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Pigeon Grove #1
Between the Lines
Is accepting a troubled past safer than embracing an uncertain future?
Sophie Holland, quiet and unassuming on the outside, is lost in the shadows of her fiancé, Travis Turner. It's the same place her troubled past hides.
With her thoughts and ideas longing to escape the protective shell she's carefully built, will the quiet southern charm of Pigeon Grove and its residents provide the nudge Sophie needs to help her dreams take flight?
To his family and friends, thirty-year-old Mason Shaw appears an open book. Unafraid to bare his emotions, few people know Mason has secretly buried the guilt of a decades-old decision, which still haunts him.
Can Mason overcome childhood demons to find his place in the world, or will the return of Travis, his high school archrival, threaten to destroy everything he believes... about fate, the pursuit of dreams, and love?
Trust, of self and others, hides in that fragile space between holding on and letting go...
Sophie Holland, quiet and unassuming on the outside, is lost in the shadows of her fiancé, Travis Turner. It's the same place her troubled past hides.
With her thoughts and ideas longing to escape the protective shell she's carefully built, will the quiet southern charm of Pigeon Grove and its residents provide the nudge Sophie needs to help her dreams take flight?
To his family and friends, thirty-year-old Mason Shaw appears an open book. Unafraid to bare his emotions, few people know Mason has secretly buried the guilt of a decades-old decision, which still haunts him.
Can Mason overcome childhood demons to find his place in the world, or will the return of Travis, his high school archrival, threaten to destroy everything he believes... about fate, the pursuit of dreams, and love?
Trust, of self and others, hides in that fragile space between holding on and letting go...
- GenresContemporary
316 pages, Nook
First published February 11, 2019
5 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Dave Cenker
8 books41 followersDAVE CENKER is a romantic fiction author, writing stories infused with a kaleidoscope of emotions that nurture the heart while exploring elements of the human condition. He appreciates the opportunity to connect with readers through a shared emotional chord and the enchanted sentiments of a timeless love story.
Like coffee provides caffeine for the physical body, Dave's stories supply caffeine for the soul. He lives in the Sunshine State with his beautiful wife, amazing son, and three cats (the real monarchs of the house).
Like coffee provides caffeine for the physical body, Dave's stories supply caffeine for the soul. He lives in the Sunshine State with his beautiful wife, amazing son, and three cats (the real monarchs of the house).
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
February 11, 2019
What happens when the world seems to be yours for the taking, only to have that feeling disappear quickly as it seems to crumble and fall apart around you? Outward appearances only show us so much into each others' lives. All can seem put together and wonderful, yet inside there is hurt and breaking. Or, the opposite is true. Outside appearances can show struggle and indecision, yet inside everything is whole and functioning happily. The older I become, the more experiences and interactions I have with people, the more I realize that the outside appearances aren't quite as accurate as I had perceived and thought when I was younger.
This book did a good job taking several characters and showing their outside versus their inside portrayals. How a moment or moments can, given time, be a foundation and building block for who we are. Do we withdraw? Do we become more outgoing? Are we just living to survive? Are we truly living for happiness? Do we live to be protected by someone else? Are we giving our all to those around us to lift and help them, while in the process moving towards fulfillment of our dreams and goals?
Mason, Travis, Sophie and Mary all have a journey of self-awareness throughout this book. Sometimes those moments are harder to see/experience. Sometimes they are sweet and satisfying.
I had moments in the book where I was not particularly happy with certain characters because of their choices, or sometimes their lack of choices. Other times I was thinking, "good job, you did it!" Sometimes I wanted to reach through and give the characters a little shake telling them to wake up. But I had to be patient because we all know that Rome wasn't built in a day and characters in a book must have their building arc as well. They have to have their growth. Well, not all characters necessarily do, sometimes the "bad guy" is just bad and stays bad. The one character that I really didn't care for in this story, surprisingly surprised me and ended with a little growth. Still didn't care for them that much in the end, but there was a little touch of redemption in my eyes for them (little-lol).
I think back on specific moments in my life when I was hurt by a moment, whether directly or indirectly, and how it impacted me. How memories continue to surface from that moment. I watched Mason, one of the main characters, having similar memories resurfacing. I was glad when he started to step further past those hurts and embraced the ones that he could in a way to spur him forward to grabbing hold of what could make him happy. In allowing others in his life to feel his approval to move forward as well. That might very well be vague, but I really am trying not to spoil anything in this review.
This book is full of coming to know who you are, allowing for healing to enter your life and reaching forward with hope for your future regardless of the past. Seeing not just the plain, in your face, obvious paths and moments, but the meaning and importance of moments that are, so to speak, "between the lines" and waiting to be discovered.
I didn't connect with the characters as much as I would have liked but I felt that the author was truly able to portray a sense of human nature in these characters' lives and interactions with each other. Very descriptive and beautiful phrases throughout with his writing. An underlying love story, which although underlying, drives the plot as well. Plenty of hurt and sorrow but also lots of healing and hope. I enjoyed the conclusion and seeing how these characters found their endings and chose what they wanted, sometimes with a little nudge from family, friends or fate.
Content: Clean. No explicit sex scenes. A handful of swear words. A couple lives together before marriage. A couple kisses scattered throughout the book. A couple mild innuendos.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This book did a good job taking several characters and showing their outside versus their inside portrayals. How a moment or moments can, given time, be a foundation and building block for who we are. Do we withdraw? Do we become more outgoing? Are we just living to survive? Are we truly living for happiness? Do we live to be protected by someone else? Are we giving our all to those around us to lift and help them, while in the process moving towards fulfillment of our dreams and goals?
Mason, Travis, Sophie and Mary all have a journey of self-awareness throughout this book. Sometimes those moments are harder to see/experience. Sometimes they are sweet and satisfying.
I had moments in the book where I was not particularly happy with certain characters because of their choices, or sometimes their lack of choices. Other times I was thinking, "good job, you did it!" Sometimes I wanted to reach through and give the characters a little shake telling them to wake up. But I had to be patient because we all know that Rome wasn't built in a day and characters in a book must have their building arc as well. They have to have their growth. Well, not all characters necessarily do, sometimes the "bad guy" is just bad and stays bad. The one character that I really didn't care for in this story, surprisingly surprised me and ended with a little growth. Still didn't care for them that much in the end, but there was a little touch of redemption in my eyes for them (little-lol).
I think back on specific moments in my life when I was hurt by a moment, whether directly or indirectly, and how it impacted me. How memories continue to surface from that moment. I watched Mason, one of the main characters, having similar memories resurfacing. I was glad when he started to step further past those hurts and embraced the ones that he could in a way to spur him forward to grabbing hold of what could make him happy. In allowing others in his life to feel his approval to move forward as well. That might very well be vague, but I really am trying not to spoil anything in this review.
This book is full of coming to know who you are, allowing for healing to enter your life and reaching forward with hope for your future regardless of the past. Seeing not just the plain, in your face, obvious paths and moments, but the meaning and importance of moments that are, so to speak, "between the lines" and waiting to be discovered.
I didn't connect with the characters as much as I would have liked but I felt that the author was truly able to portray a sense of human nature in these characters' lives and interactions with each other. Very descriptive and beautiful phrases throughout with his writing. An underlying love story, which although underlying, drives the plot as well. Plenty of hurt and sorrow but also lots of healing and hope. I enjoyed the conclusion and seeing how these characters found their endings and chose what they wanted, sometimes with a little nudge from family, friends or fate.
Content: Clean. No explicit sex scenes. A handful of swear words. A couple lives together before marriage. A couple kisses scattered throughout the book. A couple mild innuendos.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 11, 2019
First, I have to say that I think the cover for this book is so pretty. I really love it.
Next, I have to admit that I struggled with this book. It is heavy on character introspection and limited on actual character interactions and dialogue which made it really hard for me, personally, to stay invested in the story and feel that emotional connection to the characters. Character growth is a necessary and vital part to any story and Mason and Sophie definitely show growth but this story dwelt in that individual introspection too much for my personal taste. The forward momentum was slow, with the characters swirling in the same place for what felt like a long time.
The ending was, by far, the best bit of the book for me. Full knowing and resolution always feels good. I think that while this particular writing style isn't my cup of tea, it may be very appealing to others.
I actually think this author has missed his calling as a poet. (or maybe he is and I just don't know it!) His grand use of pretty words and phrases make me think he could write beautiful poetry, full of multiple meanings, both hidden and obvious. He also clearly has a specific interest in the reasoning behind human nature which would also lend itself to poetry.
2.5 stars
Content: unmarried couple lives and sleeps together but there are no intimate scenes. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Next, I have to admit that I struggled with this book. It is heavy on character introspection and limited on actual character interactions and dialogue which made it really hard for me, personally, to stay invested in the story and feel that emotional connection to the characters. Character growth is a necessary and vital part to any story and Mason and Sophie definitely show growth but this story dwelt in that individual introspection too much for my personal taste. The forward momentum was slow, with the characters swirling in the same place for what felt like a long time.
The ending was, by far, the best bit of the book for me. Full knowing and resolution always feels good. I think that while this particular writing style isn't my cup of tea, it may be very appealing to others.
I actually think this author has missed his calling as a poet. (or maybe he is and I just don't know it!) His grand use of pretty words and phrases make me think he could write beautiful poetry, full of multiple meanings, both hidden and obvious. He also clearly has a specific interest in the reasoning behind human nature which would also lend itself to poetry.
