Amos

Homecoming #2

by Jessica Marie Holt

Unsatisfied with his post-retirement existence, and facing yet another frigid winter, Amos dreams of a meaningful life in a tropical paradise. Instead, he finds himself increasingly suffocated by his dingy house, his dull routine, and his overbearing daughter. Will he succumb and accept his fate, or find a way to take his life back?

23 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2018

Reviews

[Nadine Keels · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Where there is life, there is hope."

Amos made his peace with his wife's passing long ago, but his post-retirement life is still lonely, and rather monotonous. When the matter of his health gives his daughter ideas about what upcoming changes will be best for him, Amos has a decision to make in Amos by author Jessica Marie Holt.

Just like the story that precedes this one in the Homecoming series, this is an excellent example of how much substance a short story can have. It moves at a contemplative pace, and although the plot could have become too depressing for me, it takes an exciting turn when it needs to.

Something I appreciate about this series so far is the way it illustrates how people can take new risks and embark on new adventures later in life. And, also as I did while reading the previous story, I felt tears come to my eyes twice—once on account of a little heartbreak, and once on account of hope. Gentle triumph, really.

This author has such an ear for these characters, as well as a lovely and polished writing style. I can't wait to see how this series wraps up.
_________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this a little better than the first in the series, but I'm still a little torn... While I like the idea of letting an older character have their own life and dreams, and yes, the daughter was a little overbearing, the chosen solution just didn't sit very well with me, especially since the frustrating protectiveness was based in real care and concern. I felt like I was caught between sympathizing with Amos and sympathizing with his daughter, honestly. :S I've really enjoyed several of this author's works, so I'm not sure why this series isn't quite hitting me right, but I will probably go on to the next book for the end of the story. ;)

Content--mention of a divorce; "magic" and "fairy godmother" used figuratively; death of an animal; mentions of a medical emergency

[Guy Worthey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Holt delivers another carefully crafted story that tugs at the heartstrings like a harpist at the harp. It is best read with its prequel, Elsie. Amos is a widower rattling around in an aging house with little to look forward to. He dreams of tropical locations but feels trapped under Michigan's thumb. Events add to his pressures until something bursts, and his life will be forever changed.


(How's that for a vague nothing, haha!) But, seriously, this is worth (half) the price of a cup of coffee. A story to cozy up with.

[Lisa A. Upchurch · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's never too late...

I loved this short story! Amos' predicament is so very relatable to a stay-at-home mom like me who finds the daily grind comforting and stifling by turns. I particularly appreciate the character of Samuel, who was a very poignant and unexpected source of encouragement for Amos to grab for his dream. The ending had me smiling through tears, which is always a winning combination for me. Thanks for another wonderful story!

[Marie L Arroyo]

Amos

Awesome read. Ties together her previous story. Can’t wait for the next. Well written, leaves you hungry for more. Good description could almost see the ocean.

[Becca McCulloch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely but very brief

I wanted more from this. Amos is a lovely character and I wanted more time with him. The story is very sorry of plot, more a glimpse than a portrait