What do you think?
Rate this book
When Robins Appear
With a lucrative freelance career and a loving family, Deborah Earle has a life many women would envy.
But her daughter, Amanda, is heading to college soon, and Deborah worries about having an empty nest. She thinks another child might be the answer. Her husband, Richard, however, may not be willing to start over so late in life.
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year, but she meets Graham, a handsome older boy, falls hard, and considers postponing her education to stay close to him. Her mother takes an instant dislike to Graham, but Amanda refuses to let her keep them apart.
As Deborah watches her daughter rush headlong toward heartache on an all-too-familiar path, the secrets lurking in Deborah’s past continue to echo in her present. When tragedy strikes, Deborah faces a future she could never have imagined.
International Book Awards Finalist 2021
But her daughter, Amanda, is heading to college soon, and Deborah worries about having an empty nest. She thinks another child might be the answer. Her husband, Richard, however, may not be willing to start over so late in life.
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year, but she meets Graham, a handsome older boy, falls hard, and considers postponing her education to stay close to him. Her mother takes an instant dislike to Graham, but Amanda refuses to let her keep them apart.
As Deborah watches her daughter rush headlong toward heartache on an all-too-familiar path, the secrets lurking in Deborah’s past continue to echo in her present. When tragedy strikes, Deborah faces a future she could never have imagined.
International Book Awards Finalist 2021
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2020
581 people are currently reading
1186 people want to read
About the author
Densie Webb
13 books566 followersDensie Webb (not Denise) has spent a long career as a freelance nonfiction writer and editor, specializing in health and nutrition, and has published several books on the topic. She grew up in Louisiana, spent 13 years in New York City, and settled in Austin, TX, where it’s summer nine months out of the year. She is an avid walker (not of the dead variety, though she adores zombies, vampires, and apocalyptic stories), drinks too much coffee, and has a small “devil dog” that keeps her on her toes. She has two grown "babies," one of which lives overseas, giving her the perfect excuse to travel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
November 24, 2022
This is the first book, this year, that I have been thoroughly invested in - one I could not put down. I 'nearly' pulled a late-nighter to finish it but 'common-sense' told me not to ...
It pulled me in from page one, the characters were "real" to me. I enjoyed it but was also a blubbering mess by the end ...
Told from the dual perspective of mother and daughter, Deb and Amanda, it brings up past memories and actions and confirms the old adage that your past can come back to 'haunt' you. It deals with "empty nest" syndrome (yeah, I think for some it's tough when the kids leave home (I must admit I found it difficult (at first) - I soon got over it. It deals, with empathy, with medical issues . I probably had a few issues with Deb's thinking and considerations about a certain matter
An emotional read, but worth it.
It pulled me in from page one, the characters were "real" to me. I enjoyed it but was also a blubbering mess by the end ...
Told from the dual perspective of mother and daughter, Deb and Amanda, it brings up past memories and actions and confirms the old adage that your past can come back to 'haunt' you. It deals with "empty nest" syndrome (yeah, I think for some it's tough when the kids leave home (I must admit I found it difficult (at first) - I soon got over it. It deals, with empathy, with medical issues . I probably had a few issues with Deb's thinking and considerations about a certain matter
I've heard it said that pain is the price you pay for love ...
An emotional read, but worth it.
November 7, 2020
Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “When Robins Appear” by Densie Webb, Red Adept Publishing, Oct. 2020 for Suzy Approved Book Tours
Densie Webb, the author of “When Robins Appear” has written a thought-provoking, memorable, intriguing, and intense novel that tugs at one’s heartstrings. The genres for this book are fiction, domestic drama, and women’s fiction. I appreciate the way the author vividly captures the character’s personalities and events in the story. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex, complicated, each with their own set of problems. The themes that revolve around the story are how secrets can affect others, the importance of communication, the importance of family, love, support, and hope.
Deborah Earle has a wonderful husband Richard, and a lovely daughter Amanda, who will hopefully be going to college very soon. Deborah writes about health issues, and Richard is very into health taking all kinds of supplements. Deborah realizes that she and Richard will be empty nesters when Amanda goes off to college and starts thinking this might be the perfect time for another child if Richard agrees.
Amanda has always been a good student but now starts socializing. Amanda’s ex-boyfriend is stalking her, and Amanda wants to move on. She meets Graham, and the two become close. Deborah is ambivalent about Graham, based on memories and decisions in the best, which are her secrets.
Do secrets stay buried? Deborah is first realizing as tragedy hits her family, the meaning of honesty, communication, love, and hope. I would highly recommend this novel. Be sure to have some Kleenex on hand.
Densie Webb, the author of “When Robins Appear” has written a thought-provoking, memorable, intriguing, and intense novel that tugs at one’s heartstrings. The genres for this book are fiction, domestic drama, and women’s fiction. I appreciate the way the author vividly captures the character’s personalities and events in the story. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex, complicated, each with their own set of problems. The themes that revolve around the story are how secrets can affect others, the importance of communication, the importance of family, love, support, and hope.
Deborah Earle has a wonderful husband Richard, and a lovely daughter Amanda, who will hopefully be going to college very soon. Deborah writes about health issues, and Richard is very into health taking all kinds of supplements. Deborah realizes that she and Richard will be empty nesters when Amanda goes off to college and starts thinking this might be the perfect time for another child if Richard agrees.
Amanda has always been a good student but now starts socializing. Amanda’s ex-boyfriend is stalking her, and Amanda wants to move on. She meets Graham, and the two become close. Deborah is ambivalent about Graham, based on memories and decisions in the best, which are her secrets.
Do secrets stay buried? Deborah is first realizing as tragedy hits her family, the meaning of honesty, communication, love, and hope. I would highly recommend this novel. Be sure to have some Kleenex on hand.
November 5, 2020
I've been a fan of Densie Webb's stories since her first, but this one is easily my favorite. Poignant and real, keenly observed and relatable, the book draws you deeply into a mother and daughter's lives as each one navigates her own relationship and key life turning points--and how an unexpected crisis challenges and unites their family. A sure-handed and fluid read that will stay with you long after you finish.
November 20, 2020
Deborah is a freelancer with a loving family; her daughter is attending NYU next year and she thinks she and Richard (her husband) are going to be very lonely when she leaves.
To her surprise, Amanda falls in love with a younger boy, named Graham and decides to postpone her school and stay with him.
Deborah is uncertain about Graham, and watching her daughter rushing towards heartache, revives her memories and her secrets.
This is a story of family, honesty, heartbreak, and acceptance. It is a work of fiction with a bit of a twist about Deborah’s love for her family and her secrets. A captivating, heartbreaking story of a woman and her motivation to save her family when they are is in great danger.
what I loved the most was the dual perspective (Deborah and Amanda). The characters were aimeable, and I was able to connect with them easily. I enjoyed how the author portrayed Deborah, and the ending sure did surprise me.
Blog
Instagram
Amazon
To her surprise, Amanda falls in love with a younger boy, named Graham and decides to postpone her school and stay with him.
Deborah is uncertain about Graham, and watching her daughter rushing towards heartache, revives her memories and her secrets.
This is a story of family, honesty, heartbreak, and acceptance. It is a work of fiction with a bit of a twist about Deborah’s love for her family and her secrets. A captivating, heartbreaking story of a woman and her motivation to save her family when they are is in great danger.
what I loved the most was the dual perspective (Deborah and Amanda). The characters were aimeable, and I was able to connect with them easily. I enjoyed how the author portrayed Deborah, and the ending sure did surprise me.
Blog
Amazon
November 17, 2020
Blurb:
With a lucrative freelance career and a loving family, Deborah Earle has a life many women would envy. But her daughter, Amanda, is heading to college soon, and Deborah worries about having an empty nest. She thinks another child might be the answer. Her husband, Richard, however, may not be willing to start over so late in life.
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year, but she meets Graham, a handsome older boy, falls hard, and considers postponing her education to stay close to him. Her mother takes an instant dislike to Graham, but Amanda refuses to let her keep them apart.
As Deborah watches her daughter rush headlong toward heartache on an all-too-familiar path, the secrets lurking in Deborah’s past continue to echo in her present. When tragedy strikes, Deborah faces a future she could never have imagined.
----------
A mother torn between the love for her family and secrets from her past. Heart-wrenching and engrossing, a family drama you can't put down.--
******
WHEN ROBIN'S APPEAR
by
Densie Webb.
#justreleased on 20th Oct. 2020
289 pages; 54 chapters.
______
✨THIS IS THE STORY OF a mother- DEBORAH EARLE (Deb) ; her husband (RICHARD) & her only daughter AMANDA (Mandy).
There are few supporting characters but I would prefer to highlight this trio.
GOD NEVER HANDS YOU MORE THAN YOU CAN HANDLE..
Do you agree?
✨How did I miss the signs?
✨How could I not have known?
These questions are bound to cross any mother's mind, who's child may encounter a difficult moment or make a folly or face a tragic/ drastic step..
This story is all about this & a lot more..
___
Deb wants a 2nd child fearing an empty nest but Richard disagrees..quoting financials & other reasons. Totally understandable.
Mandy in her immaturity runs risks of ruining her life..
Deb tries to warn & help..but it's too late.. She is engrossed in her own turmoil..
✨The whole family drama is wound around MISUNDERSTANDINGS, MISCOMMUNICATION, DISTRUST & FEAR.
✨The story gives you DREAD as well as HOPE..it leaves you wiser but sad..
✨Sometimes in facing our own past demons, we fail to look at the problems & potential signs of a tragedy, in the present.
____
The story is fast paced with well developed, realistic characters. Sometimes I related to Deb, wanting a 2nd child, facing past demons, fearing for her child lest she falls & on the other hand I related to Mandy, being a free bird, impulsive & strong minded, immature & innocent.
____
This book tells us, the strength of a woman when it's her family that's on the line.
The story is told from dual perspective of Deb & Mandy which helps relate to the characters more...
____
📌Lessons learnt:
✨Always listen to your mum, no matter how illogical it sounds.
✨Don't put password on your phone, what if there's an emergency.
✨You need to put your past to rest, to look forth to the future & live the present fully.
✨Rejoice what you have, lest you lose it in search for something else.
✨The importance of clear communication in relationships.
******
A heart-wrenching domestic drama of old secrets, new love, and paper-thin trust.
Told through the eyes of a mother and daughter struggling with life-defining choices in the midst of a family crisis, When Robins Appear is a story that will haunt you long after you've turned the final page.--
____
5/5
#noorthebookwormreviews
#whenrobinsappear
**
P. S.
WHEN A ROBIN BIRD VISITS there are several meanings depending on your current state of life. Firstly, after the death of a loved one, a robin will sometimes pay you a visit. Robins, a sign from Heaven, can bring a message from above indicating your loved one is at peace. Secondly, these red-breasted songbirds represent renewal and new beginnings which can mean a transformation of life is about to happen. And thirdly having a robin bird visit and connecting to this bird is a very spiritual experience which gives us renewed hope and increases our faith in a loving God.
With a lucrative freelance career and a loving family, Deborah Earle has a life many women would envy. But her daughter, Amanda, is heading to college soon, and Deborah worries about having an empty nest. She thinks another child might be the answer. Her husband, Richard, however, may not be willing to start over so late in life.
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year, but she meets Graham, a handsome older boy, falls hard, and considers postponing her education to stay close to him. Her mother takes an instant dislike to Graham, but Amanda refuses to let her keep them apart.
As Deborah watches her daughter rush headlong toward heartache on an all-too-familiar path, the secrets lurking in Deborah’s past continue to echo in her present. When tragedy strikes, Deborah faces a future she could never have imagined.
----------
A mother torn between the love for her family and secrets from her past. Heart-wrenching and engrossing, a family drama you can't put down.--
******
WHEN ROBIN'S APPEAR
by
Densie Webb.
#justreleased on 20th Oct. 2020
289 pages; 54 chapters.
______
✨THIS IS THE STORY OF a mother- DEBORAH EARLE (Deb) ; her husband (RICHARD) & her only daughter AMANDA (Mandy).
There are few supporting characters but I would prefer to highlight this trio.
GOD NEVER HANDS YOU MORE THAN YOU CAN HANDLE..
Do you agree?
✨How did I miss the signs?
✨How could I not have known?
These questions are bound to cross any mother's mind, who's child may encounter a difficult moment or make a folly or face a tragic/ drastic step..
This story is all about this & a lot more..
___
Deb wants a 2nd child fearing an empty nest but Richard disagrees..quoting financials & other reasons. Totally understandable.
Mandy in her immaturity runs risks of ruining her life..
Deb tries to warn & help..but it's too late.. She is engrossed in her own turmoil..
✨The whole family drama is wound around MISUNDERSTANDINGS, MISCOMMUNICATION, DISTRUST & FEAR.
✨The story gives you DREAD as well as HOPE..it leaves you wiser but sad..
✨Sometimes in facing our own past demons, we fail to look at the problems & potential signs of a tragedy, in the present.
____
The story is fast paced with well developed, realistic characters. Sometimes I related to Deb, wanting a 2nd child, facing past demons, fearing for her child lest she falls & on the other hand I related to Mandy, being a free bird, impulsive & strong minded, immature & innocent.
____
This book tells us, the strength of a woman when it's her family that's on the line.
The story is told from dual perspective of Deb & Mandy which helps relate to the characters more...
____
📌Lessons learnt:
✨Always listen to your mum, no matter how illogical it sounds.
✨Don't put password on your phone, what if there's an emergency.
✨You need to put your past to rest, to look forth to the future & live the present fully.
✨Rejoice what you have, lest you lose it in search for something else.
✨The importance of clear communication in relationships.
******
A heart-wrenching domestic drama of old secrets, new love, and paper-thin trust.
Told through the eyes of a mother and daughter struggling with life-defining choices in the midst of a family crisis, When Robins Appear is a story that will haunt you long after you've turned the final page.--
____
5/5
#noorthebookwormreviews
#whenrobinsappear
**
P. S.
WHEN A ROBIN BIRD VISITS there are several meanings depending on your current state of life. Firstly, after the death of a loved one, a robin will sometimes pay you a visit. Robins, a sign from Heaven, can bring a message from above indicating your loved one is at peace. Secondly, these red-breasted songbirds represent renewal and new beginnings which can mean a transformation of life is about to happen. And thirdly having a robin bird visit and connecting to this bird is a very spiritual experience which gives us renewed hope and increases our faith in a loving God.
November 16, 2020
This book was so well written, and I absolutely fell in love with all of the characters. My heart is still broken for Deb, though.
Deb and Richard have been married for 20 years. Having come from a large family, Deb was adamant that she only wanted 1 child. When her niece and sister go thru a traumatic event, it makes Deb question that decision.
Amanda is your typical high school student, soon to be a senior. She meets Graham while she is out with some friends and turns to hiding things from her parents.
When the unthinkable happens to their family, can they all move forward and forgive each other?
This book was so good. Kept me engaged, I loved the character development. Made me cry in a few places.
Deb and Richard have been married for 20 years. Having come from a large family, Deb was adamant that she only wanted 1 child. When her niece and sister go thru a traumatic event, it makes Deb question that decision.
Amanda is your typical high school student, soon to be a senior. She meets Graham while she is out with some friends and turns to hiding things from her parents.
When the unthinkable happens to their family, can they all move forward and forgive each other?
This book was so good. Kept me engaged, I loved the character development. Made me cry in a few places.
October 29, 2020
Beautifully written, well-researched story about a mother (Deb) who is struggling with empty nest syndrome, and her daughter (Amanda) who is desperate for her own independence to explore a new romantic relationship with an older man. The narrative switches between mother and daughter throughout which provides the reader with powerful insight into their (sometimes) clashing perspectives. Full of richly-drawn, compelling characters, this novel will have you hooked from the first page. Highly recommend.
January 23, 2023
OMG!! I did not see that coming but rather thought it would end differently. “I was a blubbering mess” will likely be said by all who read this book. So many emotions to sort out…. heartache, compassion, ambivalence, and surprisingly anger as well. I am thankful I saw my good friend’s (Mo) review of this book….I may have never picked it up had I not. This is most certainly worth the time to read.
November 1, 2020
Densie Webb's intriguing book delves into the agonizing decisions women make about forming families and the role of husbands, lovers and friends in the process. Told in the separate voices of a mother and daughter, it takes the reader through a difficult period in both their lives and how each of their actions complicates and influences the other's. It's a tale of heartbreak and acceptance, with a twist, and may make you take notice when robins appear in your own life.
November 19, 2020
Another gripping and unforgettable family life fiction book has consumed my time over the past day and I am hoping you will check it out.
When Robins Appear by Densie Webb is another amazing tribute to the relationship between women, mothers and daughters, and the secrets they keep and the choices they make. Told in alternating perspective we hear from Deborah and Amanda, mother and daughter, both at milestones in their life. Amanda is a senior in high school and is going to be leaving for college soon. Deborah, her mother is struggling with the fact that she is now going to be an empty-nester and possibly needs another distraction, considering having another child. As Amanda meets Graham, a new love, and begins to spend more of her time with him instead of her studies, her mother becomes concerned about their relationship and attempts to try and keep them apart. When an unexpected tragedy occurs, Deborah starts to see secrets from her past start to reflect in her present life, and with much heartbreak, difficult decisions and an unexpected twist, both Amanda and Deborah learn the importance of communication, honesty and acceptance in their relationships and their future lives.
This is an extremely relatable story for any mother-daughter relationship, it’s as if it is taken out of any one of our lives and masterfully put on paper. It’s a tale about everyday life that develops into unexpected drama with characters that are so human and so real I felt like I was right there, in the story with them. Densie Webb’s writing is so captivating that you really don’t even know you are actually reading, but you find yourself just turning pages in rapid succession to find out what happens next, completely consumed by the story. I can’t explain the emotions I felt reading this, because everything felt so real that I found myself overwhelmed at times with just my own feelings (in a good way). This was my first encounter with Densie’s writing, and I will definitely go back and check out her first two novels. If they are as heartfelt and emotional and true to life as this one, I know I am going to love them. This is a beautiful story about mothers and daughters, their relationships, how we hide and keep secrets and how we find a way to work through the problems. I can’t tell you what happens here or I would ruin the whole thing, but what I can say is just read it, this one will stay with you for a while, and you will probably learn a few things from it as well. A beautiful family life drama, 4.5 star rating from me. Definitely recommend.
When Robins Appear by Densie Webb is another amazing tribute to the relationship between women, mothers and daughters, and the secrets they keep and the choices they make. Told in alternating perspective we hear from Deborah and Amanda, mother and daughter, both at milestones in their life. Amanda is a senior in high school and is going to be leaving for college soon. Deborah, her mother is struggling with the fact that she is now going to be an empty-nester and possibly needs another distraction, considering having another child. As Amanda meets Graham, a new love, and begins to spend more of her time with him instead of her studies, her mother becomes concerned about their relationship and attempts to try and keep them apart. When an unexpected tragedy occurs, Deborah starts to see secrets from her past start to reflect in her present life, and with much heartbreak, difficult decisions and an unexpected twist, both Amanda and Deborah learn the importance of communication, honesty and acceptance in their relationships and their future lives.
This is an extremely relatable story for any mother-daughter relationship, it’s as if it is taken out of any one of our lives and masterfully put on paper. It’s a tale about everyday life that develops into unexpected drama with characters that are so human and so real I felt like I was right there, in the story with them. Densie Webb’s writing is so captivating that you really don’t even know you are actually reading, but you find yourself just turning pages in rapid succession to find out what happens next, completely consumed by the story. I can’t explain the emotions I felt reading this, because everything felt so real that I found myself overwhelmed at times with just my own feelings (in a good way). This was my first encounter with Densie’s writing, and I will definitely go back and check out her first two novels. If they are as heartfelt and emotional and true to life as this one, I know I am going to love them. This is a beautiful story about mothers and daughters, their relationships, how we hide and keep secrets and how we find a way to work through the problems. I can’t tell you what happens here or I would ruin the whole thing, but what I can say is just read it, this one will stay with you for a while, and you will probably learn a few things from it as well. A beautiful family life drama, 4.5 star rating from me. Definitely recommend.
December 26, 2020
Deb's daughter, her only, is turning eighteen and will be leaving for college soon. Deb always only wanted one child, but she didn't expect the empty nest feelings to be so heavy. Would it be the worst thing to have another child at this late stage in life? As she contemplates this possible next phase, she watches her daughter fall in love with exactly the wrong type of guy. But, as we all know, the more she tells her daughter to keep away from her, the more her daughter clings to Graham. Can Deb keep her daughter safe and keep her family from falling apart?
"For the first time in my life, I understood with a piercing clarity that each one of us is just one declarative sentence away from the end of everything."
There are some books that you go into not knowing what to expect, and they just knock the breath right out of you. THIS book does exactly that. I thought I was getting your run-of-the-mill family drama (which I love), but it was so much more than that. I will keep this intentionally vague to not spoil anything. I absolutely loved Webb's writing. It immediately pulled me into the story and made the characters real to me. So real, in fact, that I was getting so mad at the mother as I read. For someone who is all about her daughter, Deb was actually selfish (wanting a kid now despite years of ignoring what her husband wanted) and narrow-minded (her feelings about Graham) in parts. The character of Amanda was so convincingly real that she leapt off the page. The reading of this almost felt like a conversation with the characters - that's how good the writing was. This book truly surprised me in so many ways and caused me to experience a wide range of emotions. This is a must read!
"For the first time in my life, I understood with a piercing clarity that each one of us is just one declarative sentence away from the end of everything."
There are some books that you go into not knowing what to expect, and they just knock the breath right out of you. THIS book does exactly that. I thought I was getting your run-of-the-mill family drama (which I love), but it was so much more than that. I will keep this intentionally vague to not spoil anything. I absolutely loved Webb's writing. It immediately pulled me into the story and made the characters real to me. So real, in fact, that I was getting so mad at the mother as I read. For someone who is all about her daughter, Deb was actually selfish (wanting a kid now despite years of ignoring what her husband wanted) and narrow-minded (her feelings about Graham) in parts. The character of Amanda was so convincingly real that she leapt off the page. The reading of this almost felt like a conversation with the characters - that's how good the writing was. This book truly surprised me in so many ways and caused me to experience a wide range of emotions. This is a must read!
July 10, 2021
This is a beautifully written book about family values and love. The characters are believable, their struggles feel real, and the reader is quickly pulled into the story. Densie Webb has skillfully crafted a very emotional story with some unexpected twists. It is definitely one of those books where I can't just turn the last page and say "Okay, done." The story will stay with me for a while.
July 17, 2022
When Robins Appear is a gripping and emotional story of a family on the brink of life-altering events. Deb and Richard are a loving married couple, parents of a high school senior, Amanda. Deb is fearing an empty nest, and Amanda is struggling to figure out her future. The story is told from both Deb’s and Amanda’s points of view, which gave the story a raw and honest look at what each of them were thinking and feeling. There are fierce emotions in this poignant novel, and I felt every one of those emotions deep in my heart.
December 9, 2020
[Blog]::[Youtube]::[Twitter]::[Instagram]::[Pinterest]::[Bloglovin]
You read some stories that make you retrospect and value how important each moment of your life is. They remind you that life is short, and you have to savor each moment and try to make the most of it. I took away from “When Robins Appear” how to cherish your loved ones’ time because nothing in life is permanent. Even if you have a typical day with family and friends, which you feel uneventful, savor it because you might not always get that moment back.
Anyway, coming back to the story, this was an inspirational and lovely book to read. I liked how the author switches the perspective between Amanda and Deb. You understand the perspective of both women and how trapped they feel in their way. Amanda wants her family to accept Graham and is envious of his parents. At the same time, Deb wants another child to fill her empty nest once Amanda moves away.
There are some interesting subplots, like Jack’s attack on Amanda and Rocket and Karin. I also loved Deb’s relationship with Merritt and their meaningful conversations. However, while I loved the theme of the story, I felt that it staggered in the middle. The pacing slows down a bit as Deb and Amanda continue to ponder over their problems.
But, the story picks up again towards the end, and BAM! The ending shook me! What was that? I did not see that coming! I still have goosebumps over how the story ended. Many things happen in the last few that shock you and made me speechless!
Overall, “When Robins Appear” is one of those stories with a simple plot but has a very compelling message that makes you emotional once you read it.
November 24, 2020
This is my first Densie Webb read, but it will not be my last! From start to finish, I was engrossed in this beautifully written, page turning novel. I fell in love with the characters, feeling like I was among friends and family. It was bittersweet for me, however, making me miss my own mother.
The relationship between Deborah & Amanda had so many emotional moments. I saw so much of my own mother in Deborah, and myself in Amanda. Richard and Graham's characters were chiseled wonderfully. The interactions between these four characters was very life like and flawfilled, playing out more like a movie than just a novel.
If you love novels filled with family, secrets, hope, longing, and drama, then When Robins Appear is perfect for you. With each page turn you get something new to the story. Your emotions will be on a roller coaster ride and when you reach the end, Webb's novel will leave you reflecting on your life, your dreams, your past and your future.
This is definitely a book I recommend to all! Don't miss it, grab it up now. I can't wait to go back and look for Webb's previous novels, especially if they are filled with beautiful characters and real-to-life circumstances that jump off the pages.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
The relationship between Deborah & Amanda had so many emotional moments. I saw so much of my own mother in Deborah, and myself in Amanda. Richard and Graham's characters were chiseled wonderfully. The interactions between these four characters was very life like and flawfilled, playing out more like a movie than just a novel.
If you love novels filled with family, secrets, hope, longing, and drama, then When Robins Appear is perfect for you. With each page turn you get something new to the story. Your emotions will be on a roller coaster ride and when you reach the end, Webb's novel will leave you reflecting on your life, your dreams, your past and your future.
This is definitely a book I recommend to all! Don't miss it, grab it up now. I can't wait to go back and look for Webb's previous novels, especially if they are filled with beautiful characters and real-to-life circumstances that jump off the pages.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
December 15, 2020
When Robins Appear
Densie Webb
Genre: family saga, women’s drama
Wow, there are just not words to express how powerful this book is. Alternating in chapters between mom, Deborah and daughter Amanda (Mandy), we see the sometimes difficult dynamics between a mother and daughter. having three daughters myself it is so hard to balance what you want for them and what they want for themselves. Add in the additional family trauma going on through this book and just wow. this is something every mother and daughter will relate to. I could see myself in both Deborah and Amanda in the decisions they made and they feelings they had. I warn you that the ending of this book is very difficult but I highly recommend it even with the tears that will come. 5 of 5 stars and many boxes of tissues.
Thank you to Suzy’s Approved Book Tours and Densie Webb for the review copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Densie Webb
Genre: family saga, women’s drama
Wow, there are just not words to express how powerful this book is. Alternating in chapters between mom, Deborah and daughter Amanda (Mandy), we see the sometimes difficult dynamics between a mother and daughter. having three daughters myself it is so hard to balance what you want for them and what they want for themselves. Add in the additional family trauma going on through this book and just wow. this is something every mother and daughter will relate to. I could see myself in both Deborah and Amanda in the decisions they made and they feelings they had. I warn you that the ending of this book is very difficult but I highly recommend it even with the tears that will come. 5 of 5 stars and many boxes of tissues.
Thank you to Suzy’s Approved Book Tours and Densie Webb for the review copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 30, 2020
Heartfelt and emotionally complex, When Robins Appear excels at bringing the nuanced dimensions of close relationships to the surface and exploring the shadow sides of grief, regret, and ambivalence that go with love. I was invested in Deb and Amanda's parallel stories from the start, drawn into their worlds and committed to following them through their journeys of sorrow and joy alike.
One of my favorite elements of this story was the talent with which Webb unveils the layers of the characters' relationships to create a thoughtful study of humanity in all of its depth. Empathy breathes through the pages of this beautiful book, the thematic symbolism coming full circle from the first page to the last. Simply moving.
One of my favorite elements of this story was the talent with which Webb unveils the layers of the characters' relationships to create a thoughtful study of humanity in all of its depth. Empathy breathes through the pages of this beautiful book, the thematic symbolism coming full circle from the first page to the last. Simply moving.
December 25, 2020
I am definitely going to need to look for more books by this author. It was easy for me to immerse myself in this book. The story is told from two viewpoints...a daughter wanting to spread her wings into adulthood, and a mother afraid of the up-coming empty nest. It was very easy to follow the transition from one voice to the other. The characters are well presented, and the storyline rings true. I had a hard time putting the book down, and the ending is quite a surprise. I would have liked to see less use of the unnecessary “f” word. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a well-written women’s romance story.
November 29, 2020
I stayed up late, furiously turning pages. This is one book you will definitely not want to put down. It is a beautifully written, layered story that I want to talk about – need to talk about. Webb’s characters are so real your heart will tear in two, shred, though if I say more I’ll give away her incredible ending – perfect for book club discussion. I highly recommend this novel with the gorgeous cover and perfect title. Don’t miss it.
November 12, 2020
Review to follow.
March 31, 2021
Denise Webb’s beautiful debut took my breath away. WHEN ROBINS APPEAR is the story of a woman grappling with a messy family history, unfulfilled longings, and a daughter she feels is growing up too fast. It’s a pretty full plate for a woman at an emotional crossroads. But there’s more to come—and it just keeps coming. With an honestly that at times feels too raw, characters so true to life they nearly leap off the page, and an ending that’s pitch perfect, I simply could not put this lovely story down.
November 21, 2020
When Robins Appear by Densie Webb is the heartfelt family drama I didn't know I was looking for!
Told in alternating POVs, we get to know Deborah and her daughter Amanda. We learn about their relationship, their secrets, and their family and friends. I love that the author wrote in a lot of background detail; it made the characters feel real and relatable.
This book is primarily a family drama, but with a side of romance as Amanda gets to know Graham. I loved watching their relationship unfold. Seeing it from Amanda's personal point of view and her mom's outside point of view reminds us that we never truly know what's going on in another's person's life. People keep secrets for a variety of reasons and the author deftly explores this topic in the book.
Webb touches on heavier topics in the book, including abortion, emotional abuse and assault. This book will make your heart break at times. I love that it made me feel so much; I haven't felt frustrated with characters and emotional about a book in awhile - that connection to the story was just what I needed this week.
Keep your tissues on hand for the end of this book!! It completely took me by surprise and I'm still thinking about the final chapters days later.
Told in alternating POVs, we get to know Deborah and her daughter Amanda. We learn about their relationship, their secrets, and their family and friends. I love that the author wrote in a lot of background detail; it made the characters feel real and relatable.
This book is primarily a family drama, but with a side of romance as Amanda gets to know Graham. I loved watching their relationship unfold. Seeing it from Amanda's personal point of view and her mom's outside point of view reminds us that we never truly know what's going on in another's person's life. People keep secrets for a variety of reasons and the author deftly explores this topic in the book.
Webb touches on heavier topics in the book, including abortion, emotional abuse and assault. This book will make your heart break at times. I love that it made me feel so much; I haven't felt frustrated with characters and emotional about a book in awhile - that connection to the story was just what I needed this week.
Keep your tissues on hand for the end of this book!! It completely took me by surprise and I'm still thinking about the final chapters days later.
November 17, 2020
What an emotional read that makes you stop and think. The book is told in the voices of a mother Deb and her daughter Amanda. They are both determined on what they want from life. Fearing an empty nest after her daughter leaves for college, Deb begins to think maybe having another child is the answer, yet her husband Richard who feels it’s a bit late in life isn’t completely on board. Amanda seems to be excited with the start of college at NYU, her ex boyfriend is stalking her and she hopes to move in from him, she meets a handsome older boy named Graham, they immediately hit it off and she’s happy. She begins to consider postponing college so she can stay close to him. Seeing the change in her daughter Deb begins to dislike him right away . Deb has secrets in her past she hasn’t told anyone and it begins to show itself in the present . Amanda refuses to end the relationship. When a tragedy hits their family Deb sees herself facing a future she never saw coming. Four stars. The book shows that secrets affect everyone around you and family and their love and support are so important. This book will pull at your heartstrings.
April 14, 2022
When Robins Appear deftly draws readers through the shifting chasm of a mother-daughter relationship. Told from alternating points of view, the skillful writing opens us to feel like we know, and empathize, with both.
Facing the “empty nest,” Deb agonizes as her 18-year-old pulls away from their close relationship. Amanda’s life veers her even further when she falls for a handsome skateboarder and ignores her college applications. From the evocative prologue, their stories unfold with an underlying knowledge that tragedy will strike. But for whom?
The novel is packed with challenging issues, from abortion, to medical conditions, to marital disagreements. While these are common themes in women’s fiction, Densie Webb handles them with recommendable grace and aplomb.
Facing the “empty nest,” Deb agonizes as her 18-year-old pulls away from their close relationship. Amanda’s life veers her even further when she falls for a handsome skateboarder and ignores her college applications. From the evocative prologue, their stories unfold with an underlying knowledge that tragedy will strike. But for whom?
The novel is packed with challenging issues, from abortion, to medical conditions, to marital disagreements. While these are common themes in women’s fiction, Densie Webb handles them with recommendable grace and aplomb.
February 28, 2021
When Robins Appear by debut author Densie Webb is as perfect a book as I’ve read in a very long time.
Told in a two-person perspective, mother (Deb) and daughter (Amanda) face the same struggles most mothers and teen daughters do. Amanda’s an only child; Deb is protective. And Richard is the perfect husband.
But perfection doesn’t last, and Deb is faced with life-threatening situations and forced to make decisions no woman should be expected to make.
When Robins Appear ripped my heart out and put it back together again, and Densie Webb reminded me just how much I love finding a new-to-me author.
Told in a two-person perspective, mother (Deb) and daughter (Amanda) face the same struggles most mothers and teen daughters do. Amanda’s an only child; Deb is protective. And Richard is the perfect husband.
But perfection doesn’t last, and Deb is faced with life-threatening situations and forced to make decisions no woman should be expected to make.
When Robins Appear ripped my heart out and put it back together again, and Densie Webb reminded me just how much I love finding a new-to-me author.
December 20, 2020
When Robins Appear is an emotional, heartstring pulling, and tear inducing family drama centering around Deb and Amanda, her teenage daughter. This is exactly the type of book I am drawn to during this chilly time of year. I was intrigued from the mysterious prologue. The multiple POVs also added another great layer to the story and Webb is an excellent writer. But definitely have tissues nearby.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 13, 2021
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up When Robins Appear, but I can now say make sure you are prepped with the tissues for this one. The mother/daughter journey Webb takes the reader on is intense and heartbreaking and wholly unexpected. It's familiar and yet unique. Webb successfully spins a universal story into something deeper in the pages of this book. A must read for anyone who loves mother/daughter stories, flawed protagonists and, of course, tearjerkers!
December 5, 2020
I loved this story of a daughter at the threshold of womanhood and the mother afraid of losing the child to the emergence of the adult. Well developed characters and storyline.
December 27, 2020
Densie reached out to me on Instagram asking if I would like to read and review her book "When Robins Appear". I read the premise and in seeing that one of the characters names was Amanda (my own) I agreed to the job. Thank you very much Densie for my copy of your book in return for my review.
Deborah Earle has a life many women would envy. A nice career, loving husband and beautiful teenage daughter Amanda. But for Deb something seems to be missing. Amanda is heading to college soon, and Deb worries about having an empty nest. Is a new baby the answer to her worries?
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year. But while at a concert with her friends she meets the boy of her dreams. Graham. Dreadlocks, earrings and riding a motorcycle Amanda falls hard and she's considering postponing her her education to stay close to him. Of course her mother takes to a dislike in Graham instantly.
As Deb watches her still baby girl lose herself in puppy love her past continues to echo into her present. Then tragedy strikes and Deb faces a future she could never have imagined.
The story starts out a bit slow at first and there are a few details that seemed to be described for a bit too long with a lot of extra stuff. However, once you get into the thick of the book you have to continue reading. You want to know what happens to these characters and not just the main ones but there are others who interest you as well.
There is a complete twist at the end of the book that I did not see coming. I still don't know how I feel about it. At first I was a little taken aback and I was a bit furious with the author for choosing this path but after a while of thinking about it I could see maybe that was the best possible plot end. It really was a good shocking twist after all. You'll have to read it to find out.
Deborah Earle has a life many women would envy. A nice career, loving husband and beautiful teenage daughter Amanda. But for Deb something seems to be missing. Amanda is heading to college soon, and Deb worries about having an empty nest. Is a new baby the answer to her worries?
Amanda is excited about attending NYU next year. But while at a concert with her friends she meets the boy of her dreams. Graham. Dreadlocks, earrings and riding a motorcycle Amanda falls hard and she's considering postponing her her education to stay close to him. Of course her mother takes to a dislike in Graham instantly.
As Deb watches her still baby girl lose herself in puppy love her past continues to echo into her present. Then tragedy strikes and Deb faces a future she could never have imagined.
The story starts out a bit slow at first and there are a few details that seemed to be described for a bit too long with a lot of extra stuff. However, once you get into the thick of the book you have to continue reading. You want to know what happens to these characters and not just the main ones but there are others who interest you as well.
There is a complete twist at the end of the book that I did not see coming. I still don't know how I feel about it. At first I was a little taken aback and I was a bit furious with the author for choosing this path but after a while of thinking about it I could see maybe that was the best possible plot end. It really was a good shocking twist after all. You'll have to read it to find out.
January 12, 2021
In this book, Densie (not Denise) Webb has written about a family. A mom, a dad, and their only child, a seventeen year old daughter. This story is told from the perspective of the mom, Deb, and the daughter, Amanda, in alternating chapters. The issues at hand are what all families go through, especially if there is a teenage child in the mix. She's a senior in high school, and she should be focused on her college choices and her life beyond that. Instead, she's interested in a boy, and Deb is not as impressed as Amanda is. This story deals with difficult subjects and takes us inside the minds of these two protagonists in a way we can relate to. It's gut-wrenching and realistic, and as I progressed through the book, I found I couldn't put it down. There's quite a surprise at the end that had me reeling. It also kept me thinking and ruminating long after I turned the final page. Thank you, Ms. Webb, for my copy. This is one I will definitely remember.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews