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The Key to Everything
After WWII and a family tragedy, Peyton Cabot seeks connection with his troubled veteran father by retracing the trip he'd taken from Savannah to Key West at the same age. The adventure forces Peyton to come to terms with his identity and decide how much he's willing to risk for the girl he loves.
352 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2020
183 people are currently reading
3418 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Fraser Luesse
6 books412 followersValerie Fraser Luesse is an award-winning magazine writer best known for her feature stories and essays in Southern Living, where she is currently a senior travel editor. Her work has been anthologized in the audio collection Southern Voices and in A Glimpse of Heaven, an essay collection featuring works by C. S. Lewis, Randy Alcorn, John Wesley, and others. As a freelance writer and editor, she was the lead writer for Southern Living 50 Years: A Celebration of People, Places, and Culture. Specializing in stories about unique pockets of Southern culture, Luesse has published major pieces on the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi Delta, Louisiana's Acadian Prairie, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Her editorial section on Hurricane Katrina recovery in Mississippi and Louisiana won the 2009 Writer of the Year award from the Southeast Tourism Society. Luesse earned her bachelor's degree in English at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, and her master's degree in English at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She grew up in Harpersville, Alabama, a rural community in Shelby County, and now lives in Birmingham.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
September 24, 2020
Beautiful, heartwarming, hopeful. This is the kind of book that helps the reader, not to escape, but to remember to see the good in the world. Luesse is a very good writer and has captured some lovable, true to life characters.
July 17, 2020
"The Key To Everything" by Valerie Fraser Luesse, is a beautiful coming of age story! I thought it was highly readable and it was perfect for summer. I loved the descriptions of Florida and the summery vibes it gave me! This story is a love story with charm. A definite feel good read!! I really enjoyed it, and it came at a perfect time for me! What I enjoyed too was we are given an epilogue, and we see where the characters are years down the road. Such a fantastic southern fiction! This one is out now, and if you need a happy story, that makes you feel like going on a lovely summer vacation, pick up this book!
Thank you to the publisher for this review copy. All opinions are my own!
Thank you to the publisher for this review copy. All opinions are my own!
June 6, 2020
As we begin this story we are at the annual family picnic, a very wealthy dysfunctional family, when tragedy hits the life of young Peyton.
Now this young man is a very respectful, kind to others, and has a big heart. You will like his parents, and his Aunt and Finn, and the impact they have on his young life.
As we journey with Peyton, without a doubt you see life repeating itself, and there are some surprises along the way.
A story of growing up and becoming a young man, a story of learning about his father and wanting to seek what he was seeking, and a story of young love and finding oneself.
Loved that there was an Epilogue at the end, and we are updated and find out what happened!
#TheKeytoEverything
I received this book through Revell Reads, and was not required to give a positive review.
Now this young man is a very respectful, kind to others, and has a big heart. You will like his parents, and his Aunt and Finn, and the impact they have on his young life.
As we journey with Peyton, without a doubt you see life repeating itself, and there are some surprises along the way.
A story of growing up and becoming a young man, a story of learning about his father and wanting to seek what he was seeking, and a story of young love and finding oneself.
Loved that there was an Epilogue at the end, and we are updated and find out what happened!
#TheKeytoEverything
I received this book through Revell Reads, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 3, 2020
A coming of age story about fifteen year old Peyton Cabot, a young man following in the footsteps of his father, in a life changing bike trek to Key West.
This was a quick and pleasant read, though I felt it slow to start, at times episodic. Peyton is a likable young man, he is upright has a sense of direction, but is also willing to go with the flow and take things as they come. Over the course of the book he learns about his family's past and meets a plethora of colorful and welcoming characters.
It was an entertaining read, with many fascinating snapshots of Peyton's varied experiences along the way. I loved Aunt Gert and her humorous and honest approach to life, as well as the sly but loyal Fin.
In the end, though he did come upon many interesting situations, I felt like things came a together a little too easily, and Peyton was almost too agreeable in my mind. Though we didn't spend more time with the extended Cabot family, there were characters that did intrigue me, and I wish that we had gotten to know them better. There was much to appreciate, like the very bold Southern characters, as well as the different pace of life that was brought to life well. A quick Southern coming of age tale about the choices that can change your life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This was a quick and pleasant read, though I felt it slow to start, at times episodic. Peyton is a likable young man, he is upright has a sense of direction, but is also willing to go with the flow and take things as they come. Over the course of the book he learns about his family's past and meets a plethora of colorful and welcoming characters.
It was an entertaining read, with many fascinating snapshots of Peyton's varied experiences along the way. I loved Aunt Gert and her humorous and honest approach to life, as well as the sly but loyal Fin.
In the end, though he did come upon many interesting situations, I felt like things came a together a little too easily, and Peyton was almost too agreeable in my mind. Though we didn't spend more time with the extended Cabot family, there were characters that did intrigue me, and I wish that we had gotten to know them better. There was much to appreciate, like the very bold Southern characters, as well as the different pace of life that was brought to life well. A quick Southern coming of age tale about the choices that can change your life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 14, 2020
Unique coming of age story about a 15 year old young man from Georgia.
Peyton Cabot was born into a wealthy yet dysfunctional family. His father returned from WWII a changed man and turned to liquor to ease his pain. While his mother is loving, Peyton years for the love of his father.
Following a tragic accident, Peyton decides to follow in his father's teenage footsteps and bicycle across Florida with his final destination Key West. During this journey Peyton learns a lot about himself and what's most important. I loved his caring and giving heart. Peyton showed a lot of courage and faith to take the journey to Key West.
It was an enjoyable ride. The epilogue nicely put a bow on Peyton's story.
This is my third novel to read by this author. The words flow beautifully and the stories are unique and full of heart. I look forward to what she writes next.
My gratitude to publisher Revell for a complimentary NetGalley copy of The Key to Everything. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Peyton Cabot was born into a wealthy yet dysfunctional family. His father returned from WWII a changed man and turned to liquor to ease his pain. While his mother is loving, Peyton years for the love of his father.
Following a tragic accident, Peyton decides to follow in his father's teenage footsteps and bicycle across Florida with his final destination Key West. During this journey Peyton learns a lot about himself and what's most important. I loved his caring and giving heart. Peyton showed a lot of courage and faith to take the journey to Key West.
It was an enjoyable ride. The epilogue nicely put a bow on Peyton's story.
This is my third novel to read by this author. The words flow beautifully and the stories are unique and full of heart. I look forward to what she writes next.
My gratitude to publisher Revell for a complimentary NetGalley copy of The Key to Everything. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 30, 2020
The Key to Everything by Valerie Fraser Luesse was my first book by this author but it won't be my last. I truly enjoyed following Peyton's adventures.
Peyton Cabot is fifteen years old. Set in 1947, Peyton's father is a troubled vet who suffers a tragic accident. Peyton is a good kid but his school year is interrupted and his life is a bit off keel--especially with Lisa, the girl of his dreams. When his father was fifteen, he rode his bike from St. Augustine to Key West, Florida. Peyton decides to retrace his journey himself.
I enjoyed getting to know Peyton and following his adventures in The Key to Everything. He truly seems like a swoonworthy young man that would be pretty appealing to me if I were a young woman. He faces some hard things in this book. While I admired him for those things, I really admired him for how he lived his life and his basic principles. He truly seemed like a likable character. His dad was struggling quite a bit but the story explains so much of the challenges that he faced and I still found him likable in spite of his flaws. I also liked his mom and his Aunt Gert, as well as several of the other special people he met on his journey. He did seem to be searching spiritually and there were a few snippets into that journey but mostly this was just a good clean fiction read. There is some romance but the journey was more of a focus then the romance until the last quarter of the book. Then, I liked that the young couple had respect for themselves and each other and wanted to work towards a strong future together. With so many negative things going on right now, one of the things I liked the best was how much Peyton did for others and how he tried to go the extra mile. I found The Key to Everything to be an inspiring read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Peyton Cabot is fifteen years old. Set in 1947, Peyton's father is a troubled vet who suffers a tragic accident. Peyton is a good kid but his school year is interrupted and his life is a bit off keel--especially with Lisa, the girl of his dreams. When his father was fifteen, he rode his bike from St. Augustine to Key West, Florida. Peyton decides to retrace his journey himself.
I enjoyed getting to know Peyton and following his adventures in The Key to Everything. He truly seems like a swoonworthy young man that would be pretty appealing to me if I were a young woman. He faces some hard things in this book. While I admired him for those things, I really admired him for how he lived his life and his basic principles. He truly seemed like a likable character. His dad was struggling quite a bit but the story explains so much of the challenges that he faced and I still found him likable in spite of his flaws. I also liked his mom and his Aunt Gert, as well as several of the other special people he met on his journey. He did seem to be searching spiritually and there were a few snippets into that journey but mostly this was just a good clean fiction read. There is some romance but the journey was more of a focus then the romance until the last quarter of the book. Then, I liked that the young couple had respect for themselves and each other and wanted to work towards a strong future together. With so many negative things going on right now, one of the things I liked the best was how much Peyton did for others and how he tried to go the extra mile. I found The Key to Everything to be an inspiring read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
August 9, 2020
Peyton Cabot has grown up listening to stories about how his father, Marshall, rode over six hundred miles from Okefenokee to Key West (and back) in 1921, the summer he was fifteen. When Peyton’s father is hospitalised and loses his memory after a riding accident, Peyton decides to replicate his father’s journey.
As such, this is a definite coming-of-age story, which is common in Young Adult fiction. But I don’t know how many modern teens would want to read a novel set in The Olden Days (i.e. any time before the invention of the iPhone) and a plot that meanders at the speed of a bicycle rather than a Tesla.
Because it is set in The Olden Days (1947), The Key to Everything brings us back to a forgotten time … or perhaps a time that never really existed. In Peyton’s world, the police are the good guys, people are kind to strangers, and it’s perfectly safe for a teenager to ride unaccompanied for hundreds of miles with only a weekly collect call home to assure his mother he’s okay.
As such, it is an odd novel. The writing is excellent, with a strong voice that fits both the time and the place. Peyton is a young man of character and compassion, despite a privileged upbringing that could have taught him to overlook people less fortunate. He also has a refreshing lack of racism—although I have no idea how accurate that is for post-war (and pre-Civil Rights) Georgia and Florida.
No matter. We’re living in strange times right now, and The Key to Everything was a fresh distraction with excellent characters, and some serious life lessons sprinkled along the journey.
Recommended. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
As such, this is a definite coming-of-age story, which is common in Young Adult fiction. But I don’t know how many modern teens would want to read a novel set in The Olden Days (i.e. any time before the invention of the iPhone) and a plot that meanders at the speed of a bicycle rather than a Tesla.
Because it is set in The Olden Days (1947), The Key to Everything brings us back to a forgotten time … or perhaps a time that never really existed. In Peyton’s world, the police are the good guys, people are kind to strangers, and it’s perfectly safe for a teenager to ride unaccompanied for hundreds of miles with only a weekly collect call home to assure his mother he’s okay.
As such, it is an odd novel. The writing is excellent, with a strong voice that fits both the time and the place. Peyton is a young man of character and compassion, despite a privileged upbringing that could have taught him to overlook people less fortunate. He also has a refreshing lack of racism—although I have no idea how accurate that is for post-war (and pre-Civil Rights) Georgia and Florida.
No matter. We’re living in strange times right now, and The Key to Everything was a fresh distraction with excellent characters, and some serious life lessons sprinkled along the journey.
Recommended. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
May 30, 2020
*This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group/Revell, through Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion.*
There was something tangible about this story when I picked it up. Although I read it slowly, I loved Peyton's story. As he biked across Florida I could see and smell the fresh ocean and hot sun. The people he met along the way, and his love for his parents encouraged him to know their story.
The romance was sweet. I was a bit unsure how I felt about the such strong love at a young age, but it was done so well and sweet. There isn't a strong spiritual message...a lot about finding happiness, but I appreciate the hope that was found in Peyton's journey.
I recommend this beautiful story that's a perfect summer read and may make you want to go to Florida for a few weeks.
There was something tangible about this story when I picked it up. Although I read it slowly, I loved Peyton's story. As he biked across Florida I could see and smell the fresh ocean and hot sun. The people he met along the way, and his love for his parents encouraged him to know their story.
The romance was sweet. I was a bit unsure how I felt about the such strong love at a young age, but it was done so well and sweet. There isn't a strong spiritual message...a lot about finding happiness, but I appreciate the hope that was found in Peyton's journey.
I recommend this beautiful story that's a perfect summer read and may make you want to go to Florida for a few weeks.
June 22, 2020
We sure don't get to choose our families and when they come dysfunctional there is so much we can do.
Peyton had one but his father was different and Peyton followed in his footsteps. I loved the way this book drew me in. I felt every emotion as I was journeying with Peyton. I admired the actions and decisions he made despite his young age. He had a good head on his shoulders. Despite his loss, he didn't drown under it but sort answers just like his father before him. And he wasn't disappointed.
There are all kinds of family, some you are born with and some you are lucky to meet along the way. What Peyton lacked in blood relatives he gained in beautiful people God planted across his path.
I really loved this book.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Peyton had one but his father was different and Peyton followed in his footsteps. I loved the way this book drew me in. I felt every emotion as I was journeying with Peyton. I admired the actions and decisions he made despite his young age. He had a good head on his shoulders. Despite his loss, he didn't drown under it but sort answers just like his father before him. And he wasn't disappointed.
There are all kinds of family, some you are born with and some you are lucky to meet along the way. What Peyton lacked in blood relatives he gained in beautiful people God planted across his path.
I really loved this book.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
August 20, 2023
I would definitely recommend listening to this as an audiobook since it has more of a ‘sit and listen to a story’ feel.
June 29, 2020
If you like bittersweet yet heartwarming tales, then this book belongs on your shelf.
Peyton Cabot is the most kind-hearted, serving, and pleasant teen around. The people he meets can’t help but love and trust him. And though he sets off on an emotional journey, it is lyrically and smoothly told. He quickly learns the skills he needs for his bike journey and sets off to follow the path his father had traveled over a decade earlier.
A long, slow glimpse of life in 1947 is captured in these pages, giving a romanticized view of the era. The story meanders at a steady pace, giving readers an escape from today’s busy living.
The story ties a satisfactory bow from circumstances in the beginning to end.
As for being a Christian book, I was a little disappointed. A solid Biblical message could have been tied into Peyton’s quest to find himself, but it wasn’t in there. It was a clean and moral story, just not Christian. A Catholic mass and St. Christopher’s protection were mentioned as well as the impact of St. Joseph’s cathedral, but these were not in detail.
There were a few instances where “doing the right thing” seemed a little slanted (like freeing another man’s alligators, taking kids away from their boss, and a wife divorcing her husband and being praised for it). I don’t agree with abuse in any form and think that steps should be taken to relieve those in that situation, but it was confusing that these actions were the right thing to do because apparently the good outweighed the bad. And then Peyton was never caught doing these actions…
The romance was threaded through the story as Peyton and Lisa were separated in the beginning, yet Peyton never stopped thinking of her. There were a few kisses mentioned and a few very vague comments about people assuming they were going to “do something” and making judgments. Though Peyton and Lis were fifteen, it did seem to be a calmer love story between them.
The writing style is quaint and endearing—perfect for the era of this story. While I personally feel it lacked tension and character depth, this could very easily be the perfect fit for another reader.
*I received this book from the publisher and happily provided my honest review*
Peyton Cabot is the most kind-hearted, serving, and pleasant teen around. The people he meets can’t help but love and trust him. And though he sets off on an emotional journey, it is lyrically and smoothly told. He quickly learns the skills he needs for his bike journey and sets off to follow the path his father had traveled over a decade earlier.
A long, slow glimpse of life in 1947 is captured in these pages, giving a romanticized view of the era. The story meanders at a steady pace, giving readers an escape from today’s busy living.
The story ties a satisfactory bow from circumstances in the beginning to end.
As for being a Christian book, I was a little disappointed. A solid Biblical message could have been tied into Peyton’s quest to find himself, but it wasn’t in there. It was a clean and moral story, just not Christian. A Catholic mass and St. Christopher’s protection were mentioned as well as the impact of St. Joseph’s cathedral, but these were not in detail.
There were a few instances where “doing the right thing” seemed a little slanted (like freeing another man’s alligators, taking kids away from their boss, and a wife divorcing her husband and being praised for it). I don’t agree with abuse in any form and think that steps should be taken to relieve those in that situation, but it was confusing that these actions were the right thing to do because apparently the good outweighed the bad. And then Peyton was never caught doing these actions…
The romance was threaded through the story as Peyton and Lisa were separated in the beginning, yet Peyton never stopped thinking of her. There were a few kisses mentioned and a few very vague comments about people assuming they were going to “do something” and making judgments. Though Peyton and Lis were fifteen, it did seem to be a calmer love story between them.
The writing style is quaint and endearing—perfect for the era of this story. While I personally feel it lacked tension and character depth, this could very easily be the perfect fit for another reader.
*I received this book from the publisher and happily provided my honest review*
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April 30, 2024A lovely and gentle story with a hero who is easy to root for.
February 24, 2020
How well do you know your parents? What would you do to understand them better? The Key to Everything is a coming of age story about Payton finding understanding about a father who returned from war a changed person. Good southern fiction that makes the reader long to get to know their parents better.
June 27, 2020
This beautiful coming-of-age novel takes place in the years after WWII in the South. The book begins in Georgia at a family reunion of a rich, old family that is definitely dysfunctional. The brothers and sisters don't get along with each other and the mother/grandmother doesn't get along with anyone. When something tragic happens at the reunion picnic, it sends Peyton, the main character, off on a quest.
Peyton's father has returned from the war totally depressed from his experiences. His only way to alleviate the pain, is to turn to the bottle. While drunk he had a terrible accident at the family reunion and ended up in a coma in the hospital. Peyton and his mom, Katie, spend as much time with him as possible, while Uncle Julian, who always wanted to take control of the family money, works very hard to have his brother declared incompetent so that he can take control of the family. When his dad dies, Peyton decides to take a trip to Key West on a bicycle just like his father did at the same age of 15. He takes the trip in honor of his father but the people he meets on the road and the situations that he gets into, make him grow up fast. During his long trip to Key West, he meets many interesting people, all of who show him a different facet to life as an adult. The other reason for his bike ride is to find Lisa, the love of his life who has been sent to her aunt's home for the summer. Will the lessons that he learns make him a stronger and wiser man? Will he find Lisa? I loved that the author added an Epilogue that is 20 years in the future so that we can how Peyton grew up and how the lessons that he learned on his bike ride affected his life.
This is a beautifully written heart-warming story full of situations and characters that you won't soon forget. It's a story of family - the one you were born into and the one that you create with the people you love throughout your life.
Thanks to Revell for a copy of this book to read and review.
Peyton's father has returned from the war totally depressed from his experiences. His only way to alleviate the pain, is to turn to the bottle. While drunk he had a terrible accident at the family reunion and ended up in a coma in the hospital. Peyton and his mom, Katie, spend as much time with him as possible, while Uncle Julian, who always wanted to take control of the family money, works very hard to have his brother declared incompetent so that he can take control of the family. When his dad dies, Peyton decides to take a trip to Key West on a bicycle just like his father did at the same age of 15. He takes the trip in honor of his father but the people he meets on the road and the situations that he gets into, make him grow up fast. During his long trip to Key West, he meets many interesting people, all of who show him a different facet to life as an adult. The other reason for his bike ride is to find Lisa, the love of his life who has been sent to her aunt's home for the summer. Will the lessons that he learns make him a stronger and wiser man? Will he find Lisa? I loved that the author added an Epilogue that is 20 years in the future so that we can how Peyton grew up and how the lessons that he learned on his bike ride affected his life.
This is a beautifully written heart-warming story full of situations and characters that you won't soon forget. It's a story of family - the one you were born into and the one that you create with the people you love throughout your life.
Thanks to Revell for a copy of this book to read and review.
June 19, 2020
The Key to Everything is a coming-of-age story that envelops the reader in a blanket of nostalgia, eliciting those warm and cozy sentiments that only nostalgia can bring. Clearly, the author intended this to be the case because of the moving dialogue and the delightful description that fills the pages.
The story takes place in the years immediately following World War II, when the country was still recovering from the war and many veterans were still reeling from its impact. Our teenage protagonist, Peyton Cabot, is trying to understand why his father is so different after the war, numbing his emotions with alcohol. When his father dies after a freak accident, Peyton sets off on a journey where he tries to come to terms with his father’s death, as well as look inside himself to understand where his life needs to go.
There is very little backstory in this tale, and I consider that a very good thing. The author provides the minimum amount of backstory necessary for the reader to understand how the current situation came to be. There were times when the author could have given us more backstory about certain characters, but I don’t think it would have moved the story along, so I was grateful she didn’t.
What really sets this novel apart, in my opinion, is the dialogue. The author breathes life into the characters with her use of dialogue. I think this entire novel is a textbook example of show don’t tell. It is mostly through dialogue that we discover what a character thinks and feels. Without going overboard on vernacular, the author assigns each character with individual styles of dialogue. I loved it!
The spray of the ocean, the feel of the sun on a hot summer day, and the damage a full day of bike riding can wreak on a body are all examples of the description in the story. When combined with the dialogue, the author’s use of description completely immerses the reader into the story. That’s a true statement; once I got into the story, I actually felt like I was a bystander watching the story unfold before me.
The story also has a wonderful, consistent pace to it. It wasn’t too slow, nor too fast. It was right where it needs to be.
As you can probably imagine, coming-of-age stories have some huge character arcs. This one was no different. But that’s not a bad thing at all. It’s expected. It satisfies.
Now for the best part! The author includes an epilogue that takes place about 15 years after the story ends. We get to see what happens to the characters - how everything turns out. This adds an additional layer of closure to the story, and I loved it!
I recommend this story to anyone who enjoys those warm and cozy sentiments.
The story takes place in the years immediately following World War II, when the country was still recovering from the war and many veterans were still reeling from its impact. Our teenage protagonist, Peyton Cabot, is trying to understand why his father is so different after the war, numbing his emotions with alcohol. When his father dies after a freak accident, Peyton sets off on a journey where he tries to come to terms with his father’s death, as well as look inside himself to understand where his life needs to go.
There is very little backstory in this tale, and I consider that a very good thing. The author provides the minimum amount of backstory necessary for the reader to understand how the current situation came to be. There were times when the author could have given us more backstory about certain characters, but I don’t think it would have moved the story along, so I was grateful she didn’t.
What really sets this novel apart, in my opinion, is the dialogue. The author breathes life into the characters with her use of dialogue. I think this entire novel is a textbook example of show don’t tell. It is mostly through dialogue that we discover what a character thinks and feels. Without going overboard on vernacular, the author assigns each character with individual styles of dialogue. I loved it!
The spray of the ocean, the feel of the sun on a hot summer day, and the damage a full day of bike riding can wreak on a body are all examples of the description in the story. When combined with the dialogue, the author’s use of description completely immerses the reader into the story. That’s a true statement; once I got into the story, I actually felt like I was a bystander watching the story unfold before me.
The story also has a wonderful, consistent pace to it. It wasn’t too slow, nor too fast. It was right where it needs to be.
As you can probably imagine, coming-of-age stories have some huge character arcs. This one was no different. But that’s not a bad thing at all. It’s expected. It satisfies.
Now for the best part! The author includes an epilogue that takes place about 15 years after the story ends. We get to see what happens to the characters - how everything turns out. This adds an additional layer of closure to the story, and I loved it!
I recommend this story to anyone who enjoys those warm and cozy sentiments.
May 5, 2020
I found this to be an absolute delight. This coming-of-age story centers on fifteen-year-old Peyton, who is making a long bike ride down the coast of Georgia and Florida as he sorts through changes in his family. Throw in themes of found family, young love, and a host of likable characters, and you're in for a treat.
I loved the "wholesome" nature of this book. While it contains the complexities of family and heartache, it leaves out the unnecessary drama. The story moves forward with adventure and fun encounters with interesting people. There were times that the "coincidences" were teetering on the edge of credibility, but for me, it made the reading experience more fun.
I would recommend this for fans of southern fiction, heartwarming stories, and coming-of-age stories.
I loved the "wholesome" nature of this book. While it contains the complexities of family and heartache, it leaves out the unnecessary drama. The story moves forward with adventure and fun encounters with interesting people. There were times that the "coincidences" were teetering on the edge of credibility, but for me, it made the reading experience more fun.
I would recommend this for fans of southern fiction, heartwarming stories, and coming-of-age stories.
May 19, 2020
The Key to Everything is my first book by Valerie Frase Luesse. I didn't know what to expect, but I found a touching and poignant coming of age story in an interesting time period. I've found that many books I read are set either before WWII or 1960 and after, not many are set in the period following the war.
Peyton Cabot is a 15-year-old, born into a wealthy, but problematic family. When Peyton's father dies in a tragic accident, Peyton begins a journey of self-discovery that has him retracing his father's own journey years before.
I enjoyed the journey Peyton took both physically, on the road from Savannah to Key West, and emotionally, through his struggle to find his identity and come to terms with his father's death. This book is well-written and entertaining. It is a perfect beach read or summer read!
I received a galley copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley!
Peyton Cabot is a 15-year-old, born into a wealthy, but problematic family. When Peyton's father dies in a tragic accident, Peyton begins a journey of self-discovery that has him retracing his father's own journey years before.
I enjoyed the journey Peyton took both physically, on the road from Savannah to Key West, and emotionally, through his struggle to find his identity and come to terms with his father's death. This book is well-written and entertaining. It is a perfect beach read or summer read!
I received a galley copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley!
June 28, 2020
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 4.6 stars.
May 21, 2020
The Key to Everything is a sentimental coming of age story. Peyton is fifteen when his father is injured in an accident and dies. All his life he has heard about his father’s bike ride from Georgia to Key West. He has his father’s map and decides to follow his route. He has an additional incentive. His girlfriend has been shipped off to her aunt in Miami by parents who disapprove of their romance.
He has many adventures along the way, doing odd jobs such as bartending and spotting for a race car driver. People are open and friendly and he is relentlessly kind, wholesome, and virtuous.
So, I confess I enjoyed The Key to Everything even though it is a truly bad book. I swear this is COVID-brain at work because normally a book with such cartoonishly one-dimensional characters would be unreadable. Still, I enjoyed the goodwill and the sheer niceness of it all. Still, I was irritated by how Peyton’s uncle makes Snidely Whiplash look complex and sympathetic. His every appearance irritated me because he was so ridiculously evil, full of petty spite of the cut off his nose variety. There was far too much coincidence as well. Nonetheless, if you want a warm-hearted story that is made for Hallmark Channel dramatization, this is enjoyable.
The Key to Everything will be released on June 2nd. I received an ARC from the publisher through Shelf Awareness.
The Key to Everything at Revell Baker Publishing
Valerie Fraser Luess at “Southern Living“
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
He has many adventures along the way, doing odd jobs such as bartending and spotting for a race car driver. People are open and friendly and he is relentlessly kind, wholesome, and virtuous.
So, I confess I enjoyed The Key to Everything even though it is a truly bad book. I swear this is COVID-brain at work because normally a book with such cartoonishly one-dimensional characters would be unreadable. Still, I enjoyed the goodwill and the sheer niceness of it all. Still, I was irritated by how Peyton’s uncle makes Snidely Whiplash look complex and sympathetic. His every appearance irritated me because he was so ridiculously evil, full of petty spite of the cut off his nose variety. There was far too much coincidence as well. Nonetheless, if you want a warm-hearted story that is made for Hallmark Channel dramatization, this is enjoyable.
The Key to Everything will be released on June 2nd. I received an ARC from the publisher through Shelf Awareness.
The Key to Everything at Revell Baker Publishing
Valerie Fraser Luess at “Southern Living“
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
May 7, 2020
A touching coming of age story set in the South just after WW2. Part adventure, part family drama, with a clean, tender romance. A fifteen year old is determined to follow his father's legacy in a long solo bike ride down the coast to Key West in an attempt to connect with him.
I enjoyed this Southern style tale with an epic trip full of self discovery and life lessons. Peyton is a blessed young man in many ways, and his kind, big heart opens up further as he embraces people along his journey. The theme seems to be centered on finding your own path, following your dreams, and loving people. He is certainly met with some divine appointments as he makes his way south. His mom has her own side story told in parallel, highlighting her memories of a young love and better times. Aunt Gert is a hoot and my favorite character. She seems to have a lot of wisdom and grace, embracing the joys of life and encouraging others too. I enjoyed the epilogue that rounded out the story so well. This was a satisfying read.
Readers who enjoy Southern fiction will want to pick this one up. It would be a good beach read. Recommend!
4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
I enjoyed this Southern style tale with an epic trip full of self discovery and life lessons. Peyton is a blessed young man in many ways, and his kind, big heart opens up further as he embraces people along his journey. The theme seems to be centered on finding your own path, following your dreams, and loving people. He is certainly met with some divine appointments as he makes his way south. His mom has her own side story told in parallel, highlighting her memories of a young love and better times. Aunt Gert is a hoot and my favorite character. She seems to have a lot of wisdom and grace, embracing the joys of life and encouraging others too. I enjoyed the epilogue that rounded out the story so well. This was a satisfying read.
Readers who enjoy Southern fiction will want to pick this one up. It would be a good beach read. Recommend!
4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
June 29, 2020
A fascinating coming of age set in the South and a story I greatly appreciated!
I enjoyed Payton's story to the fullest and I especially enjoyed the journey. But along with riding a bike, I don't think I would have any legs left by the time the journey was over though,
Kind of reminded me of the trip we took West in 2005.
I couldn't put this book down until I was finished with it.
I especially loved the epilogue at the end where Valarie gives us insight on how she came up with the idea for this story. I thought it was a neat idea! I think that was my most favorite part of the book.
But really I enjoyed it altogether with Payton of course being my favorite character. I love his ambitious self to do what his father did.
The scenes through Georgia and Florida made me feel like I was there.
I just moved to Florida this past month but I still enjoyed the story.
I highly recommend this book.
IMy thanks to Baker/Revell Publishers for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own
I
I enjoyed Payton's story to the fullest and I especially enjoyed the journey. But along with riding a bike, I don't think I would have any legs left by the time the journey was over though,
Kind of reminded me of the trip we took West in 2005.
I couldn't put this book down until I was finished with it.
I especially loved the epilogue at the end where Valarie gives us insight on how she came up with the idea for this story. I thought it was a neat idea! I think that was my most favorite part of the book.
But really I enjoyed it altogether with Payton of course being my favorite character. I love his ambitious self to do what his father did.
The scenes through Georgia and Florida made me feel like I was there.
I just moved to Florida this past month but I still enjoyed the story.
I highly recommend this book.
IMy thanks to Baker/Revell Publishers for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own
I
August 20, 2020
This is clearly a young adult novel with a very clean-cut protagonist who survives the loss of his father and brings joy to everyone with whom he comes in contact. About as Pollyanna a story as could be found, and yet the plot and the characters were enough to keep me reading to the end.
June 25, 2020
In one of The Key to Everything's defining moments, our hero states, "It's not that I don't get scared. I just try not to let being scared stop me from doing whatever I've made up my mind to do." Enter Peyton, born to the superfluously wealthy Cabot clan of Georgia. Every Spring the family holds an annual picnic, where the kin who cannot stand one another, gather en masse. It's here that Peyton's grandfather reminds his children yet again, Peyton's father Marshall is the favorite. And the favorite will inherit the leadership and fortune of Grandfather Cabot's vast estates. Money makes the world go round, as they say, and Uncle Julian seems to believe it. When Marshall Cabot takes a fall and turn for the worse, Peyton and his mother are helpless to watch Uncle Julian seeks to claim it all. What begins with an idyllic scene of the not-so-distant past, turns into a story about heartbreak and betrayal.
Peyton finds himself taking the same steps his father took before the War took Marshall's spirit. In the wake of personal tragedy, Peyton decides to take the same bicycling trip to Key West, the trip where his father found his mother and decided their future. Now Peyton needs answers. He has spent most of his life living under the shadow of others, but now he'll step beyond everything he's ever known. As our hero so eloquently puts it, "Somewhere along the way, you gotta draw your own map."
The pacing of this story is slow and steady, and doesn’t really pick up until Peyton begins his journey in and out of the lives of strangers. Along the way, he demonstrates, again and again, the kind of altruism that seems unthinkable by today's standards. Peyton makes a hundred dollars helping a race car driver win, then later uses that money to get his friend out of jail the same day. Unlike the rest of the Cabot clan, Peyton knows money means nothing, not if people aren't willing to give it up to do the right thing and help one another.
There were several times I wanted to shout at Peyton through the pages: not to be so trusting, not to give it all away in the face of an uncertain future, not to hinge so much on the hopes of one girl. But therein lies the miracle of Peyton Cabot. He's not a perfect kid by any stretch, but he is selfless, generous, and willing to take big risks to find answers. Peyton is the kind of person we all wish it were safe enough to be, and because of this, I found myself rooting for him anyway.
Author Valerie Fraser Luesse surrounds the reader with people, places, and a time that soon draws you deeply into her story. The Key to Everything doesn't set out to be profound, and even Peyton Cabot doesn't see his deeds as grandiose. The beauty of this novel shines through the same way it does in life, through the surprising in-between moments we aren't looking for. The little moments we often miss when we're distracted. Luesse is inviting us to take a pause, and truly look and see the world around us, the same way Peyton comes to see things. I found this to be a lovely read in uncertain times, and it's stories like this I believe we need most of all. To remind us to listen quietly, love deeply, and to remind us, as Luesse writes, "You are not the only one who has felt forsaken. That is how you know you are not."
**I was provided with a copy of The Key to Everything by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
Peyton finds himself taking the same steps his father took before the War took Marshall's spirit. In the wake of personal tragedy, Peyton decides to take the same bicycling trip to Key West, the trip where his father found his mother and decided their future. Now Peyton needs answers. He has spent most of his life living under the shadow of others, but now he'll step beyond everything he's ever known. As our hero so eloquently puts it, "Somewhere along the way, you gotta draw your own map."
The pacing of this story is slow and steady, and doesn’t really pick up until Peyton begins his journey in and out of the lives of strangers. Along the way, he demonstrates, again and again, the kind of altruism that seems unthinkable by today's standards. Peyton makes a hundred dollars helping a race car driver win, then later uses that money to get his friend out of jail the same day. Unlike the rest of the Cabot clan, Peyton knows money means nothing, not if people aren't willing to give it up to do the right thing and help one another.
There were several times I wanted to shout at Peyton through the pages: not to be so trusting, not to give it all away in the face of an uncertain future, not to hinge so much on the hopes of one girl. But therein lies the miracle of Peyton Cabot. He's not a perfect kid by any stretch, but he is selfless, generous, and willing to take big risks to find answers. Peyton is the kind of person we all wish it were safe enough to be, and because of this, I found myself rooting for him anyway.
Author Valerie Fraser Luesse surrounds the reader with people, places, and a time that soon draws you deeply into her story. The Key to Everything doesn't set out to be profound, and even Peyton Cabot doesn't see his deeds as grandiose. The beauty of this novel shines through the same way it does in life, through the surprising in-between moments we aren't looking for. The little moments we often miss when we're distracted. Luesse is inviting us to take a pause, and truly look and see the world around us, the same way Peyton comes to see things. I found this to be a lovely read in uncertain times, and it's stories like this I believe we need most of all. To remind us to listen quietly, love deeply, and to remind us, as Luesse writes, "You are not the only one who has felt forsaken. That is how you know you are not."
**I was provided with a copy of The Key to Everything by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
May 5, 2020
The Key to Everything by Valerie Fraser Luesse is a book that reminds me of storytelling at its finest. The book isn’t exciting. There are no real plot twists or overly dangerous situations that make your heart leap into your throat. It’s a relaxed journey to adulthood for one Peyton Cabot, a fifteen-year-old son of a WWII veteran who spends more time with the bottle than he does with his son. The book follows his adventure to ride his bicycle all the way to Key West, Florida, to discover…what? Purpose? Answers? Love? Himself? He’s trying to figure it out himself.
This novel was different than what I’d usually read, but I enjoyed it. If I had to choose my favorite aspect of the story, I’d say its tone. I’ve read books that featured a “Southern twang,” and I haven’t liked them. I think of what in particular that I read during the summer of 2019 that left me wanting to throw my Kindle out of a car on a busy highway, but I didn’t have the same response to this one. With The Key to Everything, the hints of Southern charm added quality and genuineness to the story that I think it needed.
Peyton comes across all sorts of people on his trek to Key West. He learns something from each of them, and they likewise learn from him. There was only one character I didn’t like, but I think the author’s intention was for us to not like her. This book made me smile. It did take a while for me to get into it, but once I adjusted to the author’s writing style, I was all in. For most books I read, I quickly move on to another novel and often forget elements of past stories. The Key to Everything is one that’s going to stick through me. There is nothing about this particular novel I would change. What was so unique about it was that it didn’t need the heart-pounding excitement. Don’t get me wrong, it does have some thrilling elements; it’s not a lackadaisical walk in the park. Peyton faces troubles and challenges along his route, but he has an incredible support network to assist him.
The Key to Everything is a novel you can read a chapter at night, and you’ll fall asleep with a smile on your lips. It’s exactly the kind of book you can use to wind down at the end of a stressful day. This one took me a while to finish, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. I savored the journey, and you will, too.
*Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
This novel was different than what I’d usually read, but I enjoyed it. If I had to choose my favorite aspect of the story, I’d say its tone. I’ve read books that featured a “Southern twang,” and I haven’t liked them. I think of what in particular that I read during the summer of 2019 that left me wanting to throw my Kindle out of a car on a busy highway, but I didn’t have the same response to this one. With The Key to Everything, the hints of Southern charm added quality and genuineness to the story that I think it needed.
Peyton comes across all sorts of people on his trek to Key West. He learns something from each of them, and they likewise learn from him. There was only one character I didn’t like, but I think the author’s intention was for us to not like her. This book made me smile. It did take a while for me to get into it, but once I adjusted to the author’s writing style, I was all in. For most books I read, I quickly move on to another novel and often forget elements of past stories. The Key to Everything is one that’s going to stick through me. There is nothing about this particular novel I would change. What was so unique about it was that it didn’t need the heart-pounding excitement. Don’t get me wrong, it does have some thrilling elements; it’s not a lackadaisical walk in the park. Peyton faces troubles and challenges along his route, but he has an incredible support network to assist him.
The Key to Everything is a novel you can read a chapter at night, and you’ll fall asleep with a smile on your lips. It’s exactly the kind of book you can use to wind down at the end of a stressful day. This one took me a while to finish, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. I savored the journey, and you will, too.
*Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
June 25, 2020
My favorite genre' is Christian suspense, so I don't always gravitate towards this kind of book...especially by an author I have never read. The description intrigued me enough to request it to review, and I am glad I did. I'll admit after I got it, I wondered if I'd be able to get into it. No worries there.
I loved the author's style of writing. She put so much emotion and description into the story, I felt myself pulled into the story and didn't want to put it down. The main character is 15 year old Peyton, who is an awesome and very likable character. The author did a tremendous job of describing his long bicycle ride, and brought into the story the emotions he experienced as he made the same journey his dad had made when he was the same age. I loved the characters he met on his journey and the colorful descriptions of them. The scene with the dollar bill about did me in, I'll admit.
Though this is not a suspense novel, it was a book that was extremely difficult to put down. And when I picked it up the second time, I was determined to read it til the end, which I did.
This novel is set in 1947, when things were different. It wouldn't be safe for a 15 year old boy to bicycle what I figured out must be close to 500 miles. Plus, this is fiction.
There is not a lot of Christian content in the book - not a criticism, just an observation. However, it is a clean book that was an absolute delight to read. After I finished it, I went on Amazon and ordered another book by the author. This one was that good. It is the best non-suspense novel I have read in quite a while. I definitely recommend it.
I was provided a copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions in this review are my own.
I loved the author's style of writing. She put so much emotion and description into the story, I felt myself pulled into the story and didn't want to put it down. The main character is 15 year old Peyton, who is an awesome and very likable character. The author did a tremendous job of describing his long bicycle ride, and brought into the story the emotions he experienced as he made the same journey his dad had made when he was the same age. I loved the characters he met on his journey and the colorful descriptions of them. The scene with the dollar bill about did me in, I'll admit.
Though this is not a suspense novel, it was a book that was extremely difficult to put down. And when I picked it up the second time, I was determined to read it til the end, which I did.
This novel is set in 1947, when things were different. It wouldn't be safe for a 15 year old boy to bicycle what I figured out must be close to 500 miles. Plus, this is fiction.
There is not a lot of Christian content in the book - not a criticism, just an observation. However, it is a clean book that was an absolute delight to read. After I finished it, I went on Amazon and ordered another book by the author. This one was that good. It is the best non-suspense novel I have read in quite a while. I definitely recommend it.
I was provided a copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 28, 2020
5 stars. Thank you to Reveal, a division of Baker Publishing, for sending me this book to review. This is my second book to review from the author- Valerie Fraser Luesse- and it was my favorite thus far. (I highly recommend her book Almost Home, too).
Why did this one stand out... it was a story of finding yourself through a journey. I think it is ironic this is the third book with the main story line being a bike journey for me in 2020. I'm not a big fan of biking, so don't see me taking to the road, but I will live vicariously through these bikers' stories.
Peyton, the main character, is 15 years of age. He has had some major changes come about in his life, within a short period of time: father back from WWII Pacific theater, has a girl he's dating- Lisa, father is dealing with PTSD/alcoholism after returning from the war, an accident occurs sending Peyton to live with his Aunt Gert for awhile, and there is this bike trip his dad did when he was 15 years of age from St. Augustine, Florida to Key West always rumbling around in his head.
The bike trip is the backbone of the story. Peyton is pondering following in his father's footsteps and doing the long ride to Key West as a way to reconnect with his father. Events occur and the bike trip happens. I loved the people he met along his journey to Key West. I loved the side story of his parent's relationship. I also appreciated the way Peyton's own love story evolved during this book, because it didn't take away the lime light from the story as a whole.
I flew through the 352 pages in 2 days as it was an engaging read and also a great get-away read (a book that takes you away from your own reality). I look forward to reading her first book "Missing Isaac" and any new books on the reading horizon.
June 24, 2020
All his life Peyton Cabot has heard about the journey his father took on bike from a boys’ camp in Okefenokee to Key West. When tragedy strikes the family, Peyton decides to bike from St. Augustine to Key West honoring his father’s memory and hoping to find what his father might’ve found on that trek across miles.
This was a touching story of young love, loss, southern charm and coming of age that swept me up. The people Peyton meet, the family history that unravels and the unique situations he finds himself in kept me entertained as he embarked on his journey of self-discovery. There’s a lot that can be said for a novel that eloquently shows the difference between the family you’re born into and the one you create along the way.
I enjoyed the writing style and the quickness of the read. The characters are easy to connect to and I loved the backdrop being set in Florida where the State bird is basically the mosquito. This was a fun and lighthearted read that I would recommend to others who enjoy coming of age fiction reads.
Thank you to Revell Baker Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful story. True rating 3.5/5.
This was a touching story of young love, loss, southern charm and coming of age that swept me up. The people Peyton meet, the family history that unravels and the unique situations he finds himself in kept me entertained as he embarked on his journey of self-discovery. There’s a lot that can be said for a novel that eloquently shows the difference between the family you’re born into and the one you create along the way.
I enjoyed the writing style and the quickness of the read. The characters are easy to connect to and I loved the backdrop being set in Florida where the State bird is basically the mosquito. This was a fun and lighthearted read that I would recommend to others who enjoy coming of age fiction reads.
Thank you to Revell Baker Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful story. True rating 3.5/5.
June 9, 2020
War has impaired Peyton's father. After an accident leaving his father in the hospital in critical condition, his mother sends him to live with the woman who raised her. Upon his arrival Peyton is immediately given the keys to mature, grow up and learn the ropes of being a man. These skills quickly come to the test as Peyton sets off on the SAME bike ride across Florida that his own father took many years before.
This father son adventure is emotionally gripping. From the characters Peyton meets to uncovering the love and secrets of his father's own footsteps on his ride all those years ago, this coming of age is the perfect nostalgic read.
After having read "Missing Issac" and "Almost Home" by this same author, Luesse continues to showcase her talents in this newest penning. From historical family drama and depth in theme and overtures this is another is brilliant in crafting incredible stories.
*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This father son adventure is emotionally gripping. From the characters Peyton meets to uncovering the love and secrets of his father's own footsteps on his ride all those years ago, this coming of age is the perfect nostalgic read.
After having read "Missing Issac" and "Almost Home" by this same author, Luesse continues to showcase her talents in this newest penning. From historical family drama and depth in theme and overtures this is another is brilliant in crafting incredible stories.
*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2020
I'm beginning to realize that a Valerie Fraser Luesse novel is a whole experience. You cannot just speed read through this book. It deserves better. It's rich and deep and moving in a simple, sneaky way. These characters and their stories quickly become this beautifully interwoven tapestry of connection.
The lessons Peyton learns about himself and about his father while on his journey are incredibly touching. Readers get to experience as he grows up right on the page, in front of our eyes. And in the moments when he makes good decisions or he's helpful to strangers, we can't help but feel proud because we've biked every mile of his journey with him. We've met every new person, encountered every strange and heartwarming event, so his crazy plan suddenly becomes as important to us as if we were strapped to his handle bars.
We are along for the ride and what a beautiful ride it is. Do not miss this one, friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of the publisher. All expressed opinions belong to me.
The lessons Peyton learns about himself and about his father while on his journey are incredibly touching. Readers get to experience as he grows up right on the page, in front of our eyes. And in the moments when he makes good decisions or he's helpful to strangers, we can't help but feel proud because we've biked every mile of his journey with him. We've met every new person, encountered every strange and heartwarming event, so his crazy plan suddenly becomes as important to us as if we were strapped to his handle bars.
We are along for the ride and what a beautiful ride it is. Do not miss this one, friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of the publisher. All expressed opinions belong to me.
June 18, 2020
The Key to Everything is a small-town fiction novel by author Valerie Fraser Luesse.
I grew up in Florida and lived in Georgia where parts of the story took place. It was interesting to revisit the years gone by in both states. I knew and visited, most of the places mentioned in the book.
Whether the reader is a Florida native or not, the author presented the settings perfectly. So grab your bike and set off for a trip of a lifetime along the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be sure to believe you’re actually there.
I highly recommend this fictional tale to fans of small-town fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I grew up in Florida and lived in Georgia where parts of the story took place. It was interesting to revisit the years gone by in both states. I knew and visited, most of the places mentioned in the book.
Whether the reader is a Florida native or not, the author presented the settings perfectly. So grab your bike and set off for a trip of a lifetime along the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be sure to believe you’re actually there.
I highly recommend this fictional tale to fans of small-town fiction.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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