What do you think?
Rate this book
Freedom Road #1
Better Than This
What can keep a dream alive?
Before the car accident that changed everything, Samantha Becker was a happy and loved little girl. Ten years later, Sam, now 18, lives under a dark cloud—largely ignored by an alcoholic mother who never recovered from her loss and ruled by an overbearing father who blames Samantha for the family tragedy. And yet, the troubled teenager has a dream that keeps her going, and an extraordinary musical talent that could take her all the way to Julliard…and far beyond.
Following her heart, however, means defying her father, who has his own plans for his daughter’s future. Then, in the wake of another devastating personal catastrophe, her dream is irreparably shattered, and in her pain and anger, Samantha acts out recklessly. But her salvation could come from a most unlikely trio: a handsome college student, a hopeful little boy…and an older neighbor woman whose caring and secrets will change Sam’s world forever.
Before the car accident that changed everything, Samantha Becker was a happy and loved little girl. Ten years later, Sam, now 18, lives under a dark cloud—largely ignored by an alcoholic mother who never recovered from her loss and ruled by an overbearing father who blames Samantha for the family tragedy. And yet, the troubled teenager has a dream that keeps her going, and an extraordinary musical talent that could take her all the way to Julliard…and far beyond.
Following her heart, however, means defying her father, who has his own plans for his daughter’s future. Then, in the wake of another devastating personal catastrophe, her dream is irreparably shattered, and in her pain and anger, Samantha acts out recklessly. But her salvation could come from a most unlikely trio: a handsome college student, a hopeful little boy…and an older neighbor woman whose caring and secrets will change Sam’s world forever.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2012
37 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 13, 2018
Better Than This is a beautiful, engaging story, that tears at your heart strings! The author did a wonderful job of writing. It brings out so many emotions. I would highly recommend!
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 14, 2012
3.75 stars
Freedom Road is a story of a girl's journey in rediscovering herself and reaching her dreams even when almost everything in her life seems to be shattering and crumbling. Sam's story has definitely inspired and touched me in many ways. And this being a music-themed book had my heart even more captivated with it.
Sam is a very talented and gifted girl. Her guitar had become her solace from her very dysfunctional family and broken life. She developed a fiery passion for playing it and it became her dream to get into Julliard. However an "accident" happened that caused her to not almost be able to play. She was disheartened and discouraged and thought that she lost the only thing that really matters to her - her playing. But she met two people that truly cared and believed in her gift despite her new disability. Through them Sam found new confidence to continue playing and reasons why she should not give up.
For someone who knows how to play a guitar, I can say that Sam and I had developed quite a bond in this book. (Although my ability to play doesn't even reached quarter of hers. Haha!) I can say that I was really able to relate to her especially with her passion for playing the guitar. I understand why she was discouraged after the accident when some people might think that it wasn't really that big of a deal. I can imagine who hard it is for her to continue having that disability. But Sam is different, she is truly a gifted child. Her passion and love for playing is very remarkable and impressive. And so with the help of the people who truly cared for her she was able to stand up and believe in herself again. I also love how she was able to realize and learn a lot of things through her journey. Her character really progressed as the story went on and she became a very admirable character.
The writing is wonderful too. I can feel the intensity of Sam's passion in every word and phrases that describes her playing. The emotions were very well layered and I was able to really feel the heartaches and despair of the characters in this book especially with her family.
The secondary characters, Tad and Laird were both really great. I really adore the both of them. Tad was a very funny and interesting boy and I love how insightful he could be sometimes. Laird was just really sweet and supportive. Moments between him and Sam were just really cute and yeah, swoon-worthy.
Overall, this book is such a wonderful work. The plot line was very well thought and I love how the author showed insights about growth, forgiveness, acceptance and love. But most of all the passion for music. I was definitely inspired and touched by Sam's story. I recommend this. :)
This review is also posted at Book Overdose
Freedom Road is a story of a girl's journey in rediscovering herself and reaching her dreams even when almost everything in her life seems to be shattering and crumbling. Sam's story has definitely inspired and touched me in many ways. And this being a music-themed book had my heart even more captivated with it.
Sam is a very talented and gifted girl. Her guitar had become her solace from her very dysfunctional family and broken life. She developed a fiery passion for playing it and it became her dream to get into Julliard. However an "accident" happened that caused her to not almost be able to play. She was disheartened and discouraged and thought that she lost the only thing that really matters to her - her playing. But she met two people that truly cared and believed in her gift despite her new disability. Through them Sam found new confidence to continue playing and reasons why she should not give up.
For someone who knows how to play a guitar, I can say that Sam and I had developed quite a bond in this book. (Although my ability to play doesn't even reached quarter of hers. Haha!) I can say that I was really able to relate to her especially with her passion for playing the guitar. I understand why she was discouraged after the accident when some people might think that it wasn't really that big of a deal. I can imagine who hard it is for her to continue having that disability. But Sam is different, she is truly a gifted child. Her passion and love for playing is very remarkable and impressive. And so with the help of the people who truly cared for her she was able to stand up and believe in herself again. I also love how she was able to realize and learn a lot of things through her journey. Her character really progressed as the story went on and she became a very admirable character.
The writing is wonderful too. I can feel the intensity of Sam's passion in every word and phrases that describes her playing. The emotions were very well layered and I was able to really feel the heartaches and despair of the characters in this book especially with her family.
The secondary characters, Tad and Laird were both really great. I really adore the both of them. Tad was a very funny and interesting boy and I love how insightful he could be sometimes. Laird was just really sweet and supportive. Moments between him and Sam were just really cute and yeah, swoon-worthy.
Overall, this book is such a wonderful work. The plot line was very well thought and I love how the author showed insights about growth, forgiveness, acceptance and love. But most of all the passion for music. I was definitely inspired and touched by Sam's story. I recommend this. :)
This review is also posted at Book Overdose
February 12, 2018
· “There was no secret formula to life, to people and the things around them, no hidden meanings. Everything just… existed.” ·
I just finished reading Tia Souders‘s Better Than This, and… Wow! This has been a tough and emotional book because of the story.
Samantha Becker had it all until that aweful day when so many years ago where her family fell appart. Now, all she has is her gourp of jerky friends (who I ardently hated!), her guitar and her dreams of leaving everyone behind.
However, destiny has another set of obstacles in hold for her. After another “accident”, Samantha’s dreams are seriously endangered and she will have to work extra hard and defy all the odds to keep playing and compensate for what she is lacking.
Thankfully, Sam meets Tad, the neighbor’s 12 year-old grandson, and college student and musician Laird ♥. Together, they will encourage her not to give up and to keep chasing her dreams at whatever cost.
And more importantly, Samantha will learn a very important lesson on love, friends and family. And, believe me, she needed it!
All in all, I loved the story, BUT it was really harsh, so be prepared to get sad, angry, annoyed. But also, happy, encouraged and end up with a sense of achievement. The personal growth of Samantha through the book was something worth witnessing.
There are two things that make me give this book 4*. The first one is a jump in time of 5 months, which I get was necessary, but was unexpected and felt somewhat sudden. The second, was that I felt the ending a bit fast and I still had a few unanswered questions about Sam and some other characters. Other than that, I highly enjoyed this ♥
Some quotes I loved:
“Music was the only thing keeping me sane all these years. And I’ve lost it. No big deal.”
“If there was one thing I’d gleaned over the years, it was this: people are predictable. Rarely did they surprise you. At least in my experience, anyway.”
“The one thing I did know was no one could heal me but me.”
“I have a long record of disappointment when it comes to other people.”
“It’s funny how some of the worst things for you in life were the things you clung to the most.”
I just finished reading Tia Souders‘s Better Than This, and… Wow! This has been a tough and emotional book because of the story.
Samantha Becker had it all until that aweful day when so many years ago where her family fell appart. Now, all she has is her gourp of jerky friends (who I ardently hated!), her guitar and her dreams of leaving everyone behind.
However, destiny has another set of obstacles in hold for her. After another “accident”, Samantha’s dreams are seriously endangered and she will have to work extra hard and defy all the odds to keep playing and compensate for what she is lacking.
Thankfully, Sam meets Tad, the neighbor’s 12 year-old grandson, and college student and musician Laird ♥. Together, they will encourage her not to give up and to keep chasing her dreams at whatever cost.
And more importantly, Samantha will learn a very important lesson on love, friends and family. And, believe me, she needed it!
All in all, I loved the story, BUT it was really harsh, so be prepared to get sad, angry, annoyed. But also, happy, encouraged and end up with a sense of achievement. The personal growth of Samantha through the book was something worth witnessing.
There are two things that make me give this book 4*. The first one is a jump in time of 5 months, which I get was necessary, but was unexpected and felt somewhat sudden. The second, was that I felt the ending a bit fast and I still had a few unanswered questions about Sam and some other characters. Other than that, I highly enjoyed this ♥
Some quotes I loved:
“Music was the only thing keeping me sane all these years. And I’ve lost it. No big deal.”
“If there was one thing I’d gleaned over the years, it was this: people are predictable. Rarely did they surprise you. At least in my experience, anyway.”
“The one thing I did know was no one could heal me but me.”
“I have a long record of disappointment when it comes to other people.”
“It’s funny how some of the worst things for you in life were the things you clung to the most.”
September 4, 2018
Beautiful, warming, heart to heart story
I received a free ebook copy in exchange of an honest review.
Sam has a tough past but she has a big strenght to keep moving and try to make her dreams come true. Accidents had marked her life and her family, secrets threaten to come to light and stagger her live but she is not alone as she thinks. Laird is a charming boy who's fond of with her along with her friendship with June, her neighbour and Tad, June's grandson, together they demonstrate her support and love and show her that obstacles are not important if she has determination.
It was a very fast read and let me wanting to know more, I hope it has a second part.
Sometimes Sam's decisions made me want to slap her but as I kept reading she gained courage and self confidence and everything makes sense.
Is the first book that I read from Tia Souders but I'll read some more in the future knowing they are as good as it was.
I received a free ebook copy in exchange of an honest review.
Sam has a tough past but she has a big strenght to keep moving and try to make her dreams come true. Accidents had marked her life and her family, secrets threaten to come to light and stagger her live but she is not alone as she thinks. Laird is a charming boy who's fond of with her along with her friendship with June, her neighbour and Tad, June's grandson, together they demonstrate her support and love and show her that obstacles are not important if she has determination.
It was a very fast read and let me wanting to know more, I hope it has a second part.
Sometimes Sam's decisions made me want to slap her but as I kept reading she gained courage and self confidence and everything makes sense.
Is the first book that I read from Tia Souders but I'll read some more in the future knowing they are as good as it was.
February 1, 2018
A beautiful story that pulls on your heartstrings. I quickly fell in love with Samantha, Tad and Laird. The way Tad and Laird supports Samantha throughout the book is breathtaking beautiful.
Favorite quote: Laird to Samantha ~ “There’s no sound more beautiful. Watching you play is like watching the rain. Your fingers and hands move like liquid over the strings, like they were made for music.”
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Favorite quote: Laird to Samantha ~ “There’s no sound more beautiful. Watching you play is like watching the rain. Your fingers and hands move like liquid over the strings, like they were made for music.”
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 13, 2018
Samantha Becker is a girl determined to make her life her own, as soon as she graduates from high school. Her love for her guitar and the music that spills out of her draws all eyes to her, but the wall she has built around her keeps everyone at a distance. When an accident occurs, Sam is faced with the heartbreak of the possibility of losing the one thing in her world that she loves, playing her guitar.
This book will take you on a heartbreaking journey of Sam's life and follow along side her as she tries to adapt, overcome, and discover who she is and what she is capable of. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend reading it
This book will take you on a heartbreaking journey of Sam's life and follow along side her as she tries to adapt, overcome, and discover who she is and what she is capable of. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend reading it
January 21, 2018
Loved this story. So full of emotion and you experience everything alongside the characters. This book was an instant hit for me.
November 8, 2012
Great concept, Ok book...
When I decided to read this book I was very encouraged by the good reviews I'd heard about it, the basic story sounded interesting and like many of the reviews had said, the opening line really gets your attention. However, it kind of went down hill from there for me.
My biggest issue was that none of the characters or situations seemed to be very complex or well-defined. Everything was pretty one dimensional. I kept wanting to empathize with Samantha, the main character, but her emotions didn't come across as real for me. Her band mates, her parents, even her new love interest were flat characters. The one person I did enjoy reading about was Tad, Sam's neighbor's grandson. He had a spark, and was the most realistically written in my opinion.
As for the plot, I found it to be predictable, I had figured out the big "surprise twist" just a few chapters into the story and the ending felt very cliched.
Ultimately, I was most disappointed by this book because I think there was so much potential that was lost. The author is a good writer, there were none of the usual editing issues you find with independent publishing, and as I mentioned, I think the story line was compelling.
When I decided to read this book I was very encouraged by the good reviews I'd heard about it, the basic story sounded interesting and like many of the reviews had said, the opening line really gets your attention. However, it kind of went down hill from there for me.
My biggest issue was that none of the characters or situations seemed to be very complex or well-defined. Everything was pretty one dimensional. I kept wanting to empathize with Samantha, the main character, but her emotions didn't come across as real for me. Her band mates, her parents, even her new love interest were flat characters. The one person I did enjoy reading about was Tad, Sam's neighbor's grandson. He had a spark, and was the most realistically written in my opinion.
As for the plot, I found it to be predictable, I had figured out the big "surprise twist" just a few chapters into the story and the ending felt very cliched.
Ultimately, I was most disappointed by this book because I think there was so much potential that was lost. The author is a good writer, there were none of the usual editing issues you find with independent publishing, and as I mentioned, I think the story line was compelling.
September 20, 2012
I loved this book from the first paragraph I read, once I started reading I could not put it down.
Sam (Samantha) Becker is 18 is the main character in this story. Her mother is an alcoholic and is drunk most days. Her father is a domineering workaholic and is either at work or with the other woman. Her father has Sam's future all planned out for her - to take over his job at the bank. Only that is not what Sam wants when she was eight she was given a guitar; that she learned to play and played very well. Her dream was to study classical guitar at Julliard.
One night something awful happens to Sam, her father accidentally cuts off her ring finger, her fret finger. For most of us this would be the end of our dream, but Sam is determined. At first she was very depressed but with the support of a twelve year old neighbor Tad, and a college student Laird. Sam has hope.
I don't want to spoil the rest of the story for you but I will let you know the plot has some surprising twist in it and it will hold your attention. I cried and I cheered at Sam's disappointments and her triumphs through out the story. I know you will love this as much as I did.
Sam (Samantha) Becker is 18 is the main character in this story. Her mother is an alcoholic and is drunk most days. Her father is a domineering workaholic and is either at work or with the other woman. Her father has Sam's future all planned out for her - to take over his job at the bank. Only that is not what Sam wants when she was eight she was given a guitar; that she learned to play and played very well. Her dream was to study classical guitar at Julliard.
One night something awful happens to Sam, her father accidentally cuts off her ring finger, her fret finger. For most of us this would be the end of our dream, but Sam is determined. At first she was very depressed but with the support of a twelve year old neighbor Tad, and a college student Laird. Sam has hope.
I don't want to spoil the rest of the story for you but I will let you know the plot has some surprising twist in it and it will hold your attention. I cried and I cheered at Sam's disappointments and her triumphs through out the story. I know you will love this as much as I did.
December 8, 2012
This story, gripping from the start, hooked me with the first line! T.M. Souders takes the reader on a turbulent journey following 18-year-old Samantha (Sam) Becker, a gifted and passionate guitarist through the trials and tribulations of her dysfunctional family as she pursues her dream of being accepted to Julliard. She must deal with an “accident” which turns her world upside down and jeopardizes her plan for the future.
I loved this story and felt every emotion vividly! The true essence of the characters was brilliantly revealed in the clarity of description and development of each of their actions/reactions. “Freedom Road” is such an excellent depiction of a young adult who finds the courage, strength and adaptability to cope with extraordinary twist and turns in her life.
Despite the darkness of her home life reality, Sam’s resilience shines through as she forms lasting bonds with her friends, Tad and Laird, two bright stars in her life. Startling surprises propel the reader on chapter after chapter. Definitely a must read for any young adult but also worthwhile and enjoyable to an older individual as well.
Writing at its BEST!
I loved this story and felt every emotion vividly! The true essence of the characters was brilliantly revealed in the clarity of description and development of each of their actions/reactions. “Freedom Road” is such an excellent depiction of a young adult who finds the courage, strength and adaptability to cope with extraordinary twist and turns in her life.
Despite the darkness of her home life reality, Sam’s resilience shines through as she forms lasting bonds with her friends, Tad and Laird, two bright stars in her life. Startling surprises propel the reader on chapter after chapter. Definitely a must read for any young adult but also worthwhile and enjoyable to an older individual as well.
Writing at its BEST!
February 19, 2018
Tia Souders gives us a new YA novel that is full of raw emotion and grit in Better Than This.
Samantha Becker lives day to day in a dysfunctional household with a demanding authoritative father and a distant alcoholic mother. The only thing that keeps Samantha sane is her guitar and her music. Sam is a talented rising star with dreams of attending the Juilliard School of Music. Even the members of her band, her closest friends, have no idea that this is the future she longs for and secretly plans. But in one swift moment her dreams are shattered when her father accidently severs her ring finger on her left hand. With her finger goes all of her hopes and dreams of Julliard and ever playing music again.
Unable to cope with the loss of her music and disillusioned with lack of empathy from her friends, Sam in one brief moment makes a bad decision and takes her frustration out on an elderly neighbor’s yard. In lieu of pressing charges for the destruction, June decides to take it out in trade. She is aging and sick and needs help organizing her house and ridding it of unnecessary junk. Sam aggress to the arrangement, if only to get her father off her back, but is angry she has to spend time with the elderly neighbor. June and Samantha were once close and her house a port in the storm when her mother began her drinking. Add to this little arrangement June’s grandson Tad who unbeknownst to Sam is a fan of her music. It’s this relationship between Sam and Tad and his belief in her abilities that gets Sam back to her guitar and music. Determined to play again and prepare for her audition for the biggest day of her life, Sam retrains her fingers and brain to compensate for her loss.
As Samantha gets stronger and begins to visit The Clover again, her band’s hotspot, it would appear that Sam has another fan in Laird Brian, a handsome college student who happens to love her music and believe in her natural talent. As the two become close and develop a relationship, Sam wrestles with her ability to accept unconditional love. As the weeks go by and her audition at Julliard closes in, Laird together with Tad assist Samantha in preparing for the biggest moment in her life. It’s at this juncture that Sam uncovers a secret that will forever change the rest of her life.
I really liked this book. It was packed with raw emotion and at times I felt so flustered for Samantha because she couldn't get a break. At the same time I was also frustrated with Sam because she was often her own worst enemy. She had such musical talent but tended to reject anything or anyone good that came her way. Her friends used her for her abilities, her dad totally ignored her, and her mother was an absentee parent spending most days in a drunken stupor. The only bright spot in her life were her relationships with Tad and Laird, but often kept them at a distance because she felt undeserving of their love. I was so happy when she finally decided that she was worthy of love and made the decision to trust with her heart that good things could happen for her.
I also loved Tad and Laird’s characters. Tad was so sweet and dorky and the way he looked up to Sam tugged at my heart. Laird was my hero as he was honorable, handsome and determined to win Sam’s love and trust. All of the characters in Better Than this were well written and I either liked them or loathed them. My only frustration was I wanted more. This book demands a sequel. I want to know about Sam’s future with Laird and Tad and if her parents ever make amends and show Sam the love she deserves. I also want to know what she does with her music. Is her future all about her career or does she make room for the two people that love her most. I hope to hear more about these characters in the future.
Better Than This by Tia Souders is a great read for those who love YA novels, but it’s also a great book for anyone who loves fiction with heart. It’s the perfect book to help you get through the rest of winter or take you into summer. You will love the characters as much as I did and find yourself cheering for Sam to follow her dreams as well as her heart.
Samantha Becker lives day to day in a dysfunctional household with a demanding authoritative father and a distant alcoholic mother. The only thing that keeps Samantha sane is her guitar and her music. Sam is a talented rising star with dreams of attending the Juilliard School of Music. Even the members of her band, her closest friends, have no idea that this is the future she longs for and secretly plans. But in one swift moment her dreams are shattered when her father accidently severs her ring finger on her left hand. With her finger goes all of her hopes and dreams of Julliard and ever playing music again.
Unable to cope with the loss of her music and disillusioned with lack of empathy from her friends, Sam in one brief moment makes a bad decision and takes her frustration out on an elderly neighbor’s yard. In lieu of pressing charges for the destruction, June decides to take it out in trade. She is aging and sick and needs help organizing her house and ridding it of unnecessary junk. Sam aggress to the arrangement, if only to get her father off her back, but is angry she has to spend time with the elderly neighbor. June and Samantha were once close and her house a port in the storm when her mother began her drinking. Add to this little arrangement June’s grandson Tad who unbeknownst to Sam is a fan of her music. It’s this relationship between Sam and Tad and his belief in her abilities that gets Sam back to her guitar and music. Determined to play again and prepare for her audition for the biggest day of her life, Sam retrains her fingers and brain to compensate for her loss.
As Samantha gets stronger and begins to visit The Clover again, her band’s hotspot, it would appear that Sam has another fan in Laird Brian, a handsome college student who happens to love her music and believe in her natural talent. As the two become close and develop a relationship, Sam wrestles with her ability to accept unconditional love. As the weeks go by and her audition at Julliard closes in, Laird together with Tad assist Samantha in preparing for the biggest moment in her life. It’s at this juncture that Sam uncovers a secret that will forever change the rest of her life.
I really liked this book. It was packed with raw emotion and at times I felt so flustered for Samantha because she couldn't get a break. At the same time I was also frustrated with Sam because she was often her own worst enemy. She had such musical talent but tended to reject anything or anyone good that came her way. Her friends used her for her abilities, her dad totally ignored her, and her mother was an absentee parent spending most days in a drunken stupor. The only bright spot in her life were her relationships with Tad and Laird, but often kept them at a distance because she felt undeserving of their love. I was so happy when she finally decided that she was worthy of love and made the decision to trust with her heart that good things could happen for her.
I also loved Tad and Laird’s characters. Tad was so sweet and dorky and the way he looked up to Sam tugged at my heart. Laird was my hero as he was honorable, handsome and determined to win Sam’s love and trust. All of the characters in Better Than this were well written and I either liked them or loathed them. My only frustration was I wanted more. This book demands a sequel. I want to know about Sam’s future with Laird and Tad and if her parents ever make amends and show Sam the love she deserves. I also want to know what she does with her music. Is her future all about her career or does she make room for the two people that love her most. I hope to hear more about these characters in the future.
Better Than This by Tia Souders is a great read for those who love YA novels, but it’s also a great book for anyone who loves fiction with heart. It’s the perfect book to help you get through the rest of winter or take you into summer. You will love the characters as much as I did and find yourself cheering for Sam to follow her dreams as well as her heart.
April 18, 2018
The story:
Samantha “Sam” Becker wants only one thing – to go to Juilliard. She’s a veritable prodigy with the guitar, a fact that everyone who’s ever heard her play is entranced by her ability. But she is trapped in a house with an alcoholic mother and a domineering father who has her life completely planned out … a life that doesn’t include any ‘pipe dreams’ such as music.
Read the rest of the review at YA Books Central:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
Samantha “Sam” Becker wants only one thing – to go to Juilliard. She’s a veritable prodigy with the guitar, a fact that everyone who’s ever heard her play is entranced by her ability. But she is trapped in a house with an alcoholic mother and a domineering father who has her life completely planned out … a life that doesn’t include any ‘pipe dreams’ such as music.
Read the rest of the review at YA Books Central:
http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
August 16, 2025
Hope and perserverance
Well written. Highlighting the unknown burdens of people around us and the dreams they cherish. We get to walk through the secret life of a young woman and her battle to come to grips with another tragedy that rocks her already burdensome life. Meeting people who really care for her and help her. Life isn’t what it seems. Inner strength can help us not be the victim.
Well written. Highlighting the unknown burdens of people around us and the dreams they cherish. We get to walk through the secret life of a young woman and her battle to come to grips with another tragedy that rocks her already burdensome life. Meeting people who really care for her and help her. Life isn’t what it seems. Inner strength can help us not be the victim.
February 16, 2018
Amazing story of Samantha for whom everything was going great until the accident. Has you intrigued until you get to the end to find out what happens Impossible to stop. Received a free copy and reviewed cause I loved it.
February 22, 2018
A beautifully written and captivating story that will definitely tug at your emotions throughout the book. I couldn't put this book down; it totally sucked me in. This book deserves more than 5 stars - its one you don't want to miss reading.
March 1, 2018
Great Read
This story was easy to read & now has left me wanting a sequel! The main character was likable & her emotions were portrayed in a very honest way. I could see this story becoming a movie!
This story was easy to read & now has left me wanting a sequel! The main character was likable & her emotions were portrayed in a very honest way. I could see this story becoming a movie!
September 3, 2019
Beautiful music
This book was so sad and yet so moving. In the end things work out and yet so much is lost. Some parts will bring tears, others will make you cheer as the underdog wins. It does leave you with a lot of what ifs and what happens next.
This book was so sad and yet so moving. In the end things work out and yet so much is lost. Some parts will bring tears, others will make you cheer as the underdog wins. It does leave you with a lot of what ifs and what happens next.
January 4, 2020
Better Than This
I was not prepared for this wonderful book. A young lady with so many people against her. A totally dysfunctional home life. Anyone who comes from a family that has a member with addition needs to read this book. Thank You Tia Souders
I was not prepared for this wonderful book. A young lady with so many people against her. A totally dysfunctional home life. Anyone who comes from a family that has a member with addition needs to read this book. Thank You Tia Souders
February 14, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of your book. It's amazing story and thanks for sending me the copy of your book that I can able to read this is a great honored.
February 17, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Readers will love this book. I really enjoyed it.
~~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Readers will love this book. I really enjoyed it.
July 27, 2018
Decent read, for the most part.
September 2, 2018
This book is like a life line motivating you towards your goals . It is really nice. Something worth readings. Gives a lot of strength and perspective.
July 7, 2013
I was approached by the author to take part in a blog tour for her book Freedom Road, I accepted the invite to host a spotlight and a review. The first thing I noticed about Freedom Road was the amazing cover, the eyes for the character have a way of instantly grabbing your attention, when I read the synopsis I was intrigued and wanted to know more.
Samantha, the protagonist, is a guitarist in a band with friends, but after an accident caused by her Dad, it puts her guitar playing days in jeopardy, will she ever play again, and if she can will she be ready for her auditions?
I began reading with no idea what to expect, and by the time I had reached chapter four my heart was breaking for Samantha. Her life at home isn't easy, with a vacant Dad who is rarely around, and a Mum who is still grieving the loss of her child. Samantha is struggling to just be, to make it past each day. She is lost and afraid and I just wanted to take her out the book and keep her safe. One person who helps her try to see reason is Tad, her neighbours Grandson. He calls her out on her bullshit and tells her what's what.
Tad shook his head, then leaned it on his hand and turned toward me. "Seriously though. I don't get you. I mean, this whole..." He waved his hand at me. "This whole unworthy act. Like you're not worth anyone's time."
"I'm not acting."
"Which makes it even worse. That you would actually believe that."
[Tad to Samantha location 1168 kindle version]
When Laird comes on the scene, I never knew how to take him, I felt like he was hiding something but I could never put my finger on what it was or what bugged me about him. As we get to know him I began to realise he was one of the few people who were actually true to Samantha, who wanted her to succeed and follow her dreams, and without his and Tads support I'm not sure how Samantha could have coped.
I have never felt so much dislike for a character, Samantha's dad was a piece of work he is selfish and arrogant and did not know how talented Samantha was as he was too caught up in his own world.
Samantha is basically left with no one, only her neighbour June, Tad, and eventually Laird. Her friends are a lie, just wanting Samantha for her talent and the hopes she can make their dreams come true. They fail to see how hard she is struggling and trying to deal with her life.
Freedom Road was a surprising read, I didn't expect to experience the emotions I did or enjoy it as much as I did. Samantha is a fighter, and while it takes her a while to find the right path, once she is on it nothing can pull her away. For this alone I admire her strength and determination to carry on with what she believes. When she is hit with a shocking and life changing truth she is willing to drop everything and sacrifice her future, and only the persistence of Tad and Laird keep her going.
T.M. Souders has a way of drawing the reader in instantly, and letting them experience a wealth of emotions, pulling on your heart strings and making you emotionally invested in not only the characters themselves, but also their future. If there were to be a book released after Freedom Road that follows Samantha after what transpires I would definitely want to read it.
July 11, 2013
"When I discovered the guitar... it was at a time when I needed something, anything to rely on. I needed something to ease me through dark days with my mother. When my father screamed and blamed me, then rushed off to work or, eventually another woman"
I had had Freedom Road on my TBR list for a while but hadn't managed to get around to reading it, so I was incredibly glad when the author contacted me to be a part of her blog tour. Freedom Road was read with a deep ache in my heart. It was such an emotional read, but it was also interlaced with moments of beauty and hope.
Eighteen year old Samantha Becker finds her escape from the realities of her life in her guitar. After the death of her brother, her mother turned to the bottle and has lived there ever since. Her father is virtually non-existent and when he is there it's to yell and place blame. To ward herself against the hurt, Sam has built up a wall around her. She keeps everyone at a distance. But Sam has dreams. Her dream is to study classical guitar at Juilliard. It's a dream her father is dead against. And after an accident it seems that Sam will no longer be able to play the guitar and those dreams will no longer come to fruition. Sam becomes despondent at the prospect of losing the one thing that holds her together.
His words rolled around in my head. He used the word we. Never before had I been a part of a unit like that. I had never meant that much to someone.
But then Sam has two people enter her life at a time when she needs them the most. Tad, the twelve year old Grandson of her neighbour June, and Laird, the gorgeous, caring and supportive, guitar playing college student. I adored the characters in this book so much. Sam, who shows such amazing courage and determination. Tad, whose support and witty charm and devotion picked Sam up and helped her find her strength and Laird who saw beyond the walls and helped her push them down and be the strong person that he knows her to be.
Life's not all sunshine and rainbows.
And then there are the characters that you will of course have so much dislike for. Yes there were times, and they were many, when I didn't like her mum all that much but I could feel her pain. It was like a living, breathing thing that you could reach out and touch. But it was Sam's Dad who had my absolute displeasure for most of the book. He came across as completely uncaring. He showed no love whatsoever. How does a child grow and flourish in an environment like that?
T.M. Souders captures emotions onto the page perfectly. Her characters are complex and real. The way she writes is stirring and moving. Freedom Road was a truly wonderful read and had the book been longer I could have quite easily sat back and continued the journey with the characters. I'm not sure if the author has any plans for a sequel but I would definitely love to spend more time with Samantha, Tad and Laird as they enter the next stage of life.
5/5 Wonderful Stars!!
I had had Freedom Road on my TBR list for a while but hadn't managed to get around to reading it, so I was incredibly glad when the author contacted me to be a part of her blog tour. Freedom Road was read with a deep ache in my heart. It was such an emotional read, but it was also interlaced with moments of beauty and hope.
Eighteen year old Samantha Becker finds her escape from the realities of her life in her guitar. After the death of her brother, her mother turned to the bottle and has lived there ever since. Her father is virtually non-existent and when he is there it's to yell and place blame. To ward herself against the hurt, Sam has built up a wall around her. She keeps everyone at a distance. But Sam has dreams. Her dream is to study classical guitar at Juilliard. It's a dream her father is dead against. And after an accident it seems that Sam will no longer be able to play the guitar and those dreams will no longer come to fruition. Sam becomes despondent at the prospect of losing the one thing that holds her together.
His words rolled around in my head. He used the word we. Never before had I been a part of a unit like that. I had never meant that much to someone.
But then Sam has two people enter her life at a time when she needs them the most. Tad, the twelve year old Grandson of her neighbour June, and Laird, the gorgeous, caring and supportive, guitar playing college student. I adored the characters in this book so much. Sam, who shows such amazing courage and determination. Tad, whose support and witty charm and devotion picked Sam up and helped her find her strength and Laird who saw beyond the walls and helped her push them down and be the strong person that he knows her to be.
Life's not all sunshine and rainbows.
And then there are the characters that you will of course have so much dislike for. Yes there were times, and they were many, when I didn't like her mum all that much but I could feel her pain. It was like a living, breathing thing that you could reach out and touch. But it was Sam's Dad who had my absolute displeasure for most of the book. He came across as completely uncaring. He showed no love whatsoever. How does a child grow and flourish in an environment like that?
T.M. Souders captures emotions onto the page perfectly. Her characters are complex and real. The way she writes is stirring and moving. Freedom Road was a truly wonderful read and had the book been longer I could have quite easily sat back and continued the journey with the characters. I'm not sure if the author has any plans for a sequel but I would definitely love to spend more time with Samantha, Tad and Laird as they enter the next stage of life.
5/5 Wonderful Stars!!
July 6, 2013
you can also find this reviews at http://girlinthewoodsreviews.blogspot...
Detailed Review: I thought this book was just amazing. I was fascinated by the story and characters so much, that even after reading it, I found myself turning the whole book over again in my head. I really really really really love the characters in the book. And the twist wow, the twist at the end of the book was so nicely done, the type that makes you want to die that moment. It's just hard to find such perfect twists in contemporaries, to be honest.
So here are the characters I heart:
Sam- Of course I love her. She was so brave throughout the book, even if she did almost give up after the accident. She stood up to her father even though he forbade her to chase her dreams. If this isn't bravery, then what is it?
Tad- I loved him, because he always supported Sam no matter what, and he's just the happy-go-lucky type that would brighten anyone's day.
Laird- OH GOD I WANT HIM SO MUCH. HE'S JUST SO H-O-T. He's so caring and nice to Sam and I was in Cloud 9 when he and Sam got together.
Overall, this book was just AWESOME. It was such depth and clarity that added with the combination of in-depth characters, made it just what it was. I admire the author's ability to write so well. Have you seen how many awards is has been shortlisted for up there? I understand why it won so many people's hearts now. And I'm glad it won my heart too.
Contemporary and romance fans, this is for you. YOU MUST NEVER MISS IT. NEVER.
WE ARE NEVER EVER EVER MISSING READING THIS BOOK.
Brief Review: I think what I loved most about the book was the characters and how they affected the main character's life. Souders writes with style and perfection that would keep you reading. This was an amazing experience for me because of how it brought reality into account so vividly. This book was powerful, so powerful it could possibly change your way of thinking. You'll never know...
Final Rating: 5/5 'Totally Amazing!'
QUOTE:
To Sam, who almost gave up,
Don't be afraid to fail. Don't waste energy trying to cover up failure. Learn from your failures and go on to the next challenge. It's OK to fail. If you're not failing, you're not growing.-----H. Stanley Judd
Detailed Review: I thought this book was just amazing. I was fascinated by the story and characters so much, that even after reading it, I found myself turning the whole book over again in my head. I really really really really love the characters in the book. And the twist wow, the twist at the end of the book was so nicely done, the type that makes you want to die that moment. It's just hard to find such perfect twists in contemporaries, to be honest.
So here are the characters I heart:
Sam- Of course I love her. She was so brave throughout the book, even if she did almost give up after the accident. She stood up to her father even though he forbade her to chase her dreams. If this isn't bravery, then what is it?
Tad- I loved him, because he always supported Sam no matter what, and he's just the happy-go-lucky type that would brighten anyone's day.
Laird- OH GOD I WANT HIM SO MUCH. HE'S JUST SO H-O-T. He's so caring and nice to Sam and I was in Cloud 9 when he and Sam got together.
Overall, this book was just AWESOME. It was such depth and clarity that added with the combination of in-depth characters, made it just what it was. I admire the author's ability to write so well. Have you seen how many awards is has been shortlisted for up there? I understand why it won so many people's hearts now. And I'm glad it won my heart too.
Contemporary and romance fans, this is for you. YOU MUST NEVER MISS IT. NEVER.
WE ARE NEVER EVER EVER MISSING READING THIS BOOK.
Brief Review: I think what I loved most about the book was the characters and how they affected the main character's life. Souders writes with style and perfection that would keep you reading. This was an amazing experience for me because of how it brought reality into account so vividly. This book was powerful, so powerful it could possibly change your way of thinking. You'll never know...
Final Rating: 5/5 'Totally Amazing!'
QUOTE:
To Sam, who almost gave up,
Don't be afraid to fail. Don't waste energy trying to cover up failure. Learn from your failures and go on to the next challenge. It's OK to fail. If you're not failing, you're not growing.-----H. Stanley Judd
November 3, 2013
Music is Samantha Becker's life. It is her solace from the not so pretty life she lives. But all that changes with the slip of her father's hand. Now permanently injured, she see's no hope in her future and starts to give up on her dream of ever getting accepted into Juilliard. With her only escape being stolen away from her Sam looks to lean on her best friends and group mates only to finally see them for what they really are, users. Now she has nothing and no one to turn to, or so she thinks, but out of the darkness comes support from two very unlikely people. Now she has hope of a future, a future that hopefully involves music and Juilliard.