2.5 stars
Content: unmarried couple lives and sleeps together but there are no intimate scenes. Kissing.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 11, 2019
Absolutely fell in love with Sophie and Mason.
This book will keep you turning those pages. I laughed, giggled, and felt so ALIVE while reading this book. I will be waiting for the next book to come out!! Great job, Dave Center!!
This book will keep you turning those pages. I laughed, giggled, and felt so ALIVE while reading this book. I will be waiting for the next book to come out!! Great job, Dave Center!!
February 11, 2019
I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced electronic copy of this book, and enjoyed it immensely.
The story takes place just outside of Atlanta, in a quaint little town where the people are friendly and news travels fast. Travis and his new fiance Sophie, are embarking on a successful, and somewhat challenging life together in the big city, and have come back to Travis’s hometown to take care of a few things before their marriage takes place. A last minute change of plans leaves Sophie finding herself at the mercy of the residents of Pigeon Grove, and she becomes immersed in their lives just as much as they become invested in hers. As they develop a level of trust in one another, Sophie is left discouraged by her past and struggling with discernment in the midst of what is supposed to be a very blissful time for the newly engaged couple.
Mason, a Pigeon Grove native with dreams that have come to a halt, is in the midst of an age old conflict that stems from his youth. He finds himself struggling to find his place in the world around him, and come to terms with his own mother’s new love interest. He meets Sophie just when both of their lives are on the brink of transformation, and begin a meaningful friendship in the two week span of her visit. They understand one another in a unique way that both complicates their situations, and helps bring about a new perspective in the direction that both of their lives are heading.
This story is a beautiful reminder that trust is a fragile thing, and that developing lasting relationships takes a great deal of courage and faith. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the author strives to get at the heart of what drives people together as well as apart, and the strength of this novel is how well he portrays the emotions of his characters as they endure and recall each experience. I liked Sophie instantly, as she showed extreme bravery and self-awareness throughout this first book in the series, and I look forward to learning where she ends up.
The story takes place just outside of Atlanta, in a quaint little town where the people are friendly and news travels fast. Travis and his new fiance Sophie, are embarking on a successful, and somewhat challenging life together in the big city, and have come back to Travis’s hometown to take care of a few things before their marriage takes place. A last minute change of plans leaves Sophie finding herself at the mercy of the residents of Pigeon Grove, and she becomes immersed in their lives just as much as they become invested in hers. As they develop a level of trust in one another, Sophie is left discouraged by her past and struggling with discernment in the midst of what is supposed to be a very blissful time for the newly engaged couple.
Mason, a Pigeon Grove native with dreams that have come to a halt, is in the midst of an age old conflict that stems from his youth. He finds himself struggling to find his place in the world around him, and come to terms with his own mother’s new love interest. He meets Sophie just when both of their lives are on the brink of transformation, and begin a meaningful friendship in the two week span of her visit. They understand one another in a unique way that both complicates their situations, and helps bring about a new perspective in the direction that both of their lives are heading.
This story is a beautiful reminder that trust is a fragile thing, and that developing lasting relationships takes a great deal of courage and faith. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the author strives to get at the heart of what drives people together as well as apart, and the strength of this novel is how well he portrays the emotions of his characters as they endure and recall each experience. I liked Sophie instantly, as she showed extreme bravery and self-awareness throughout this first book in the series, and I look forward to learning where she ends up.
March 21, 2019
The author provided me an advance electronic copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are my own.
Between the Lines is a poetic look into life in small town Georgia from the point of views of the characters Sophie and Mason. It’s a romantic take on the world where everything is symbolic, hence the name. I enjoyed spending time with the characters in this book, in their world, and found I could relate to some of their experiences and their struggles. I agree with one of the other reviewers on here that the author would make an excellent poet. I enjoyed reading this book. It was like curling up in my favorite blanket and spending time with old friends and tea. A cozy, comforting read that treads carefully on what it means to be human and offers compassion on suffering. Just about every emotion is captured in this story and they are woven together carefully to offer a look at how life is if we scratch beneath the surface.
I was a bit confused about Sophie’s childhood. Perhaps I skimmed over that part by mistake or it wasn’t clearly explained.
I found Sophie’s troubled past a bit concerning. It shouldn’t have been anything shameful for her because it wasn’t her fault, and the author was a bit vague about what exactly it was that damaged her career so much, but I personally didn’t see anything defaming from what happened to her. Especially with the #metoo movement and all happening right now, it could be perceived negatively by some readers.
Between the Lines is a poetic look into life in small town Georgia from the point of views of the characters Sophie and Mason. It’s a romantic take on the world where everything is symbolic, hence the name. I enjoyed spending time with the characters in this book, in their world, and found I could relate to some of their experiences and their struggles. I agree with one of the other reviewers on here that the author would make an excellent poet. I enjoyed reading this book. It was like curling up in my favorite blanket and spending time with old friends and tea. A cozy, comforting read that treads carefully on what it means to be human and offers compassion on suffering. Just about every emotion is captured in this story and they are woven together carefully to offer a look at how life is if we scratch beneath the surface.
I was a bit confused about Sophie’s childhood. Perhaps I skimmed over that part by mistake or it wasn’t clearly explained.
I found Sophie’s troubled past a bit concerning. It shouldn’t have been anything shameful for her because it wasn’t her fault, and the author was a bit vague about what exactly it was that damaged her career so much, but I personally didn’t see anything defaming from what happened to her. Especially with the #metoo movement and all happening right now, it could be perceived negatively by some readers.
February 12, 2022
Between the Lines
A “sometimes hard to follow story” but worth the read. The authors writing style, both in Fly Away Home and this book are much the same-alternating chapters between characters. However, I sometimes had trouble following who he was writing about as he frequently used pronouns to discuss two different characters within a chapter and confused, I often had to reread sections to understand. The story itself was captivating and I quickly devoured each chapter so I could find out what was going to happen. The only connection I found with the first book Fly Away Home and with this book was the bed and breakfast, “Fly Away Home”, the gardens that were reestablished that Sophie frequented, and the artwork the daughter had painted throughout the B&B. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
A “sometimes hard to follow story” but worth the read. The authors writing style, both in Fly Away Home and this book are much the same-alternating chapters between characters. However, I sometimes had trouble following who he was writing about as he frequently used pronouns to discuss two different characters within a chapter and confused, I often had to reread sections to understand. The story itself was captivating and I quickly devoured each chapter so I could find out what was going to happen. The only connection I found with the first book Fly Away Home and with this book was the bed and breakfast, “Fly Away Home”, the gardens that were reestablished that Sophie frequented, and the artwork the daughter had painted throughout the B&B. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
June 28, 2019
I've been wanting to read Dave Cenker's latest romance for a while and hesitated a bit because I rarely read "pure romance" books. I should not have waited. This is a sweet wonderful novel about two characters (and actually, the 'minor' characters are terrific in their imperfections also) who struggle to discover who they are so they can find the right person(s) to be with in their life. I love the gentle rolling lilt to the words and the story. Cenker gives an intelligence to his characters as they search for love, and insecurities we can all relate to. I enjoy the setting of Pigeon Cove and will definitely not hesitate to read the next one in the series.
December 21, 2023
Every so often I encounter a story that changes the way I look at the world, and Between the Lines is one of them. It’s not because the story is about a fantasy land with great, noble characters where nothing is as it seems. No, Dave Cenker’s setting of Pigeon Grove is completely normal and his characters of Mason, Sophie, Travis, Luca and the rest are just like everyone else, with their strengths and flaws. What makes this story magical is how relatable it is. To everyone.
It’d be hard to find a reader that wouldn’t benefit from spending some time in Pigeon Grove. Because don’t we all have aspirations for the future, regrets about the past, and competing desires of who we are, who we want to be, and who we should be? In this beautifully written novel, we see how the characters navigate these questions, and well, life.
What I loved most about this novel was that it reminded me that it’s not so much our actions that matter, but why we act the way we do. I’ll admit at times I find myself doing things that if I were to think about the reason behind them, it would be because, somewhere along the way, I got the feeling that that’s what I should be doing. And that, as the author would probably say, is not good enough.
I highly recommend this story for anyone, but especially those who enjoy simple and pure romance, small towns, and watching people grow into the truest versions of themselves.
The author provided me an advance electronic copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are my own.
It’d be hard to find a reader that wouldn’t benefit from spending some time in Pigeon Grove. Because don’t we all have aspirations for the future, regrets about the past, and competing desires of who we are, who we want to be, and who we should be? In this beautifully written novel, we see how the characters navigate these questions, and well, life.
What I loved most about this novel was that it reminded me that it’s not so much our actions that matter, but why we act the way we do. I’ll admit at times I find myself doing things that if I were to think about the reason behind them, it would be because, somewhere along the way, I got the feeling that that’s what I should be doing. And that, as the author would probably say, is not good enough.
I highly recommend this story for anyone, but especially those who enjoy simple and pure romance, small towns, and watching people grow into the truest versions of themselves.
The author provided me an advance electronic copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review. The thoughts and opinions contained herein are my own.
June 17, 2023
This first book in the Pigeon Grove series will suck you right in to this small town. You’ll fall in love with its cast of characters, heartfelt moments, and never want to leave.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews