The Cherries: Faith, Hope, Happiness. Does she dare?

by D.B. Carter

When they have broken you, when you have been humiliated, bullied, deserted and destitute, can you find a place where you may dare to be happy? Susan travels with her mother, escaping a life of heartbreak and poverty in the city, to live with their one remaining friend in a small rural village. At twenty Susan is still bound by the trauma of her youth, but starts to blossom into womanhood, thanks to the tender encouragement of Luke, the eccentric occupant of ‘The Cherries’, who lives surrounded by books and art. It is a journey of tears and laughter, helping to heal mind and spirit. But can the past ever be truly behind you? Feeling safe and secure at last, mother and daughter nurture artistic talents that they had long since thought worthless, and their lives take directions they could never have imagined.Yet, amongst the kindness and love in their new community, there lies hidden grief and a long-suppressed secret that must come to light. Something that might force Susan to another life beyond the confines of the village.

321 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2019

About the author

D. B. Carter lives with his family on the edge of a small town nestled amongst the rolling hills of rural Devon, England.

The son of two nomadic artists, he grew up in a world of creativity, studying painting techniques under his parents' tutelage. In his 20s, he went to university and followed a career in science and later commerce, running his own business for twenty years.

A lifelong bibliophile, he is firmly of the opinion that there is no such thing as too many books, only insufficient shelf space; it was his love of classical literature, of Dickens and Brontë, that led to the creation of his first novel, "The Cherries."

His philosophy is, "If we look for the good, we will find it."

Reviews

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about new beginnings that are only possible because of the acceptance and kindness of others, it’s about community and lifelong friendships, it’s about making the right choices of supporting and loving those around us irrespective of our ability to understanding their choices; it’s about forgiveness and faith. If I didn’t personally know people like Vivian and Luke; people whose kindness and generosity daily transform lives, I might be tempted to say it is idealistic, and while the bucolic life portrayed at the start of the book could almost be described as such the pertinent ideologies and social issues of our era permeate that idealism, firmly rooting this book in realism.

This book deals with the aftermaths of bullying, the uncertainties faced by many young people in their journey into adulthood and even the pain and helplessness of those young people’s parents who feel they should, but don’t, have all the answers. Life would be simpler for us all if we and our loved ones fit into the socially accepted mould of our peer groups but since we don’t, it is literature such as this that follows the era long tradition of helping us make sense of the world around us.

For me The Cherries is about self actualisation and self reliance, it’s not a knight- in-shining-armour, or in this case knight-on-shining-bicycle, romance, sweeping the hapless heroin off her feet, it’s about learning to stand on your own two feet and the importance of others in achieving this.


This book is about life and hence contains all the aspects of it, from loneliness in old age to LGBTQ issues, it dares present a Christian lifestyle in a Bronte style romance while exemplifying the possibilities of forgiveness and self development.

I can’t wait to read the next instalment from this author.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Cherries” is a moving and thought-provoking début by D B Carter and I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Susan travels with Marian, her mother, escaping a life of heartbreak and poverty in the city, to live with their one remaining friend in a small rural English village. At twenty, Susan is still bound by the trauma of her youth but starts to blossom into womanhood, thanks to the tender encouragement of Luke, the eccentric occupant of ‘The Cherries’, who lives surrounded by books and art. But can your past ever be truly behind you?

Feeling safe and secure at last, mother and daughter nurture artistic talents that they considered worthless, and their lives take directions they could not have foreseen. Yet, amongst the kindness and love in their new community, there lies hidden grief and a long-suppressed secret that must come to light. Something that might force Susan to another life beyond the confines of the village.

The characters were well drawn by the author and I particularly liked Luke who I thought had so much to offer in terms of his generosity and kindness. There were many other diverse characters and they all had a part to play within the overall story-line and helped to add to its richness. It superbly portrayed modern life, of alternative beliefs and lifestyles but with kindness and respect.

D B Carter’s writing style was extremely appealing and even though it was rich in detail, I didn’t feel overwhelmed with too much narrative. The author's words portrayed the gorgeous Devonshire setting beautifully as I was immersed in this quaint and picturesque English village.

For me, “The Cherries” emphasised the importance of self-reliance. It was not a traditional type of romance novel where the main character is swept off their feet by a gorgeous beau. It is more about learning to rely on yourself whilst recognising the importance of others in achieving this. The book also dealt with some very serious subjects such as alcoholism, mental health, online abuse, bullying and sexual assault.

All in all “The Cherries” was a great first novel from this exciting new writer. If you're looking for a heart-warming read that isn’t too sugar-coated, look no further! I shall be keeping an eye out for next instalment from D B Carter.

Thanks to NetGalley, Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd and the author, D B Carter for my complimentary copy of The Cherries. My honest review is entirely voluntary.

[Veronica Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mother and daughter, Marian and Susan, have endured many of life's bitter dramas with their only escape being to stay with their life long friend, Vivian. Beaten down by years of abuse, they've lost all their material goods, arriving at Vivian's with literally the clothes on their back. Next door at The Cherries, their new neighbors, Luke and Dominic, watch as these broken souls arrive. All of their lives are about to change.

We meet the residents of a charming village, buoyed by the efforts of many. There are secrets, fears, and those in poor health---but that doesn't stop the uplifting attitudes and spirit of community, even when dealing with the cruel acts of a few. Marian and Susan are soon thriving in their new environs and are given the chance for a major life upgrade. New friendships, creative passions, and the gift of self confidence and trust allow each woman to bloom and grow. Romance is in the air as friendships blossom for some, but will past doubts and judgements destroy their newfound happiness?

Author D.B. Carter's, The Cherries, is a heartwarming, bittersweet read that keeps you glued to the page--waiting to see what will happen next. As the characters and their situations unfold, we get to know their hopes and dreams, and the fears that sometimes paralyze them, spiritually and physically. The story's finale will keep you on pins and needles to the very end. This is a life tale that enchanted this reader, highly recommended!

[Lali Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heart-warming Novel

This is a beautiful story that transcends the reader into a lovely English town, filled with a tapestry of emotions. The richness of each character’s development includes diversity, respect, understanding, and kindness. I loved the author's writing style, it was as if he eloquently painted the words together to form the setting and storyline.

If you love a good dramatic story about relationships and complexities of life, gorgeous scenery, relatable characters and a beautiful romance, this book is for you!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.B. Carter weaves a rich, exceedingly well-written, portrayal of faith, hope and happiness, perfectly encapsulated within the pages of The Cherries. It’s timely, diverse and with a sensitivity towards difficult topics of bullying and attempted rape (real life is unfortunately messy), that will open your eyes, warm your heart, and have you believe if it’s meant to be, it will be. If it’s not, how to survive that, too, and journey on.

Carter makes the characters in The Cherries visually come alive, each written so well-rounded they become someone you truly care about and each page turns faster as their struggles, their thoughts, their unerring faith, their happiness becomes paramount to you to see where it ends.

It’s not all cherry blossoms, I’ll warn you. Carter throws a few wicked punches, they’ll keep you on your toes, but hang tight. Trust me.

I can’t recommend this novel enough, it’s a must read.

P.S. Prepare for bunny love. (That’s all I’m saying)

[Jennifer Schell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!

This book has it all, a beautiful romance, relatable characters, and gorgeous scenery. I laughed, cried, and was frustrated through out. The ending was such a ride of emotions it took my breath away. Wonderfully written, it should be the next big screen romance!

[S.J. Lomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story begins with Marian and her daughter, Susan, moving away from their bad past to begin a fresh start. They quickly become part of the lives of a heartwarming cast of characters in a small English town. Although the setting is idyllic and the characters absolutely charming, their lives are not all cherry blossoms and rainbows! While the story is inspirational (complete with some Christian themes - although not overpowering and just written as part of the Christian character's lives) there are some dark struggles that they go through. Although some very grim situations come up, they are not gratuitous or grossly written and the emphasis is on how the characters react and heal from the traumas in their lives.

I loved the author's writing style. There is so much detail, yet it doesn't bog down the narrative. Rather, the author's words paint the setting and characters so beautifully that the world just rose up around me while I read and immersed me in this gorgeous little English town.

There is a large cast of diverse characters, but they flow within the overall story line and add to the richness of it. It truly reads like a slice of modern life, including differing lifestyles and beliefs but with the ultimate goal of respect, understanding, and kindness.

If you're looking for a heartwarming read that isn't pure saccharine, you'll likely enjoy The Cherries.

[Ashley Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying romance is not a genre I read often. However, this tale offers so much more as I began reading. The cast of characters all have their own stories to tell and I became invested in the lives of so many. Outside of their love lives, the characters also face real life situations involving mental illnesses, bullying, faith questioning, growing up, and death. This riveting read shows the effects of all these circumstances on several characters. The main character’s arc of growing up is exponential and inspiring. The story stays relatively mild, following life as it happens, but every so often the author will throw the reader a curve ball (especially toward the end) that pulls at your own emotions. This story ranks as one of my favorite reads this year so a big congratulations to the author on an amazing debut.

[Janie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exceptionally well written book. I was drawn in from the first few pages, and could barely put it down as I wanted to know what happened next. It perfectly depicts life in a small village. We see how the lives of the characters are entwined, and you really feel you get to know the characters well. It’s a story of loss, love, growth, hope, survival and more. Excellent balance between dialogue and descriptive work. Each character plays a part in the book, none are there just for the sake of it. They’re all strong characters portrayed well, each having individual mannerisms etc. It made me want to live in a small village again. Highly recommend it to everyone.

[Cassandra MADEUP BookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story to delve into, from the wonderful romance that held the perfect pace and interesting Characters, to the family drama and side stories, this is a book that is full of gorgeous imagery, relatable scenarios and Characters that will make you smile.

I love the romantic story, it’s believable in so many ways. The people in the book aren’t picture perfect, they’re human, and for myself I find this makes a book much more enjoyable.

The story has so much involved in it, all heartfelt and gorgeous to sink into, the story feels genuine and beautiful for it. There are themes of community and relationships within them, and it considers the choices we make and how they effect others, how a small choice can have a big impact. About forgiveness and longterm impacts of various topics such as bullying. It looks at the life implications, how this can have an effect on a person and the wider community, and is all done in way that is easy to read and digest.

It considers how everybody is unique, and how this can cause confusions in a the current social climate in which we are all expected to fit into a certain mould, the inner turmoil that can be a result of knowing we are unique and trying to fit into the moulds made for us. These themes are all dealt with in a way which is easy to digest but leading to deeper thoughts.

The romantic story uses these themes to consider how two people who are not perfect can come together, work through the difficulties real life and society can cause, and try to work through it.

I love how realistic this is, we don’t have a typical romance where man meets girl, they argue a little and all is well in the world, instead this is a story about people learning to be themselves, learning to love themselves and thereby learning to work together to have a worthwhile relationship. They have their hurdles and difficulties, but it takes effort and time to work through in order to have a happy relationship.

This is a wonderful book, and I cannot wait to see what the Author writes next! This is certainly one that I will be rereading, The characters and story are gorgeous, a surprisingly yet perfectly honest look at a variety of relationships type, and how each type of relationship can impact upon others.

[Sein Ares · Rating 4 out of 5]

Storytelling? No, it's Story Magic


Yes, story magic indeed. It casted a spell on my eyes. The soothing slow start of hope as Susan and her mother left behind a life that had nothing for them, spoke to a part of me, and I suspect, it spoke to everyone who's read this book. The need for a fresh start, is something all of us have craved at some dismal point in our lives. Sometimes, we succeed in attaining that happiness and sometimes we don't. Seeing Susan and her mother embrace that new beginning was heart-warming to see.
Then of course, without spilling the beans, I watched, yes watched not read (it's Story Magic, I tell you) with glee their happy moments. I felt a heavy burden in my heart during the darkness in their lives, almost as if they were people I knew.
DB Carter does an amazing job of drawing in his readers. I felt the calming atmosphere of the English countryside as Marian drove through it. Plus I enjoyed the snippets of historical information.
The Cherries explores certain critical questions, asking without posing them. Acceptance, hope, forgiveness and living in the moment as we embrace our happiness. I can understand why the author chose some of these words as the book title for they do indeed explain The Cherries in a nutshell.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only complaint is that I didn't get to see a few characters that appeared in the beginning as much as I would have liked. But it is a story of life, so I understand. People come, people go.
Finally, while it is a romance I would say the Cherries is also a slice of life read. So if you enjoy reading those types of books, then you will love this one.

[Cheryl Burman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mother and daughter Marian and Susan grasp the chance for a new start in their lives by moving to the country to live with Marian’s best friend Viv, lonely since her adored daughter’s departure to university a couple of years earlier. Marian and Susan own pretty much only what’s on their back, and Susan is also recovering from years of bullying and a deep sense of her own lack of worth. In the Georgian house next door, live Luke and his young protégé Dominic. Luke appears to have it all – sophisticated, knowledgeable, running a good business in old books, and kind and considerate as well. But he has his own demons. As does Dominic, struggling with his sexuality and the subject of bullying himself.
This is a tale of many characters, with several carefully interwoven sub-plots impacting the key characters of Susan and Luke. DB Carter’s strength is very much how he brings his characters to life, warts and all. Susan grows as she allows her artistic side to flourish, and she begins to accept herself, but then that growth is threatened by horrific circumstances.
There are strong messages here, of being willing to embrace change and to take risks, to accept the choices of others where these do no one harm, and of forgiveness. A charmingly told tale, with some dark moments, but uplifting.

[B.J. Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.B. Carter has done it again and scored huge with “The Cherries”. The opening section places the reader in the middle of a mother/daughter road trip with details to nod at and characters to discover.

Their trip ends in a quaint English village, where Carter slowly introduces a community of rich characters. While not everyone is likeable at first blush... or even the second or third... Carter, true to his roots, peels layers, creates scenarios and establishes silver linings to reveal that people are not inherently bad.

In a world filled with horrific news stories, it is a pleasure to sink into Carter’s creations and believe that good will prevail.

Carter’s outlook isn't all “a bowl of cherries”, though. His characters face tragedies, adversities and pain. All the better when they pass through the storm and find a nugget at the end of the rainbow.

“The Cherries” is a slice-of-life tale that is fast-paced and leaves the reader feeling good about oneself and the world at large. Reminiscent of literary greats, “The Cherries” feels like an instant classic, and should be mandatory reading.

Highly recommended!

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cherries feels like a coming of age novel about young people who have issues in their past which overlap and which bring them together. It has a distinctive voice which gives it a literary fiction feel and which has echoes of classic readings especially Jane Eyre. Living in the sanctuary of the countryside, the effects of bullying and prejudice don't go away but there seems to be a healing quality about life there. Susan and her mother have taken sanctuary in the rural village life.

Most fascinating has to be the character of Luke who appears to be calm and capable but who is controlling his own issues of anxiety through his self-imposed, restricted life style. Creativity seems to flourish within the safety of life in the village but eventually, Susan has to spend time away, attracted again to a contained environment. This is a confidently written novel which creates its own world with great clarity.

In short: Beneath the surface, past issues continue to affect lives.

Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

[Lucia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Twenty year old Susan, and her mother Marian, have moved in with a dear friend whose home in a small rural village provides them with an escape from the city, poverty and, in Susan's case, bullying. Their friend Viv, is comfortable financially and helps them in various ways to blossom, after years of difficulty. Luke, the young man who lives next door, becomes enamored of Susan and proves to be a very helpful friend to her and all of his neighbors.

This novel was entertaining and thought provoking, as well as a squeaky clean romance. This is not an objection, merely an observation. The story includes characters whose lives are touched by alcoholism. anxiety, PTSD and homosexuality. All are handled in a non-judgemental manner.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author D.B. Carter and the publisher Cameron Publicity and Marketing Ltd. for a complimentary ARC of this novel. This is my honest review.

[Maia Beswarick-Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would just firstly like to congratulate you on such a feel good, humorous, heart wrenching and wonderful book!
I loved all of the characters very much, I really liked Luke though I could never really picture
Him as in his mid thirties! He was such a delight to get to know and his ever yearn to help others around him; a wonderful selfless character. He really made me laugh out loud with his humour and quick wit.
I found Maragret a charming character and actually burst into tears when her time came.

What I found really truly lovely about your book was the exploration/explanation of faith throughout. I really loved the conversation between Luke and Lucy; I found it very touching. It was lovely throughout, for me the prominent message of faith being about love within the book and I really truly loved that. It was very beautiful, for someone who is unsure of faith or on the borderline of faith is was very comforting and heart warming.

All in all a wonderful book, 5 stars!!

[Rod Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The author develops his characters well and they come to life quickly, I found myself completely immersed in the story immediately. There is a strong overall tone of how life can deal us good and bad experiences and we get to see how these twists and turns affect each of the characters. In general you are left with a good feeling and I really enjoyed the main character's journey through the early part of her life. I am really keen to find out what happens to some of the other characters later in their story, if we are fortunate enough to see a follow up book in the future. All in all, a superb first novel from an exciting new writer. I suspect we will be hearing a lot about D.B.Carter as his writing career continues. Highly recommended, even for those like me, for which this is not their preferred genre.

[Jeff Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all kudos to this wonderful story. Well written and it was the type of story I needed on a day where things have not been going so well. Reading The Cherries: Faith, Hope and Happiness. Does She dare? Made me think about the fact that some people have it worse than others but in spite of the obstacles that one faces they can overcome and persevere. Beautifully written and yes there are some religious overtones, though they are not the core of the story, so if you don’t like religious overtones then this book might not be for you. Once I began reading it I kept reading it nonstop. In many ways the realism of the story allowed me to put my self into their shoes and understand the characters even better which made it for an even better read. Again, well written, good developed characters and a story that kept me wanting more and more. A must read for you.

[Michele Ceron · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is a charming and endearing story. A story of growth and redemption and just all the complications of life and the variety of people you meet and how little things that you do can change others lives greatly. The plot is subtle, it often seems like there is no direct linear plot there in that it doesnt follow the normal plot format. I didnt mind the religious overtones even though I am spirtiual and not religious. Many different types of people and beliefs are shown and respected in this book. The main thing that I didnt care for was that most of the chapters were really long and should have been broken down into more chapters. Other than that, this is a warm and fuzzy read!

[Carin Camen · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are authors whose writings pass the test of time. Treasured books which we tenderly embrace with fondness and gratitude. Long after these authors have gone from this world, these books are treasured and discussed for generations, due to their eloquent prose.

The Cherries will be one that will stand side by side with other priceless literary treasures. DB Carter has captured the spirit of classical novels. This English author brilliantly integrates subjects which many would fear to write. He masterfully crafts them into the charm of relatable characters, such as to become like endearing friends. You will turn the final page and whisper a fond farewell, knowing your life was profoundly touched.

[Antara Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and in keeping with the delightful, inviting cover, the story doesn't disappoint.

While it is a contemporary story, it retains so much of the old-world magic. A neighbour bringing in flowers to welcome new friends, taking care of and spending time with older friends, and so many more of such gestures that make life worth living.

The novel has as much depth as it has the elements of romance and suspense. I enjoyed all the twists and turns and the feeling of romance that never left the pages, and still lingers in my mind. A beautiful read!

[Missmackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The Cherries' is beautifully written, and reads like a classic romance. It draws you in from the off, keeping you on it's road of many twists and turns. The main characters are delightful, intriguing, yet complex and endearing. The author deals delicately with social issues, mental health, and real life struggles, a story that may well resonate with many of its readers. That being said, it's an enjoyable easy read, the perfect companion to relax with, an escape that leaves you yearning to live in 'The Cherries'.

[Jan Maple · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely warm engaging read with believable characters you can relate to and care about.

I loved the way it tackled some important issues - the effects of bullying, attacks, unfair social ostracism, sexuality differences, anxiety - without being depressing or dragging you down.

The author treated the characters' problems with compassion and empathy and the reader wills the characters to overcome their past to find happiness.

Did they? Read it to find out for yourself!!

[Derek King · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great Read

With well developed and relatable characters, descriptive scenes that leave just enough to the reader's imagination, this book is a great read.

It is well written with a good pace and draws the reader in, willingly I might add, to share with the various characters the goings on that shape their lives in this eventful story.

Pleasing to read it was difficult to put down, without instantly picking back up again to read a little more.

[Carolyn Ruffles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading The Cherries was akin to taking a gentle, circular stroll through a village, meeting and gradually becoming acquainted with its inhabitants until you feel you’ve known them forever. The lives of a rich canvas of characters were skilfully interwoven in a story where difficult issues are raised, explored and healed by kindness and selflessness. What an inspiring message! I really enjoyed my journey through The Cherries and would thoroughly recommend it to other readers.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

As warm & inviting as a cup of Earl Grey tea.

The story will draw you in, immerse you in the lives of those who visit The Cherries, and remain with you long after you've finished the book. Filled with local color, The Cherries transports the reader to the verdant English countryside where love awaits and dreams come true.

[Judy Ferrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book handles the issues of bullying and relationships in a way that is sensitive and kind. It allows for the education of those involved as well as forgiveness. It shows love and charity in a new light not seen in many novels today. And brings God back into the picture. And of course, love wins.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review
First time reading this Author
Rather a complex book on the whole quite enjoyed it but the ending was very bundled together and hope for the best

[P. Heaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and wonderful characters. If you are looking for a well-paced and enjoyable novel that is not dark and full of zombies and the undead, this is for you. It's Christian based, but easy to speed-read past those sections if not your cup of tea.

[Miss Beverley Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read

I thourouly enjoyed the cherries, didn't want to put it down, can't wait to read the next instalment by D B Carter