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Whisper of the Pines #1
A Promise of Fireflies
Questions never asked don't always remain unanswered.
A blood-stained journal. A mysterious stranger. A family secret that will challenge everything Ryleigh Collins believes. When a snowstorm strands her with a pensive resort owner, will he help her face her past and mend her heart, or will his own shattered past crush any chance at happiness?
As Ryleigh sifts through her deceased mother's belongings, she discovers a blood-stained journal and an odd letter among her mother's things. She can't suppress the strange pull the old journal has on her, but when a reclusive old man reveals the journal's secrets, what she learns will uncover forty-three years of lies, upend her world, and set in motion a future she never envisioned.
Bearing a deeply scarred heart, Ryleigh returns home to her ex-husband's plea to take him back. Overwhelmed, she escapes to a Rocky Mountain resort to sort through her messy life. When a paralyzing snowstorm develops, she's forced into seclusion with Logan Cavanaugh, the distinctly reserved resort owner. As the snow deepens, so do her feelings for Logan, but Logan's own demons are buried as deeply as the mounting snow.
Two lost souls find comfort in each other, but can they reopen the wounds and bury the memories, or will their broken pasts be too powerful to escape?
"A Promise of Fireflies takes you on an unforgettable journey of love, heartache, and redemption--a story you don't want to miss. 5 Stars! ~ USA Today bestselling author, Holly S. Roberts
"You'll laugh, cry and shiver. Packed with lush descriptions and lyrical prose, A Promise of Fireflies elicits all the feels." ~ Golden Heart finalist, Arlene Hittle
WINNER: 2017 New Apple Summer eBook Award ~ Romance
A blood-stained journal. A mysterious stranger. A family secret that will challenge everything Ryleigh Collins believes. When a snowstorm strands her with a pensive resort owner, will he help her face her past and mend her heart, or will his own shattered past crush any chance at happiness?
As Ryleigh sifts through her deceased mother's belongings, she discovers a blood-stained journal and an odd letter among her mother's things. She can't suppress the strange pull the old journal has on her, but when a reclusive old man reveals the journal's secrets, what she learns will uncover forty-three years of lies, upend her world, and set in motion a future she never envisioned.
Bearing a deeply scarred heart, Ryleigh returns home to her ex-husband's plea to take him back. Overwhelmed, she escapes to a Rocky Mountain resort to sort through her messy life. When a paralyzing snowstorm develops, she's forced into seclusion with Logan Cavanaugh, the distinctly reserved resort owner. As the snow deepens, so do her feelings for Logan, but Logan's own demons are buried as deeply as the mounting snow.
Two lost souls find comfort in each other, but can they reopen the wounds and bury the memories, or will their broken pasts be too powerful to escape?
"A Promise of Fireflies takes you on an unforgettable journey of love, heartache, and redemption--a story you don't want to miss. 5 Stars! ~ USA Today bestselling author, Holly S. Roberts
"You'll laugh, cry and shiver. Packed with lush descriptions and lyrical prose, A Promise of Fireflies elicits all the feels." ~ Golden Heart finalist, Arlene Hittle
WINNER: 2017 New Apple Summer eBook Award ~ Romance
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 5, 2016
371 people are currently reading
805 people want to read
About the author
Susan Haught
12 books200 followersSusan Haught writes emotionally powerful stories of family, friendship, and the healing power of love. A multi award-winning novelist and Australian black liquorice connoisseur, Susan believes Love is Ageless and has the power to change lives--one step, one touch, one kiss at a time.
Susan is the author of the Award-winning Whisper of the Pines series—A Promise of Fireflies, A Thousand Butterfly Wishes, The Other Side of Broken, Outside the Lines, and Christmas Under the Tuscan Stars. Books 1-3 in the series have won numerous awards for outstanding fiction in Romance and/or Women’s Fiction. In the Shadow of Fate, the companion book to A Promise of Fireflies, is an Amazon #1 bestseller in multiple poetry categories.
When Susan isn't writing, you'll find her tending her garden with a notorious brown thumb, or escaping into someone else's words. She enjoys mentoring new writers, and she's always on the lookout for the best in Australian black liquorice and ways to spoil her grandpuppy, a feisty Yorkie named Ryleigh. Yes, her son named his gorgeous Yorkshire Terrier after the main character in A Promise of Fireflies.
