What do you think?
Rate this book
As the Tide Comes In
A New York Times best-selling author releases her first southern novel, a Steel Magnolias-meets-Sweet Home Alabama story set on St. Simons Island.
After losing two loved ones in a devastating tornado and suffering a head injury, Tara Abbott flees to St. Simons Island, where her disorientation causes the lines between imagination and reality, past and present to blur.
There she encounters island residents Julep Burnside, Luella Ward, Sue Beth Manning, and Dell Calhoun--The Glynn Girls--who have been friends since Bible camp, forty years earlier. When Julep's son Gavin identifies a troubled soul in need of help, can the Glynn Girls guide Tara back to herself?
After losing two loved ones in a devastating tornado and suffering a head injury, Tara Abbott flees to St. Simons Island, where her disorientation causes the lines between imagination and reality, past and present to blur.
There she encounters island residents Julep Burnside, Luella Ward, Sue Beth Manning, and Dell Calhoun--The Glynn Girls--who have been friends since Bible camp, forty years earlier. When Julep's son Gavin identifies a troubled soul in need of help, can the Glynn Girls guide Tara back to herself?
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2018
110 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Woodsmall
68 books1,116 followersCINDY WOODSMALL is an award-winning, New York Times, and CBA best-selling author of twenty-five works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s Amish connections and her novels has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
May 10, 2021
True confession: I checked this book out of the library three times before I actually made it through to the end. The first two times I reached the same point early on in the story and, well, the authors deliver a lethal literary sucker punch that rocked my tender bibliophile heart to the core and I just couldn't read on. But this time I relied on my hoard of comfort chocolates and tissues and soldiered on and am I ever glad I did!
What a stunning story! It's haunting in some ways but hopeful in others as the Lord takes center stage in the broken lives of hurting people. There's romance (two, in fact) but they aren't the focus of this beautiful, redemptive tale. There's plenty of drama as several characters journey through grief and the every day upheaval losing a loved one can cause.
Lest I give the impression that this is a heavy, depressing book, let me assure you that it's anything but. There's plenty of humour, largely sparked by the outlandish antics of The Glynn Girls -- four ladies of middling years who also claim 'mamaship' to Gavin, though only one birthed him.
Gavin puts up with a lot from his mamas, even more from the perpetual hazing of his firehouse crew and then there are his run ins with Tara! Some of them are hilarious even as they highlight the kind and compassionate man he is. (insert swoony sigh here.)
And then there's Tara -- watching her struggle about ripped my heart out! And the way Gavin and the Glynn Girls rally around her...well, sniffle...(not before some crazy misunderstandings, mind you.) And, oh my, that plot twist is a doozy!
Told from multiple points of view, As the Tide Comes In is a captivating slice of real life in all it's glorious mess and a beautiful example of sweet, inspirational Southern Fiction.
What a stunning story! It's haunting in some ways but hopeful in others as the Lord takes center stage in the broken lives of hurting people. There's romance (two, in fact) but they aren't the focus of this beautiful, redemptive tale. There's plenty of drama as several characters journey through grief and the every day upheaval losing a loved one can cause.
Lest I give the impression that this is a heavy, depressing book, let me assure you that it's anything but. There's plenty of humour, largely sparked by the outlandish antics of The Glynn Girls -- four ladies of middling years who also claim 'mamaship' to Gavin, though only one birthed him.
Gavin puts up with a lot from his mamas, even more from the perpetual hazing of his firehouse crew and then there are his run ins with Tara! Some of them are hilarious even as they highlight the kind and compassionate man he is. (insert swoony sigh here.)
And then there's Tara -- watching her struggle about ripped my heart out! And the way Gavin and the Glynn Girls rally around her...well, sniffle...(not before some crazy misunderstandings, mind you.) And, oh my, that plot twist is a doozy!
Told from multiple points of view, As the Tide Comes In is a captivating slice of real life in all it's glorious mess and a beautiful example of sweet, inspirational Southern Fiction.
August 29, 2018
The author has given us a story of hope and survival, but with my heart in my throat, this is a story of life and faith in God.
There is so much heart ache here, and yet I found I didn’t want to put the book down, it kept drawing me in. I found my emotions at a fever pitch, and wanting to be able to change the past. In the end, you will find yourself holding your love one’s closer.
Is it a coincidence that Tara ends up on St. Simon’s Island, and I loved the way the author’s mind worked to bring her here?
This book will be lingering with you long after that final page is turned, and I loved how the book concluded.
I received this book through the Publisher Waterbrook, and was not required to give a positive review.
There is so much heart ache here, and yet I found I didn’t want to put the book down, it kept drawing me in. I found my emotions at a fever pitch, and wanting to be able to change the past. In the end, you will find yourself holding your love one’s closer.
Is it a coincidence that Tara ends up on St. Simon’s Island, and I loved the way the author’s mind worked to bring her here?
This book will be lingering with you long after that final page is turned, and I loved how the book concluded.
I received this book through the Publisher Waterbrook, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 10, 2018
As the Tide Comes In is an emotional story of a young lady who grew up in the foster system after her mom left her alone, thinking that no one loved her other than her two best friends from the last foster family. Just after high school graduation, at age eighteen, Tara Abbott is contacted by a older lady who is the paternal grandmother of two young boys who are Tara's half brothers by her mother. The grandmother is dying and is asking Tara to take on the boys' to raise them. Unselfishly, she agrees. At age thirty, both have graduated from high school with college on the horizon when a disaster hits, shattering Tara's life and causing a severe head injury to her. Soon after being released from the hospital, she decides to go on a trip that the boys had planned for her-to try to trace her roots. They had researched and had a lead that would take them to St. Simon's Island, Georgia in the Golden Isles near Brunswick. On a trip alone and still reeling from the head injury, Tara has a strange and emotional time on the island. But she did encounter people who would eventually watch out for her. This is the painful journey that involves grief, denial, illusions, overcoming so much pain but in the end-faith and learning to move forward, to find love and even her roots and someone who did love her all those years of being alone.
