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Lake Summers #2
The Bluebell Girls
Three generations. One summer that will change everything.
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
- GenresRomance
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2020
1457 people are currently reading
327 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Josselsohn
14 books250 followersBarbara Josselsohn is a best-selling author known for her captivating contemporary and historical novels, including her latest, The Forgotten Italian Island. This sweeping, multigenerational story delves into the lives of two women bound by a fateful mistake made one night during the Nazi occupation of northern and central Italy. Barbara's work is marked by richly developed characters, intricate emotional landscapes, and immersive settings that transport readers to the heart of each story.
With a talent for blending history and human drama, Barbara’s novels explore complex themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of secrets. Her storytelling often spans generations, drawing readers into a tapestry of personal and historical struggles. Known for her lush descriptions and evocative prose, Barbara has garnered praise for her ability to bring history to life while crafting deeply emotional, character-driven narratives.
Her books resonate with readers who appreciate stories that combine rich historical details with powerful personal journeys. Currently, Barbara is working on a new World War II novel set in the mountains of southern France.
In addition to her writing career, Barbara teaches novel writing at Sarah Lawrence College and other prestigious venues. When not writing, Barbara enjoys ballet, yoga, reading, and relaxing on the beach. She loves spending time with her family, which includes her beloved rescue pup, Albie.
With a talent for blending history and human drama, Barbara’s novels explore complex themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of secrets. Her storytelling often spans generations, drawing readers into a tapestry of personal and historical struggles. Known for her lush descriptions and evocative prose, Barbara has garnered praise for her ability to bring history to life while crafting deeply emotional, character-driven narratives.
Her books resonate with readers who appreciate stories that combine rich historical details with powerful personal journeys. Currently, Barbara is working on a new World War II novel set in the mountains of southern France.
In addition to her writing career, Barbara teaches novel writing at Sarah Lawrence College and other prestigious venues. When not writing, Barbara enjoys ballet, yoga, reading, and relaxing on the beach. She loves spending time with her family, which includes her beloved rescue pup, Albie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
October 10, 2020
A sweet, small town, second chance romance. Barbara Josselsohn has written a delightful heartwarming story. This is the second book in the Lake Summers series, but it can absolutely be red as a standalone. The books contain A complete story with the only constant in the series being location and the smoothie guys. Jenna has returned home to Lake Summers with her daughter Sophie to care for her aging mother, Sweet. It always feels good to come back home, but it is also complicated. Jenna is concerned with her mothers health, doesn’t know if it’s better thooo have her stay home or move to a home. And then there’s Troy, the boy next-door who Jenna really never had closure with. To top it all off Suite has Sophie on a wild goose chase searching down an old love who may or may not exist.
Loved the small town feel of the story. The relationships between Jenna her mother Sweet and her daughter Sophie were so authentic and heartwarming. I thought the story was the perfect balance of family drama and second chance romance. Troy was a great love interest, such a good guy you really wanted him to find his happily ever after, even if it wasn’t with Jenna. The mysterious movie star love interest added a whimsical layer to the story. This was just an uplifting feel-good story filled with heart, hope, and nostalgia.
This book in emojis 🐶 ☔️ 🛠 🖼
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved the small town feel of the story. The relationships between Jenna her mother Sweet and her daughter Sophie were so authentic and heartwarming. I thought the story was the perfect balance of family drama and second chance romance. Troy was a great love interest, such a good guy you really wanted him to find his happily ever after, even if it wasn’t with Jenna. The mysterious movie star love interest added a whimsical layer to the story. This was just an uplifting feel-good story filled with heart, hope, and nostalgia.
This book in emojis 🐶 ☔️ 🛠 🖼
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
September 26, 2020
4.5 stars: This is the second book in the Lake Summers series, but can definitely be read as a standalone story. Jenna is recently divorced and plans to move to Lake Summers with her 11 year old daughter Sophie. The plan is to stay for a few weeks in the summer to get things sorted and find a place to stay, then go home to Rye and sell the house and move. Plans to not work out as Sweet, Jenna's mother has a serious fall and Jenna and Sophie need to stay with her over the summer. Chole, Jenna's older sister, wants them to sell the house in Lake Summer and move to Long Island with Sweet moving into a residence. Jenna knows that is not what Sweet needs or wants. What follows is a summer of reflection, growth and love.
I loved the relationship between the three generations. Sophie is an unhappy girl at the beginning, but blossoms while developing a relationship with her grandmother. Even Chloe comes around to giving her mother a chance with Jenna and Sophie staying for the summer. The romance between Jenna and Troy was sweet. They knew each other as children and became reacquainted as the story progressed. Troy carries a lot of baggage from his time in Lake Summer and needs to work through that to find happiness again. Watching Jenna grow from a self-doubting mother and woman to someone with confidence in her abilities and choices was wonderful. This was a beautiful, heartwarming, thought-provoking novel with a great setting, wonderful characters and a feel-good storyline. If you enjoy a family story with some love and a bit of romance, then you will enjoy this one. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I loved the relationship between the three generations. Sophie is an unhappy girl at the beginning, but blossoms while developing a relationship with her grandmother. Even Chloe comes around to giving her mother a chance with Jenna and Sophie staying for the summer. The romance between Jenna and Troy was sweet. They knew each other as children and became reacquainted as the story progressed. Troy carries a lot of baggage from his time in Lake Summer and needs to work through that to find happiness again. Watching Jenna grow from a self-doubting mother and woman to someone with confidence in her abilities and choices was wonderful. This was a beautiful, heartwarming, thought-provoking novel with a great setting, wonderful characters and a feel-good storyline. If you enjoy a family story with some love and a bit of romance, then you will enjoy this one. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
September 24, 2020
Barbara Josselsohn, the author of “The Bluebell Girls” has written a memorable, heartwarming, enjoyable and thought-provoking novel. The genres for this book are Family Fiction, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Romance. The timeline for this story is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The story takes place in Lake Summers. The author describes her colorful and dramatic characters as complex, complicated, and quirky. Of course, there is a loveable dog in this story. There are three generations of women in this delightful story.
I love the way Barbara Josselsohn, vividly describes the interaction and storytelling of the characters and the details as the bluebell flowers and the carefree attitudes.
Jenna is recently divorced and comes back to her mother, Sweet’s home with her daughter Sophie and the family dog. Jenna’s sister has been concerned about Sweet’s health and memory. Jenna feels that perhaps this will be a good start for Sophie and herself to make a new life. This way Jenna can keep an eye on her Sweet as well.
Sweet bonds with her grand-daughter with her care-free ways, and stories of love. Jenna isn’t quite sure if they are real or not, but Sophie is obsessed with listening to them.
It seems the new Vet in the town is one of Jenna’s former neighbors, who has also come back to Lake Summers. He is also conflicted about many things.
This is an amazing novel of family, friendships, neighbors, love, and hope that I would highly recommend. Happy Reading!
I love the way Barbara Josselsohn, vividly describes the interaction and storytelling of the characters and the details as the bluebell flowers and the carefree attitudes.
Jenna is recently divorced and comes back to her mother, Sweet’s home with her daughter Sophie and the family dog. Jenna’s sister has been concerned about Sweet’s health and memory. Jenna feels that perhaps this will be a good start for Sophie and herself to make a new life. This way Jenna can keep an eye on her Sweet as well.
Sweet bonds with her grand-daughter with her care-free ways, and stories of love. Jenna isn’t quite sure if they are real or not, but Sophie is obsessed with listening to them.
It seems the new Vet in the town is one of Jenna’s former neighbors, who has also come back to Lake Summers. He is also conflicted about many things.
This is an amazing novel of family, friendships, neighbors, love, and hope that I would highly recommend. Happy Reading!
September 26, 2020
Barbara Josselsohn the author of The Bluebell Girls has written a heartwarming and enjoyable novel.
Lake Summers in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains is the family home town of Jenna and her mother, Sweet. Jenna had made a life for herself and her daughter, Sophie, in New York but returns to Lake Summers due to Sweet's ill health. Recently divorced, Jenna is content with her new relaxed life and then she meets and recognises next-door neighbour Troy...
Barbara Josselsohn examined issues of family and relationship dynamics, love, hope and loss with a fresh approach. The characters she created had depth and intelligence and were very interesting to read about, all with fascinating backgrounds. There were proportionate romantic aspects to the dual timeline story, and I look forward to more novels in this lovely series. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Lake Summers in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains is the family home town of Jenna and her mother, Sweet. Jenna had made a life for herself and her daughter, Sophie, in New York but returns to Lake Summers due to Sweet's ill health. Recently divorced, Jenna is content with her new relaxed life and then she meets and recognises next-door neighbour Troy...
Barbara Josselsohn examined issues of family and relationship dynamics, love, hope and loss with a fresh approach. The characters she created had depth and intelligence and were very interesting to read about, all with fascinating backgrounds. There were proportionate romantic aspects to the dual timeline story, and I look forward to more novels in this lovely series. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 3, 2020
After being introduced in The Lilac House, I was so excited to visit Lake Summers again. The author has a knack for creating a place that makes the reader feel like they’re “coming home.” Once again, small town life and politics is captured perfectly, warts and all. I particularly liked the generational aspect of this story. It’s effective plotting that brings three generations of women together at a time when each is at a turning point in their lives. As to the romance, I liked how the author hinted at something that happened between Jenna and T.J. when they were younger, gradually letting the story build. I also like how the author uses flowers to explore aspects of humanity (as in Jenna realizing why her mother planted bluebells). I hope there are more visits to Lake Summers in the future! For a detailed review, please visit Fireflies and Free Kicks. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital ARC of the book.
September 7, 2020
The Bluebell Girls by Barbara Josselsohn
Lake Summers Book 2 (Standalone)
Publication Date: 25th Sep 2020
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Romance
4.2 Stars
“Three generations. One summer that will change everything.”
This line on the cover says it all. It is a book of second chances, of introspections, of understanding, compassion, and accepting life and love with a smile.
Jenna and her daughter Sophie, an eleven-year-old, come to Lake Summers, Jenna’s home. Jenna is in the middle of a messy divorce, her self-esteem all-time low. Sophie starts as a typical pre-teen but grows into a girl with more depth and layers to her characters. Sweet, Jenna’s mother, happens to hold the key to happiness and is a delightful person.
We see Chloe, Jenna’s elder sister, who appears to be dominant and controlling, but then we learn her thoughts and see her in a different light. Jenna meets Troy, her first love, and she begins to think about her life, her decisions, the past, and the present. Troy himself is battling with his demons and finds it hard to listen to his heart.
It’s been a while since I read romances, but I wouldn’t necessarily classify this as one. There is love, but it’s more in thoughts, in the past, and the words and gestures rather than two people being impulsive.
The writing is mellow, a bit slow in the beginning, and picks a little pace a while later. It doesn’t rush off towards the end but walks at a steady pace.
The book doesn’t have villains, baddies, or typical mean characters that throw a spanner just for the sake of it. The character arc of Jenna, from doubting her every action to become who she was once, a confident and bright woman, was crafted very well.
Sweet’s secret love story from her past, her bonding with Sophie, and how the threads tie-up at the end of the book were heartwarming without being too gooey. I did guess a few things (no spoilers), but that’s fine. The book isn’t based on the reader guessing anything.
Jenna has a lot of thoughts and conflicting emotions. She goes back and forth between past and present, but she doesn’t ramble. There are no repetitions in the story (except in one place). There is no information dump, either. We get to know bits and pieces of who Jenna was and how she let circumstances take away her spark. But she’s never bitter, sad, yes.
There are times when one needs to read something positive, hopeful, and sweet that’s not preachy and overly dramatic. This book fits the bill. The ending isn’t a perfect HEA. We know there will be issues. But we also know that the characters are now at a place where they are confident of finding ways to love and be happy.
I wish Troy had a better arc just as Jenna did. He is almost predictable, and that does cut down the points a bit. Lake Summers seems like a wonderful place to live, and boy, I love the use of bluebells in the story.
Overall, it’s a nice and satisfying book for those looking for something warm and cozy without too much drama.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and Bookouture.
#TheBluebellGirls #NetGalley
Lake Summers Book 2 (Standalone)
Publication Date: 25th Sep 2020
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Romance
4.2 Stars
“Three generations. One summer that will change everything.”
This line on the cover says it all. It is a book of second chances, of introspections, of understanding, compassion, and accepting life and love with a smile.
Jenna and her daughter Sophie, an eleven-year-old, come to Lake Summers, Jenna’s home. Jenna is in the middle of a messy divorce, her self-esteem all-time low. Sophie starts as a typical pre-teen but grows into a girl with more depth and layers to her characters. Sweet, Jenna’s mother, happens to hold the key to happiness and is a delightful person.
We see Chloe, Jenna’s elder sister, who appears to be dominant and controlling, but then we learn her thoughts and see her in a different light. Jenna meets Troy, her first love, and she begins to think about her life, her decisions, the past, and the present. Troy himself is battling with his demons and finds it hard to listen to his heart.
It’s been a while since I read romances, but I wouldn’t necessarily classify this as one. There is love, but it’s more in thoughts, in the past, and the words and gestures rather than two people being impulsive.
The writing is mellow, a bit slow in the beginning, and picks a little pace a while later. It doesn’t rush off towards the end but walks at a steady pace.
The book doesn’t have villains, baddies, or typical mean characters that throw a spanner just for the sake of it. The character arc of Jenna, from doubting her every action to become who she was once, a confident and bright woman, was crafted very well.
Sweet’s secret love story from her past, her bonding with Sophie, and how the threads tie-up at the end of the book were heartwarming without being too gooey. I did guess a few things (no spoilers), but that’s fine. The book isn’t based on the reader guessing anything.
Jenna has a lot of thoughts and conflicting emotions. She goes back and forth between past and present, but she doesn’t ramble. There are no repetitions in the story (except in one place). There is no information dump, either. We get to know bits and pieces of who Jenna was and how she let circumstances take away her spark. But she’s never bitter, sad, yes.
There are times when one needs to read something positive, hopeful, and sweet that’s not preachy and overly dramatic. This book fits the bill. The ending isn’t a perfect HEA. We know there will be issues. But we also know that the characters are now at a place where they are confident of finding ways to love and be happy.
I wish Troy had a better arc just as Jenna did. He is almost predictable, and that does cut down the points a bit. Lake Summers seems like a wonderful place to live, and boy, I love the use of bluebells in the story.
Overall, it’s a nice and satisfying book for those looking for something warm and cozy without too much drama.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and Bookouture.
#TheBluebellGirls #NetGalley
September 25, 2020
I loved the first book of this series and I loved the second one as much.
I was very happy to be invited to travel to Lake Summers again. Time to be welcomed by some of the inhabitants I met in the previous story as well as lovely new characters.
Family is important, but often work and others things take up most of your time. This story is about changing plans and adapting to current situations, about a bond being formed and getting stronger and stronger between a grandma and her granddaughter, about not taking a defeatist attitude but looking beyond what’s in front of you.
Life is too short to not take every opportunity you get to explore new horizons. Don’t settle for what you think is the only option. Sometimes you are so focused on the main road that you don’t even consider trying out one of the smaller side streets.
A great story constructed with a mixture of heartbreaking but beautiful events as well as heartwarming ones. 5 stars.
Thank you, Barbara Josselsohn and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
I was very happy to be invited to travel to Lake Summers again. Time to be welcomed by some of the inhabitants I met in the previous story as well as lovely new characters.
Family is important, but often work and others things take up most of your time. This story is about changing plans and adapting to current situations, about a bond being formed and getting stronger and stronger between a grandma and her granddaughter, about not taking a defeatist attitude but looking beyond what’s in front of you.
Life is too short to not take every opportunity you get to explore new horizons. Don’t settle for what you think is the only option. Sometimes you are so focused on the main road that you don’t even consider trying out one of the smaller side streets.
A great story constructed with a mixture of heartbreaking but beautiful events as well as heartwarming ones. 5 stars.
Thank you, Barbara Josselsohn and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
August 27, 2020
I loved this book. Jenna is going through a divorce, job change, sister troubles all while raising her daughter and returning to her mothers home on Lake Summers. Jenna loved growing up on Lake Summers, there are wonderful memories and the one painful memory that involves the one who got away, Troy.
Troy has been avoiding relationships since that night years ago that ended his relationship with Jenna .
This was such a great read, the characters were wonderful and the family story and secrets made this a page turner .
Now excuse me as I pack to move to Lake Summers so I can finish my unfinished work !
December 14, 2024
Great book, wonderful family 👏
October 2, 2020
I enjoyed the story, it did seem to take awhile to get where it was going. It’s still a nice addition to the series
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy
September 21, 2020
Book Description:
Three generations. One summer that will change everything.
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
An unforgettable romance that will whisk you away to the sunny shores of Lake Summers. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Debbie Macomber, Mary Alice Monroe and anyone who’s ever dreamed of rekindling a long-lost love.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Bluebell Girls' by Barbara Josselsohn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Lake Summers' series. Although this is book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Jenna. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the US 🇺🇸 .
This book is very well written with beautiful descriptions which really painted a picture. I loved how the storyline flitted from past to present to give a bigger picture so you can see how the past lead the characters to the present.
The storyline is a very easy read and heartwarming. It is nice to see how the three generations are so close and to read about their individual stories. I loved reading about Sweet's past and watching the relationships develop between Sophie and Sweet, Jenna and Chloe and Jenna and Troy. I also enjoyed meeting the other village characters who all had their own unique personalities.
All the characters were strong and I look forward to reading more of the 'Bluebell Girls' series and meeting them all again. It will be lovely to see how the individual relationships continue to develop and if anything happens between Jenna and Troy. Although the book was mainly written from Jenna's perspective it was nice to see some of the chapters were written from Troy's point of view too so you can see what he is also going through and what he is feeling.
Overall a perfect light hearted summer read about love, family and relationships.
Genres covered include Romance and family sagas.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a light hearted read.
271 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheBluebellGirls #BarabaraJosselsohn #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@BarbaraJosselsohn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Barbara Josselsohn is an award-winning journalist and novelist who loves crafting stories about strong protagonists facing a fork in the road. Her novels center around second chances, family relationships and, of course, romance. She is the author of the Lake Summers series set in the fictional town of Lake Summers, nestled in the Adirondacks Mountains, which includes the books The Lilac House and The Bluebell Girls. Before joining with Bookouture, she published The Last Dreamer, a women’s-fiction novel from Lake Union Publishing, along with hundreds of articles and essays in major and regional publications about family, home and relationships. She lives just north of New York City and enjoys escaping to the beach or the mountains whenever she can. Other than writing, her biggest passion is her family: husband, her three kids, and her indefatigable shih-poo!
www.BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn.com
Facebook.com/BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn...
https://twitter.com/barbarajoss
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/32Dvi7l
Three generations. One summer that will change everything.
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
An unforgettable romance that will whisk you away to the sunny shores of Lake Summers. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Debbie Macomber, Mary Alice Monroe and anyone who’s ever dreamed of rekindling a long-lost love.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Bluebell Girls' by Barbara Josselsohn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Lake Summers' series. Although this is book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Jenna. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the US 🇺🇸 .
This book is very well written with beautiful descriptions which really painted a picture. I loved how the storyline flitted from past to present to give a bigger picture so you can see how the past lead the characters to the present.
The storyline is a very easy read and heartwarming. It is nice to see how the three generations are so close and to read about their individual stories. I loved reading about Sweet's past and watching the relationships develop between Sophie and Sweet, Jenna and Chloe and Jenna and Troy. I also enjoyed meeting the other village characters who all had their own unique personalities.
All the characters were strong and I look forward to reading more of the 'Bluebell Girls' series and meeting them all again. It will be lovely to see how the individual relationships continue to develop and if anything happens between Jenna and Troy. Although the book was mainly written from Jenna's perspective it was nice to see some of the chapters were written from Troy's point of view too so you can see what he is also going through and what he is feeling.
Overall a perfect light hearted summer read about love, family and relationships.
Genres covered include Romance and family sagas.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a light hearted read.
271 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheBluebellGirls #BarabaraJosselsohn #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@BarbaraJosselsohn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Barbara Josselsohn is an award-winning journalist and novelist who loves crafting stories about strong protagonists facing a fork in the road. Her novels center around second chances, family relationships and, of course, romance. She is the author of the Lake Summers series set in the fictional town of Lake Summers, nestled in the Adirondacks Mountains, which includes the books The Lilac House and The Bluebell Girls. Before joining with Bookouture, she published The Last Dreamer, a women’s-fiction novel from Lake Union Publishing, along with hundreds of articles and essays in major and regional publications about family, home and relationships. She lives just north of New York City and enjoys escaping to the beach or the mountains whenever she can. Other than writing, her biggest passion is her family: husband, her three kids, and her indefatigable shih-poo!
www.BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn.com
Facebook.com/BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn...
https://twitter.com/barbarajoss
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/32Dvi7l
October 6, 2020
This is the second book in the Lake Summers series but one need not have read The Lilac House to enjoy this book. Jenna and her daughter Sophie, are spending the summer in Lake Summers following Jenna's divorce. Jenna's mother, Sweet, is having some health issues so Sophie and Jenna are happy to spend time with her. I particularly liked the closeness that developed between Sophie and her grandmother.
As with The Lilac House, the characters were well developed and people you wish were your personal friends. It's a story of family, loss and romance and a perfect escape for these uncertain times.
As with The Lilac House, the characters were well developed and people you wish were your personal friends. It's a story of family, loss and romance and a perfect escape for these uncertain times.
January 26, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.....the characters are easy to relate to as is their situations at this point in their lives...
The description of the setting makes you wish you could be there....this is a story in a story which is very interesting...
This is the first book I have read by this author but it will not be the last....very entertaining !
The description of the setting makes you wish you could be there....this is a story in a story which is very interesting...
This is the first book I have read by this author but it will not be the last....very entertaining !
November 15, 2020
It was delicious to climb into this novel each night . A love story in a warm climate with characters I could relate to , details so meticulous I feel like I’ve been to Lake Summers and fun surprises at every turn. Can’t wait for another.
September 21, 2020
Book Description:
Three generations. One summer that will change everything.
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
An unforgettable romance that will whisk you away to the sunny shores of Lake Summers. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Debbie Macomber, Mary Alice Monroe and anyone who’s ever dreamed of rekindling a long-lost love.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Bluebell Girls' by Barbara Josselsohn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Lake Summers' series. Although this is book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Jenna. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the US 🇺🇸 .
This book is very well written with beautiful descriptions which really painted a picture. I loved how the storyline flitted from past to present to give a bigger picture so you can see how the past lead the characters to the present.
The storyline is a very easy read and heartwarming. It is nice to see how the three generations are so close and to read about their individual stories. I loved reading about Sweet's past and watching the relationships develop between Sophie and Sweet, Jenna and Chloe and Jenna and Troy. I also enjoyed meeting the other village characters who all had their own unique personalities.
All the characters were strong and I look forward to reading more of the 'Bluebell Girls' series and meeting them all again. It will be lovely to see how the individual relationships continue to develop and if anything happens between Jenna and Troy. Although the book was mainly written from Jenna's perspective it was nice to see some of the chapters were written from Troy's point of view too so you can see what he is also going through and what he is feeling.
Overall a perfect light hearted summer read about love, family and relationships.
Genres covered include Romance and family sagas.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a light hearted read.
271 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheBluebellGirls #BarabaraJosselsohn #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@BarbaraJosselsohn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Barbara Josselsohn is an award-winning journalist and novelist who loves crafting stories about strong protagonists facing a fork in the road. Her novels center around second chances, family relationships and, of course, romance. She is the author of the Lake Summers series set in the fictional town of Lake Summers, nestled in the Adirondacks Mountains, which includes the books The Lilac House and The Bluebell Girls. Before joining with Bookouture, she published The Last Dreamer, a women’s-fiction novel from Lake Union Publishing, along with hundreds of articles and essays in major and regional publications about family, home and relationships. She lives just north of New York City and enjoys escaping to the beach or the mountains whenever she can. Other than writing, her biggest passion is her family: husband, her three kids, and her indefatigable shih-poo!
www.BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn.com
Facebook.com/BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn...
https://twitter.com/barbarajoss
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/32Dvi7l
Three generations. One summer that will change everything.
Growing up in Lake Summers, Jenna and her mother Sweet were known as the bluebell girls. Jenna was carefree, always running barefoot through their wildflower garden, and no one expected her to live in their little lake house in the Adirondack Mountains forever. But when Sweet’s health declines Jenna must return from her life near New York, and with her own daughter Sophie in tow, their family home comes to life again.
Away from the stress of her recent divorce, Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water and long nights watching Sweet tell Sophie stories about her long-lost loves. And when she meets Sweet’s new next-door neighbour Troy, she recognizes him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss.
Seeing Troy reminds Jenna of just how reckless she once was, but as their feelings resurface, so do the secrets they hide about a tragedy in their past. And with Sweet and Sophie closer than ever before, Jenna is forced to make a choice: will she flee again, or is she finally brave enough to be honest with Troy and settle down in Lake Summers forever?
An unforgettable romance that will whisk you away to the sunny shores of Lake Summers. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Debbie Macomber, Mary Alice Monroe and anyone who’s ever dreamed of rekindling a long-lost love.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Bluebell Girls' by Barbara Josselsohn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Lake Summers' series. Although this is book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 23 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Jenna. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the US 🇺🇸 .
This book is very well written with beautiful descriptions which really painted a picture. I loved how the storyline flitted from past to present to give a bigger picture so you can see how the past lead the characters to the present.
The storyline is a very easy read and heartwarming. It is nice to see how the three generations are so close and to read about their individual stories. I loved reading about Sweet's past and watching the relationships develop between Sophie and Sweet, Jenna and Chloe and Jenna and Troy. I also enjoyed meeting the other village characters who all had their own unique personalities.
All the characters were strong and I look forward to reading more of the 'Bluebell Girls' series and meeting them all again. It will be lovely to see how the individual relationships continue to develop and if anything happens between Jenna and Troy. Although the book was mainly written from Jenna's perspective it was nice to see some of the chapters were written from Troy's point of view too so you can see what he is also going through and what he is feeling.
Overall a perfect light hearted summer read about love, family and relationships.
Genres covered include Romance and family sagas.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a light hearted read.
271 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheBluebellGirls #BarabaraJosselsohn #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@BarbaraJosselsohn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Barbara Josselsohn is an award-winning journalist and novelist who loves crafting stories about strong protagonists facing a fork in the road. Her novels center around second chances, family relationships and, of course, romance. She is the author of the Lake Summers series set in the fictional town of Lake Summers, nestled in the Adirondacks Mountains, which includes the books The Lilac House and The Bluebell Girls. Before joining with Bookouture, she published The Last Dreamer, a women’s-fiction novel from Lake Union Publishing, along with hundreds of articles and essays in major and regional publications about family, home and relationships. She lives just north of New York City and enjoys escaping to the beach or the mountains whenever she can. Other than writing, her biggest passion is her family: husband, her three kids, and her indefatigable shih-poo!
www.BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn.com
Facebook.com/BarbaraSolomonJosselsohn...
https://twitter.com/barbarajoss
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/32Dvi7l
September 6, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and bookouture for giving me e-ARC of the bluebell girls. This review is solely mine and the words are 100% genuine.
I am at loss of words to explain how I felt about this book. I loved the plot and story of this book. The author has really done an amazing job in writing this wonderful book. The best thing is that although it is the second book of the Lake summers, yet it can be read as a standalone. I love stand-alones so this is a bonus point for me.
When I started reading the book, I didn't know I'll come to love it this much. Where to start from? Jenna? She was such a great character, full of life and warmth. I loved how she didn't let her marriage destroy herself completely. Her decision of coming back to the lake summers was a turning point of her life. I am so happy for that she made this choice. She grew and learned a lot about herself and life itself while being there. I guess her mother's injury was a blessing in disguise. My mind is still so full of Jenna that I called our helper Jenna by mistake few times.
Jenna was such a realistic character. What I mean to say is that she like other humans, had her doubts, hopelessness, confusion, heart-breaks etc. It is not like she was perfect and out of world character. This is what I like about her. She didn't make you feel worthless and unsuccessful. In fact, she made me realize that you can fail and yet you can start all over again. I loved how she stood up to her sister. She is my all time favorite character now.
Chloe was caring sister and was so sure of herself that she kind of imposed her decisions over others. But I understood her because she cared about all of her family.
Sophie was such a strong and loving character. I loved how she cared for her grandmother. This new generation doesn't like to spend time with older people. She was a warm and ever adpting herself to the environment type of a person. She went through a lot but she didn't use it to play a victim. This is what I admired about her.
Sweet was also my favorite. She was so lively even when her life had become dull and less adventurous. She found positivity in her present as well and shone brightly like a star at night.
This world is full of people like Matt. Although I would have loved to see his perspective as well but I still liked how Jenna made him do the right thing in the end. there are people out there who can not accept their own failures and hence blame everything on others. He was a self obssessed kind of person. Glad Jenna let him go (sorry Matt). I felt bad for his fiancee. He is going to blame everything on her as well.
Troy was the most difficult person. I was mostly mad at him but I guess it was not his fault the way he turned out to be. He had his responsibilities at young age and didn't get to enjoy his childhood and teenage, youth I mean. He was so broken that he had to shut off all his feelings. Again, he too was saved (rescued) by Jenna as she had dreamed in her teenage. I am happy for Troy.
I loved all characters, Sherry, Dr. Robert, Zoe, Mrs. Pearl etc. All of them were lovely.
The concept of the unfinished work is now my inspiration for living my life. I am glad I get to read this book or else I wouldn't have got my motivational words to lift up my spirits. I would definitely recommend it to everyone and to those who don't read this genre to step out of their comfort genre and give it a go. Trust me, I still feel like I haven't done any justice in describing this book.
Well done author, you have written a wonderful masterpiece. This book is going to stay with me for a long time.
I am at loss of words to explain how I felt about this book. I loved the plot and story of this book. The author has really done an amazing job in writing this wonderful book. The best thing is that although it is the second book of the Lake summers, yet it can be read as a standalone. I love stand-alones so this is a bonus point for me.
When I started reading the book, I didn't know I'll come to love it this much. Where to start from? Jenna? She was such a great character, full of life and warmth. I loved how she didn't let her marriage destroy herself completely. Her decision of coming back to the lake summers was a turning point of her life. I am so happy for that she made this choice. She grew and learned a lot about herself and life itself while being there. I guess her mother's injury was a blessing in disguise. My mind is still so full of Jenna that I called our helper Jenna by mistake few times.
Jenna was such a realistic character. What I mean to say is that she like other humans, had her doubts, hopelessness, confusion, heart-breaks etc. It is not like she was perfect and out of world character. This is what I like about her. She didn't make you feel worthless and unsuccessful. In fact, she made me realize that you can fail and yet you can start all over again. I loved how she stood up to her sister. She is my all time favorite character now.
Chloe was caring sister and was so sure of herself that she kind of imposed her decisions over others. But I understood her because she cared about all of her family.
Sophie was such a strong and loving character. I loved how she cared for her grandmother. This new generation doesn't like to spend time with older people. She was a warm and ever adpting herself to the environment type of a person. She went through a lot but she didn't use it to play a victim. This is what I admired about her.
Sweet was also my favorite. She was so lively even when her life had become dull and less adventurous. She found positivity in her present as well and shone brightly like a star at night.
This world is full of people like Matt. Although I would have loved to see his perspective as well but I still liked how Jenna made him do the right thing in the end. there are people out there who can not accept their own failures and hence blame everything on others. He was a self obssessed kind of person. Glad Jenna let him go (sorry Matt). I felt bad for his fiancee. He is going to blame everything on her as well.
Troy was the most difficult person. I was mostly mad at him but I guess it was not his fault the way he turned out to be. He had his responsibilities at young age and didn't get to enjoy his childhood and teenage, youth I mean. He was so broken that he had to shut off all his feelings. Again, he too was saved (rescued) by Jenna as she had dreamed in her teenage. I am happy for Troy.
I loved all characters, Sherry, Dr. Robert, Zoe, Mrs. Pearl etc. All of them were lovely.
The concept of the unfinished work is now my inspiration for living my life. I am glad I get to read this book or else I wouldn't have got my motivational words to lift up my spirits. I would definitely recommend it to everyone and to those who don't read this genre to step out of their comfort genre and give it a go. Trust me, I still feel like I haven't done any justice in describing this book.
Well done author, you have written a wonderful masterpiece. This book is going to stay with me for a long time.
September 28, 2020
The Bluebell Girls: An absolutely gorgeous and uplifting summer romance: Lake Summer Book 2 is by Barbara Josselsohn. This book it set in Lake Summer which we first came across in The Lilac House. This small town explodes during the summer when tourists are drawn to it for the water sports. Mrs. Pearl’s Café and the Smoothie Dudes appear in both books to make us feel at home.
Jenna has come home to Lake Summer. Her daughter is already spending time with her Grandmother so Jenna has driven down with her dog, Mo. Jenna and her husband Max had divorced and Max was already engaged. She knew he hadn’t told Sophie yet so was worried about how her daughter would handle that. Jenna was planning on moving to Lake Summer if Sophie was in agreement and the summer worked out with her Mother. Jenna’s sister, Chloe, wanted to put Mother in an assisted living center and have Jenna move to Long Island where Chloe could look after both of them. Neither idea was to Jenna’s liking. A phone call from Sophie told Jenna that her Mother had fallen down the basement stairs and was on the way to the hospital. Jenna changed her directions and headed there. Here she found her Mother was OK with nothing broken. At her age, they wanted to keep her overnight. She and Chloe agreed that Jenna could keep her Mother at home for six weeks and they would reevaluate the situation then. If Jenna couldn’t make it work, she and Mother would do as Chloe wanted.
Sophie told Jenna that her Grandmother had told her about going to Hollywood and meeting an actor. Sophie said she was going to look for some letter in the basement when she fell. So, Sophie was going to look for her and find the letter Grandmother talked about. Jenna thought it was just a story her Mother was telling Sophie; but she let her look. Sophie found a closet full of shoeboxes and gift boxes so the three of them started through them looking for the letter.
Meanwhile, Jenna is reunited with TJ (Troy Jason) after all these years. She had known him almost all her life and had played with his brother Steven for many years. However, she discovered she had a crush on TJ when she was seventeen. Tragically, they were broken up after TJ’s Father died of a heart attack. Now, TJ was back in Lake Summer as the town’s vet. Could a romance be in order?
Jenna has come home to Lake Summer. Her daughter is already spending time with her Grandmother so Jenna has driven down with her dog, Mo. Jenna and her husband Max had divorced and Max was already engaged. She knew he hadn’t told Sophie yet so was worried about how her daughter would handle that. Jenna was planning on moving to Lake Summer if Sophie was in agreement and the summer worked out with her Mother. Jenna’s sister, Chloe, wanted to put Mother in an assisted living center and have Jenna move to Long Island where Chloe could look after both of them. Neither idea was to Jenna’s liking. A phone call from Sophie told Jenna that her Mother had fallen down the basement stairs and was on the way to the hospital. Jenna changed her directions and headed there. Here she found her Mother was OK with nothing broken. At her age, they wanted to keep her overnight. She and Chloe agreed that Jenna could keep her Mother at home for six weeks and they would reevaluate the situation then. If Jenna couldn’t make it work, she and Mother would do as Chloe wanted.
Sophie told Jenna that her Grandmother had told her about going to Hollywood and meeting an actor. Sophie said she was going to look for some letter in the basement when she fell. So, Sophie was going to look for her and find the letter Grandmother talked about. Jenna thought it was just a story her Mother was telling Sophie; but she let her look. Sophie found a closet full of shoeboxes and gift boxes so the three of them started through them looking for the letter.
Meanwhile, Jenna is reunited with TJ (Troy Jason) after all these years. She had known him almost all her life and had played with his brother Steven for many years. However, she discovered she had a crush on TJ when she was seventeen. Tragically, they were broken up after TJ’s Father died of a heart attack. Now, TJ was back in Lake Summer as the town’s vet. Could a romance be in order?
August 30, 2020
This is the second book in the Lake Summers series and well worth investing the time to read it. There are a few background characters from the first offering (The Lilac House), but this novel serves very well as a stand-alone book. The locale itself is so well-described and integral to the story that it becomes a character in its own right.
Jenna has recently endured the demise of her marriage and has returned to Lake Summers, a small town in the Adirondacks. While contemplating a permanent move to her childhood home, Jenna realizes that she needs to stay the summer after her mother, Sweet, experiences a traumatic fall and is also exhibiting memory challenges. Sweet shares her experience as a seventeen year old running away from home and falling in love with Sophie, Jenna’s impressionable preteen daughter. Jenna is not sure the story is true, given her mother’s cognitive decline. Additionally Jenna rekindles a relationship with her first love after years of separation. As the three generations of the Clayton family explore the past, Jenna comes to realize that events do not define one’s life, that second chances are always present when they are embraced.
I enjoyed both books in this series (although I would give the Lilac House 5 Stars). The author deals with classic issues of family/relationship dynamics, love, loss and rebirth, yet she creates a refreshing approach with intelligent, relatable characters and interesting background elements. There are romantic aspects to both stories without being dominated by them. I look forward to more books in this series.
My thanks to the author, Bookoutre and NetGalley for providing the opportunity to review a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jenna has recently endured the demise of her marriage and has returned to Lake Summers, a small town in the Adirondacks. While contemplating a permanent move to her childhood home, Jenna realizes that she needs to stay the summer after her mother, Sweet, experiences a traumatic fall and is also exhibiting memory challenges. Sweet shares her experience as a seventeen year old running away from home and falling in love with Sophie, Jenna’s impressionable preteen daughter. Jenna is not sure the story is true, given her mother’s cognitive decline. Additionally Jenna rekindles a relationship with her first love after years of separation. As the three generations of the Clayton family explore the past, Jenna comes to realize that events do not define one’s life, that second chances are always present when they are embraced.
I enjoyed both books in this series (although I would give the Lilac House 5 Stars). The author deals with classic issues of family/relationship dynamics, love, loss and rebirth, yet she creates a refreshing approach with intelligent, relatable characters and interesting background elements. There are romantic aspects to both stories without being dominated by them. I look forward to more books in this series.
My thanks to the author, Bookoutre and NetGalley for providing the opportunity to review a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2020
It’s a beautiful bluebell season in Lake Summers as I get to meet Jenna, who quickly becomes my friend. Jenna is taking refuge from a ho-hum marriage and a straying husband, or perhaps she is running toward “who she is meant to be” but has lost track of in the minutia of being a wife and mother. Along the way she meets the needs of her beloved aging mother, and her growing-up teenage daughter. She renegotiates a changing relationship with her older sister. Jenna rediscovers who she is, surrounded by loved ones including those from her past. Readers of a certain age can relate to the quiet agony of dealing with failing yet beloved parent and with children who are developing their own sense of self. We would all love to be supported by the quirky characters of idyllic Lake Summers. I wish I could run away there myself!
What a welcome respite from 2020. In this social distancing world, author Barbara Josselsohn shows that it is our relationships that define us and give our lives meaning but also who we are defines our relationships. The characters in Lake Summers are filled with eternal hope of having another chance at a perceived lost opportunity, and rekindling connections. Will Jenna find her lost love? Will her mother? Will daughter Sophie’s search lead to love or greater loss? You will need to read Bluebell Girls to find out their stories, and their story may just change your own. It is the perfect read for 2020.
What a welcome respite from 2020. In this social distancing world, author Barbara Josselsohn shows that it is our relationships that define us and give our lives meaning but also who we are defines our relationships. The characters in Lake Summers are filled with eternal hope of having another chance at a perceived lost opportunity, and rekindling connections. Will Jenna find her lost love? Will her mother? Will daughter Sophie’s search lead to love or greater loss? You will need to read Bluebell Girls to find out their stories, and their story may just change your own. It is the perfect read for 2020.
September 22, 2020
The Bluebell Girls by Barbara Josselsohn brings us the story of three generations of women and one summer that will change each of their lives. Jenna needs to reboot her life after the breakup of her marriage so when her mother Sweet suffers a serious fall, she packs a suitcase, and together with her teenage daughter Sophie, retreats to her childhood home of Lake Summers to care for her. But it isn’t only the fall that is bothering Sweet. She’s also having memory issues, reliving events from her past which may or may not be true. Through touching passages, the author weaves together all three women’s stories in an intelligent and heartfelt way as we delve into the family’s history, complete with buried secrets, as well as events in the current day which will bond them together in ways they never imagined. Extra points for a believable romance with the first boy Jenna ever kissed who still lives in the town and the underlying message that yes, it’s possible to begin life again in a new and more authentic way. As in her first Lake Summers’ book, The Lilac House, Josselsohn’s writing style is lyrical, intelligent, and touching and her small-town setting is a place I’d dearly love to visit.
My thanks to the author for providing me with an early reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
My thanks to the author for providing me with an early reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2020
Jenna returns to her hometown at Lake Summers to care for her mother who has had a fall and may have mild dementia. She is nursing a sore heart following the end of her marriage and her ex's subsequent engagement which he has not told their daughter Sophie about. Her heart is further confused when she discovers that her neighbour and first love Troy has also returned to the town...
The Bluebell Girls is a book of family, love and second chances. The pace is quite slow but the writing is warm and engaging. There is also a hint of mystery as young Sophie tries to uncover the truth about her grandmother's past.
Talking of the past, Jenna and Troy are both haunted by their teenage years when they almost ran away together which resulted in tragic consequences. I wanted to shout at them both to be brave but author Barbara Josselsohn is much more subtle and gentle than me!
I enjoyed the intergenerational plot and the gradual revealing of the events in Jenna and her mother's pasts. I thought that important issues like caring for the elderly, grief and marriage breakdown were handled sensitively.
The Bluebell Girls is an enjoyable novel and is the second book set in this location. I have not read the first and didn't know until I'd finished! So it works perfectly well as a stand alone story.
The Bluebell Girls is a book of family, love and second chances. The pace is quite slow but the writing is warm and engaging. There is also a hint of mystery as young Sophie tries to uncover the truth about her grandmother's past.
Talking of the past, Jenna and Troy are both haunted by their teenage years when they almost ran away together which resulted in tragic consequences. I wanted to shout at them both to be brave but author Barbara Josselsohn is much more subtle and gentle than me!
I enjoyed the intergenerational plot and the gradual revealing of the events in Jenna and her mother's pasts. I thought that important issues like caring for the elderly, grief and marriage breakdown were handled sensitively.
The Bluebell Girls is an enjoyable novel and is the second book set in this location. I have not read the first and didn't know until I'd finished! So it works perfectly well as a stand alone story.
December 3, 2020
Two words mean everything, but they’re locked in the memories of an elderly woman who forgets a conversation taking place just hours ago.
The ending of her marriage drives Jenna to the comfort of her childhood home. She and her daughter take refuge in Lake Summers. Instead of nursing her own emotional wounds, Jenna takes on caring for her mother after a terrifying fall down the basement steps. Sweet is the mom we all wish we had – attractive, creative and nurturing, with a bit of a daring side. Jenna’s sister Chloe threatens to drag Sweet away from the home and town she loves to a care facility. Sweet is having memory issues, and Chloe wants their mother where she can be safe, unless Jenna can stand up to her overbearing sister. While in Lake Summers, Jenna reconnects with her first love, but the story does not travel a straight line to renewed romance. While The Bluebell Girls at times reads like a wonderful fantasy many of us would love to live, it is rooted in realism. Jenna faces her fears and doubts in a story that ends on an upbeat note, but not in a sappy happily-ever-after way. So many threads in this novel mirrored my own experiences. I am certain it will resonate with other readers. Take a vacation to Lake Summers by reading this novel. You’ll leave refreshed and renewed.
The ending of her marriage drives Jenna to the comfort of her childhood home. She and her daughter take refuge in Lake Summers. Instead of nursing her own emotional wounds, Jenna takes on caring for her mother after a terrifying fall down the basement steps. Sweet is the mom we all wish we had – attractive, creative and nurturing, with a bit of a daring side. Jenna’s sister Chloe threatens to drag Sweet away from the home and town she loves to a care facility. Sweet is having memory issues, and Chloe wants their mother where she can be safe, unless Jenna can stand up to her overbearing sister. While in Lake Summers, Jenna reconnects with her first love, but the story does not travel a straight line to renewed romance. While The Bluebell Girls at times reads like a wonderful fantasy many of us would love to live, it is rooted in realism. Jenna faces her fears and doubts in a story that ends on an upbeat note, but not in a sappy happily-ever-after way. So many threads in this novel mirrored my own experiences. I am certain it will resonate with other readers. Take a vacation to Lake Summers by reading this novel. You’ll leave refreshed and renewed.
September 28, 2020
This is a delightful story takes place in Lake Summers and essentially tells of three generations of women of a family and their interactions with each other. While this is also a romance, and a rediscovering of an old love, the family dynamics is also a large part of the story.
Jenna’s recent divorce has changed her view of life and of herself, and she journeys back ‘home’ hoping to eventually settle there. But in addition to taking care of her daughter and an ill dog, she finds that she needs to take on the care of her mother too. Despite her sister’s doubts about her ability to manage it all, Jenna rediscovers her bold and adventurous self and thrives!
The interactions between all the characters in this small town, where everyone knows everyone else are vividly told and enjoyable to read.
Love, hope, second chances and the importance of community are the threads that bind this book together beautifully.
I enjoyed the language, the conversations and the very real feel of this story.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advanced reader’s copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jenna’s recent divorce has changed her view of life and of herself, and she journeys back ‘home’ hoping to eventually settle there. But in addition to taking care of her daughter and an ill dog, she finds that she needs to take on the care of her mother too. Despite her sister’s doubts about her ability to manage it all, Jenna rediscovers her bold and adventurous self and thrives!
The interactions between all the characters in this small town, where everyone knows everyone else are vividly told and enjoyable to read.
Love, hope, second chances and the importance of community are the threads that bind this book together beautifully.
I enjoyed the language, the conversations and the very real feel of this story.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advanced reader’s copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 22, 2020
Reading “The Bluebell Girls” was such a wholesome-feeling and comforting escape from the reality of truly difficult times in our world. Barbara Josselsohn conjures up a special, timeless place that feels real, with characters who have questions (about themselves and others) and challenges that must be met … or not. It was an entertaining and thoughtful look into the ways people deal with issues of family and community obligation and complexity, involving different kinds of loss, guilt, and self-doubt, with a window into a generation that loves and cares for its children along with its aging parents. While “The Bluebell Girls” is nothing like, for example, the film “Dirty Dancing”, the story had the same warm and relatable feel, for me — a simpler place and time, where serious things are addressed with the hearts of good people in the right place, even though they may disagree. "The Bluebell Girls" is a feel-good hopeful tale, in which all involved “come of age”, not just the young people in the story.
September 29, 2020
A loving story of three generations where the secrets of the grandmother was a revelation for the daughter and granddaughter. Author Barbara Josselsohn made the sweetness of the summer come alive in Lake Summers.
Jena was back home with Sophie post her divorce. When grandmother Sweet’s health deteriorates, they both stay over and they come to know of the secret letters. A hint of a next door romance adds to the spice.
Writing was soft and warm hearted, there was a great uplift of spirits on reading the prose. Though not completely a love story – praise the skies for that – this was more about the women and their personal growth.
I liked how the three adapt to the new dynamics finding their peace and joy. It was nice to see a loving bond firm slowly. This was Jenna’s story and how she found her way back to life and discovered her confidence post her separation.
Emotions mark the prose with their fragrance, a secret and a second chance at love makes it all the more soothing. A perfect read over a lazy afternoon.
Jena was back home with Sophie post her divorce. When grandmother Sweet’s health deteriorates, they both stay over and they come to know of the secret letters. A hint of a next door romance adds to the spice.
Writing was soft and warm hearted, there was a great uplift of spirits on reading the prose. Though not completely a love story – praise the skies for that – this was more about the women and their personal growth.
I liked how the three adapt to the new dynamics finding their peace and joy. It was nice to see a loving bond firm slowly. This was Jenna’s story and how she found her way back to life and discovered her confidence post her separation.
Emotions mark the prose with their fragrance, a secret and a second chance at love makes it all the more soothing. A perfect read over a lazy afternoon.
October 2, 2020
I was very excited to read the second book in the Lake Summers series as I loved The Lilac House. I didn’t expect this story to be so thought provoking when I started the book. Barbara Josselsohn has a unique way of writing a delightful and enjoyable novel, while at the same time addressing some of the very difficult issues that life throws our way. She develops complex characters who are very believable and relatable. While the characters certainly have their share of adversity to deal with ( divorce, loss, failed relationships, illness,) there is hope and optimism woven in throughout the story. There are questions to ponder and life lessons to consider. After reading both books in this series, I wonder why I am not living in a town like Lake Summers! It was such a pleasure to take refuge in this beautifully written,intergenerational story. At a time when we are faced with so many serious challenges in the world, treat yourself to a little time in Lake Summers and it just might change your perspective on living your life!
September 22, 2020
I was so happy to receive an advance copy of this novel from the publisher because a return trip to Lake Summers was exactly what I needed in these turbulent times. I fell in love with this charming town in book one of the series, The Lilac House, and was happy to spend time there again. Reading book one is no way required to thoroughly enjoy The Bluebell Girls but it is fun to meet a few old friends again. Not only is Lake Summers a lovely place to be but Barbara Josselsohn's characters are delightful people to spend time with. She is equally adept at creating fully rounded characters in their 70's, 40's and teenage years. The dog is pretty much of a character himself! Although this novel is
a fun read, it doesn't shy away from the problems that affect all of us- aging, divorce, family disagreements and the pain of adolescence. It's the best kind of escape- one that leaves you with new hope and some practical philosophy to return to the lives we are living.
a fun read, it doesn't shy away from the problems that affect all of us- aging, divorce, family disagreements and the pain of adolescence. It's the best kind of escape- one that leaves you with new hope and some practical philosophy to return to the lives we are living.
September 23, 2020
I would state this is a nice women’s fictional novel. It had the elements of romance, connection, family and memories. Although I was hoping for a bit more of a love story, it was enjoyable to read about Sophie and Sweet's relationship as they grew closer. The element of mystery regarding Sweet’s first love and her letters also added a nice touch and made the story more interesting.
I enjoyed Josselsohn’s style of writing when she wrote about the character’s reflections on their surroundings and circumstances. I wanted a little bit more from the story outside of wanting more about the love story, but just not quite able to put my finger on what was missing, but I felt yearning for more. The tidbits of past memories that tied in the past with the present with Troy’s and Jenna’s story was intriguing, but again, I wanted more.
Overall, this story was an enjoyable story about family ties and lost loves; despite leaving you wanting more out of it.
I enjoyed Josselsohn’s style of writing when she wrote about the character’s reflections on their surroundings and circumstances. I wanted a little bit more from the story outside of wanting more about the love story, but just not quite able to put my finger on what was missing, but I felt yearning for more. The tidbits of past memories that tied in the past with the present with Troy’s and Jenna’s story was intriguing, but again, I wanted more.
Overall, this story was an enjoyable story about family ties and lost loves; despite leaving you wanting more out of it.
October 13, 2020
Newly single mom Jenna wants to spend the summer in Lake Summers with her daughter Sophie and her mom, Sweet, where, as she says, "life was calmer and people always had time to listen". Accompanying her is her aging dog, Mo. Their short term stay with Sweet becomes extended when the formerly active widow takes a bad fall and needs daily help. Despite her bossy sister Chloe's misgivings Jenna decides to move in temporarily and allow Sweet to remain in her home as she wishes.
While Sophie gets a chance to enjoy the pleasures of Lake Summer she also gets closer to her grandmother and helps her uncover a happy memory. There are some memories that lead Jenna towards regaining her confidence. The handsome vet next door, Troy, not only helps with Mo's care but he and Jenna rekindle the relationship they had as teens.
This is a rich satisfying novel that made me wish I could drive right over to Lake Summers and spend time with Jenna and Sweet and have Troy take care of my dog.
While Sophie gets a chance to enjoy the pleasures of Lake Summer she also gets closer to her grandmother and helps her uncover a happy memory. There are some memories that lead Jenna towards regaining her confidence. The handsome vet next door, Troy, not only helps with Mo's care but he and Jenna rekindle the relationship they had as teens.
This is a rich satisfying novel that made me wish I could drive right over to Lake Summers and spend time with Jenna and Sweet and have Troy take care of my dog.
March 20, 2021
Returning home to her family’s little lake house is the perfect way for Jenna to escape her heartbreaking divorce. Her mother Sweet has been losing her memory and Jenna is sure that taking her daughter Sophie for a break with Sweet in Lake Summers, tucked under the Adirondack Mountains, is what they all need.
Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water, and during long nights overlooking their bluebell garden, she’s relieved to hear Sweet telling stories about her long-lost loves. Surrounded by family, it seems that some of Sweet’s memories have returned and Jenna knows she has made the right decision to come home.
A heartwarming story of love, family relationships all set in the perfect town of Lake Summers. I loved all the characters and the community, I found myself strolling down the streets with all of them, visiting the shops, especially Pearl’s Cafe 🥰I could live there!! It was the perfect escape.
Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water, and during long nights overlooking their bluebell garden, she’s relieved to hear Sweet telling stories about her long-lost loves. Surrounded by family, it seems that some of Sweet’s memories have returned and Jenna knows she has made the right decision to come home.
A heartwarming story of love, family relationships all set in the perfect town of Lake Summers. I loved all the characters and the community, I found myself strolling down the streets with all of them, visiting the shops, especially Pearl’s Cafe 🥰I could live there!! It was the perfect escape.
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