Susan and her husband call the mountains of Arizona home where they raised their son. They spend their spare time catering to a high-maintenance princess, their Shih Tzu, Mercedes, and on FaceTime with Ryleigh…and their son!
Learn more about Susan's award-winning Whisper of the Pines series, sign up for her Love is Ageless newsletter, or download her FREE companion book by visiting www.susanhaught.com
Follow Susan on social media:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SusanHaughtBKS
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanrhaught/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/srhaught/bo...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanhaught...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanhaug...
Susan is the author of the Award-winning Whisper of the Pines series—A Promise of Fireflies, A Thousand Butterfly Wishes, The Other Side of Broken, Outside the Lines, and Christmas Under the Tuscan Stars. Books 1-3 in the series have won numerous awards for outstanding fiction in Romance and/or Women’s Fiction. In the Shadow of Fate, the companion book to A Promise of Fireflies, is an Amazon #1 bestseller in multiple poetry categories.
When Susan isn't writing, you'll find her tending her garden with a notorious brown thumb, or escaping into someone else's words. She enjoys mentoring new writers, and she's always on the lookout for the best in Australian black liquorice and ways to spoil her grandpuppy, a feisty Yorkie named Ryleigh. Yes, her son named his gorgeous Yorkshire Terrier after the main character in A Promise of Fireflies.
Susan and her husband call the mountains of Arizona home where they raised their son. They spend their spare time catering to a high-maintenance princess, their Shih Tzu, Mercedes, and on FaceTime with Ryleigh…and their son!
Learn more about Susan's award-winning Whisper of the Pines series, sign up for her Love is Ageless newsletter, or download her FREE companion book by visiting www.susanhaught.com
Follow Susan on social media:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SusanHaughtBKS
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanrhaught/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/srhaught/bo...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanhaught...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanhaug...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
April 26, 2019
A copy of this book was generously gifted by the author for my true and honest review.
At age 43, Ryleigh has spent the last year trying to recover from her husband's infidelity. Now she is dealing with the death of her mother and the secrets she has taken to her grave.
Curiosity is in her nature and the clues that have been left behind lead her to Ambrose, a quirky and often creepy, older man. Ambrose holds the answers to all the secrets. Answers that Ryleigh is not equipped to handle, on top of everything else.
Sent to Colorado, as a favor to her dear friend Natalie, Ryleigh meets Logan Cavanaugh. What transpires is both healing and heartbreaking, for both Ryleigh and Logan.
The author tells a wonderful love story. At times the story tends to drag with descriptive and flowery terms. However, the story was intriguing enough to make up for the moments that are slow. Ryleigh overcomes all that is thrown at her and, as suggested by Ambrose, learns to dance in the rain! A truly beautiful story about second chances and, of course, fireflies.
At age 43, Ryleigh has spent the last year trying to recover from her husband's infidelity. Now she is dealing with the death of her mother and the secrets she has taken to her grave.
Curiosity is in her nature and the clues that have been left behind lead her to Ambrose, a quirky and often creepy, older man. Ambrose holds the answers to all the secrets. Answers that Ryleigh is not equipped to handle, on top of everything else.
Sent to Colorado, as a favor to her dear friend Natalie, Ryleigh meets Logan Cavanaugh. What transpires is both healing and heartbreaking, for both Ryleigh and Logan.
The author tells a wonderful love story. At times the story tends to drag with descriptive and flowery terms. However, the story was intriguing enough to make up for the moments that are slow. Ryleigh overcomes all that is thrown at her and, as suggested by Ambrose, learns to dance in the rain! A truly beautiful story about second chances and, of course, fireflies.
January 22, 2017
Just Finished this book....such a great buy at 99 cents on Amazon!
I have never read anything like it! It is not you typical romance novel.
I love the way the author combined poetry within in the story! It added so much to the story line, and gave the Ryleigh, Logan and the other characters so much more depth. Not for the same reasons, but my husband is Logan in so many ways....it was as if she knew us, and some of our story. (Intentionally vague, as I hate spoilers!)
There were several different stories going on, which is something I personally like in a book, and you usually don't find in a romance. I would love to know more about Ambrose, and some of the other characters.
So many of the poems struck a chord with me.....some even had me in tears.... & will stay with me for a very long time.
Cannot wait to start her next book, "A Thousand Butterfly Wishes".
I have never read anything like it! It is not you typical romance novel.
I love the way the author combined poetry within in the story! It added so much to the story line, and gave the Ryleigh, Logan and the other characters so much more depth. Not for the same reasons, but my husband is Logan in so many ways....it was as if she knew us, and some of our story. (Intentionally vague, as I hate spoilers!)
There were several different stories going on, which is something I personally like in a book, and you usually don't find in a romance. I would love to know more about Ambrose, and some of the other characters.
So many of the poems struck a chord with me.....some even had me in tears.... & will stay with me for a very long time.
Cannot wait to start her next book, "A Thousand Butterfly Wishes".
January 22, 2017
Originally reviewed for www.buriedunderromance.com
A PROMISE OF FIREFLIES is the first novel in the Whisper of the Pines series by Susan Haught. It is a unique and, at times, a beautiful book. It also contains several original poems which add to the mystical feel of the book.
When Ryleigh Collins’ mother died, she left behind several unexplained items including letters and a blood-stained, leather journal with poetry written by someone using the initial “R”. Ryleigh, who was going through a divorce, decided to investigate. The things she learned and the people she met along the way have a profound impact on Ryleigh, not only on her past and what she thought she knew about her family, but also on her future.
The strength in this novel is definitely in the realistic and believable characters, especially the lead character, Ryleigh. It would be easy to feel sorry for her after all she’s been through with her mother’s death and a cheating husband, but I found myself admiring the way she handled all of the unexpected events that came her way. The supportive secondary characters, her best friend Natalie in particular, add warmth and depth to the story. Our hero, Logan Cavanaugh, doesn’t arrive till rather late in the story, but he is everything that you hope a hero will be. The only character that I didn’t like, her ex-husband, was by design.
As I started to read A PROMISE OF FIREFLIES, I could tell that this was a very special book. The mystery of the leather journal and Ryleigh’s past had me hooked right away. The complex storyline is well thought-out and well written, and even though it is slightly predictable in parts, there are enough surprises to keep it interesting.
In addition to the poetry that is found throughout the book, it is also written in lyrical prose, which gives it depth and texture. The descriptive passages are especially beautiful. The book has its own rhythm which keeps you engaged. This is where I made my mistake. I read the first half in one sitting and I was totally wrapped up in the characters and the story. I was not able to read the second half in such a cohesive manner, and it seemed to lose its rhythm each time I had to set it aside. By the end of the book, I had lost the rhythm entirely. I felt the last chapter in particular was slow and far too wordy, even for lyrical prose.
Given how much I loved the first half of the book, I like to think that the second half would have been just as wonderful if I hadn’t read it in choppy pieces. Either way, this is a book well worth the time. I’m giving it four stars, and I’m looking forward to the second novel in the series.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A PROMISE OF FIREFLIES is the first novel in the Whisper of the Pines series by Susan Haught. It is a unique and, at times, a beautiful book. It also contains several original poems which add to the mystical feel of the book.
When Ryleigh Collins’ mother died, she left behind several unexplained items including letters and a blood-stained, leather journal with poetry written by someone using the initial “R”. Ryleigh, who was going through a divorce, decided to investigate. The things she learned and the people she met along the way have a profound impact on Ryleigh, not only on her past and what she thought she knew about her family, but also on her future.
The strength in this novel is definitely in the realistic and believable characters, especially the lead character, Ryleigh. It would be easy to feel sorry for her after all she’s been through with her mother’s death and a cheating husband, but I found myself admiring the way she handled all of the unexpected events that came her way. The supportive secondary characters, her best friend Natalie in particular, add warmth and depth to the story. Our hero, Logan Cavanaugh, doesn’t arrive till rather late in the story, but he is everything that you hope a hero will be. The only character that I didn’t like, her ex-husband, was by design.
As I started to read A PROMISE OF FIREFLIES, I could tell that this was a very special book. The mystery of the leather journal and Ryleigh’s past had me hooked right away. The complex storyline is well thought-out and well written, and even though it is slightly predictable in parts, there are enough surprises to keep it interesting.
In addition to the poetry that is found throughout the book, it is also written in lyrical prose, which gives it depth and texture. The descriptive passages are especially beautiful. The book has its own rhythm which keeps you engaged. This is where I made my mistake. I read the first half in one sitting and I was totally wrapped up in the characters and the story. I was not able to read the second half in such a cohesive manner, and it seemed to lose its rhythm each time I had to set it aside. By the end of the book, I had lost the rhythm entirely. I felt the last chapter in particular was slow and far too wordy, even for lyrical prose.
Given how much I loved the first half of the book, I like to think that the second half would have been just as wonderful if I hadn’t read it in choppy pieces. Either way, this is a book well worth the time. I’m giving it four stars, and I’m looking forward to the second novel in the series.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
March 16, 2016
This is not the type of book I usually read which makes the review difficult to write. I read the blurb and assumed the story would be intense and romantic, but this was not the case. Ryleigh was a character in transition, she was coping with loss and surrounded by secrets. She struggled with moving forward which was realistic, her doubts and fears were something the reader could identify with. She was strong and stuck to her decisions, resisting the temptation to return to life as she knew it. Ryleigh was curious and the discovery of a hidden journal helped her see her mother in a new light.
I struggled to finish the book as it dragged on endlessly with little or no action. The events that took place didn't sit well with me, some parts were rushed or the continuity was weak. The author has an almost lyrical style of writing, you can imagine someone narrating the story to you and this kept me going. Even then, I did like the story but believe that editing and pacing could have made it a great read
I struggled to finish the book as it dragged on endlessly with little or no action. The events that took place didn't sit well with me, some parts were rushed or the continuity was weak. The author has an almost lyrical style of writing, you can imagine someone narrating the story to you and this kept me going. Even then, I did like the story but believe that editing and pacing could have made it a great read
March 20, 2016
Haught's writing has a lovely, lyrical quality I only wish my own stories had. Descriptions are vivid, and she brings the settings — from the Arizona mountains to a small town in upstate New York to a swanky Colorado resort — to life.
Ryleigh and Logan are both wonderful characters, and I love the sassy exchanges between them. The rest of the cast, from Ryleigh's son and the mysterious Ambrose to best friend Nat and ex-husband Chandler all have their place and do exactly what they're supposed to. Chandler is the kind of guy you — or at least I — love to hate.
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Haught.
Ryleigh and Logan are both wonderful characters, and I love the sassy exchanges between them. The rest of the cast, from Ryleigh's son and the mysterious Ambrose to best friend Nat and ex-husband Chandler all have their place and do exactly what they're supposed to. Chandler is the kind of guy you — or at least I — love to hate.
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Haught.
March 18, 2016
Written in lyrical prose, this is a story of one woman's journey through loss and betrayal to courage as she discovers truths and resolve to make a new life for herself.
Beautifully written! A five star read for sure.
Beautifully written! A five star read for sure.
June 9, 2016
I just really enjoyed this book! It is about discovering secrets of family to finding love again! And as a extra bonus! The beautiful Rocky Mts!
February 13, 2017
A Promise of Fireflies is a rich, multi-layered story about a woman who confronts her past in order to pave the way for her future. Ryleigh Collins, feeling alone and abandoned after the death of her mother along with the dissolution of her marriage, discovers a mysterious journal among her mother's things. Always curious, Ryleigh's journey leads her to Ambrose, an enigmatic gentlemen who not only knows the story of Ryleigh's past, but also seems to understand her present and possibly even her future. Overwhelmed by the life-altering things she learned about her past, confused and hurt about the status of her relationship with her husband, Ryleigh seeks refuge in the mountains of Colorado. When she arrives, she is immediately drawn to the owner of the resort, Logan Cavanaugh. When they are snowed in at the deserted resort, Logan and Ryleigh both become aware of growing feelings between them, but they are each scarred, unsure if they can break the bonds of their past to forge a future together. Told in beautiful prose with wonderful poetry sprinkled throughout the book, this story is told with honesty and tenderness. The wonderful love scenes between Logan and Ryleigh are so incredibly romantic and lovely, with lines like this, "I will promise your heart will never know emptiness, or want, or need, and I will protect your heart and your soul with everything that is in me."
October 12, 2016
In author Susie Haught's, A PROMISE OF FIREFLIES, the characters are colorful, the plot is believable and the friendships and romances are intriguing. The heroine, Ryleigh is coming to terms with the death of her mother, turmoil in her marriage and her son leaving home when she discovers clues to her past that are startling, Ryleigh goes on a quest to discover what her family legacy means, who she really is and what she wants. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
February 25, 2017
This is my first book from this amazing author... I love this twists and turns in that book. Great read so far!
December 3, 2020
Poetry and prose are a delightful combination, and that's what you get when you read A Promise of Fireflies.
Ryleigh loses her mother and husband in short order, and just to add salt to her would, her adult soon will also soon move on, which leaves Ryleigh alone, lonely, and down. Putting her mother's affairs in order does help take up her time, but soon she finds herself caught up in secrets that, once uncovered, make her realize how little she knew the woman who raised her.
And there's more, much more.
Old secrets, new love. A stranger who I would easily consider not of this world...
Susan Haught is a new-to-me author. I know; I don't know how I'd never discovered her. But I know her now, and I won't be happy until I've read all of her books.
Ryleigh loses her mother and husband in short order, and just to add salt to her would, her adult soon will also soon move on, which leaves Ryleigh alone, lonely, and down. Putting her mother's affairs in order does help take up her time, but soon she finds herself caught up in secrets that, once uncovered, make her realize how little she knew the woman who raised her.
And there's more, much more.
Old secrets, new love. A stranger who I would easily consider not of this world...
Susan Haught is a new-to-me author. I know; I don't know how I'd never discovered her. But I know her now, and I won't be happy until I've read all of her books.
Read
July 3, 2017Wow, the book's twist was interesting! Who wouldn't want a friend like hers that jumped on a plane when her friend was sad?
This is a voluntary review and I do not get paid for this review!
This is a voluntary review and I do not get paid for this review!
Want to read
April 7, 2020TheFussyLibrarian
April 18, 2020
Found this "free" book on Bookbub. Could not put it down! Ms Haught's written word took you exactly where she wanted you to go. A beautifully written book about family, friendship, true love and understanding. Loved it!
April 18, 2020
A good read for goodread
REALLY enjoyed this book . . . the characters, the back story, description, references to literature and music to name a few
REALLY enjoyed this book . . . the characters, the back story, description, references to literature and music to name a few
Want to read
April 9, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/9/2020)! 🎁
April 8, 2020
Love lost and found
Really enjoyed this story of broken hearts, broken lives and redemption. Love lost and love found. Fireflies lighting the way.
Really enjoyed this story of broken hearts, broken lives and redemption. Love lost and love found. Fireflies lighting the way.
June 1, 2020
Wonderful read
The author's command of words makes you feel as if you are right with her. The scenes that are sexual make you tingle with emotion. Wonderfully written.
The author's command of words makes you feel as if you are right with her. The scenes that are sexual make you tingle with emotion. Wonderfully written.
April 16, 2020
January 2019 I received a book titled "Outside the Lines" by Susan Haught. This was an author I'd never read before. I was blown away by the book and have since set out to obtain the rest of the books in the Whisper in the Pines series. I have managed to get all the others, except #5, but, I hope to get that one soon. This book...."A Promise of Fireflies" WOW!!! The story touched me in so many, many ways. The Vietnam War was a big part of my teenage years and my husband of 31 years is one of the many veterans from that era. Tho, he and I weren't in each others lives at that time, that time had a big impact on us both that lives on in our hearts today. I want to thank you, Susan, for taking on such a hard, controversial time in our history. You made those young men's stories real, just like the thousands of other stories from that time and that effects many veterans still today. I really loved "Outside the Lines", but...now..."A Promise of Fireflies" will always be one of my top favorites, along with "Wuthering Heights" and "Gone With the Wind". I really hope, Susan, that you have gotten a chance to see the fireflies or that you will sometime soon. Their arrival during the nights here in our foothills of The Great Smoky Mountains are my favorite part of our summer months. Hope you keep the great stories coming. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series.
December 4, 2016
This is a lovely story of a 43 year old woman's journey through her past. Ryleigh has had a really bad year. Her long marriage to her husband, Chandler, has ended because of his infidelity, her mother has died of cancer and her only child, Evan, is moving away to accept an internship. With the support of her best friend from childhood, Natalie, she starts going through her mother's things. Her mother was a very private person, but with the discovery of a journal and a "push" from her son and Natalie, she sets on a journey to discover who her parents really were. And with the guidance of the mysterious Ambrose, she discovers what was and what could be. I very rarely give f stars to a book, but I love this book.
March 25, 2016
Loved the lyrical feel of the writing, the well thought out details, the many twist and turns, and the strength of the characters! I am lucky enough to know the author personally, and found that the personal details of the story as they relate to the author's real life made the story so much more enjoyable! It was a true pleasure to read this book and feel connected to it in a way I found with no other. Thanks Susan, it was a pleasure!!
August 5, 2016
What a great story of sacrifice and love. Fireflies is incredibly well written and I love the author's style. Ryleigh's journey is heartfelt and I was pulled along every step of the way. This is more than a romance and reminiscent of Barbara Delinski and LaVyrle Spencer, two women's fictions authors I've loved for years. 5 Amazing Stars!
August 4, 2016
A must read!
This novel was brought to life before my eyes. For someone who has lived in both NY and Arizona, the details were life-like. The story kept me guessing until the end and I loved the twists and turns. Can't wait to start the next book.
This novel was brought to life before my eyes. For someone who has lived in both NY and Arizona, the details were life-like. The story kept me guessing until the end and I loved the twists and turns. Can't wait to start the next book.
April 29, 2020
A Promise of Fireflies is a vibrant, multi-layered story about a woman who confronts her past to find her way onward. Middle-aged Ryleigh Collins feels alone and abandoned after the death of her mother and the imminent dissolution of her marriage. But while sorting her mother’s belongings, Ryleigh discovers her mother wasn’t quite the person she thought she knew so well. After she decides to pursue answers to the riddles left behind, the bereft woman finds that the family she cherished was only a dream.
Among her late mother's possessions, she discovers a strange notebook. Ever-inquisitive Ryleigh, seeks out Ambrose, a mysterious elderly gentleman. Apparently, he isn't just familiar with Ms. Ryleigh's past, but also seems to know a lot about her present and possibly even her future. Confused by the things she learns about history, and profoundly hurt by her soon-to-be ex-husband's infidelity, Ryleigh seeks refuge in the Colorado mountains.
Upon her arrival, she is almost immediately drawn to the owner of the resort, Mr. Logan Cavanaugh. When a snowstorm hits, and they are sequestered together at the deserted resort, Logan and Ryleigh become aware of their growing feelings for each other. However, they are haunted by their demons. They are each so scarred, they are unsure if they can break free from the shackles of their past to forge a future together.
The author has woven a story of loss and love, sprinkled with beautiful poetry, and this search for truth and forgiveness is told with candor and tenderness. The interactions between Logan and Ryleigh are incredibly passionate. A Promise of Fireflies truly engulfs the reader in a tantalizing romance that most of us can only dream about. And although the characters in this book aren't flawless (but then, who is?), it shows that at any age, life can become exhilarating again if you only dare to put your fears aside, and face the unknown. The author shows how our most deep-seated anxieties can keep us from the love and life we desire and explores the pitfalls with courage and openness.
Among her late mother's possessions, she discovers a strange notebook. Ever-inquisitive Ryleigh, seeks out Ambrose, a mysterious elderly gentleman. Apparently, he isn't just familiar with Ms. Ryleigh's past, but also seems to know a lot about her present and possibly even her future. Confused by the things she learns about history, and profoundly hurt by her soon-to-be ex-husband's infidelity, Ryleigh seeks refuge in the Colorado mountains.
Upon her arrival, she is almost immediately drawn to the owner of the resort, Mr. Logan Cavanaugh. When a snowstorm hits, and they are sequestered together at the deserted resort, Logan and Ryleigh become aware of their growing feelings for each other. However, they are haunted by their demons. They are each so scarred, they are unsure if they can break free from the shackles of their past to forge a future together.
The author has woven a story of loss and love, sprinkled with beautiful poetry, and this search for truth and forgiveness is told with candor and tenderness. The interactions between Logan and Ryleigh are incredibly passionate. A Promise of Fireflies truly engulfs the reader in a tantalizing romance that most of us can only dream about. And although the characters in this book aren't flawless (but then, who is?), it shows that at any age, life can become exhilarating again if you only dare to put your fears aside, and face the unknown. The author shows how our most deep-seated anxieties can keep us from the love and life we desire and explores the pitfalls with courage and openness.
February 11, 2020
I’ve read a lot of romantic fiction. Ever since I was a child and my mother introduced me to the Tales of King Arthur, I’ve dreamed of being rescued by a knight on a white horse. A Promise of Fireflies is indeed a promise of all that women hold dear about falling in love. The characters in this book aren’t perfect people. Ryleigh (the heroine) has to deal with deep emotional scars, lies, and the challenge of opening to a new perspective on life. And the rich cast of characters all confront her—dare her—to put her fears to rest and be willing to face a new future. But as anyone with relationship experience knows, that’s as easy as finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
In action/adventure stories there’s an obvious evil villain. But in real life our villains are often those of our own making. Susan Haught shows how our deepest fears can trap and keep us from the life and love that we desire, and she explores these potential pitfalls with courage, openness, and such beautiful phrasing. There are letters that will make your heart swell, poetry that will make you cry, and love that will make you yearn to recapture that first feeling of falling for someone.
Haught’s deftness with description brings the scenery to life, no matter the season, even to the point that snow and icicles and frozen water (I don’t like winter at all) become breathtaking. And she is such the romantic. Your heart will go out to Ryleigh from the beginning and you won’t stop feeling for her and with her until the very end. I LOVED this book. A Promise of Fireflies (the first in a series) is a beautiful, captivating story that gives you romance with a capital “R.”
In action/adventure stories there’s an obvious evil villain. But in real life our villains are often those of our own making. Susan Haught shows how our deepest fears can trap and keep us from the life and love that we desire, and she explores these potential pitfalls with courage, openness, and such beautiful phrasing. There are letters that will make your heart swell, poetry that will make you cry, and love that will make you yearn to recapture that first feeling of falling for someone.
Haught’s deftness with description brings the scenery to life, no matter the season, even to the point that snow and icicles and frozen water (I don’t like winter at all) become breathtaking. And she is such the romantic. Your heart will go out to Ryleigh from the beginning and you won’t stop feeling for her and with her until the very end. I LOVED this book. A Promise of Fireflies (the first in a series) is a beautiful, captivating story that gives you romance with a capital “R.”
October 29, 2018
This is not a light read but a rather long intense journey of Ryleigh finding herself after a divorce from her cheating ex, who know sees the error of his ways & wants her back.
After her mothers death she also seeks to find the truth regarding her late father & meets an interesting psychic like man called Ambrose who fills her in the truths. There's more to it but I'll leave it at that. The fireflies will make sense too.
She is encouraged by her friends to visit a resort to help their business where she meets Logan the owner. He is a widower & fighting his own demons. Of course their interlude turns cold for various reasons, his more so than hers. I must admit by then I felt like I had been wading through the story. I'm quite a quick reader so you have to bear with it to see where the story goes.
From time to time you get the viewpoint of some of the other characters. The story is quite descriptive, angsty at times but I did like the characters as they were older (40ish).
I wasn't disappointed as I enjoyed the story but be prepared as it gets a bit heavy at times & there is a lot going on.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
After her mothers death she also seeks to find the truth regarding her late father & meets an interesting psychic like man called Ambrose who fills her in the truths. There's more to it but I'll leave it at that. The fireflies will make sense too.
She is encouraged by her friends to visit a resort to help their business where she meets Logan the owner. He is a widower & fighting his own demons. Of course their interlude turns cold for various reasons, his more so than hers. I must admit by then I felt like I had been wading through the story. I'm quite a quick reader so you have to bear with it to see where the story goes.
From time to time you get the viewpoint of some of the other characters. The story is quite descriptive, angsty at times but I did like the characters as they were older (40ish).
I wasn't disappointed as I enjoyed the story but be prepared as it gets a bit heavy at times & there is a lot going on.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
June 23, 2017
Susan Haught’s A Promise of Fireflies is a well-crafted book with some beautiful poems within the story. Ryleigh Collins’s story is one of self-realization, self-reliant and self-trusting. Her personal life has taken a huge hit with her cheating ex but it is the death of her mother that moves her forward as she searches for the truth of the diary found in her mother’s belonging.
Not always a cheerful read, I found Kyleigh’s journey to be pleasing in the end. I read somewhere that truth can be like surgery painful but that it can lead to healing. That is pretty much the experience of Kyleigh. The answers are not always easy or what was expected, causing more questions to arise. Still lies can lead to death; her marriage is a case in point. She is better for having the truth.
The plot is for the most part evenly paced though a few times with Kyleigh’s situation it wanted to bog down. However, there are subplots and interesting characters, past and present that keep this story rolling. While there is romance in this story, it is not early on. Fans of women’s fiction would enjoy this the most.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
Not always a cheerful read, I found Kyleigh’s journey to be pleasing in the end. I read somewhere that truth can be like surgery painful but that it can lead to healing. That is pretty much the experience of Kyleigh. The answers are not always easy or what was expected, causing more questions to arise. Still lies can lead to death; her marriage is a case in point. She is better for having the truth.
The plot is for the most part evenly paced though a few times with Kyleigh’s situation it wanted to bog down. However, there are subplots and interesting characters, past and present that keep this story rolling. While there is romance in this story, it is not early on. Fans of women’s fiction would enjoy this the most.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
May 27, 2020
At first this story is about a love that has broken. We meet Ryleigh and her son Evan and her former husband Chandler. The love that has been broken cannot be easily healed and in this story, it is not healed. We meet them in the midst of a divorce. Later, Ryleigh meets Ambrose following the death of her mother and while looking into her early life with her father. Learning about her father and then her daddy and their history with her mother and herself, she comes to face some pretty deep emotions. She also learns that love has many different faces. She meets Logan at a Rocky Mountain Resort and learns that she can fall in love again and it doesn't necessarily feel like it did the first time. The writing in this story is phenomenal, making the emotions so strong. I felt them so hard that I cried and danced for joy at different places in this wonderful story. This story is a very good read , and an emotional roller coaster at times, just like life can be. I loved it.
December 17, 2017
You know when you're out in the frigid weather and come inside, shed your outer garments, curl up by the fire under a soft blanket, and the heat slowly seeps in until you're all warm, content and cozy? That is this book. Like a well-aged scotch, this book begs to be savored, allowing the heady aroma to surround you, relishing the hidden smokiness that teases the palate and being consumed by the smooth warmth as it permeates your being. This exquisitely evocative story shows what many know but few have fully embraced, that the heart has an unlimited capacity for love. Just as light cannot be truly appreciated without darkness, it takes the trials of loss, pain and grief to expand and strengthen the heart to fully experience the beautiful richness and unbounding joy of a deep, abiding love. This is Ryleigh's story.
July 24, 2018
Reminds me of a Thomas Kincaid painting…
One description in A Promise of Fireflies says it all for me: “Old-fashioned lampposts bordered the winding path, diffused light radiating from them like a strand of pearls shimmering in the wake of the incandescent moonlight. “Reminds me of a Thomas Kincaid painting,” Ryleigh said under her breath, “and fairy tales.”
Reminds me of a Thomas Kincaid. Kincaid paintings have an internal glow. As I read, that’s exactly how I felt. The lyrical prose, rich descriptions, and rounded characters combine to create not only a great story, but a unique world the reader is invited to share.
I read it in the summer, but I think I’ll re-read it in the middle of winter when I need something warm and comforting. Highly recommend!
One description in A Promise of Fireflies says it all for me: “Old-fashioned lampposts bordered the winding path, diffused light radiating from them like a strand of pearls shimmering in the wake of the incandescent moonlight. “Reminds me of a Thomas Kincaid painting,” Ryleigh said under her breath, “and fairy tales.”
Reminds me of a Thomas Kincaid. Kincaid paintings have an internal glow. As I read, that’s exactly how I felt. The lyrical prose, rich descriptions, and rounded characters combine to create not only a great story, but a unique world the reader is invited to share.
I read it in the summer, but I think I’ll re-read it in the middle of winter when I need something warm and comforting. Highly recommend!
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