I received a complimentary ARC of the book from WaterBrook Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. Thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
I received a complimentary ARC of the book from WaterBrook Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. Thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
August 21, 2018
Bravo! Cindy Woodsmall and her daughter-in-law, Erin, make a fabulous team. This book digresses from Cindy Woodsmall's Amish fiction. Woodsmall fans need not fear, insightful spiritual truths are woven into this heartbreaking story of loss. It seems that Tara cannot find a break. As a young child, she is put into foster care. Just as she is ready to enter the world of adulthood on her own two feet, when at the age of 18 she takes on the responsibility of raising two half-brothers. A tragedy sends Tara's world spiraling out of control as she seeks healing and discovers the truth about her past.
While this is a story of heartbreak and grief, it is also a tremendous story of hope. It does not answer "why God let's bad things happen", but is does point out how God's faithfulness brings us to a certain place, how He molds us to become a vessel He will use. Don't let the mention of heartache keep you away, there are many moments of humor as well. The authors have given the readers a great cast of characters. Tara is a heroine that is filled with grit. The hero, Gavin, is steadfast. The Glynn Girls provide much wisdom and humor.
Although we may not have walked a similar path as Tara, the readers will take away some insight for their own purpose in life.
I look forward to reading more books by this talented team.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from author/publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.
While this is a story of heartbreak and grief, it is also a tremendous story of hope. It does not answer "why God let's bad things happen", but is does point out how God's faithfulness brings us to a certain place, how He molds us to become a vessel He will use. Don't let the mention of heartache keep you away, there are many moments of humor as well. The authors have given the readers a great cast of characters. Tara is a heroine that is filled with grit. The hero, Gavin, is steadfast. The Glynn Girls provide much wisdom and humor.
Although we may not have walked a similar path as Tara, the readers will take away some insight for their own purpose in life.
I look forward to reading more books by this talented team.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from author/publisher and was under no obligation to post a review.
July 9, 2018
@WaterbrookMultnomah #Partner
Tara faces a tragic loss that alters her life. She is unable to grasp the finality of the situation and struggles to accept the loss. I liked this book because of the strong role models. The Glynn girls provided some humor throughout the book. The four women each plays the role of mama to the handsome firefighter Gavin. The novel touches on ghosts, romantic interests, foster care, mountain climbing, business dealings, heartbreak and shows how God works in the lives of the characters. This enjoyable story will keep your interest from cover to cover. I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher Waterbrook Multnomah for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Tara faces a tragic loss that alters her life. She is unable to grasp the finality of the situation and struggles to accept the loss. I liked this book because of the strong role models. The Glynn girls provided some humor throughout the book. The four women each plays the role of mama to the handsome firefighter Gavin. The novel touches on ghosts, romantic interests, foster care, mountain climbing, business dealings, heartbreak and shows how God works in the lives of the characters. This enjoyable story will keep your interest from cover to cover. I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher Waterbrook Multnomah for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 16, 2018
As with all of Woodsmalls books this one was a winner. I loved the characters and I hated to see the book come to an end.
I hope that you will pick up a copy of this 4 star book and enjoy this one this summer.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
I hope that you will pick up a copy of this 4 star book and enjoy this one this summer.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
March 18, 2025
This was a tough read but so worth pushing through the hard parts! In the beginning, I found myself having a hard time getting through it. It was hard to read, hard to imagine, and hard to relate to. But once the story developed a little more, I found myself drawn in and rooting for the main character Tara. And also for Gavin, another main character who tries to help Tara through the difficulties she's facing, and facing in such a vulnerable state. And speaking of Gavin-oh my heart! The patience he has with Tara is just incredible!
In the book there's a group of four older women who have been friends from childhood, who also become involved with helping Tara. I felt like their place in a stand alone book was unique, because any time I've read a book with a group dynamic like these women, it's always in a series where each book focuses a bit on one member of the group more than the others. In this story the dynamic comes across more so as all of them together moving as one in most of the scenes. I really adored Gavin as well as his relationship with, "the mamas".
It's heavy with grief, asks questions about where God is in tragedy, shines hope, deals with those things we pray for for years, and is full of the restoration only God can provide. The faith based themes are very strong. Definitely worth reading!
In the book there's a group of four older women who have been friends from childhood, who also become involved with helping Tara. I felt like their place in a stand alone book was unique, because any time I've read a book with a group dynamic like these women, it's always in a series where each book focuses a bit on one member of the group more than the others. In this story the dynamic comes across more so as all of them together moving as one in most of the scenes. I really adored Gavin as well as his relationship with, "the mamas".
It's heavy with grief, asks questions about where God is in tragedy, shines hope, deals with those things we pray for for years, and is full of the restoration only God can provide. The faith based themes are very strong. Definitely worth reading!
August 18, 2018
As the Tide Comes In is the newest Christian novel by Cindy Woodsmall. Tara Abbott lives in Sylva, Georgia where she has raised her two stepbrothers since she was eighteen years old. Sean and Darryl will be heading off to college in the fall and the three of them are going to visit St. Simons Island during the summer. While Tara is out running in the woods, a devastating tornado strikes. Tara loses both of her siblings and suffers a head injury. While in the hospital, Tara has a dream where the boys tell her to go to St. Simons Island. Despite her friends concerns, Tara heads for the island. Unfortunately, Tara becomes confused, disoriented, and ill. She gets rescued by Gavin Burnside and his four mothers’, The Glynn Girls. Can they help Tara recover and find her place? Gavin and The Glynn Girls are having a tough time themselves. Gavin’s father died leaving behind a mess for them to clean up. They have a balloon payment coming due and only one resource. While Gavin is reluctant to use it, they have no choice. Join Tara, Gavin, and The Glynn Girls on their journey in As the Tide Comes In.
As the Tide Comes In is Cindy Woodsmall’s first non-Amish, full-length book and she did not disappoint with this heartfelt narrative. As the Tide Comes In is a well-written and engaging novel. The pace is steady throughout with smooth transitions as the point-of-view switches between characters. The author created realistic characters with Tara and Gavin who are going through true-to-life situations. I was delighted with the quirky The Glynn Girls. Julep, Luella, Sue Beth and Dell are the four ladies who make up The Glynn Girls. Julep is Gavin’s mother, but all four ladies helped to raise him (and still mother him). The four of them have a strong friendship that helps them get through the good and, most especially, the bad times. The Glynn Girls add levity and lightness to As the Tide Comes In. I especially enjoyed watching the romance bloom between Luella and Charles McKenzie. There are beautiful descriptions of the island and the vistas Tara experiences when she is rock climbing. As the Tide Comes In a story of hope, love, grief, heartbreak, joy and faith. It is important to never to lose sight of the fact that God is always with us. It is hard to remember when we are stricken with sadness, grief, or despair. We need to let ourselves mourn the loss of a loved one, but then it comes time to move forward with our lives (though we will never forget our loved one). We need to remember the happy times and find ways to help others. I found As the Tide Comes In to be an emotional, heartfelt novel. You will need to have a box of tissues nearby. There is some predictably to the story, but it did stop me from having a pleasurable reading experience. I am rating As the Tide Comes In 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). You will not want to miss out on Cindy Woodsmall’s poignant novel As the Tide Comes In.
As the Tide Comes In is Cindy Woodsmall’s first non-Amish, full-length book and she did not disappoint with this heartfelt narrative. As the Tide Comes In is a well-written and engaging novel. The pace is steady throughout with smooth transitions as the point-of-view switches between characters. The author created realistic characters with Tara and Gavin who are going through true-to-life situations. I was delighted with the quirky The Glynn Girls. Julep, Luella, Sue Beth and Dell are the four ladies who make up The Glynn Girls. Julep is Gavin’s mother, but all four ladies helped to raise him (and still mother him). The four of them have a strong friendship that helps them get through the good and, most especially, the bad times. The Glynn Girls add levity and lightness to As the Tide Comes In. I especially enjoyed watching the romance bloom between Luella and Charles McKenzie. There are beautiful descriptions of the island and the vistas Tara experiences when she is rock climbing. As the Tide Comes In a story of hope, love, grief, heartbreak, joy and faith. It is important to never to lose sight of the fact that God is always with us. It is hard to remember when we are stricken with sadness, grief, or despair. We need to let ourselves mourn the loss of a loved one, but then it comes time to move forward with our lives (though we will never forget our loved one). We need to remember the happy times and find ways to help others. I found As the Tide Comes In to be an emotional, heartfelt novel. You will need to have a box of tissues nearby. There is some predictably to the story, but it did stop me from having a pleasurable reading experience. I am rating As the Tide Comes In 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). You will not want to miss out on Cindy Woodsmall’s poignant novel As the Tide Comes In.
June 6, 2021
3.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨This book effectively tackled such hard topics as grief, depression, and abuse without going overboard. I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of it. A second thing I also did enjoy was the little pieces of humor sprinkled all throughout. However, there was a bit that I did not enjoy…( obvious since it didn’t get a full five stars)
1). I didn’t appreciate that, since this is a Christian book, there were constant mentions of ghosts/spirits, ghost tours, paranormal etc. Now I’m not saying that there’s anything remotely bad in being scared and telling legends, but when the belief in these legends become reality, that’s the issue.
2). This book was very slow in some parts. I didn’t really know what was happening until about the 73% mark. Most of the time, I was feeling really bored.
3). I thoroughly disliked the fact that one of the Glynn Girls admits to teaching her painting class how to paint people in their undergarments. Granted, it is a painting class full of women, but still. We must keep our hearts and thoughts pure. Kind of hard to do when it’s mentioned in a book the way it was.
4). The romance felt a little too rushed and borderline for my taste.
Other than these few minor flaws, this was a good book that had me laughing and crying. I really loved the theme of it, the shaky-but-sure faith elements, and I SCREAMED AT THAT PLOT TWIST (if you know, you know 😉). Probably won’t read more of this author, but it was still a fun experience trying out a new author.
1). I didn’t appreciate that, since this is a Christian book, there were constant mentions of ghosts/spirits, ghost tours, paranormal etc. Now I’m not saying that there’s anything remotely bad in being scared and telling legends, but when the belief in these legends become reality, that’s the issue.
2). This book was very slow in some parts. I didn’t really know what was happening until about the 73% mark. Most of the time, I was feeling really bored.
3). I thoroughly disliked the fact that one of the Glynn Girls admits to teaching her painting class how to paint people in their undergarments. Granted, it is a painting class full of women, but still. We must keep our hearts and thoughts pure. Kind of hard to do when it’s mentioned in a book the way it was.
4). The romance felt a little too rushed and borderline for my taste.
Other than these few minor flaws, this was a good book that had me laughing and crying. I really loved the theme of it, the shaky-but-sure faith elements, and I SCREAMED AT THAT PLOT TWIST (if you know, you know 😉). Probably won’t read more of this author, but it was still a fun experience trying out a new author.
October 9, 2018
This took a long time for me to get through. It's a well-thought out plot but just a bit too much of the side characters and not enough Tara and Gavin. The setting on the island is lovely, very dreamy. Tara's grief is handled well. It seems to be very realistic.
June 21, 2018
I've heard that grief is the price you pay for loving so much. Tara certainly found that to be true as she works through the sudden loss of her half-brothers. Spiritually, physically, and emotionally she finds herself spinning, spiraling to a place where she has difficulty finding her bearings. She encounters God, Gavin, and the Glynn Girls, and bit by bit, her mysterious past starts making sense - maybe more than her present or future.
My favorite part of this book was the end of chapter 32 where Tara has her "God moment." She spends the night alone in her late grandmother's art studio, pouring out all her tears and "whys" to God. She senses His message to her is "Look for love, not loss," and she begins to see her childhood and the pain of her abandonment in a different light. Rather than resenting the mother who disappointed her, she instead sees the benefits of each foster home and friendship. She realizes she would never have met her half-brothers or had the joy of raising them if her grandmother had found her before she died. "The longer she basked in this God moment, the more she saw His great effort to bring vessels of love into her life." And the more determined she becomes to be that kind of vessel herself. What a wonderful scene of transparent honesty! It made me wonder about some of my own complaints, and confess my earthbound views of life at times.
This book has a predictable ending, but the winding path getting there is anything but. "As the Tide Comes In" is a love story with substance and purpose. Some parts are a bit more mystical than I am personally comfortable with, but it is a keeper I will enjoy reading again.
I received an uncorrected proof of this book from the author, but was not required to post a review.
My favorite part of this book was the end of chapter 32 where Tara has her "God moment." She spends the night alone in her late grandmother's art studio, pouring out all her tears and "whys" to God. She senses His message to her is "Look for love, not loss," and she begins to see her childhood and the pain of her abandonment in a different light. Rather than resenting the mother who disappointed her, she instead sees the benefits of each foster home and friendship. She realizes she would never have met her half-brothers or had the joy of raising them if her grandmother had found her before she died. "The longer she basked in this God moment, the more she saw His great effort to bring vessels of love into her life." And the more determined she becomes to be that kind of vessel herself. What a wonderful scene of transparent honesty! It made me wonder about some of my own complaints, and confess my earthbound views of life at times.
This book has a predictable ending, but the winding path getting there is anything but. "As the Tide Comes In" is a love story with substance and purpose. Some parts are a bit more mystical than I am personally comfortable with, but it is a keeper I will enjoy reading again.
I received an uncorrected proof of this book from the author, but was not required to post a review.
July 2, 2018
As the Tide Comes In, by Cindy and Erin Woodsmall is an amazing heart touching story. Tara grew up in the foster care system and is now a mature adult. She recently was introduced to her half brothers and eventually raised them to wonderful, responsible young men. The brothers plan a trip to St. Simons Island to try to help Tara find out about her biological family. When tragedy strikes, she decides to go on the trip anyways.
I just love this story. The writing is so clear it is easy to imagine being there with Tara as she goes through all her trials. She is such a strong and caring person. With the addition of the characters in St. Simons Island, the author has given humor and depth to the story. Each of the characters are going through life struggles as well, loss of a spouse and father, being in an unloving marriage, and financial struggles. This story covers so many emotions, I wanted to cry for Tara and her brothers but laugh at the crazy things the gals on St. Simons Island thought up. This is a great contemporary story that will be loved by many.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of the Cindy Woodsmall launch team. This is my honest review.
I just love this story. The writing is so clear it is easy to imagine being there with Tara as she goes through all her trials. She is such a strong and caring person. With the addition of the characters in St. Simons Island, the author has given humor and depth to the story. Each of the characters are going through life struggles as well, loss of a spouse and father, being in an unloving marriage, and financial struggles. This story covers so many emotions, I wanted to cry for Tara and her brothers but laugh at the crazy things the gals on St. Simons Island thought up. This is a great contemporary story that will be loved by many.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of the Cindy Woodsmall launch team. This is my honest review.
August 21, 2018
Make sure you have tissues for this gut wrenching tale of love and loss and finding your way again with God carrying you every step of the way. What a story that is woven like a fine tapestry with ins and outs of threads that make a beautiful picture when finished. The characters are wonderful and the four Glynn Girls are great entertainment with their antics throughout to lighten the mood of a difficult storyline. My favorite line in the book is “God was a potter, and she was here on earth, able to be a vessel again.....someday.” This speaks to me so deeply, that no matter what we go through God will heal our brokenness. The authors deal with grief and heartache in such a tender compassionate way that draws you in and leaves you with hope for a better tomorrow when the storm has passed.
I enjoyed reading more about Tara who we first meet in The Gift of Christmas Past.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I enjoyed reading more about Tara who we first meet in The Gift of Christmas Past.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
July 3, 2018
As the Tide Comes In is the newest release by Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall. I have loved Cindy's Amish book and was not sure how I would like a co-authored contemporary novel. Well, I have to say I was not disappointed. How exciting that the setting is the beautiful St Simons Island. I was hooked from the beginning. I could not predict what would happen next with Tara. Such a wonderful story of hope and faith.
I give As the Tide Comes In four and a half stars and highly recommend it.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give As the Tide Comes In four and a half stars and highly recommend it.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
October 21, 2018
GEORGIA
This novel was painful to read not because of the heartbreaking story of Tara who lost her two brothers in a fatal accident but because how disjointed the story is. The Glynn Girls reminded me of Steel Magnolias. Unfortunately, no more Cindy Woodsmall's novels for me...
This novel was painful to read not because of the heartbreaking story of Tara who lost her two brothers in a fatal accident but because how disjointed the story is. The Glynn Girls reminded me of Steel Magnolias. Unfortunately, no more Cindy Woodsmall's novels for me...
September 9, 2018
In Cindy and Erin's Woodsmall's As the Tide Comes In, this emotional, heart-warming and tear-jerking Christian romance novel would make you shed tears and blow your nose a few times throughout the novel. For Tara Abbott, she lived in a foster care system and never knew much about her parents or grandparents. At age eighteen, her grandmother asked her to take care of her two younger half-brothers since she was dying from cancer. After she almost refused her, one look at them had sent her heart soaring and agreed to do so. For twelve years, she did everything she could to raise them and watch them grow up, graduate and spread their wings. But before they could do that, tragedy happened during a storm, when she was knocked out unconscious with a head injury. When she recovered, she later learned they didn't make it and they died in the cabin. Bereft from grief and confusion, she went to St. Simons Island to heal and find what she was looking for. That's when she met Gavin Burnside, a firefighter who had lived a hard life on the island. He once grew up overweight and had a special bond with a childhood friend named Siobhan. But his mother was stuck in debt from a tragic accident after his father died. Besides his mother, her three other friends had pseudo-adopted him as he grew up to an outstanding man he was today. When they crossed each other's paths, they learned a lot about life, love, and believing in God. While Tara continued to grief and recover, a connection between Gavin and her grew from friendship and then later blossomed to love, as she set a foot to find her own path to make a life out of herself and to fill her life with happiness and true love by God's hand.
December 30, 2019
A beautiful story of heartache, love, and trust God.
I read this story in under twelve hours as I could not put it down. My poor husband had to finish fixing dinner as I was not stopping. Tara’s story will worm its way into your heart and soul and will not let go. You will find yourself crying and not even realizing it.
Beware if you are experiencing a hard time with grief over losing a loved one. This book is all about how to learn to let the hurt go, turn it over to God and cherish the memories you have with the loved one. When you are ready I would recommend reading it as it may help heal your pain.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, WaterBrook & Multnomah, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
I read this story in under twelve hours as I could not put it down. My poor husband had to finish fixing dinner as I was not stopping. Tara’s story will worm its way into your heart and soul and will not let go. You will find yourself crying and not even realizing it.
Beware if you are experiencing a hard time with grief over losing a loved one. This book is all about how to learn to let the hurt go, turn it over to God and cherish the memories you have with the loved one. When you are ready I would recommend reading it as it may help heal your pain.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, WaterBrook & Multnomah, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
August 28, 2018
Cindy Woodsmall does a wonderful job of enticing you into the story line and become the characters. I enjoyed reading about a young woman who really didn't know who she was and then finds out she was really loved. How the Lord took care of her and helped her to become someone strong and reliable. This is a story that takes you from failure to success and brings in the aspect of living life to the fullest. I would highly recommend this book.
August 13, 2018
#PRHpartner
As the Tide Comes In was a powerful and emotional book! I enjoyed the themes of friendship, love, faith, and healing that were present throughout the story. The story is about Tara who was injured and lost her loved ones during a tornado. She travels to St. Simons Island and becomes disoriented there due to her injuries. Tara finds herself involved with four women there who have been close friends for most of their lives. The women, along with one of their sons, assist Tara in her recovery. The characters are all wonderful. They all are dealing with their own personal struggles and loss, but they all help each other along the way. I found that the plot of the story became more intriguing as the story went on. There were underlying mysteries involved in the story as well. The story is full of emotion as the characters deal with loss. But Cindy and Erin Woodsmall write the story in a charming way that includes humor. The characters explore their faith on their journeys of healing and recovery.
As the Tide Comes In was a powerful and emotional book! I enjoyed the themes of friendship, love, faith, and healing that were present throughout the story. The story is about Tara who was injured and lost her loved ones during a tornado. She travels to St. Simons Island and becomes disoriented there due to her injuries. Tara finds herself involved with four women there who have been close friends for most of their lives. The women, along with one of their sons, assist Tara in her recovery. The characters are all wonderful. They all are dealing with their own personal struggles and loss, but they all help each other along the way. I found that the plot of the story became more intriguing as the story went on. There were underlying mysteries involved in the story as well. The story is full of emotion as the characters deal with loss. But Cindy and Erin Woodsmall write the story in a charming way that includes humor. The characters explore their faith on their journeys of healing and recovery.
September 27, 2020
Love the quirky sweet southern relationships and the setting of St Simon’s Island. Also like the underlying truth’s that there is a God who cares and loves.
August 6, 2018
In As the Tide Comes In, Cindy Woodsmall’s newest novel she co-authors with Erin Woodsmall, we meet Tara Abbott. Tara’s life has been full of heartache and loss growing up in the foster system in North Carolina. When she has a bright future ahead of her, the 18-year-old makes a life changing decision that changes the course of her future.
Flash forward, 12 years and tragedy strikes again, this time taking away the two people that means the most to her in all the world. Recovering from a brain injury, Tara decides to take the trip that her family had planned. The trip lands her on St. Simons Island in Georgia and things just get more interesting from there.
In this novel, the reader is taken on Tara’s journey of loss and grief and sees firsthand the effects that it has on her. I loved the concept of being love’s vessel and spreading God’s love on earth. Tara was a picture-perfect example of being a love vessel and it was great to see how her journey brought her full circle in the end.
There is several characters in the book and their stories intertwine with Tara’s, but in the end the message was beautiful and it defiantly gives the reader something to strive towards – spreading God’s love to others.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley.com and WaterBrook & Multnomah in return for my honest review.
Flash forward, 12 years and tragedy strikes again, this time taking away the two people that means the most to her in all the world. Recovering from a brain injury, Tara decides to take the trip that her family had planned. The trip lands her on St. Simons Island in Georgia and things just get more interesting from there.
In this novel, the reader is taken on Tara’s journey of loss and grief and sees firsthand the effects that it has on her. I loved the concept of being love’s vessel and spreading God’s love on earth. Tara was a picture-perfect example of being a love vessel and it was great to see how her journey brought her full circle in the end.
There is several characters in the book and their stories intertwine with Tara’s, but in the end the message was beautiful and it defiantly gives the reader something to strive towards – spreading God’s love to others.
I received a copy of this novel from netgalley.com and WaterBrook & Multnomah in return for my honest review.
July 16, 2018
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
This review is going to be a bit more emotionally driven than most.
This is a novel about loss and grief and the effects that grief has on us. It’s also a beautiful story of love and restoration.
This book was a timely read for me, as I just suffered a major loss in my life. Reading this book, I identified so much with Tara and the grief
she experienced. I found her emotions and reactions to be very realistic and true. Though the circumstances and details of her loss differ quite a bit from mine, it’s still grief and grief is a powerful and complex emotion. I really applaud the authors for handling this sensitive subject with such care and authenticity.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were all quite lovable and fun, the setting was beautiful and the story was complex.
The biggest take away I have from this book are a few excerpts where the characters are talking about loss and grief. These lines really hit home with me, so I’d like to share them.
(I removed a few spots of character detail, so that the reader isn’t distracted by it and can really let these words soak in.)
“It matters what condition a person lived and died in. Every crumb of love matters, and I’d dare say you gave a feast.”
“And they died knowing you loved them, knowing you believed in them, knowing you wanted the best for them. They died with happiness, hope and thankfulness in their hearts. Love did that, and you were love’s vessel.”
“No, your love protected and preserved for as long as it was in your hands to do so. The moment they went from this life to the next, God’s love met them without the necessary aid of a human vessel.”
“We are all vessels. We will carry something to everyone we come in contact with. Let’s choose to be vessels of love, patience, hope and faith. When it’s all said and done, whether you’re the one in the ground or a loved one is, the times you won’t regret are the times you loved deeply with patience and kindness and sacrifice.”
These words really hit home and fit my present grief circumstances quite well. I love the idea of being love’s vessel. That God would use me on this earth to show love to someone, that they would leave this world with happiness, hope and thankfulness in their heart. That I was able to send them from this world feeling loved, straight into the loving arms of their Heavenly Father. What an awesome gift God gives us. The ability to be love and to receive love.
This is a great book and a very emotional read, especially for anyone who has felt deep loss in their lives. I feel like I’m painting it as a sad book, and it’s not. It’s emotional, and if you’ve experienced loss, especially recently, it will hit home quite a bit. But, it is a very well-balanced story, ultimately one that is filled with hope, joy and love.
*I received a copy of this book free of charge from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.
This review is going to be a bit more emotionally driven than most.
This is a novel about loss and grief and the effects that grief has on us. It’s also a beautiful story of love and restoration.
This book was a timely read for me, as I just suffered a major loss in my life. Reading this book, I identified so much with Tara and the grief
she experienced. I found her emotions and reactions to be very realistic and true. Though the circumstances and details of her loss differ quite a bit from mine, it’s still grief and grief is a powerful and complex emotion. I really applaud the authors for handling this sensitive subject with such care and authenticity.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were all quite lovable and fun, the setting was beautiful and the story was complex.
The biggest take away I have from this book are a few excerpts where the characters are talking about loss and grief. These lines really hit home with me, so I’d like to share them.
(I removed a few spots of character detail, so that the reader isn’t distracted by it and can really let these words soak in.)
“It matters what condition a person lived and died in. Every crumb of love matters, and I’d dare say you gave a feast.”
“And they died knowing you loved them, knowing you believed in them, knowing you wanted the best for them. They died with happiness, hope and thankfulness in their hearts. Love did that, and you were love’s vessel.”
“No, your love protected and preserved for as long as it was in your hands to do so. The moment they went from this life to the next, God’s love met them without the necessary aid of a human vessel.”
“We are all vessels. We will carry something to everyone we come in contact with. Let’s choose to be vessels of love, patience, hope and faith. When it’s all said and done, whether you’re the one in the ground or a loved one is, the times you won’t regret are the times you loved deeply with patience and kindness and sacrifice.”
These words really hit home and fit my present grief circumstances quite well. I love the idea of being love’s vessel. That God would use me on this earth to show love to someone, that they would leave this world with happiness, hope and thankfulness in their heart. That I was able to send them from this world feeling loved, straight into the loving arms of their Heavenly Father. What an awesome gift God gives us. The ability to be love and to receive love.
This is a great book and a very emotional read, especially for anyone who has felt deep loss in their lives. I feel like I’m painting it as a sad book, and it’s not. It’s emotional, and if you’ve experienced loss, especially recently, it will hit home quite a bit. But, it is a very well-balanced story, ultimately one that is filled with hope, joy and love.
*I received a copy of this book free of charge from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.
July 28, 2018
This story will have your emotions all over the place! One minute you're sad, the next happy with anticipation of what could happen next. It's a story of redemption and how God's love can carry us through even the toughest situations.
Tara has had a rough time of it - being raised in the foster care system - and feeling she must be self sufficient. Enter her two half brothers who will change her life in profound ways. She loves her brothers deeply and cares for them just like a mother. She finally has a family that is hers.
A horrible change of events turns Tara's life upside down and she has to learn who she is all over again and navigate her new situation with a head injury, which isn't easy. Things she knows to be true, aren't, and she has a very hard time navigating this new territory.
However, God is guiding her - through her dear friends, her brothers, and the new people He has brought into her life. Everything is upside down in her life but we see how God uses the things that don't make sense.
Everything comes full circle by the end of this book and all has become clear for Tara. She grieves her losses but rejoices in all she's gained. My only complaint about this book is that is seemed a bit too long and I felt like the author could have eliminated some of the long drawn-out processes. Having said that, I still enjoyed the book immensely. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by WaterBrookMultnomah
Tara has had a rough time of it - being raised in the foster care system - and feeling she must be self sufficient. Enter her two half brothers who will change her life in profound ways. She loves her brothers deeply and cares for them just like a mother. She finally has a family that is hers.
A horrible change of events turns Tara's life upside down and she has to learn who she is all over again and navigate her new situation with a head injury, which isn't easy. Things she knows to be true, aren't, and she has a very hard time navigating this new territory.
However, God is guiding her - through her dear friends, her brothers, and the new people He has brought into her life. Everything is upside down in her life but we see how God uses the things that don't make sense.
Everything comes full circle by the end of this book and all has become clear for Tara. She grieves her losses but rejoices in all she's gained. My only complaint about this book is that is seemed a bit too long and I felt like the author could have eliminated some of the long drawn-out processes. Having said that, I still enjoyed the book immensely. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by WaterBrookMultnomah
August 1, 2018
This book kept me fascinated from the first page. Typically author Cindy Woodsmall writes Amish fiction, and that’s how I know her works. However she shows herself more than capable of branching out with As the Tide Comes In. Well written, I hope we see more from the south.
The story has much heart break but through it all we are reminded that God walks with us, even though we may not have answers for tragedy. And though the story line is sad, there is hope as well as laughter. I mean four older southern ladies who want to mother everyone? That gives the reader much to chuckle about.
You’ll love the descriptions of St. Simon’s Island and if you enjoy history, you’ll find it in this book, along with interesting “ghost” stories. Time to plan a trip! With characters so true to life, I’m sure you’ll find Tara and Gavin there, as well as the Glynn Girls. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
The story has much heart break but through it all we are reminded that God walks with us, even though we may not have answers for tragedy. And though the story line is sad, there is hope as well as laughter. I mean four older southern ladies who want to mother everyone? That gives the reader much to chuckle about.
You’ll love the descriptions of St. Simon’s Island and if you enjoy history, you’ll find it in this book, along with interesting “ghost” stories. Time to plan a trip! With characters so true to life, I’m sure you’ll find Tara and Gavin there, as well as the Glynn Girls. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
July 14, 2018
Have you ever read a book that is hauntingly beautiful? It is emotional, unbelievable yet believable, and has a multitude of twists and turns in it. These types of books are ones that keep you reading and provide food for thought. As the Tide Comes In by authors Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall is a Christian novel unlike any I have read. It is a contemporary Southern tale that softly took my hand to lead me into its story. Within a few pages its grip tightened until I was unable to turn loose of this powerful book until I had finished it.
In this exceptionally well written, well thought, and well planned book, the characters are so artfully crafted that they come alive on the pages. The same with the scenes. It felt like I was watching a movie play out before my eyes. Yes, this book would make a wonderful movie! The sights and sounds were spot on. Dialog between characters flowed smoothly which is crucial for me in books. Not only did I make new friends, but I could put myself in the place of the book’s heroine, Tara. I felt her entire gambit of emotions and at times I was in tears. Only an expertly written book could make that happen.
Opening with an eighteen year old Tara, As the Tide Comes In tells her story. She is contacted by her younger half-brothers’ grandmother, a favorite secondary character for me. Things quickly move ahead twelve years in the future. It is also the story of Firefighter Gavin and his four mothers. There are twists and turns, heartbreaking moments, inspiration, encouragement, mystery, and intrigue. No more details. You really must read this fabulous book.
It would be a disservice to disclose much about this amazing book in a review. It should be savored and relished on its own. Trust me when I tell you the authors do a great job writing a story that captivates, teaches, and inspires. It brings glory to God. This is a tale of faith, hope, trust, love, forgiveness, struggle, and triumph. Character, overcoming crisis, family, and loss are topics tackled with finesse. There are so many life lessons in this 339 page book.
If you or your book club are looking for a great book, this is it. You will want to discuss it with someone because of how stirring it is. I highly recommend it and can only hope to see it on the big screen or television one day. Five out of five stars are gladly given.
In this exceptionally well written, well thought, and well planned book, the characters are so artfully crafted that they come alive on the pages. The same with the scenes. It felt like I was watching a movie play out before my eyes. Yes, this book would make a wonderful movie! The sights and sounds were spot on. Dialog between characters flowed smoothly which is crucial for me in books. Not only did I make new friends, but I could put myself in the place of the book’s heroine, Tara. I felt her entire gambit of emotions and at times I was in tears. Only an expertly written book could make that happen.
Opening with an eighteen year old Tara, As the Tide Comes In tells her story. She is contacted by her younger half-brothers’ grandmother, a favorite secondary character for me. Things quickly move ahead twelve years in the future. It is also the story of Firefighter Gavin and his four mothers. There are twists and turns, heartbreaking moments, inspiration, encouragement, mystery, and intrigue. No more details. You really must read this fabulous book.
It would be a disservice to disclose much about this amazing book in a review. It should be savored and relished on its own. Trust me when I tell you the authors do a great job writing a story that captivates, teaches, and inspires. It brings glory to God. This is a tale of faith, hope, trust, love, forgiveness, struggle, and triumph. Character, overcoming crisis, family, and loss are topics tackled with finesse. There are so many life lessons in this 339 page book.
If you or your book club are looking for a great book, this is it. You will want to discuss it with someone because of how stirring it is. I highly recommend it and can only hope to see it on the big screen or television one day. Five out of five stars are gladly given.
July 22, 2018
Tara Abbot was raised in the foster care system and as an adult took on the responsibility of raising her half-brothers. When the unthinkable happens, she decides to go North Carolina. More specifically, St. Simons Island. She finds herself confused and scared and in the care of women who identify themselves as the Glynn Girls and a determined firefighter.
First off, make sure you have lots of tissues handy. This book brings the onions like no other I’ve read in a long time. It reached down and not only touched my heart but pulled and pulled until I walked away feeling as emotionally tugged on, exhausted, and thrilled as the characters in the story.
Woodsmall once again delivered an amazing story. I tend to read a lot of historical novels and novels with similar story lines. This was a refreshing change. This one takes a completely different approach and adds whole lot of heart to the story. The characters are rich and well-developed. They have some quirkiness which helps them seem more real, odd but real.
It’s nothing short of a work of art. Buy it. Read it. Thank me after you’ve let the tears (sorrowful and happy) flow. You won’t regret it.
I give this book a 5 out of 5 bookends. I recommend this book for young adults or adults who love contemporary fiction and heartfelt stories that tug (and pull) on those heartstrings.
I did receive this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publisher as part of the launch team in exchange for an honest review.
First off, make sure you have lots of tissues handy. This book brings the onions like no other I’ve read in a long time. It reached down and not only touched my heart but pulled and pulled until I walked away feeling as emotionally tugged on, exhausted, and thrilled as the characters in the story.
Woodsmall once again delivered an amazing story. I tend to read a lot of historical novels and novels with similar story lines. This was a refreshing change. This one takes a completely different approach and adds whole lot of heart to the story. The characters are rich and well-developed. They have some quirkiness which helps them seem more real, odd but real.
It’s nothing short of a work of art. Buy it. Read it. Thank me after you’ve let the tears (sorrowful and happy) flow. You won’t regret it.
I give this book a 5 out of 5 bookends. I recommend this book for young adults or adults who love contemporary fiction and heartfelt stories that tug (and pull) on those heartstrings.
I did receive this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publisher as part of the launch team in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2018
I have read and enjoyed many of Cindy Woodsmall's books, and was pleased to be given an Advanced Reader's Copy from Waterbrook Multnomah. This review is strictly my own opinion. This story is written along with Erin Woodsmall.
After reading the first few chapters, I wasn't sure that I liked this story, but as the characters developed it was amazing to read about Tara Abbott's strength and tenacity in the midst of her loss and grief. She's an 18 year old who grew up in the foster system, learning little of her past or her biological family. Her life takes a dramatic turn, when she's asked to raise her two half-brothers. Twelve years later, a tragedy occurs and she suffers a brain injury. The authors did give an accurate account of someone dealing with this type of injury. But, why did she travel alone, confused and disoriented, to St Simon's Island, Ga? Her attempt to function is guided by Gavin, a firefighter, and the precocious and peculiar Glynn Girls who are 4 motherly types, as she works through her grief and regains her memory, confidence, faith and recovers parts of her past. In spite of all she's had to endure, in her brokenness she finds a way to be a vessel for God, and to fulfill her purpose in life. Her life is beginning to come together and she finds love along her journey.
After reading the first few chapters, I wasn't sure that I liked this story, but as the characters developed it was amazing to read about Tara Abbott's strength and tenacity in the midst of her loss and grief. She's an 18 year old who grew up in the foster system, learning little of her past or her biological family. Her life takes a dramatic turn, when she's asked to raise her two half-brothers. Twelve years later, a tragedy occurs and she suffers a brain injury. The authors did give an accurate account of someone dealing with this type of injury. But, why did she travel alone, confused and disoriented, to St Simon's Island, Ga? Her attempt to function is guided by Gavin, a firefighter, and the precocious and peculiar Glynn Girls who are 4 motherly types, as she works through her grief and regains her memory, confidence, faith and recovers parts of her past. In spite of all she's had to endure, in her brokenness she finds a way to be a vessel for God, and to fulfill her purpose in life. Her life is beginning to come together and she finds love along her journey.
July 11, 2018
Are you looking for a good book? I have a recommendation for you! As the Tide Comes In is written by Cindy Woodsmall and her daughter-in-law Erin Woodsmall.
In the beginning of this book readers get to know Tara Abbott, a young girl who has had a beyond-difficult life growing up -- and then takes on a huge challenge for the good of others. The book continues and she experiences fulfillment and unimaginable tragedy. (I'm trying to not give you too much of the story!)
Following this tragedy, she slips into a kind of altered state, in which reality and a dream world coexist and fight to come out on top. In this fragile state, Tara meets a group of older women and one of their sons who take an interest in her and help her to navigate this phase of life that she's in. These women are a quirky bunch and the author helps you to know each of them :) They have good hearts and intentions and exert a bit of their influence on Tara and her future.
I know this sounds very brief, but I really don't want to give you more information about the plot. It is an amazing story and I want you to be able to experience it for yourself through reading your own copy!
The characters in the book are nicely developed and appealing to the reader. Even those who are not as "nice" fit nicely into the plot and round out the story. There is a lot of emotion in this story, and the reader will feel quite a bit of concern for the main character as she struggles and develops. It has amazingly sad parts, tender parts, sweet parts, tragic parts, and so much more! (and a happy ending, yay! Hold onto that hint if it feels like it's getting too heavy or sad!)
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to other readers!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
In the beginning of this book readers get to know Tara Abbott, a young girl who has had a beyond-difficult life growing up -- and then takes on a huge challenge for the good of others. The book continues and she experiences fulfillment and unimaginable tragedy. (I'm trying to not give you too much of the story!)
Following this tragedy, she slips into a kind of altered state, in which reality and a dream world coexist and fight to come out on top. In this fragile state, Tara meets a group of older women and one of their sons who take an interest in her and help her to navigate this phase of life that she's in. These women are a quirky bunch and the author helps you to know each of them :) They have good hearts and intentions and exert a bit of their influence on Tara and her future.
I know this sounds very brief, but I really don't want to give you more information about the plot. It is an amazing story and I want you to be able to experience it for yourself through reading your own copy!
The characters in the book are nicely developed and appealing to the reader. Even those who are not as "nice" fit nicely into the plot and round out the story. There is a lot of emotion in this story, and the reader will feel quite a bit of concern for the main character as she struggles and develops. It has amazingly sad parts, tender parts, sweet parts, tragic parts, and so much more! (and a happy ending, yay! Hold onto that hint if it feels like it's getting too heavy or sad!)
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to other readers!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 5, 2018
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
About the Book:
A New York Times best-selling author releases her first southern novel, a Steel Magnolias-meets-Sweet Home Alabama story set on St. Simons Island.
After losing two loved ones in a devastating tornado and suffering a head injury, Tara Abbott flees to St. Simons Island, where her disorientation causes the lines between imagination and reality, past and present to blur.
There she encounters island residents Julep Burnside, Luella Ward, Sue Beth Manning, and Dell Calhoun--The Glynn Girls--who have been friends since Bible camp, forty years earlier. When Julep's son Gavin identifies a troubled soul in need of help, can the Glynn Girls guide Tara back to herself?
My Review:
They say that sometimes if you just remain silent and obedient you can hear God speak to you and lead you in a direction you never quite expected.That direction will have unexpected twists and turns that in the beginning can be devastating but ends up being the greatest experience one has ever had the chance of living through.
Tara Abbott knows this all too well when her life is turned upside down. But after all is said and done she is going down this winding path and she meets some pretty remarkable people along the way that really add to her life instead of taking away from it.
What an amazing story about what God could mean when He says that His ways are higher then our ways in Isaiah. The things that God has planned for us far outweigh anything and everything we could ever want for ourselves and Tara's story is a great example of that. A must read, for sure!
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
About the Book:
A New York Times best-selling author releases her first southern novel, a Steel Magnolias-meets-Sweet Home Alabama story set on St. Simons Island.
After losing two loved ones in a devastating tornado and suffering a head injury, Tara Abbott flees to St. Simons Island, where her disorientation causes the lines between imagination and reality, past and present to blur.
There she encounters island residents Julep Burnside, Luella Ward, Sue Beth Manning, and Dell Calhoun--The Glynn Girls--who have been friends since Bible camp, forty years earlier. When Julep's son Gavin identifies a troubled soul in need of help, can the Glynn Girls guide Tara back to herself?
My Review:
They say that sometimes if you just remain silent and obedient you can hear God speak to you and lead you in a direction you never quite expected.That direction will have unexpected twists and turns that in the beginning can be devastating but ends up being the greatest experience one has ever had the chance of living through.
Tara Abbott knows this all too well when her life is turned upside down. But after all is said and done she is going down this winding path and she meets some pretty remarkable people along the way that really add to her life instead of taking away from it.
What an amazing story about what God could mean when He says that His ways are higher then our ways in Isaiah. The things that God has planned for us far outweigh anything and everything we could ever want for ourselves and Tara's story is a great example of that. A must read, for sure!
July 14, 2018
A beautiful story that connects present to the past with joy and sadness. It has a mystery to it with a cast of colorful characters. The authors do a great job in telling the story so that it draws you into the story. It flowed easily and read quickly. I didn’t want to put it down. There is a strong faith and resilience in the main character, Tara. She overcomes adversity in childhood and adulthood. The setting,St. Simon’s Island, gives a background that ties into the title with the use of the ocean. Although the end has some predictability, I like the way the characters have a sense of humor as well as wisdom in their life choices.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews