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A Barefoot Tide
Lilliane Moore leaves the forests and rolling hills of her rural hometown, Cub Creek, to accept a temporary assignment as a companion to an elderly man who lives at the beach. It’s a risky move that’s out of character for her, but her thirties are passing quickly – she feels like she's closing in on forty fast - plus she’s got a hole in her roof and no AC. The big payday she’s been promised will fix a lot of it. But what's the catch? Plus, taking the job so far from home may be a risk - but the biggest risk for Lilliane may be in leaving the home and hometown to which her heart and past are irrevocably tied.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2021
969 people are currently reading
1282 people want to read
About the author
Grace Greene
76 books953 followersGrace Greene writes fiction with romance, suspense and inspiration ~ The Emerald Isle, NC Stories Series includes Beach Rental, Beach Winds, Beach Wedding, along with the Christmas novellas, Beach Christmas and Beach Walk. Her Virginia books are Women's Fiction with romance, suspense and mystery. Most are set in rural Cub Creek and include her bestselling The Memory of Butterflies and The Happiness In Between which were released in 2017. Three new Cub Creek books were released in 2019 - The Wildflower House Series: Wildflower Heart, Wildflower Hope and Wildflower Christmas, and Wildflower Wedding, A Light Last Seen was released in Feb. 2020. A Barefoot Tide and A Dancing Tide brought a new character from Cub Creek to the beach at Emerald Isle with beloved crossover characters from both settings. Beach Heart and Emerald Heart are single titles set in Emerald Isle, NC. Grace's newest, A HEART BEYOND, will be released on September 3rd, 2024.
Grace is also an artist and photographer and these interests show up on the pages of the stories. She lives in central Virginia. You'll find Grace here:
Website: http://www.gracegreene.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceGreeneB...
Author Central: http://amazon.com/author/gracegreene
Grace is also an artist and photographer and these interests show up on the pages of the stories. She lives in central Virginia. You'll find Grace here:
Website: http://www.gracegreene.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceGreeneB...
Author Central: http://amazon.com/author/gracegreene
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
January 8, 2021
I had the privilege of reading an ARC of this novel by Grace Greene, and I just finished it - within the last 30 minutes. I didn't want it to end, but I did because I wanted to know what happened. I didn't want to leave the world of Lillianne, Cub Creek, and Emerald Isle. I wanted to stay and watch Lillianne, Merrick, Davis, Miranda, and the rest continue to grow, change, and embrace life.
A Barefoot Tide is filled with love, warmth, so many wonderful human emotions, and lessons learned all while not preaching, but gently getting the point across with Grace Greene's lyrical prose. Prose that will have you feeling the breeze, imagining the beauty of the leaves, and the sights, sounds, and smells that differ between Cub Creek and Emerald Isle.
There is also a book within a book which is a bonus for readers like me. I can't even express how amazing this book is. You need to read A Barefoot Tide. It's a gift to your senses and your heart that you won't soon forget.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC. All thoughts in the review are my own and happily shared.
A Barefoot Tide is filled with love, warmth, so many wonderful human emotions, and lessons learned all while not preaching, but gently getting the point across with Grace Greene's lyrical prose. Prose that will have you feeling the breeze, imagining the beauty of the leaves, and the sights, sounds, and smells that differ between Cub Creek and Emerald Isle.
There is also a book within a book which is a bonus for readers like me. I can't even express how amazing this book is. You need to read A Barefoot Tide. It's a gift to your senses and your heart that you won't soon forget.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC. All thoughts in the review are my own and happily shared.
February 8, 2021
Full disclosure--Grace is a friend of mine, but truthfully I was a fan of her novels before we actually met. I love how easy it is to sink into her stories. This one may be her best yet--I love that it is a story of a woman coming into her own, and the character is an older woman. I also enjoyed vicariously visiting the beach (especially because it's bitter cold in my home state of Wisconsin right now). This novel is the perfect escape.
January 10, 2021
This is truly a beautiful book!
I can honestly say I was emotional the entire time I was reading it. I laughed, cried, felt sad and happy.
This story absolutely has it all!
Lilliane has been living her life day to day for years with only her memories. She is definitely not in a good place in her life, but what can she do?
When Lilliane is offered a chance to become a caregiver for an elderly man at his beach house on gorgeous Emerald Isle, she decides that the "tides" may be turning!
She will have some extra money to at least fix up her old house and even to put in air conditioning! Two weeks is perfect and she has never been to the ocean, so it will be a vacation as well!
Little does she realize, how much she will learn from her new friends and perhaps even understand what she is looking for in her own life!
It is a wonderful beach journey that I really hope will have a sequel with all of these beautiful people!
I can honestly say I was emotional the entire time I was reading it. I laughed, cried, felt sad and happy.
This story absolutely has it all!
Lilliane has been living her life day to day for years with only her memories. She is definitely not in a good place in her life, but what can she do?
When Lilliane is offered a chance to become a caregiver for an elderly man at his beach house on gorgeous Emerald Isle, she decides that the "tides" may be turning!
She will have some extra money to at least fix up her old house and even to put in air conditioning! Two weeks is perfect and she has never been to the ocean, so it will be a vacation as well!
Little does she realize, how much she will learn from her new friends and perhaps even understand what she is looking for in her own life!
It is a wonderful beach journey that I really hope will have a sequel with all of these beautiful people!
February 8, 2021
Another heartwarming gem from Grace Greene. Highly recommended.
February 13, 2021
Lilliane is going nowhere in life it seems as long as she's in Cub Creek. She's let life pass her by waiting for it to happen. But that's home and where her heart is....so it's a challenge to step out of her comfort zone. When an opportunity comes up for her to take a working "vacation" to Emerald Isle she's not so sure about leaving her home and friends for something different. It's risky..... But it's the call of the beach! How can she not go?! Besides, it's only for a couple of weeks. A chance to "see, smell, and dip" her toes into the salty ocean water. The story is set up from the first page in such a wonderful Grace Greene way! She had me become friends with Lilliane from the very beginning and I loved turning the pages as her story is revealed.
Ms. Greene has a wonderful gift of descriptive writing. Word pictures that enter my mind and place me in the settings whether it be Cub Creek or Emerald Isle. And the characters! My emotions stretch all the way from one end of the feelings meter to the other with them. I get so drawn to them and what they're going through. Lilliane is no exception. I liked her feistiness and especially the relationship she develops with cranky, prickly Merrick Dahl. They create an "understanding" with each other but that also leads to some things Lilliane questions herself over. Add Davis and his connection to Merrick and a spark with Lilliane that Ms. Greene tends to subtly through the story. Lilliane has made some very special friends at Emerald Isle. But....what about Cub Creek and her roots back there? Can she ever really leave? Oh, and masterfully, Ms. Greene writes a "story-within-a story". Such a unique concept and had me holding my breath with Lilliane as she was reading it.
This book was page turning from the front cover to the back. A true experience I found myself immersed in as I became connected to the characters and the beautiful writing that creates the images that drew me in. Ms. Greene took me to the beaches of Emerald Isle like I was actually there. I walked to the water's edge with Lilliane her first time. I virtually "felt" the sand between my bare toes, the sun warming the beach, the cool water covering my feet as I pictured the rolling swells and waves smoothly washing over the sand and then flowing back to the body of water. This story was a beach "experience" through the eyes of Lilliane and about how her life changed because she took a chance. Grace Greene is such a wonderful storyteller and "A Barefoot Tide" is a wonderful story. One that has a meaningful message about friendships, healing from the past, compassion, and finding happiness. I truly "lived in the pages" and didn't want the story to end. My hope is that there will be a sequel and another escape to the beach at Emeral Isle with Lilliane, Davis and Merrick.
I want to thank Ms. Greene for the honor and privilege of reading an ARC of this remarkable work of fiction that I enjoyed so very much. A feet in the sand five star read for me. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.
Ms. Greene has a wonderful gift of descriptive writing. Word pictures that enter my mind and place me in the settings whether it be Cub Creek or Emerald Isle. And the characters! My emotions stretch all the way from one end of the feelings meter to the other with them. I get so drawn to them and what they're going through. Lilliane is no exception. I liked her feistiness and especially the relationship she develops with cranky, prickly Merrick Dahl. They create an "understanding" with each other but that also leads to some things Lilliane questions herself over. Add Davis and his connection to Merrick and a spark with Lilliane that Ms. Greene tends to subtly through the story. Lilliane has made some very special friends at Emerald Isle. But....what about Cub Creek and her roots back there? Can she ever really leave? Oh, and masterfully, Ms. Greene writes a "story-within-a story". Such a unique concept and had me holding my breath with Lilliane as she was reading it.
This book was page turning from the front cover to the back. A true experience I found myself immersed in as I became connected to the characters and the beautiful writing that creates the images that drew me in. Ms. Greene took me to the beaches of Emerald Isle like I was actually there. I walked to the water's edge with Lilliane her first time. I virtually "felt" the sand between my bare toes, the sun warming the beach, the cool water covering my feet as I pictured the rolling swells and waves smoothly washing over the sand and then flowing back to the body of water. This story was a beach "experience" through the eyes of Lilliane and about how her life changed because she took a chance. Grace Greene is such a wonderful storyteller and "A Barefoot Tide" is a wonderful story. One that has a meaningful message about friendships, healing from the past, compassion, and finding happiness. I truly "lived in the pages" and didn't want the story to end. My hope is that there will be a sequel and another escape to the beach at Emeral Isle with Lilliane, Davis and Merrick.
I want to thank Ms. Greene for the honor and privilege of reading an ARC of this remarkable work of fiction that I enjoyed so very much. A feet in the sand five star read for me. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.
October 23, 2021
I loved the main characters, Lilliane and Merrick. They were broken people who helped each other heal. I am definitely interested in continuing their story in the sequel!
February 8, 2021
Grace Greene has given us a beautiful tale of overcoming loss and healing. Lillianne is at a crossroads in her life, unsure of leaving the past behind and unsure of how to find her own path. When a chance opportunity to spend two weeks on Emerald Isle arises, Lilliane accepts the job of caring for an elderly gentleman and sees it as her opportunity for change.
I loved the interactions between Merrick and Lillianne! He's an ornery 90 year old set in his ways, but he's no match for Lillianne's spirit and the two develop a friendship. Lillianne professes herself to be a poor reader, and I appreciate the way the author explores the idea that sometimes it takes the right story to ignite ones inner reader.
The setting is the star of this book. Greene paints the experiences of Lillianne on the beach with such vivid detail, the reader can almost feel the sand between her toes and taste the salty sea air. This book is everything you need in a beach read. An intriguing storyline with wonderful characters and a picturesque setting. While some stories beg to be devoured in one sitting, this story is one to be savored. I highly recommend this story and would love to find out what happens next for Lillianne and Merrick.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the interactions between Merrick and Lillianne! He's an ornery 90 year old set in his ways, but he's no match for Lillianne's spirit and the two develop a friendship. Lillianne professes herself to be a poor reader, and I appreciate the way the author explores the idea that sometimes it takes the right story to ignite ones inner reader.
The setting is the star of this book. Greene paints the experiences of Lillianne on the beach with such vivid detail, the reader can almost feel the sand between her toes and taste the salty sea air. This book is everything you need in a beach read. An intriguing storyline with wonderful characters and a picturesque setting. While some stories beg to be devoured in one sitting, this story is one to be savored. I highly recommend this story and would love to find out what happens next for Lillianne and Merrick.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 11, 2021
Changes in life can be hard and stressful, but sometimes change is needed to move forward. In this story, Lilliane accepts an offer to be a caregiver to a stranger. In a new location and surrounded by new experiences, she has the opportunity to begin a fresh journey. I didn't want this story to end. The characters touched my heart deeply. I could feel their emotions. I smiled. I cried. Another great story by author Grace Greene. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
February 7, 2021
Get ready to read about two damaged people who may find that together they can heal. Grace Greene always delivers!
February 27, 2021
Lilliane Moore lives in the same house in the mountains that she'd grown up in. She's just lost her job and isn't sure what to do next when she is offered a two week job at Emerald Isle NC to be a companion to an over 90 man. The money is good and she knows that it will help her repair her roof and maybe even put in air conditioning -- plus she's never seen the ocean so she excitedly accepts the job. When she gets to the beach, she finds that the man she is going to help is a cankerous grouchy person but since she's a happy go lucky person who always looks on the bright side of life, she decides to be herself and see how he responds to her.
I loved the main character and seeing her grow and begin to approach things in her past that had held her back. I really enjoyed her excitement at seeing the ocean for the first time. I was well into my 20s when I first saw the ocean and understood her awe at the beauty and strength of the Atlantic. This was an emotionally powerful book that celebrated the changes that people can make no matter what age they are.
I loved the main character and seeing her grow and begin to approach things in her past that had held her back. I really enjoyed her excitement at seeing the ocean for the first time. I was well into my 20s when I first saw the ocean and understood her awe at the beauty and strength of the Atlantic. This was an emotionally powerful book that celebrated the changes that people can make no matter what age they are.
January 11, 2021
Sometimes All It Takes Is A Break. This was a remarkable tale of a woman who was down on her luck being given a chance to take a break... who comes to realize all that she does have, and, perhaps, all that she needs to change. The book-within-a-book was a great technique that is sure to grab the attention of the literati types, but overall Lilliane's story was a great crossover between Greene's mountain based Cub Creek series and beach based Emerald Isle series, one full of heart and... well, grace. :D The ending left this particular reader hoping for at least one more book with these characters, though the two sentence description of that book is quite clear of where it needs to go. So y'all need to go buy this book and give Greene a reason to come back to these particular characters. :D Very much recommended.
February 7, 2021
A wonderful book of self-discovery! I loved the relationship between Lillianne and Merrick—two people of diverse backgrounds and ages, both sort of cranky and set in their ways. Many emotions swirled in this book, and my own emotions were a roller coaster! I enjoyed watching the characters evolve in this uplifting book.
February 5, 2021
I loved reading about the journey that Lilliane found herself on when she accepted the job of taking care of an elderly gentleman for a few weeks. Not only did I get to travel to the beach with her, I also got to watch her journey of finding out about herself and what makes her happy. She also comes to a better understanding of her parents and their tragic deaths.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Lilliane and Merrick, the elderly man she comes to take care of. But the real question is—who is taking care of whom? They have a no-holds-barred relationship right from the start, which garners respect on both sides. They seriously are good for each other.
A Barefoot Tide is a beautiful look at a woman who is just going through the motions of life. As she steps outside of her comfort zone, she discovers how much more there is to life. The journey to real happiness will mean change. Is she up for that?
I loved this story, full of hope and growth. It was a great read to escape into for a bit. And the time spent on the beach was an added bonus for a great get-away. You're going to love it to!
I really enjoyed the relationship between Lilliane and Merrick, the elderly man she comes to take care of. But the real question is—who is taking care of whom? They have a no-holds-barred relationship right from the start, which garners respect on both sides. They seriously are good for each other.
A Barefoot Tide is a beautiful look at a woman who is just going through the motions of life. As she steps outside of her comfort zone, she discovers how much more there is to life. The journey to real happiness will mean change. Is she up for that?
I loved this story, full of hope and growth. It was a great read to escape into for a bit. And the time spent on the beach was an added bonus for a great get-away. You're going to love it to!
August 13, 2022
“Earthbound landscapes changed depending upon where one was, but the sky spoke to eternity.”
February 16, 2021
Fantastic!!
This is a fantastic read. I wanted it to continue on and on. There was not one boring moment.
Grace Green is an amazing writer
This is a fantastic read. I wanted it to continue on and on. There was not one boring moment.
Grace Green is an amazing writer
February 7, 2021
This is one of those few stories that make it on the re-read list without doubt.
The growing friendship between the 90yo Merrick and 38yo Lillianne makes you turn page after page without realizing. He is a rich stubborn and moody thriller writer who didn't write anything new for the past 20 years. She's a free spirit yet stuck in one place, tied to her parents memories (who suffered a tragic death 20 years before) and working any job that pays. Three weeks of sharing stories and a house by the beach and he's writing a romance novel (loved the glimpse of the story-inside-story) while she's learning more about herself and the richness of life one can get by taking chances.
The part witnessing Lillianne's "firsts" was such a treat - first walking in the sand, first dipping in the ocean, first far-away trip. How many of us can remember that and how it felt?
My favorite paragraph in the book:
"In the end, my dear girl, you must do what’s best for you. Not best for your friends. Or your acquaintances. Or even your parents . . . or your memory of them. This is your turn. Your go-round. Do your thing. Whether it’s in Cub Creek, Emerald Isle, Timbuktu, or someplace else—do you. Otherwise, all the hopes and dreams and heartaches were just a waste and a cheat.”
The growing friendship between the 90yo Merrick and 38yo Lillianne makes you turn page after page without realizing. He is a rich stubborn and moody thriller writer who didn't write anything new for the past 20 years. She's a free spirit yet stuck in one place, tied to her parents memories (who suffered a tragic death 20 years before) and working any job that pays. Three weeks of sharing stories and a house by the beach and he's writing a romance novel (loved the glimpse of the story-inside-story) while she's learning more about herself and the richness of life one can get by taking chances.
The part witnessing Lillianne's "firsts" was such a treat - first walking in the sand, first dipping in the ocean, first far-away trip. How many of us can remember that and how it felt?
My favorite paragraph in the book:
"In the end, my dear girl, you must do what’s best for you. Not best for your friends. Or your acquaintances. Or even your parents . . . or your memory of them. This is your turn. Your go-round. Do your thing. Whether it’s in Cub Creek, Emerald Isle, Timbuktu, or someplace else—do you. Otherwise, all the hopes and dreams and heartaches were just a waste and a cheat.”
January 11, 2021
“Was I trapped or protected ?”
Lilliane knows loss , she lost both her parents at the same time , decades ago, due to these circumstances she never finished high school, entered a marriage she shouldn’t have and has been living and keeping everything in the house the same way . In her words “ A life of shoddiness with a lack of ambition.”
An opportunity to not only expand her horizons but actually see the beach and travel for the first time ( second time , actually )is presented to her. She can spend two weeks at Emerald Isle caring for a cantankerous 90 year old gentleman.
A life changing journey that was long overdue. “ It’s time to mark our lives by everyday things and ordinary joys instead of occasions” and I agree.
Written in the beautiful style of Grace Greene a book you don’t want to miss .
Lilliane knows loss , she lost both her parents at the same time , decades ago, due to these circumstances she never finished high school, entered a marriage she shouldn’t have and has been living and keeping everything in the house the same way . In her words “ A life of shoddiness with a lack of ambition.”
An opportunity to not only expand her horizons but actually see the beach and travel for the first time ( second time , actually )is presented to her. She can spend two weeks at Emerald Isle caring for a cantankerous 90 year old gentleman.
A life changing journey that was long overdue. “ It’s time to mark our lives by everyday things and ordinary joys instead of occasions” and I agree.
Written in the beautiful style of Grace Greene a book you don’t want to miss .
August 15, 2021
High recommendation
Enjoyable adventure . A pleasant Sunday escape reading that will leave you wanting book 2 in this series. We'll done.
Enjoyable adventure . A pleasant Sunday escape reading that will leave you wanting book 2 in this series. We'll done.
February 25, 2021
If you choose to read Grace Greene’s novel, A Barefoot Tide, you will finish it with a true sense of enjoyment and satisfaction. The story is a wonderful tale of Lilliane Moore and her past, present, and an inkling of what we think her future might be. The story is woven in such a way that the bits and pieces of her life are unfolded throughout the novel and carefully lead us to a richer understanding of who Lilliane is.
Lilliane grew up in Cub Creek, an area of forests and lush green hills in Virginia, and her life seems to be entrenched there. Things have not changed much for her in the last 20 years. Unexpectedly, she accepts a job as a companion to an elderly famous author, Merrick Dahl, who lives on the beach in Emerald Isle. The story weaves their lives, their secrets, their insecurities, and their personalities together in an exceptional way- so much that you don’t want to put the book down. Lilliane and Merrick’s interactions are carefully crafted by the author as you see their respect, friendship, and care for each other develop, even with its ups and downs. There are several other characters who add richness and depth to the story and maybe even a love interest: Davis, Miranda, Gwen, Susan, and Ms. Bertie.
Another wonderful aspect of the story is the language and descriptions that make you feel you are there, feeling the sand between your toes, getting excited as you feel the strong pull of the waves, or enjoying the coolness of the shady forests. Ms. Greene has an amazing command of the language that makes you feel part of the story, not just a viewer from afar.
This is an exceptional story of change and growth and life’s choices. I highly recommend it. I look forward to reading it again!
Lilliane grew up in Cub Creek, an area of forests and lush green hills in Virginia, and her life seems to be entrenched there. Things have not changed much for her in the last 20 years. Unexpectedly, she accepts a job as a companion to an elderly famous author, Merrick Dahl, who lives on the beach in Emerald Isle. The story weaves their lives, their secrets, their insecurities, and their personalities together in an exceptional way- so much that you don’t want to put the book down. Lilliane and Merrick’s interactions are carefully crafted by the author as you see their respect, friendship, and care for each other develop, even with its ups and downs. There are several other characters who add richness and depth to the story and maybe even a love interest: Davis, Miranda, Gwen, Susan, and Ms. Bertie.
Another wonderful aspect of the story is the language and descriptions that make you feel you are there, feeling the sand between your toes, getting excited as you feel the strong pull of the waves, or enjoying the coolness of the shady forests. Ms. Greene has an amazing command of the language that makes you feel part of the story, not just a viewer from afar.
This is an exceptional story of change and growth and life’s choices. I highly recommend it. I look forward to reading it again!
April 17, 2021
This was the first book I read by Grace Greene. I definitely will be reading her previous books released. She is an excellent author. Her character development is amazing, and I feel like I know the people in this story so well and I miss them since I finished the book yesterday.
There is a saying that goes something like this: No one is going to come along and save you, you need to save yourself. That does not apply to the main character in this book, Lilliane. She has been surrounded by supportive people in the small town of Cub Creek for her entire life. She is content to stay in her little protective bubble, but along comes an opportunity at the perfect time and she is given a push (by someone that is coming along to "save" her) and her life is never going to be the same again.
I loved this book! I knew while reading it, that I would be so sad when I finished. I care about the characters so much! The plot is unique and I was immersed in it. This is a book that I could have read non-stop, if life would have let me. I wish the story would continue, but as stated in the book, a reader can continue the story in a book on their own, so I will think about the characters going on to a happy life.
There is a saying that goes something like this: No one is going to come along and save you, you need to save yourself. That does not apply to the main character in this book, Lilliane. She has been surrounded by supportive people in the small town of Cub Creek for her entire life. She is content to stay in her little protective bubble, but along comes an opportunity at the perfect time and she is given a push (by someone that is coming along to "save" her) and her life is never going to be the same again.
I loved this book! I knew while reading it, that I would be so sad when I finished. I care about the characters so much! The plot is unique and I was immersed in it. This is a book that I could have read non-stop, if life would have let me. I wish the story would continue, but as stated in the book, a reader can continue the story in a book on their own, so I will think about the characters going on to a happy life.
January 9, 2021
A Barefoot Tide is a masterfully told story of Lilliane, the Keeper of Memories, although she doesn’t know it for many years. She lives her life guarding her past until she is hired to be a caregiver for crusty old Merrick who lives by the beach. Through Merrick and his friend Davis, Lilliane discovers the truths of happiness, friendship and caring. This is a book that will invite you to the beach to discover the beauty and moods of the ocean. It will invite you to take off your shoes and let the ocean breeze blow through your hair as you drink in the sunsets. It will invite you to celebrate the now rather than living in the past. It will teach you that one ending could begin a new life story. It is a book so full of life and loss and lessons that I need to read it again. It is that good. I highly recommend A Barefoot Tide! You can’t go wrong with a Grace Greene book, ever.
June 14, 2021
The Grace Greene novels I have read so far are entertaining and compelling, and this one was no exception. Quirky characters, a feel-like-you're-there beautifully described setting, an intriguing premise. I loved the banter between Lilliane and the crotchety, aging author she is hired as a temporary companion for. She has the perfect personality to get beneath his defenses and develop a real friendship.
My suspension of disbelief was challenged, though, when it should have been so obvious to Lilliane who was really writing the manuscript she'd been asked to read. That little deception didn't ring true for me, but I was happy to ignore it and simply enjoy the story.
My suspension of disbelief was challenged, though, when it should have been so obvious to Lilliane who was really writing the manuscript she'd been asked to read. That little deception didn't ring true for me, but I was happy to ignore it and simply enjoy the story.
March 13, 2021
Well this book brings Cub Creek and Emerald Isle together and now I want to read all those books in the series Thank you Grace for brining me into your sweet settings and introducing me to your characters and friends !
February 8, 2021
Lilliane Moore has just settled, has accepted what she thinks is her lot in life. She doesn’t so much devalue herself as think she has reached where she is supposed to be, to move out or move on would be to disrespect her parents and her memories, to disrupt too much. So she’s stayed in the old family home for almost twenty years, ever since her parents died. She hasn’t gone to college or developed a career. She tried marriage but it didn’t work out so she thinks it’s just not meant for her. She has friends and is well-regarded in town, but she has no family and isn’t really close to anyone. It is tragic to watch, because Lilliane has the heart and soul of a poet, an artist, and you can see she has so much to give. She’s a spunky, strong-willed woman, maybe not quite ready to speak up for what she wants, but certainly willing to speak up about what she doesn’t want. So she settles, but she doesn’t even realize she’s settling. We can see it, though, and from that start we hope and wish and pray that she’ll see just how worthwhile and deserving she is, how she can be anything she wants to be, go anywhere she wants to go, and how much others will and do value her.
The story of her time with crabby, cranky, old Mr. Merrick Dahl, who has driven away many companions, is sweet and vastly entertaining. She gives as good as she gets with him. She speaks up when she disagrees, but she is not rude, and she does not accept rudeness in silence. So the interaction between them is fun to watch. He’s settling also, resigned to what he thinks will be the rest of his life, living with his regrets. Lilliane doesn’t have regrets as much as acceptance of the choices she has made and those she has let pass her by. Like the possibility of something wonderful and magical with Merrick’s friend Davis McMahon. He feels an attraction and so does she. He lets her know he would very much like to see where this might go, but her response is what’s the point? Experience has taught her that things don’t last, and then you’re worse off. “'tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all" is not her motto. Instead she believes you can’t miss what you never had. Why start anything? Eventually she would lose Davis and then she would be even more alone than she is now. How sad her view is. And how much we want her to start living life.
Lilliane only travels a few hours from her beloved forest, her comfort zone, to the ocean. But it’s a journey of a lifetime, of discovery, of awakenings. Merrick Dahl was once a famous author. His books aren’t really her style, but when he gives her the beginnings of a book he says Davis asked him to read and critique, she is hooked. She’s never been a reader but she sure is now. She can’t put these pages down. She’s pulled completely into the story. And now we have a story within a story, a bit of a mystery developing about the roles everyone is playing. And who can be trusted and who can’t.
Author Grace Green paints beautiful word pictures of the forest, the hills, the ocean, the beach through Lilliane’s thoughts and experiences. I felt as if I was viewing the ocean and burrowing my toes in the sand for the very first time right along with Lilliane. At one point in the story someone tells Lilliane she has the “explorer gene” and it’s true. She just doesn’t know it yet. A Barefoot Tide is a heartwarming, intense, poetic story, full of wonderfully developed characters, an engaging, intriguing plot and gorgeous word pictures. It’s a special book, a joy to read. Thanks to the author for providing an ARC for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. I loved this story and recommend it without hesitation. Add it to your stack of marvelous Grace Greene books. You’ll be glad you did. All opinions are my own.
The story of her time with crabby, cranky, old Mr. Merrick Dahl, who has driven away many companions, is sweet and vastly entertaining. She gives as good as she gets with him. She speaks up when she disagrees, but she is not rude, and she does not accept rudeness in silence. So the interaction between them is fun to watch. He’s settling also, resigned to what he thinks will be the rest of his life, living with his regrets. Lilliane doesn’t have regrets as much as acceptance of the choices she has made and those she has let pass her by. Like the possibility of something wonderful and magical with Merrick’s friend Davis McMahon. He feels an attraction and so does she. He lets her know he would very much like to see where this might go, but her response is what’s the point? Experience has taught her that things don’t last, and then you’re worse off. “'tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all" is not her motto. Instead she believes you can’t miss what you never had. Why start anything? Eventually she would lose Davis and then she would be even more alone than she is now. How sad her view is. And how much we want her to start living life.
Lilliane only travels a few hours from her beloved forest, her comfort zone, to the ocean. But it’s a journey of a lifetime, of discovery, of awakenings. Merrick Dahl was once a famous author. His books aren’t really her style, but when he gives her the beginnings of a book he says Davis asked him to read and critique, she is hooked. She’s never been a reader but she sure is now. She can’t put these pages down. She’s pulled completely into the story. And now we have a story within a story, a bit of a mystery developing about the roles everyone is playing. And who can be trusted and who can’t.
Author Grace Green paints beautiful word pictures of the forest, the hills, the ocean, the beach through Lilliane’s thoughts and experiences. I felt as if I was viewing the ocean and burrowing my toes in the sand for the very first time right along with Lilliane. At one point in the story someone tells Lilliane she has the “explorer gene” and it’s true. She just doesn’t know it yet. A Barefoot Tide is a heartwarming, intense, poetic story, full of wonderfully developed characters, an engaging, intriguing plot and gorgeous word pictures. It’s a special book, a joy to read. Thanks to the author for providing an ARC for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. I loved this story and recommend it without hesitation. Add it to your stack of marvelous Grace Greene books. You’ll be glad you did. All opinions are my own.
February 18, 2021
Grace Greene knows how to paint a picture with her words.
Lilliane Moore has been living a life in Cub Creek stalled by the memories of parents when she was still just a teenager. Twenty years later, she's working at the local gas station to making ends meet in her parents' house.
Merrick Dahl, the once famed author that hasn't written a word since his wife left two decades ago, is living his final years in Emerald Isle alone aside from the relationships he shares with his assistant Susan Biggs, his friend/author Davis McMohan, and his cook, Mrs. B.
Lilliane's job at the gas station is coming to an end, so when Susan Biggs inquires to see if she's interested in a two-week stay at the beach as the companion to the 90 year-old Mr. Dahl for a wage that is above and beyond her normal wage until she find a permanent aide, how can she say no?
It's just a job. No strings attached...right? But as the two weeks turn into more....Lilliane finds her heart conflicted between staying and going back to Cub Creek. At Emerald Isle, Lilliane has formed relationships with Merrick, Davis, and Miranda...something she's never really had before. But, Cub Creek is her home...isn't it?
I loved this novel. I'm only sorry that it appears to be a stand-alone because I'd love to see what happened next.
Lilliane Moore has been living a life in Cub Creek stalled by the memories of parents when she was still just a teenager. Twenty years later, she's working at the local gas station to making ends meet in her parents' house.
Merrick Dahl, the once famed author that hasn't written a word since his wife left two decades ago, is living his final years in Emerald Isle alone aside from the relationships he shares with his assistant Susan Biggs, his friend/author Davis McMohan, and his cook, Mrs. B.
Lilliane's job at the gas station is coming to an end, so when Susan Biggs inquires to see if she's interested in a two-week stay at the beach as the companion to the 90 year-old Mr. Dahl for a wage that is above and beyond her normal wage until she find a permanent aide, how can she say no?
It's just a job. No strings attached...right? But as the two weeks turn into more....Lilliane finds her heart conflicted between staying and going back to Cub Creek. At Emerald Isle, Lilliane has formed relationships with Merrick, Davis, and Miranda...something she's never really had before. But, Cub Creek is her home...isn't it?
I loved this novel. I'm only sorry that it appears to be a stand-alone because I'd love to see what happened next.
March 15, 2021
A Barefoot Tide is a wonderfully heartwarming story by Grace Greene. I really enjoyed Lilliane's story...her journey from being tied to the memories of an especially tragic past to new opportunities and friends, and perhaps even love. The author writes in such a way that this reader was swept into the scenes, especially the beach scenes. The characters are believable and I related well to their emotions and reactions to various situations. Readers who enjoy stories about characters coming into their own and embracing changes in their lives will not want to miss A Barefoot Tide. I was given a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
January 9, 2021
Grace Greene's A Barefoot Tide really spoke to me. The story of Lillianne is one that I think a lot of people can relate to. She is going through the motions of her life, but not fully living, until she has the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone. This was a very inspirational story that makes you think about what holds a person back, and how sometimes you need to just take a chance in life.
Thank you Grace Greene for the opportunity to read an ARC of A Barefoot Tide. This is my honest review.
Thank you Grace Greene for the opportunity to read an ARC of A Barefoot Tide. This is my honest review.
January 10, 2021
Lillianne goes through her daily life of struggles, she gets the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and leave Cub Creek. She is hired to be an aide/ companion for Merrick a curmudgeon who lives by the beach on Emerald Isle.
What she finds is friendship, love,happiness and people who care. Taking a chance on something new, somewhere different.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Thank you Grace Greene for giving me the opportunity to read this inspirational book.
What she finds is friendship, love,happiness and people who care. Taking a chance on something new, somewhere different.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Thank you Grace Greene for giving me the opportunity to read this inspirational book.
January 18, 2021
I love how the story flowed perfectly. From her Aunt, which lead Gwen to think of her for this position and so many first for Lillianne. The beach, leaving the only place she’s ever known. I felt so many emotions through out the whole book. We never know who we may be an inspiration to and not even realize it. I hope Lillianne’s story isn’t over, I need more. I see myself in Lillianne by having a hard time stepping out of my comfort zone but this book has giving me courage to try and do just that.
February 10, 2021
5 Stars
5 stars for A Barefoot Tide. This book had all the feels! Lilliane Moore had lived her entire life in this one place, Cub Creek. The job offer to be a companion to author Merrick Dahl at the beach in Emerald Isle was unexpected and a life changer for her. While she was thinking of all the repairs needed on her home, she could never imagine what this temporary move would bring to her life, her future.
5 stars for A Barefoot Tide. This book had all the feels! Lilliane Moore had lived her entire life in this one place, Cub Creek. The job offer to be a companion to author Merrick Dahl at the beach in Emerald Isle was unexpected and a life changer for her. While she was thinking of all the repairs needed on her home, she could never imagine what this temporary move would bring to her life, her future.
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