this story and these women. They were all dealing with so much, yet were still functioning, productive women. They became fast friends who supported each other, were loyal, caring and were women that I wish I knew. All their difficulties were realistic from trying to fun a business, trying to keep your job during restructuring, dealing with school issues, and more. I really liked the theme of homelessness and addiction. I don't want to spoil the story so will say no more about it, except that they are important plotlines in the story. If you are looking for an uplifting story, where women support one another to become more successful, then this is the book for you. Yes there is some romance, but it is more of a vehicle to move the story forward than a major plot. I definitely recommend this one to lovers of Women's Fiction. The narration by Emily Sutton-Smith, Kate Marcin, and Carol Monda was wonderful. Each woman had their own voice and it was perfect as the various chapters were told from different points of view. Tone, expression and inflection were used to make this a wonderful listening experience.
December 31, 2019
This is a nice, tender story about three friends who meet at a grief support group. Each is at a different point in their life and grief journey. Grace’s story is the prominent one, with Nan and Monica’s stories as less prominent side plots. The prose is lovely and thoughtful, and although it’s not as good as Bostwick’s Cobbled Court series, it’s a fairly nice read.
That said, I don’t know if I’m outgrowing books like this or if some of my favored authors are outgrowing their characters. Grace is supposed to be about 30, but she really doesn’t read that young, and this is something I’m noticing more frequently as some women’s fiction authors are getting older. They don’t have the frame of reference to authentically voice younger women.
Also, this book was just not deep enough to really keep my interest. None of the characters were ever fully developed. The kitchen sink of issues is added to the ladies’ stories: addiction, obesity, sexting... some of it was pertinent to the character’s development, but other issues, like Grace’s past obesity, added nothing to the story. I’d have rather seen some of these issues du jour eliminated and more focus on the three main characters.
And don’t get me started on the fact that all three women’s arcs were so reliant on a new romantic relationship....
That said, I don’t know if I’m outgrowing books like this or if some of my favored authors are outgrowing their characters. Grace is supposed to be about 30, but she really doesn’t read that young, and this is something I’m noticing more frequently as some women’s fiction authors are getting older. They don’t have the frame of reference to authentically voice younger women.
Also, this book was just not deep enough to really keep my interest. None of the characters were ever fully developed. The kitchen sink of issues is added to the ladies’ stories: addiction, obesity, sexting... some of it was pertinent to the character’s development, but other issues, like Grace’s past obesity, added nothing to the story. I’d have rather seen some of these issues du jour eliminated and more focus on the three main characters.
And don’t get me started on the fact that all three women’s arcs were so reliant on a new romantic relationship....
May 21, 2018
Grace and Monica meet Nan and her therapy dog Blixen when the two younger women drop out of a grief support group composed of elderly widows. The three women are different ages with different life experiences, but they bond and form their own support group. The friendship they share sustains them through tumultuous times of grief, growth, and second chances at love.
Just in Time is a heartwarming women’s fiction novel about grief, friendship, and the unexpected turns life takes. Bostwick has a masterly touch at creating female characters who are likable, flawed, and real. She does it again with Grace, Monica, and Nan. Readers will find these women and their stories engaging. Romance readers will be pleased that while the friendship of the three women and their journeys, individual and intertwined, is the heart of the book, each woman’s story has a romantic element with a conclusion that should leave the most HEA-addicted reader smiling. Bostwick is a dependably consistent writer, and Just in Time offers the kind of believable, life-affirming story that has made her a favorite with readers
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2018/04...
Just in Time is a heartwarming women’s fiction novel about grief, friendship, and the unexpected turns life takes. Bostwick has a masterly touch at creating female characters who are likable, flawed, and real. She does it again with Grace, Monica, and Nan. Readers will find these women and their stories engaging. Romance readers will be pleased that while the friendship of the three women and their journeys, individual and intertwined, is the heart of the book, each woman’s story has a romantic element with a conclusion that should leave the most HEA-addicted reader smiling. Bostwick is a dependably consistent writer, and Just in Time offers the kind of believable, life-affirming story that has made her a favorite with readers
See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2018/04...
July 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this book but parts did move pretty slowly! Three women of seemly different age groups, meet at a grief counseling meeting. We move thru the first two years of their lives dealing with their day to day issues and blossoming friendship. The main focus seems to be on "Grace". I have a feeling that Grace is the youngest of the three women. Our main characters are Grace, Monica and Nan.
Of my favorites, I loved Monica the best! Her story was funny and realistic, the other's backstories seem also based in truth. One part of Graces' story really hit home with me and that was when she worked for the "A-hole"! I remembered a Female Director I'd worked for in the late 70's early 80's? She had me finding her a maid and arranging Golf lessons for her! Those were the days when Administrative assistants were called Secretaries. (LOL)
Anyway, Nan seems to be the Senior member of the group and the most wise. She gave Grace a lot of good advice but when it was offered to her (by her own children) she seemed to go deaf. Parts of each story was predictable but none of it was boring, slow but not boring. At the end, I was sorry the story ended but had a big smile on my face. Lots of "HEA".
Of my favorites, I loved Monica the best! Her story was funny and realistic, the other's backstories seem also based in truth. One part of Graces' story really hit home with me and that was when she worked for the "A-hole"! I remembered a Female Director I'd worked for in the late 70's early 80's? She had me finding her a maid and arranging Golf lessons for her! Those were the days when Administrative assistants were called Secretaries. (LOL)
Anyway, Nan seems to be the Senior member of the group and the most wise. She gave Grace a lot of good advice but when it was offered to her (by her own children) she seemed to go deaf. Parts of each story was predictable but none of it was boring, slow but not boring. At the end, I was sorry the story ended but had a big smile on my face. Lots of "HEA".
August 24, 2020
I'm going to preface this review - I've met Marie Bostwick, twice and it was a pleasure both times and I'd look forward to spending some time with her again. Marie is a quilter and is known for her Cobbled Court series, which I truly love. However, she has written other books, such as this one, and another that has been made into a movie by the Hallmark Channel, that while might have a reference to quilting in them, they are truly more about real life characters, situations and relationships. This particular book sat on my pile for far too long. When I did start it, I struggled a bit with getting a feel for the three female characters who drive the book. Marie took her time with helping us be aware of their situations. However, as the story unfurled, and the characters became as alive as real friends, it was unable to put the book down. This was a soul stirring book for those of us who value friendships and know their power to heal, support and encourage. It shows us the grit and courage of drug addiction and tragedy and loss and the challenge of raising teens. This was a read that will stay with me for some time. Thanks, Marie - it was a wonderful read!
July 5, 2018
JUST IN TIME is a heart-felt story of three female friends, each at a different stage of life, complete with its own challenges. This is a story (actually stories) of second chances and being there for each other. Bostwick always makes her settings part of the story and the Northwest setting of JUST IN TIME is not exception. I've had the pleasure of briefly meeting Marie Bostwick twice and that has translated into my approaching her stories with a different mind-set. I feel like an old friend is spinning a tale and that she already knows what I will like in a story. JUST IN TIME delivers on many of my "must-haves" for a light, feel good read. That does not mean that tough issues are not explored or that life is portrayed unrealistically. I follow Marie Bostwick on social media and am a member of the FACEBOOK book club FARMER GIRL READS which she moderates, which means I can keep up with her activities. It gives me pleasure knowing that she has just finished another book and its publication will not be too far into the future.
March 31, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was lucky enough to win Just in Time in a Facebook contest, and by the time I was able to read it, it WAS just in time. You see, I’d misplaced my autographed copy for six months. I looked, and looked, especially after I would finish one book and wondered which one to start next, and I finally found it in early March. I won the contest because of a photo I’d submitted; it was a photo of one of my favorite dogs, my best friend, Chance. The story I had relayed about the dog reminded the author, Marie Bostwick of the dog Blixen in the book. After reading it, I agree.
Just in Time is written with each chapter written from the point of view from the three main characters, Grace, Monica and Nan. The author’s timing is perfect, letting us in ‘the know’ just when we need to know, as we follow these three women through all kinds of trials and tribulations. The friendship these women share is one we all hope to have in our lifetime, and in their case, came just in time.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Just in Time is written with each chapter written from the point of view from the three main characters, Grace, Monica and Nan. The author’s timing is perfect, letting us in ‘the know’ just when we need to know, as we follow these three women through all kinds of trials and tribulations. The friendship these women share is one we all hope to have in our lifetime, and in their case, came just in time.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 24, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
I loved this author’s quilting series, and was excited to discover that she has quite a few stand alone books as well. So far, I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read, and this book was no exception.
The focus of her books is always friendship between women – sometimes related to each other, sometimes not. Some of the women are young, some are older, some are barely scraping by in life while others are well-situated. but she makes the reader care about her characters and what happens to them. I liked following along as the three women featured in this book moved on with their lives after experiencing traumatic life events. There were bumps along the road for each of them, and I liked the way each of their story lines wrapped up, even if they were rather predictable.
I have several other books by this author on my to-read list, which I hope to read sooner rather than later. They’re a nice break from the murder and mayhem found in the books I usually read.
I loved this author’s quilting series, and was excited to discover that she has quite a few stand alone books as well. So far, I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read, and this book was no exception.
The focus of her books is always friendship between women – sometimes related to each other, sometimes not. Some of the women are young, some are older, some are barely scraping by in life while others are well-situated. but she makes the reader care about her characters and what happens to them. I liked following along as the three women featured in this book moved on with their lives after experiencing traumatic life events. There were bumps along the road for each of them, and I liked the way each of their story lines wrapped up, even if they were rather predictable.
I have several other books by this author on my to-read list, which I hope to read sooner rather than later. They’re a nice break from the murder and mayhem found in the books I usually read.
July 9, 2018
A lovely story
This book is about three women who meet at a support group and realise what they need isn't to be found there. Nan has a dog she brings to these groups for comforting the people who are hurting. She meets Grace and Monica in the parking lot and invites them to her house to talk. This begins their weekly chat groups. They become close friends and is always there to help each other when needed. All three women have there own stories to tell with life's hardships.
I have always enjoyed Marie's books but this one hit a special cord with me. The love and miss of all these women is brought to light in only the way this author could enthralling you with. It made me think of my own life and what it might feel like to have two close friends like in this story. It made me sad and she'd a few years and laugh at some of the antics. I hope everybody who reads this book will like it as much as I. I will go her tonight thinking about this enlightening tale for sure.
This book is about three women who meet at a support group and realise what they need isn't to be found there. Nan has a dog she brings to these groups for comforting the people who are hurting. She meets Grace and Monica in the parking lot and invites them to her house to talk. This begins their weekly chat groups. They become close friends and is always there to help each other when needed. All three women have there own stories to tell with life's hardships.
I have always enjoyed Marie's books but this one hit a special cord with me. The love and miss of all these women is brought to light in only the way this author could enthralling you with. It made me think of my own life and what it might feel like to have two close friends like in this story. It made me sad and she'd a few years and laugh at some of the antics. I hope everybody who reads this book will like it as much as I. I will go her tonight thinking about this enlightening tale for sure.
October 11, 2020
I downloaded this audiobook because I do enjoy the author but more so because the watch on the cover would help me with a loooong challange. Even though the beginning was rather slow, once it picked up I enjoyed this wonderful story of Grace, Monica and Nan. Their meeting was hysterical: they met in the parking lot after attempting to join and remain in a widows' support group but none of them liked the group...think lots of white hair and Diamonds cologne.
As the story progressed, I became engaged in the story of these three ladies. Grace is technically not a widow but her husband Jaime has been in a coma for two years. Monica is a chef whose husband really wanted someone to run his restaurant and care for his two teenage children. Nan is a 60-ish woman who has been widowed for quite a few years. This untraditional meeting leads to wonderful friendships being formed and redefining what a family is all about. It was a good listen!
Go Cards! L1C4!!
As the story progressed, I became engaged in the story of these three ladies. Grace is technically not a widow but her husband Jaime has been in a coma for two years. Monica is a chef whose husband really wanted someone to run his restaurant and care for his two teenage children. Nan is a 60-ish woman who has been widowed for quite a few years. This untraditional meeting leads to wonderful friendships being formed and redefining what a family is all about. It was a good listen!
Go Cards! L1C4!!
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