2019 B.R.A.G. MEDALLION HONOREE 2019 Readers' Favorite Silver MedalistA man running from his past. A woman fighting for her future.In what world could the two of them ever connect? Not this one. Richard is certain small-town Summitville, North Carolina is a safe haven from his demons…until a woman with stunning green eyes resurrects the protective instinct that once cost him everything. And rattles the walls of his armored heart. Noémie knows her place in this prejudiced town, but Richard is temptation on two wheels. Despite their best intentions, attraction—and trouble—finds them both. Can love bloom where it’s planted, or will hate rip out their love by the roots?
Bestselling and multiple award-winning author Victoria Saccenti writes what she loves to read: contemporary steamy/dark romance, PNR and Fantasy romance, MC Daddies and 20th century military. She can’t resist exploring the twists and turns of human interaction and the ways of love. Her characters are flawed, angsty, and seeking redemption. The good news is she’s an avowed optimist, so expect to read happy endings. A native of Cuba, she speaks English and Spanish fluently, loves to dance salsa and drink single malt whisky. After thirty years of traveling the world for an international company, she’s settled in Central Florida, where she splits her busy schedule between family and her active muse at Essence Publishing. However, if she could convince her husband to sell their home, she would pack up her computer and move to Scotland, a land she adores.
When Richard Winters points his Harley away from New York and heads south, looking for peace and a release from the memories of a devastating love affair, he wants nothing more than solitude and an opportunity to find himself again. The small town of Summitville in North Carolina where nobody knows him seems a great place to start again, but what he doesn’t count on, though, is meeting the beautiful and desirable young Creole woman by the name of Noémie whose desirability he must fight if he truly is to fulfil his promise to himself of no romantic entanglements. Set in the mid-sixties, against the background of the Civil Right’s Movement, Noémie’s Journey by Victoria Saccenti explores the reality of life for a beautiful coloured woman in the South. Laws may have changed, but attitudes will take generations to change. Richard, a Yankee, from up north, has no perception of what an interracial relationship will entail in North Carolina in the sixties, but Noémie knows well the ingrained racism of her fellow residents that she deals with every single day of her life.
Noémie’s Journey serves to remind us just how far we have come in the forty years in race relations, but equally it also makes us examine our feelings toward people who are different to us, today – a touchstone for American society, as much now, as it ever has been. Author Victoria Saccenti does a superb job of highlighting the institutional and deep racism that was just below the surface of civil society, especially in the South, in those turbulent years of the mid to late sixties. At its heart this book is a love story and a beautiful one at that. I particularly loved the author’s ability to convey the depth of love and the power of their passion, in her words, without ever having to resort to crudity or erotica. As a reader, I felt the build-up of sexual tension and revelled in the “when will they”, just as much as the participants. This is a real fillip to the author and it is what makes this book so very readable and one of the best of its genre. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can highly recommend it to all readers who like a true romance, but also enjoy a bit of action and thoughtful social comment.
This story mmediately gripped me and realised two things. One left me wondering why I thought Victoria Saccenti wrote twee romances! The second was this autho is a born story-teller. As it progressed, I knew I’d found a new favourite author.
The setting in sixties saw a courtesy and politeness we don’t see so much any more. I also loved the references to the fashion and everything from the sixties era.
Richard Winters was a great manly hero, he had his own troubles and took off for a new life. He hadn’t expected to find Noémie or to fall in love. She was fragile, yet strong, feisty, yet frightened. She needed someone behind her to give her confidence in herself and Richard was that man.
It’s a gritty story dealing with racism, domestic abusive, and alcoholism. All extremely well handled by the author. The suspense builds throughout the book: the female tormentor, - will she get her just deserts? Her vicious boyfriend, what will he do next? Noémie’s alcoholic father, would he attack her again, and the sexual tension between her and Richard. Everything was dealt with satisfactory, the reader was given everything their desired and needed to get fulfilment from story!
In the late 1960's American south, unsegregated schools are a recent occurrence and racism is still rampant. A mixed union is not only frowned upon but also actively and violently opposed. Noemie develops the courage and determination to break out of the shackles with the help of Richard, a New Yorker unaware of the underlying racist politics. received as a complimentary review copy from VRO
Noemie’s Journey is a wonderfully evocative story, with enduring characters and a writing style that cuts straight to the heart. Set in the turbulent 1960s, it poignantly addresses the divide between traditional values and moral imperatives. It’s a beautiful romance whose historical setting frames the obstacles they had to overcome.
What a beautiful story. I definitely fell in love Noemie, she’s so strong. Will her brother and herself have a chance in life. First time author for me but not the last.
This story addresses racism as it was in the late 1960s. The lives of two people, Noemie and Richard, are well developed separately. We get to know their individual characters and personalities. The story is about how these two people find each other and fall in love. But it is not that simple.
Societal circumstances of the time period keep them apart, each knowing their expected position in the social status of the community. But both are strong enough to break through the limitations that hold them apart and hold them down in society as well. This is a great story of overcoming. It’s a story about finding where people can live freely.
This story is full of strong characters in addition to the two main ones. This author knows how to develop her story people and move them through the plot.
Noémi’s Journey by author Victoria Saccenti, is a MUST READ for anyone who loves to read an incredibly romantic well written story with compelling characters.
The story takes place in 1968, in Summitville, North Carolina. Although laws were changing and schools were beginning to become integrated, the hearts of many whites, (particularly Southern whites), were stalled in their way of thinking. Although there is a small handful of people who don’t judge a person simply by the color of their skin, most citizens have continued the history of strong prejudice.
Noémi Bellarose is beautiful; with startling green eyes and a lovely spirit; she is also half Creole. Because of her father’s drunken and abusive disposition, Noémi is the main caregiver of her younger brother, Gerry. Her main responsibility is to keep Gerry away from their abusive father, who has an intense hatred for his young son, blaming him for the death of his beloved wife, Noémi and Gerry’s mother. Noémi’s café colored skin has made her the favorite punching bag to the town’s worst citizen, the powerful, Serena. Serena’s fiancé, Travis, also has it out for Noémi, but in a darker way.
Richard Winters has left New York in his rearview mirror. Destiny has him landing in Summitville, NC. His looks are a handsome and sexy as his boots and Shovelhead Harley Davison motorcycle. Better than his good looks, is his good heart.
Noémi and Richard have an instant attraction that is not only physical, but emotional. Theirs is a beautiful love story that realizes although on the exterior we may be different, on the inside we are very much alike; with insecurities and fears. The difference is how we deal with those emotions. Noémi and Richard will make a reader’s short list as best romantic couple.
Ms. Saccenti’s writing is compelling and lyrical. Her descriptive writing immerses the reader into the era, scene and story. The characters of Noémi’s Journey, (both main and secondary), are well developed. Her talented writing allows the reader to understand why the characters behave the way they do.
I highly recommend this book for everyone who believes in Love.
What I liked most about this book was the honest way the author portrayed the racial prejudice in the southern part of the United States in the 60s. Noemie Bellerose is a girl of mixed race and until her family moved to North Carolina, she had no idea that she was considered an outcast because of her race. With a mother of color and white father, she found that she was not accepted in either community. But, the torture didn't end there. With the death of her mother, her father became an abusive alcoholic and did not hold back on the punches in his rages. He blamed Noemie's little brother, Gerry, for their mother's death and often took his rage out on the young boy. Noemie was a girl-driven. Driven to make a better life for her and her little brother, driven to get an education, and driven to look out for her father, even despite his abuse. But, when Richard Winters rode his Harley Davidson Chopper into the small North Carolina town, looking for refuge and escape from a heartache so big it forced him to run, things began to change for Noemie. But, not just for Noemie, for Richard too. With a steel lock around his heart, he was sure nothing could get through, but Noemie did. Racial prejudice was horrific. The abuse Noemie suffered at the hands of her father was horrific, but the love she found with Richard was redeeming. I loved this story. I have to admit that I was almost ready to put the book down by the third chapter, as it got off to a slow start. But into the fourth chapter, I was hooked and couldn't stop until I reached a satisfying conclusion. Steamy romance, racial prejudice, everlasting friendships, and steely determination drive this story.
Noémie's Journey is a love story written by Victoria Saccenti, an award-winning writer that writes romantic women's fiction, contemporary romance, and paranormal romance, so readers can say she knows a thing or two about love. This is the story about Noemi, a small town girl that finds herself falling for Richard, a man that will do everything to protect her, but the racism that she deals with every single day of her life will come between them and will get them into trouble. I have to say I really enjoyed this story, not only because it is set in the mid to late sixties, and the characters have to face racism and issues we wouldn’t even think of having nowadays but also because the characters are so compelling! It made me feel all the emotions! It is a very good novel to read and disconnect from real life. Domestic abuse and alcoholism also play a part in this story, but they develop very smoothly, which to me was interesting to see compared to other books. I really like Saccenti’s writing, and I will definitely read more of her books!
Oh how I love romance books with a great emotional depth. This book is one of those. Noémie's Journey by Victoria Saccenti is one of the unique books with a romantic flavor that stands out. It begins when two characters met and eventually fell in love, however, there were of course circumstances that prevent them from being happy.
Set in the 1960s, the story centered around characters Richard and Noémie. They are of different races and this is where the challenge begins between them because it created a conflict. What especially made me fall in love with this book was the heavy amount of angst. The character development was also notable in this book. I especially loved the romantic progress as well as how the plot turned out as chapters went by. For me, this book tells not just a romance but with different aspects as well. For historical romance fans, this book will totally win your hearts!
Victoria Saccenti has crafted a historic romantic novel set in the 1960s about two very strong characters who belong to different races. Noémie, the female character, is a creole girl who has a small family and who takes care of her little brother. Richard, the male character, is a white man from NY with a complex life that made him escape from his hometown. Both characters are portrayed as strong ones with difficult realities and their personalities are well-developed separately. Life and destiny have placed them in the same place and time and they fell in love. However, they know being together is not easy due to the strong racism at play during those days. The story is easy to follow since the different dialogues mingled in the narrative helps the reader follow the sequences of events. Each of the 22 chapters are catchy and full of romance which would linger even after finishing the book. Give this story a try!
In this book by Victoria Saccenti, readers will be whisked away to a small North Carolina town during the 1960s. At first glance, the town seems to be a charming spot, but within its borders there’s hatred for some members, especially toward a young woman named Noémie. While she tries to live a docile life, she soon finds that might change thanks to a newcomer named Richard. Richard arrives at her town to begin a new life. Both foster an attraction toward each other, much to the dismay of the townspeople.
This historical fiction novel dives into the evilness of racism and how it destroyed many people’s lives. Saccenti includes numerous well-developed characters and writes with a great style that will make putting this book down difficult to do. The story is about 267 pages so it might be a little long for some. Overall, if you enjoy history and romance, this is a great book to consider reading.
The buildup of this novel is great! It doesn’t start off as a romance, instead showcasing a supportive small Southern town during the Civil Rights movement. I think the best parts of the buildup are the sprinklings of details, rather than circumstances being explained narrative-style. For example, we only learn about Noémie’s color through, an engaging and realistic, dialogue with her boss, Mr. Thornton, about the “rules” of the town. There are also jewels of insights like, “Kids start out blank canvases. They become their parents’ creation.” Perhaps this sentence should be printed in every book at least once. But of course, it is a romance, and has those elements—a handsome man and a beautiful woman, each outrunning their demons. In their relationship, I enjoyed their dialogues, and how they were obsessed with each other but still honest and genuine with their words.
A Different Perspective on Love Noemie Bellerose is of mixed heritage. The kind that spells trouble in 1968 North Carolina. She is Creole caught between two worlds. Neither white nor black according to impossible standards placed before her by an intolerant society. She is considered black. He is white - a Yankee from up North named Richard Winters. They meet and an unexpected attraction overwhelms the both of them. But it also spells serious trouble. It takes him a while to understand the real danger they are both in. The writing is easy to follow and makes for an enjoyable reading experience. I love the pace of the story. These kinds of tales are an uneasy read for me because of the injustice of it all. A creole woman has a very difficult life if she lives in the south where interracial unions are prohibited. This story ends like a fairy tale. Just the way I like it. 5 Stars for a story well told.
“Noémie’s Journey” is a book written by Victoria Saccenti, Award-winning, multi-genre author. This fascinating romance story is a perfect read for the weekend; it is not long, as it has almost three hundred pages - all of pure enjoyment. The story focuses on the love story of Richard and Noémie who seem to be of different world. Could they be together? This is the question I asked myself from the very beginning. I was caught by the story from the first pages until finishing the book. I liked the author’s writing style as it is simple to follow and very enjoyable. The book is divided into twenty-two chapters, one more interesting than the last one. The ones I liked the most were the last ones. I would definitely recommend reading this very good story. I am giving it four out of five stars because it is a very enjoyable read.
Noémie’s Journey by Victoria Saccenti is a tender love story that fights the odds of racism, abuse, and a broken heart. Noémie is originally from New Orleans, where mixed marriages are accepted. When her family moves to Summitville, she enters an unfamiliar world of prejudice and hatred. Richard is hurt badly by someone he thought he loved, but now he just wants to run. Finding a small town to hide his sorrows, he doesn’t expect the turmoil and danger he finds just by protecting a young woman. I found Noémie’s Journey fascinating. Victoria Saccenti does a beautiful job conveying the prejudice attitude many people have and their horrible beliefs. Living in the South, I could easily see this novel playing out fifty years ago. I loved the suspense in the story as the tension built up. At the end, you felt like everything came together as it should.
The author has written books that fall within the genre of romantic fiction. This book was based on a different timeline (1960's) which determined the personality of characters and their respective dialogues. The location and town setting has an old-time feel to it which is further reinforced by some of the verbal interactions between the main characters Noémie and Richard. In a place that is riddled with racism and prejudice, they develop a strong attraction towards each other. It showcases the problematic beliefs of the town people and how it impacts the power dynamic between black and white people. There are certain dialogues that pay particular attention to the thoughts and ideas of Noémie as a mixed-race individual. Readers that are curious about history and how it influences romantic relationships might find this piece of fiction revealing.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 may have proven the equality of all Americans on paper, but it was years before people would accept the trusts in society. In Noémie’s Journey, Victoria Saccenti does an excellent job of showing the harsh and oftentimes cruel reality of Southern America in the 1960s. Through the experiences of Noémie a mixed race girl one gets a glimpse into the unjust and terrifying life people had to endure in the South. In particular, Saccenti does an excellent job of presenting the quandary of mixed race people in general, “we ain’t Black enough, or White enough. Neither camp will embrace us. We’re isolated in our uniqueness.“ The novel is not heavy handed and the underlying romance makes it a touching and hopeful read as the reader journeys with Noémie through her adversities and onto happiness.
It was sometimes a bit hard to read of Noemie's treatment by the town's rich bullies, but even harder to see that she was resigned to it as a way of life. When she meets Richard, she tries to ignore the sparks due to the times. Richard, being from the north, didn't understand nor except the south's way of life. The story is filled with a richness, both of the times that existed, and a beautiful romance of two people falling in love. As a child of the 60s, I found it one of the best heartwarming romance stories and a real page turner. This is my first read by this author and I look forward to reading more of her books. I would like to thank Reading Deals for gifting me "Noemie's Journey". My opinion is my own. This is mine. 5 easy Stars!
This book is a wholesome read. I enjoyed it from start to finish.
Noemie, a very beautiful colored girl, moved with her parents from Louisiana to North Carolina, in the South, where the bigotry of racism is still alive and striving. She falls in love with Richard Winters, a white man. Now, she has to contend with Serena, a spoilt white brat who uses her as a sidekick. Serena wants Richard and Richard loves Noemie. There is also Travis, engaged to Serena but bent on raping Noemie because that’s what twisted white men believe is their right to do, to use and discard black women. What a complicated and risky situation!
The story is well written and very entertaining. It is a story I would like to read again.
A great romantic novel. Victoria Saccenti is a great writer of the romantic genre. But she doesn't remain in cliches and classic love's stories. In her novel, Noémie's Journey, she sets out a unique and complicated relationship between the main characters. This is a romantic novel but includes social issues such as racism and domestic violence. The book is definitely interesting and original. I felt that it is a deep story and I could empathize with the characters. Also, it is set in the 60s, which provides a really good historical context, in my opinion. The storyline is as captivating as the cover. I think it is a perfect option to leave traditional readings and to enjoy a great novel like this one.
Set in a small southern town in 1968. Segregationis outlawed, but so many small-minded people still clung to those beliefs. Noemie has had a very difficult life, but has kept a positive outlook through all of it. She's doing everything she can to raise her little brother, putting him above everything else. She is a beautiful person inside and out and deserves happiness. Richard moves to this small town to escape a past that haunts him. He just wants to start over and be left alone. Until he meets Noemie. Then everything changes. Their journey is full of hardship and struggles, but they are determined to make it work. This is a beautiful love story for two people who deserve a happily-ever-after...but it won't be easy to get there.
Noémie'S Journey is a moving story and so real that it leaves you with a bittersweet taste. It is written by Victoria Saccenti. I discovered this writer in this book and she really amazed me. The story takes place in the 1960s in a small town in North Carolina. With two central characters, Richard and Noemie. She is a mixed race girl with a dysfunctional family full of abuse. He is a white man who escapes from a dark past. Could the two of them live a love beyond the racial persecutions of the time? The story is full of twists and plots. It is so complex that it did not stop surprising me until the end. This book managed to awaken in me that feeling of not being able to stop reading. The narration is very careful and the reading is fluid. It is easy to dive into the plot. Personally, I was hooked and lived it from within. It is told in the third person as a novel, but following the historical events of the time in a chronological and objective way. I definitely recommend reading this novel. And especially to those who want to embark on an unforgettable love story
Set in the mid-1960s, this story has the perfect combination where romance and passion mix to form a compelling story. "Noémie's Journey" is an extremely powerful story of a young woman who lives in a small town in North Carolina, but her life is turned upside down with the arrival of Richard. For him, the town is the perfect place to leave his past behind, but when he meets Noémie everything changes. Author Victoria Saccenti created a very good work. The plot is gripping right from the start and the characters are well described and drawn. I highly recommend this entertaining story to anyone who enjoys romance readings.
This romantic novel is one of a kind. I was very happy when I found it in the store because many people had recommended it to me, I was told how well written it was. Everything people told me was true. I enjoyed this book a lot, the scenes are so well described that they seem real. I read it very quickly and now I want to read more of this kind of book and from this author. The story is about a man who moves to a small town escaping from his past. There, he thought he would be able to start a new life. However, he soon meets an attractive woman who awakens his protective instinct, a behaviour he was trying to leave behind. I recommend this book; it is a high quality read.
This middle length read was very good. Noemie’s Journey, written by Victoria Saccenti, is a very good story which has as its main characters Noemie and Richard. Would the two of them have a happy ending? That is what I asked myself most of the read, but of course I won’t spoil a thing.
Characters were very well developed and portrayed. I could mostly empathise with Richard. Moreover, the plot is interesting and well developed; its pace is also important. It kept me interested from beginning to end.
I certainly recommend this book for lovers of romance. This read won’t disappoint them!
For those who grew up when there was segregation, or in a small town, or in the South, you will find this story to be true to society then. Or, if you lived in an alcoholic and abusive family then you will relate to Noemie and her brother. If you have received the gift of unconditional and abiding love, you will smile and enjoy the relationship Richard and Noemie have. Well-written and a good read.
We are proud to announce that Noémie's Journey by Vitoria Saccenti is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
"Noémie's Journey" by Victoria Saccenti Richard and Noémie A great story about prejudice and two people overcoming it. Received this ARC and am leaving an honest review.