Freedom Road takes us on a journey through the struggles of a wonderful and talented teenager. Samantha has incredible talent, everyone sees it, everyone hears it; and now Sam is ready to take that talent to Juilliard and she could do it too. Because Sam is the real McCoy. A rare talent that plays the strings of the guitar like playing the strings of the heart.
Freedom Road is an absolutely beautiful story about struggle, loss, reflection, and never giving up. It is the ultimate story of perseverance. We follow Sam as she loses everything that has ever meant anything to her, we watch her try to pick up the pieces, and see her struggle to accept the new path her life is taking.
Along her journey we meet some pretty fabulous people, Laird, June, Tad; just to name a few. Of course this tale also gives us those characters we love to hate. First and foremost is Sam's very own mom and dad, followed closely by her "best friends." Tia Souders gave me the ultimate characters to both love and hate. Characters who were so destroyed by pain that they took their pain out on others. Then she gave me friends as fake as plastic.
Freedom Road is a deep story that will take you through real heart ache, real struggle and real pain. This story will make you feel for your characters in so many ways. You will celebrate her triumphs, mourn her loses, be pissed at her for her loss of hope, and feel empathy for the life she has led. Tia Souders gives us the ultimate story of struggle, pain, loss, and hope. This is definitely a journey you need to take.
*Received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Freedom Road takes us on a journey through the struggles of a wonderful and talented teenager. Samantha has incredible talent, everyone sees it, everyone hears it; and now Sam is ready to take that talent to Juilliard and she could do it too. Because Sam is the real McCoy. A rare talent that plays the strings of the guitar like playing the strings of the heart.
Freedom Road is an absolutely beautiful story about struggle, loss, reflection, and never giving up. It is the ultimate story of perseverance. We follow Sam as she loses everything that has ever meant anything to her, we watch her try to pick up the pieces, and see her struggle to accept the new path her life is taking.
Along her journey we meet some pretty fabulous people, Laird, June, Tad; just to name a few. Of course this tale also gives us those characters we love to hate. First and foremost is Sam's very own mom and dad, followed closely by her "best friends." Tia Souders gave me the ultimate characters to both love and hate. Characters who were so destroyed by pain that they took their pain out on others. Then she gave me friends as fake as plastic.
Freedom Road is a deep story that will take you through real heart ache, real struggle and real pain. This story will make you feel for your characters in so many ways. You will celebrate her triumphs, mourn her loses, be pissed at her for her loss of hope, and feel empathy for the life she has led. Tia Souders gives us the ultimate story of struggle, pain, loss, and hope. This is definitely a journey you need to take.
*Received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
November 7, 2013
Freedom Road by T.M. Sounders is a book about eighteen year-old Samantha Becker. Her solace and reason for getting up every morning since the age of eight has been music, more precisely the guitar. With an alcoholic mother and controlling but somehow distant father, Sam dreams of escape to Julliard and studying classic guitar. However, when her father's insistence that Sam work for his bank, and an 'accident' threatens Sam's ability to even play guitar she loses confidence and digs in deeper behind her emotional walls. Just as she is about to give up on everything, two unexpected people work to break through the walls and force her to evaluate her life and dreams; including her family, band-mates, and adjustment to her injury and its effects on her long term goals. Can Sam break through and be the person she always wanted to be, or will she collapse to the will of others and lose herself in the process.
Freedom Road was a phenomenal, but far from emotionally easy, read. Sam has a horrible home life and feels abandoned by everyone that she have cared for her. The band she plays with are her friends by default, and are far from the most supportive bunch. When her father 'slips' and causes an injury that would change Sam's life forever she needs to readjust how she thinks about everything, including herself. I felt her despair from the very first page, and found myself cringing or holding back tears in sympathy on several occasions. I liked that even though I had guessed the big twist in the story early on, and had a feeling on how certain parts of the book would resolve, the journey never ceased to be moving and interesting.
I would recommend Freedom Road for young adults and adults, particularly those that like coming of age stories or can relate to any of the crises that Sam faces. Younger readers facing troubled homes or trying to overcome an injury that blocks a life goal could also benefit from this book. There is nothing other than the tough problems Sam is facing that makes me hesitate in recommending for middle school age students. The story is hard to read emotionally, but it is completely worth the ride.
Freedom Road was a phenomenal, but far from emotionally easy, read. Sam has a horrible home life and feels abandoned by everyone that she have cared for her. The band she plays with are her friends by default, and are far from the most supportive bunch. When her father 'slips' and causes an injury that would change Sam's life forever she needs to readjust how she thinks about everything, including herself. I felt her despair from the very first page, and found myself cringing or holding back tears in sympathy on several occasions. I liked that even though I had guessed the big twist in the story early on, and had a feeling on how certain parts of the book would resolve, the journey never ceased to be moving and interesting.
I would recommend Freedom Road for young adults and adults, particularly those that like coming of age stories or can relate to any of the crises that Sam faces. Younger readers facing troubled homes or trying to overcome an injury that blocks a life goal could also benefit from this book. There is nothing other than the tough problems Sam is facing that makes me hesitate in recommending for middle school age students. The story is hard to read emotionally, but it is completely worth the ride.
September 15, 2012
I read Waiting On Hope by T.M. Souders and I was totally captivated by it, so I looked forward to reading her new book, Freedom Road. Souders is a wonderful story teller and I was hooked from the first paragraph. What kind of a father lops his child’s finger off?
From that first paragraph I was drawn into the world of eighteen year old Sam (Samantha) Becker. Her dysfunctional family (an alcoholic mother and a tyrannical father) has left deep scars and Sam has built a wall around herself, keeping everybody at a distance emotionally. The one thing she has held dear; the one thing that has comforted her through grief, loneliness, confusion and anger is her guitar. Playing it has given her solace, carried her away from her tumultuous world and fostered a dream of a new future.
She carries that dream deep in heart, until there is an incident in which her father lops her finger off–her fret finger. She is angry and disconsolate as she contemplates what this loss means to her.
Sam learns who her friends are, she learns how calculating her father is, she reconnects with her mother, she finds support from Tad Mitchell, a twelve year old boy who hero-worships her and Laird Brian, who is interested in connecting with the person who hides behind the wall. Both these new friends encourage her to take control of her life and support her as she struggles.
Sam is a courageous, determined young woman who learns many things about herself, her life and her dysfunctional family as she fights to find her place in life.
This is a story that tugged at my heart. I felt for Sam, laughed with her, cried with her, felt her anger, her uncertainty, her determination and the stirrings of love for both Tad and Laird. The characters were well rounded, the plot had enough twists and turns to hold my attention and there was a sense of realism about the entire book.
This is a wonderful story for anyone from 14 to 95. I highly recommend it!
From that first paragraph I was drawn into the world of eighteen year old Sam (Samantha) Becker. Her dysfunctional family (an alcoholic mother and a tyrannical father) has left deep scars and Sam has built a wall around herself, keeping everybody at a distance emotionally. The one thing she has held dear; the one thing that has comforted her through grief, loneliness, confusion and anger is her guitar. Playing it has given her solace, carried her away from her tumultuous world and fostered a dream of a new future.
She carries that dream deep in heart, until there is an incident in which her father lops her finger off–her fret finger. She is angry and disconsolate as she contemplates what this loss means to her.
Sam learns who her friends are, she learns how calculating her father is, she reconnects with her mother, she finds support from Tad Mitchell, a twelve year old boy who hero-worships her and Laird Brian, who is interested in connecting with the person who hides behind the wall. Both these new friends encourage her to take control of her life and support her as she struggles.
Sam is a courageous, determined young woman who learns many things about herself, her life and her dysfunctional family as she fights to find her place in life.
This is a story that tugged at my heart. I felt for Sam, laughed with her, cried with her, felt her anger, her uncertainty, her determination and the stirrings of love for both Tad and Laird. The characters were well rounded, the plot had enough twists and turns to hold my attention and there was a sense of realism about the entire book.
This is a wonderful story for anyone from 14 to 95. I highly recommend it!
July 31, 2013
There are two things that always draw my attention to a book: a beautiful cover and a strong opening. T.M. Souders’ latest novel, Freedom Road, has both.
From the moment I read the opening lines of her book, I was hooked.
These two short sentences introduce us to the protagonist and antagonist of our story – Samantha Becker and her father – and set the stage for the battles to come.
Samantha is an 18-year old high school senior from a highly dysfunctional family. She is also a gifted guitarist who dreams of attending Julliard and studying classical guitar. The only things that have made life with her alcoholic mother and her overbearing father tolerable are her music and her dreams.
Secretly, Samantha has been practicing her guitar and preparing for an audition with Julliard. But now - due to the "accidental" slip of her father's knife - Samantha's dreams are in jeopardy due to the loss of her fretting finger.
Will Samantha give up on her dreams or find a way to re-learn the guitar in spite of her permanent injury? How will she handle the people around her – many who are more interested in what she can do for them than in her own best interests?
Freedom Road chronicles Samantha’s struggles – and victories – in the aftermath of her accident. It’s a moving, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming journey from a talented writer that you won’t want to miss!
This review was written by and originally published at Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes. I was not compensated or required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
From the moment I read the opening lines of her book, I was hooked.
Two days. That’s the length of a hospital stay after your father lops your finger off with a kitchen knife.
These two short sentences introduce us to the protagonist and antagonist of our story – Samantha Becker and her father – and set the stage for the battles to come.
Samantha is an 18-year old high school senior from a highly dysfunctional family. She is also a gifted guitarist who dreams of attending Julliard and studying classical guitar. The only things that have made life with her alcoholic mother and her overbearing father tolerable are her music and her dreams.
Secretly, Samantha has been practicing her guitar and preparing for an audition with Julliard. But now - due to the "accidental" slip of her father's knife - Samantha's dreams are in jeopardy due to the loss of her fretting finger.
Will Samantha give up on her dreams or find a way to re-learn the guitar in spite of her permanent injury? How will she handle the people around her – many who are more interested in what she can do for them than in her own best interests?
Freedom Road chronicles Samantha’s struggles – and victories – in the aftermath of her accident. It’s a moving, heart-wrenching, and heart-warming journey from a talented writer that you won’t want to miss!
This review was written by and originally published at Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes. I was not compensated or required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
September 18, 2012
The first paragraph of FREEDOM ROAD will hook you. It will draw you right in and you'll want to keep reading to see what happens. The main character, Samantha Becker is eighteen and an astonishing guitar player. Her alcoholic mother is determined to drink herself to death, and her father, a domineering and controlling man, has Samantha's future all figured out, even though it's not a future Sam wants. As a form of self-protection, Sam has always kept herself aloof from others, sealed behind a wall. Her music, her guitar, is the only comfort she has; it's the one thing has pulled her through her family nightmare.
So when Sam's father inadvertently causes an accident that makes fretting the strings next to impossible, Sam despairs, finding only hate and anger where she used to find comfort. Healing and forgiveness come eventually, helped along by her neighbor's grandson Tad, and a college student, Laird, who's always been intrigued by what's behind Sam's tough façade.
I read T.M. Souders' two other books, WAITING ON HOPE and DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, and I feel that her writing has matured with this book. The characters are complex and believable. Sam's journey, from despair to hope to triumph, is moving and emotional. Souders' descriptions of the guitar and the music were exquisite and I felt like I could almost hear Sam playing her guitar. I urge T.M. Souders to consider a sequel, as I grew attached to these characters and am eager to see what the future holds.
So when Sam's father inadvertently causes an accident that makes fretting the strings next to impossible, Sam despairs, finding only hate and anger where she used to find comfort. Healing and forgiveness come eventually, helped along by her neighbor's grandson Tad, and a college student, Laird, who's always been intrigued by what's behind Sam's tough façade.
I read T.M. Souders' two other books, WAITING ON HOPE and DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, and I feel that her writing has matured with this book. The characters are complex and believable. Sam's journey, from despair to hope to triumph, is moving and emotional. Souders' descriptions of the guitar and the music were exquisite and I felt like I could almost hear Sam playing her guitar. I urge T.M. Souders to consider a sequel, as I grew attached to these characters and am eager to see what the future holds.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews