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Opal's Story
In 1948 a murder/suicide rocks a small west Texas town, devastating a prominent family, changing their lives forever. At the center of the tragedy is Opal Evans. Over fifty years later, terminally ill, Opal's only desire is to forgive herself for the unspeakable aftermath resulting from the chaos. She wants to face the person who betrayed her trust and let him know he separated her from her faith.
With the support of her brothers, their families and an unlikely former student, Opal discovers the forgiveness and the faith she thought she left behind in her twenties, while her niece, Joy, discovers a tender love story she never expected as she learns that decisions to "protect" family from information may deprive them of the opportunity to demonstrate the depth of their emotions.
Set in a small town in west Texas, the fictitious, Jordanville, embodies most small towns in the late forties. The lifestyles and attitudes that shaped the community defined the values and the prejudices that could condone and precipitate acts of bullying and intimidation.
Harold sat watching Opal recall the house. He never expressed his opinion about his parent’s need to maintain a social presence. It didn’t sit well with him. In fact, it irritated him. He thought the need to have material things and be seen in the community as law-abiding, church-goers was the root of their problems. Opal saw the family one way, and he recalled their existence in a different way. He supposed it was a gender thing. Opal liked the silver, china, bridge-playing, choir-singing. He, on the other hand, didn’t feel those things were necessary. He didn’t mind attending church, but he saw duplicity there. The boys tended to be out on the town, observing the men of the church in the pool hall, courting women, not their wives, gambling, and telling irreverent jokes. He knew their father was one of those men, living one way in view of his family and church, and living another way when they weren’t looking. Harold knew the gambling was a problem and caused the financial problems they discovered after Billy Mack’s death. Harold’s memory was not as flattering to his father. Sometimes he thought his mother’s desire for silver and china was the reason their father turned to gambling. He wanted to blame someone, but he wasn’t sure . . . I’ll let Opal have her pleasant memories. No sense upsetting her at this stage of the game. What’s gone is done. Nothing we can do about it now. She may not even know about the financial problems. Opal may have been in the hospital when we discovered that. I can’t remember. No harm done keeping that away from her. She had enough to worry about. Nothing anyone could do about it anyways.
With the support of her brothers, their families and an unlikely former student, Opal discovers the forgiveness and the faith she thought she left behind in her twenties, while her niece, Joy, discovers a tender love story she never expected as she learns that decisions to "protect" family from information may deprive them of the opportunity to demonstrate the depth of their emotions.
Set in a small town in west Texas, the fictitious, Jordanville, embodies most small towns in the late forties. The lifestyles and attitudes that shaped the community defined the values and the prejudices that could condone and precipitate acts of bullying and intimidation.
Harold sat watching Opal recall the house. He never expressed his opinion about his parent’s need to maintain a social presence. It didn’t sit well with him. In fact, it irritated him. He thought the need to have material things and be seen in the community as law-abiding, church-goers was the root of their problems. Opal saw the family one way, and he recalled their existence in a different way. He supposed it was a gender thing. Opal liked the silver, china, bridge-playing, choir-singing. He, on the other hand, didn’t feel those things were necessary. He didn’t mind attending church, but he saw duplicity there. The boys tended to be out on the town, observing the men of the church in the pool hall, courting women, not their wives, gambling, and telling irreverent jokes. He knew their father was one of those men, living one way in view of his family and church, and living another way when they weren’t looking. Harold knew the gambling was a problem and caused the financial problems they discovered after Billy Mack’s death. Harold’s memory was not as flattering to his father. Sometimes he thought his mother’s desire for silver and china was the reason their father turned to gambling. He wanted to blame someone, but he wasn’t sure . . . I’ll let Opal have her pleasant memories. No sense upsetting her at this stage of the game. What’s gone is done. Nothing we can do about it now. She may not even know about the financial problems. Opal may have been in the hospital when we discovered that. I can’t remember. No harm done keeping that away from her. She had enough to worry about. Nothing anyone could do about it anyways.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2015
554 people are currently reading
527 people want to read
About the author
Phyllis H. Moore
32 books58 followersPhyllis H. Moore wants to live life experiences more than once: doing it, writing about it and reading about it. She’s had two careers and two retirements. Both careers gave her inspiration for her novels: The Sabine Series, Sabine, Billy’s Story, Josephine’s Journals and Secrets of Dunn House,
She's written three stand-alone novels: Opal’s Story, Tangled, a Southern Gothic Yarn, The Bright Shawl, Colors of Tender Whispers, The Ember Months, Birdie & Jude, and an anthology of spooky short stories inspired by real places and events, The Bridge on Jackson Road. She has authored one nonfiction book, Retirement, Now What?
Phyllis has been published by Caffeinated Press in the anthology, Brewed Awakenings 2, Fifteen Tales to Jolt Your Mind Awake. She blogs on her web site http://www.phyllishmoore.com. Follow her on Pinterest and Facebook.
Phyllis is a retired social worker and former owner/operator of a small bed and breakfast. She’s lived in the rural areas and cities of south Texas. She currently lives on Galveston Island with her husband, Richard.
She's written three stand-alone novels: Opal’s Story, Tangled, a Southern Gothic Yarn, The Bright Shawl, Colors of Tender Whispers, The Ember Months, Birdie & Jude, and an anthology of spooky short stories inspired by real places and events, The Bridge on Jackson Road. She has authored one nonfiction book, Retirement, Now What?
Phyllis has been published by Caffeinated Press in the anthology, Brewed Awakenings 2, Fifteen Tales to Jolt Your Mind Awake. She blogs on her web site http://www.phyllishmoore.com. Follow her on Pinterest and Facebook.
Phyllis is a retired social worker and former owner/operator of a small bed and breakfast. She’s lived in the rural areas and cities of south Texas. She currently lives on Galveston Island with her husband, Richard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
January 27, 2016
This book was a unexpected surprise for me. I loved the twist and turns the story took. I guess I didn't have it figured out after all. I would read more from this author. So far Phyllis Moore's book have captivated me! Write on! Write on! * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
October 18, 2016
*3.5 stars
In Opal’s Story, author Phyllis H. Moore brings a taste of her home and the spirit of the Texas region to the reader, through one woman’s compelling life story.
Opal’s Story is a novel that looks at how one tragic accident, a murder suicide involving a beloved husband and brother, tears a family apart. The incident occurred in 1948 and the fallout from this unexpected accident has the power to reverberate down the years. In the present day, Opal Evans is nearing the end of her life due to terminal illness but she cannot put the past behind her. She finally reveals to her niece her devastating story. This story becomes Opal’s incredible journey. It opens up how Opal dealt with the aftermath of the terrible accident, which robbed her of the lives of three people dear to her. It also details how Opal eventually went on to reclaim her life. Finally, it also examines the closure as Opal nears the end of her life, realising she has some unfinished business to attend to.
Opal’s Story is a very individual journey and a powerful one. It moves between the past, set in the late 1940’s, to the present day, in an easy to read fashion. Moore does a good job of setting her scene, making her readers aware of the limitations and the social graces that defined the era in which the book is initially set – 1948. I welcomed the opportunity to travel back in time, to learn more about Opal and her family as well as some key acquaintances. What I also appreciated about the book, was the well defined setting. It was great to be introduced to the small town charm of the little Texas based town where the novel’s events are largely based. The dialogue was a little hard to get a handle on at times, due to the specific local expressions but this also adds to the originality of the book. Opal’s Story is a character driven book, with Opal at the helm, moving the interesting narrative forward. On the whole, I did enjoy Opal’s journey, I admired her inner strength and how she was able to turn her life around to help others in the face of adversity. This is a book that has the ability to tug at the heartstrings. It is emotional in many spots, especially the ending, which was bittersweet.
Opal’s Story is a book that draws on the importance of family, personal triumph, forgiveness and faith. It is a gentle family saga and an endearing read.
With thanks to the author, Phyllis H. Moore, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This review also appears on my blog: https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com...
In Opal’s Story, author Phyllis H. Moore brings a taste of her home and the spirit of the Texas region to the reader, through one woman’s compelling life story.
Opal’s Story is a novel that looks at how one tragic accident, a murder suicide involving a beloved husband and brother, tears a family apart. The incident occurred in 1948 and the fallout from this unexpected accident has the power to reverberate down the years. In the present day, Opal Evans is nearing the end of her life due to terminal illness but she cannot put the past behind her. She finally reveals to her niece her devastating story. This story becomes Opal’s incredible journey. It opens up how Opal dealt with the aftermath of the terrible accident, which robbed her of the lives of three people dear to her. It also details how Opal eventually went on to reclaim her life. Finally, it also examines the closure as Opal nears the end of her life, realising she has some unfinished business to attend to.
Opal’s Story is a very individual journey and a powerful one. It moves between the past, set in the late 1940’s, to the present day, in an easy to read fashion. Moore does a good job of setting her scene, making her readers aware of the limitations and the social graces that defined the era in which the book is initially set – 1948. I welcomed the opportunity to travel back in time, to learn more about Opal and her family as well as some key acquaintances. What I also appreciated about the book, was the well defined setting. It was great to be introduced to the small town charm of the little Texas based town where the novel’s events are largely based. The dialogue was a little hard to get a handle on at times, due to the specific local expressions but this also adds to the originality of the book. Opal’s Story is a character driven book, with Opal at the helm, moving the interesting narrative forward. On the whole, I did enjoy Opal’s journey, I admired her inner strength and how she was able to turn her life around to help others in the face of adversity. This is a book that has the ability to tug at the heartstrings. It is emotional in many spots, especially the ending, which was bittersweet.
Opal’s Story is a book that draws on the importance of family, personal triumph, forgiveness and faith. It is a gentle family saga and an endearing read.
With thanks to the author, Phyllis H. Moore, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This review also appears on my blog: https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com...
September 20, 2017
A heartwarming story about an amazing family's journey
It made me laugh, cry with both sadness and sentiment! The strength and love that carries this family is inspiring and Opal is a wonderful character as we're they all! I cried when it finished as I'd fallen in love with them all.
It made me laugh, cry with both sadness and sentiment! The strength and love that carries this family is inspiring and Opal is a wonderful character as we're they all! I cried when it finished as I'd fallen in love with them all.
September 23, 2017
I could not put this book down. Although it had lots of sad topics, it ultimately held a bigger message of the pain of secrets, disappointments of what you think life and the people in it should sometimes be, angels amongst the living who were always there but you didn't really "see" them until you are open to acceptance and forgiveness, love, curiosity and hope. Those who suffer the most pain and disappointments can sometimes love themselves enough to stay humble and give quietly where it is wanted and received.
September 24, 2017
Wonderful read for a quiet weekend
Stimulating and insightful look into the way life was different and could be tragic in our parents
generation,before the seventies and eighties blew the world wide open to different views. The world
judged you very differently,and small southern towns perhaps more judgemental than most. Homosexuality, murder,suicide,depression were cause for moral outrage and very little sympathy for the victim was shown. We see here how then can effect now, and how now can affect change for the
Better, and bring peace.
Stimulating and insightful look into the way life was different and could be tragic in our parents
generation,before the seventies and eighties blew the world wide open to different views. The world
judged you very differently,and small southern towns perhaps more judgemental than most. Homosexuality, murder,suicide,depression were cause for moral outrage and very little sympathy for the victim was shown. We see here how then can effect now, and how now can affect change for the
Better, and bring peace.
September 25, 2017
A thought provoking story.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book,. After a few chapters I got into the characters more, then couldn't put the book down. Inspirational story & very enjoyable.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book,. After a few chapters I got into the characters more, then couldn't put the book down. Inspirational story & very enjoyable.
November 2, 2017
Quick, captivating read from page 1 to the last paragraph. Opal's Story tells a tale of how a single event in a person’s life can set in motion a series of events that changes that persons destiny, as well as anyone in the path that is impacted by the event.
Opal is a likable character that marries and is expecting a child. In the early chapters of the book her husband Ray kills Opal's twin brother, then commits suicide. As the trauma and mystery unfold there are unexpected twists and turns.
The characters are all believable and have good supporting rolls. I like the way this author chose to tell this story. It wasn't drug out, it was to the point with strong believable characters, some suspense and lots of detail.
Excellent read. Great job by Ms. Moore.
Opal is a likable character that marries and is expecting a child. In the early chapters of the book her husband Ray kills Opal's twin brother, then commits suicide. As the trauma and mystery unfold there are unexpected twists and turns.
The characters are all believable and have good supporting rolls. I like the way this author chose to tell this story. It wasn't drug out, it was to the point with strong believable characters, some suspense and lots of detail.
Excellent read. Great job by Ms. Moore.
December 31, 2017
So real
Although Opal's story was fiction, it felt so real and probably happens more than we know. The sides of ppl we can't possibly see or imagine and their actions can tear apart many innocent lives. Our actions after the facts are so important. This story has reinforced for me that even when you're the innocent bystander, keep the faith, work through the bitterness and do good for others and good will come back to you ten fold!
Although Opal's story was fiction, it felt so real and probably happens more than we know. The sides of ppl we can't possibly see or imagine and their actions can tear apart many innocent lives. Our actions after the facts are so important. This story has reinforced for me that even when you're the innocent bystander, keep the faith, work through the bitterness and do good for others and good will come back to you ten fold!
September 3, 2017
Good story telling.
Moral messages, kindness, sharing, support, understanding and love are woven into this tale.
A little slow to start but worth the time. A quick, one sitting read better than television for the evening. Wholesome.
Moral messages, kindness, sharing, support, understanding and love are woven into this tale.
A little slow to start but worth the time. A quick, one sitting read better than television for the evening. Wholesome.
September 8, 2017
A heartfelt testament to the strength of exceptional families
This is a very touching, emotionally charged book. The characters are so fully developed, I could picture them in my head. I became completely invested as to what would happen next. A devastating family secret is slowly revealed. The tightness of this families bond, showed no bounds. A bit of an emotional roller coaster. The depths to which this family protected and surrounded the protagonist, made me wish that I had been born into this exceptional bloodline. The slow way in which the tragic, emotional and complicated past is revealed, could have been excruciating. This author found a way to do this seamlessly and in such an artistic way, as to keep the readers interest piqued until the last page.
This is a very touching, emotionally charged book. The characters are so fully developed, I could picture them in my head. I became completely invested as to what would happen next. A devastating family secret is slowly revealed. The tightness of this families bond, showed no bounds. A bit of an emotional roller coaster. The depths to which this family protected and surrounded the protagonist, made me wish that I had been born into this exceptional bloodline. The slow way in which the tragic, emotional and complicated past is revealed, could have been excruciating. This author found a way to do this seamlessly and in such an artistic way, as to keep the readers interest piqued until the last page.
September 22, 2017
Three stars
Though overall I liked the book a nd it's characters the story felt choppy in places and was just one of those drawn out stories that seemed to go on forever.
Though overall I liked the book a nd it's characters the story felt choppy in places and was just one of those drawn out stories that seemed to go on forever.
September 25, 2017
This story is a keeper
The story will stay with me for a long time and give me hope for the future. Very well written.
The story will stay with me for a long time and give me hope for the future. Very well written.
September 25, 2017
A very heartwarming story
Joyous, heart-aching, heartbreaking, heart-warming story of the year! I loved it. If you love a good story about real life you will love this.
Joyous, heart-aching, heartbreaking, heart-warming story of the year! I loved it. If you love a good story about real life you will love this.
August 23, 2018
Beautifully written
Such a sad but happy story, kept me riveted from beginning to end. Opal was such a strong character with a wonderful extended family. A pleasure to read.
Such a sad but happy story, kept me riveted from beginning to end. Opal was such a strong character with a wonderful extended family. A pleasure to read.
October 12, 2017
Must read
Good read well written. I was in tears at the end. Looking forward to other books by this author. Highly recommend
Good read well written. I was in tears at the end. Looking forward to other books by this author. Highly recommend
September 23, 2017
Beautifully told
Sharing my name with the main character made this at times sweet and sad. The author was able to tell a sensitive situation without overstating the sadness. What a surprise to have Opal find a friend in her former student.
Sharing my name with the main character made this at times sweet and sad. The author was able to tell a sensitive situation without overstating the sadness. What a surprise to have Opal find a friend in her former student.
September 25, 2017
This was a book that made me wonder if it was written as a sequel or whether some of the side stories would be in sequels (I haven't investigated). The ending was sweet but lacked punch and the story could have been deeper and engaged you with the characters a bit more. Not sure why I gave it 5 stars I must have been feeling generous!
September 25, 2017
Heartwarming
Wonderful story. Love how this family stayed together through all the trials of life they endured. Everyone should enjoy this.
Wonderful story. Love how this family stayed together through all the trials of life they endured. Everyone should enjoy this.
September 25, 2017
Touching.
This book has been a pleasure to read. Despite the heartbreak and trauma in the beginning it is a story of survival, loss, forgiveness and the courage of he human spirit.
This book has been a pleasure to read. Despite the heartbreak and trauma in the beginning it is a story of survival, loss, forgiveness and the courage of he human spirit.
October 20, 2017
What an amazing experience and novel.
I can't remember enjoying a novel so much in quite a while. And I am not even from the south! Such loveable characters and a story that I will remember for a long time. A very satisfying read .
I can't remember enjoying a novel so much in quite a while. And I am not even from the south! Such loveable characters and a story that I will remember for a long time. A very satisfying read .
September 12, 2017
Excellent!
Absolutely loved this book!!! Once I started to reading, I couldn't put it down. Very good book. Makes you realize what family is supposed to be. ❤❤
Absolutely loved this book!!! Once I started to reading, I couldn't put it down. Very good book. Makes you realize what family is supposed to be. ❤❤
September 22, 2017
Wonderfully heart wrenching
This family saga is full of love, shock, disappointment, grace, and karma. Keep a handkerchief handy and enjoy the read!
This family saga is full of love, shock, disappointment, grace, and karma. Keep a handkerchief handy and enjoy the read!
September 27, 2017
Beautiful story
Beautiful, I loved it. Cried alot. Lol. Will be looking up more of her books to read.
Thank you for the lovely story.
Beautiful, I loved it. Cried alot. Lol. Will be looking up more of her books to read.
Thank you for the lovely story.
September 13, 2018
Riveting story of heartbreak, loss, and redemption
The story of Opal , while heartbreaking, is one of triumph and redemption as well. The strength that Opal demonstrates by turning her tragedy into a positive force for the community while still holding on to the pain and resentment she felt toward Pastor Earl is remarkable. The author weaves the story in a way that the reader has a hard time putting the book down...just one more chapter ...just to the end of the next page...until another hour has passed. It’s a sad story of very positive family dynamics and great love overshadowed by a terrible secret that is made worse by nobody willing to talk about it...until Joy, who has her own secret, asks the questions that finally release the family from their self-imposed prison.
The story of Opal , while heartbreaking, is one of triumph and redemption as well. The strength that Opal demonstrates by turning her tragedy into a positive force for the community while still holding on to the pain and resentment she felt toward Pastor Earl is remarkable. The author weaves the story in a way that the reader has a hard time putting the book down...just one more chapter ...just to the end of the next page...until another hour has passed. It’s a sad story of very positive family dynamics and great love overshadowed by a terrible secret that is made worse by nobody willing to talk about it...until Joy, who has her own secret, asks the questions that finally release the family from their self-imposed prison.
February 11, 2018
Wow, you'd not believe the plot twists!
It was a fantastic story and although not my usual genre, I'm thankful that I decided to read it.
Thank you Ms. Moore for an amazing book!
It was a fantastic story and although not my usual genre, I'm thankful that I decided to read it.
Thank you Ms. Moore for an amazing book!
September 22, 2017
Wonderful
This book is amazing, thought provoking. What a talented read. I was a bit down prior to reading this the book is so uplifting.
This book is amazing, thought provoking. What a talented read. I was a bit down prior to reading this the book is so uplifting.
September 8, 2017
Great Story
A tribute to a wonderful, giving lady who had an extremely difficult life. The story spans from 1948-2008 and captures sadness, joy, tears and exhilaration.
A tribute to a wonderful, giving lady who had an extremely difficult life. The story spans from 1948-2008 and captures sadness, joy, tears and exhilaration.
October 6, 2017
Definitely worthy of 5 stars!
Superb story telling - couldn't hold back the tears closer to the ending I will be recommending this book to several of my friends
Superb story telling - couldn't hold back the tears closer to the ending I will be recommending this book to several of my friends
January 15, 2018
Moving and warm novel
This was a great read. I was engaged very quickly and enjoyed this book immensely. Opal has a story to tell that will keep you riveted until the final page.
This was a great read. I was engaged very quickly and enjoyed this book immensely. Opal has a story to tell that will keep you riveted until the final page.
January 11, 2017
Excellent reading
I really enjoyed this book. Wishing I could have known Opal and her loving family. Reggie was truly a angel a gift from God. Excellent reading, I could read again.
I really enjoyed this book. Wishing I could have known Opal and her loving family. Reggie was truly a angel a gift from God. Excellent reading, I could read again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews