The Rock

Sisters of the Porcelain Doll #1

by Cara Grandle

After a whiskey still explosion destroys her home and nearly her life, Rebecca Packwood and her father must leave Missouri and her dear friends behind. After crossing The Oregon Trail, she sets out to discover her family’s secret history and to forge a home and community out of the raw farm land of Eagle Creek, Oregon Country, never suspecting a ruthless enemy is seeking to thwart her plans.

Hard-working banker’s son, Clark Sutherland, thought the toughest test he would face was getting out from underneath his father’s thumb. The last thing he expected was to be penniless, homeless, and smitten with a shy, dark-eyed stranger. With nothing to offer her, will he find a way to support himself and still pursue his dreams before they’re pulled apart?

When a man in shadows sets his eyes on their coveted prize, danger descends. Rebecca and Clark must act to protect the desires of their hearts before harm befalls them all. Will they learn to trust their future to the God who heals and sets the lonely in families?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Historical

276 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2021

About the author

Cara Grandle is an author, acquisitions editor, and publicist for WhiteFire Publishing. She has several years of experience in the writing industry, enough to know it's hard. It takes courage.

Reviews

[Staci]

1846 Oregon

Engaging historical fiction based upon the lives of four close friends. In The Rock, the focus is on Rebecca. Rebecca and her drunken father travel from Missouri to Oregon to start over after their home explodes following a whiskey making accident.

I got frustrated with Rebecca's dad most of the novel. Other than that, I found the characters to be strong (even the villain). Loved the co-op spirit of those living on the farm.

[Camille Eide]

(From back cover:)
After a whiskey still explosion destroys her home and nearly her life, Rebecca Packwood and her father must leave Missouri and her dear friends behind. After crossing The Oregon Trail, she sets out to discover her family’s secret history and to forge a home and community out of the raw farm land of Eagle Creek, Oregon Country, never suspecting a ruthless enemy is seeking to thwart her plans.

Hard-working banker’s son, Clark Sutherland, thought the toughest test he would face was getting out from underneath his father’s thumb. The last thing he expected was to be penniless, homeless, and smitten with a shy, dark-eyed stranger. With nothing to offer her, will he find a way to support himself and still pursue his dreams before they’re pulled apart?

When a man in shadows sets his eyes on their coveted prize, danger descends. Rebecca and Clark must act to protect the desires of their hearts before harm befalls them all. Will they learn to trust their future to the God who heals and sets the lonely in families?

My Review:
The Rock is a tender, coming of age tale about Rebecca, a loyal, courageous young woman determined to learn the truth about her roots, and Clark, a young man of good character with a longing to escape his family’s shadow and make his own way in the world.

After an arduous and perilous journey with her injured Pa, Rebecca steps foot in a new world, a place she longs to call home, a place where she just might find her purpose and lose her heart. She is determined to be different from her Pa, who runs when things gets hard.

But evil lurks, and it’s up to her to find the gumption to shore up and protect the land and the people she loves.

[Carrie Schmidt]

The Rock by Cara Grandle is a sweet debut novel that embodies all that is lovely about historical romance. Rebecca is instantly a character readers will sympathize with and welcome into their hearts as a friend. The difficult circumstances of her life, directly related to a father who still lives in a deep grief that he medicates with self-made whiskey, stand in direct contrast to her soft heart and resilient spirit. I enjoyed making her acquaintance on the pages of this novel, and I held my breath along her journey to unravel some long-held family secrets. Not to mention holding my breath during some suspenseful parts of her story…. and the romantical ones. Basically, I needed an alternate oxygen source to read this one haha

Clark is a fun hero, the lone brother in a sea of sisters, and I had a grin on my face most of the time he was on the page. He has this endearing boyish charm while also growing quickly into a man who must make his own way in life and provide for himself and a future family. I loved these layers to his personality and watching his transformation from self-assured youth to a wiser, more thoughtful man. The way he falls for Rebecca is swoonworthy and sweet, and so is his protective nature.

Bottom Line: The Rock is an entertaining and inspiring debut novel from author Cara Grandle. The ‘sisters of the porcelain doll’ connection (to the plot & the title) is unique, and I’m eager to see how it plays out in future books. Each main player in this sweet tale is layered and draws readers into his or her story & character growth. But beyond the swoony romance & beyond the engaging plot, the best part of this novel is that it points to the One who sets the lonely in families, who knows us each by name, who knows the number of hairs on our head & the number of days in our life. If you’re a fan of Janette Oke, Tracie Peterson, and Rachel Fordham, you’ll want to check out The Rock too!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama]

This was a pretty good novel from the Sisters of the Porcelain Doll series. This series will be following 4 friends. This book focuses on Rebecca and immediately you sympathize with her. She doesn't live in the best of circumstances. Her father is a drunk deep in the confines of grief. Rebecca is resilient and we see her develop throughout her story as she unravels some family secrets.

We also meet Clark. He is a fun hero. He is endearing and lovable. Definitely has some swoony moments with Rebecca that will have you with heart eyes and deep sighs (you know the ones I mean!)

Overall this is an interesting story and unique. There is some suspenseful moments and definitely romance. The best part is the thread of faith and how everything points back to God. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. If you enjoy Historical Fiction and writers like Janette Oke or Rachel Fordham you will enjoy this author as well.

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Beauty in the Binding]

3.5 Stars.

The Rock by Cara Grandle had a slow start and the characters had to grow on me. Clark’s privilege and entitlement annoyed me. I sympathized with Rebecca’s situation and desire for a home, but nothing about the beginning hooked my attention. Then, Joe (the villain) received page space for his mental instability and wicked plans. In the first 100 pages, Clark and Rebecca met briefly once. Shortly after page 100, the two main characters start interacting regularly, but it was a long wait.

All that being said, once Rebecca and Clark began spending time together, I started truly enjoying the story. The descriptions of farm life with fresh veggies and homemade meals made me want to start my own garden. Clark’s time at the farm increased his maturity. Rebecca’s search for belonging and stability continued to drive the plot throughout the novel and made for some excellent character development.

The Rock held some beautiful themes amidst the ugly moments of Rebecca’s life. I have to give a trigger warning that there was an on-page depiction of attempted rape and the glimpses into Joe’s mentality were disturbing.

The Rock by Cara Grandle is probably best for Christian fiction readers in the mood for a gritty story with a delayed slow-burn romance. The novel starts the Sisters of the Porcelain Doll series and works as a standalone. The Ribbon (book two) is currently available, and enjoying it made reading The Rock worth the challenge as I highly enjoyed The Ribbon.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Kate Breslin]

What a charming and poignant historical debut! I delighted in meeting author Cara Grandle's lively cast of characters and admired their courage to go west and carve out a future in Oregon territory during the 1840s. It was a life fraught with hard work, struggles, and sorrows, yet for young Rebecca Packwood her chance to discover love and a place to call home and most importantly, unlock the secrets of her past. The Rock is a tale that will capture the imagination as well as the heart, resonating with a quiet faith and perseverance that is the hallmark of our human spirit. Fans of Christian historical fiction will enjoy this debut novel from newcomer Grandle!

[Martha]

I felt like I wanted a bit more detail in a few places, but this book was well developed and I enjoyed it, giving me a satisfactory conclusion. This would be excellent historical fiction for teens or adults.

[Suzie]

In The Rock by Cara Grandle, readers first meet Rebecca during a tragedy—one that she takes in so much stride that you know right away this isn’t the first time she’s had to deal with something horrible. In fact, she’s lived a lot of hard life.

When her three friends entered the picture, I got a clear idea of their personalities right away (and I’m very interested in what one of their stories will be). As the ladies make a pact before Rebecca’s trek from Missouri to Oregon, the power of their friendship is obvious.

And then there’s Clark. He’s a fun character. The only boy in a sea of sisters who feels smothered by them and their fussing and matchmaking attempts as well as his father’s approach to business. Clark is a character who adds a levity to Rebecca’s heartache.

The story had a slow start and the couple doesn’t come together for 100-ish pages, but once they do, the pace picks up. I enjoyed the way Rebecca discovered the home she so desperately sought and the way Clark cared for her. The way everyone on the farm worked together to make it run successfully was also wonderful.

All in all, a good debut that makes me want to read about the next sister of the porcelain doll.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.

[Kathryn Bochman]

When I first noticed Cara Grandle’s books a few weeks ago, I was intrigued. Given an opportunity to read and provide an honest review of her novels, I jumped at the chance, and I am so thankful I did! The first book in her Sisters of the Porcelain Doll series, The Rock, is an excellent beginning to a storyline I am looking forward to completing. Featuring a young woman seeking to find a home in Oregon Territory amid dangers, new love, and gut wrenching fears, readers are thoroughly engulfed in the tale before them. I quickly fell in love with the hero and heroine and felt myself fighting with them as they struggled to find peace in the midst of turmoil.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to finishing the series!

[Cynthia]

Rebecca Packwood longs for home and family. Clark Sutherland longs for his family to stop pushing females in his direction. But when the two meet, it's love at first sight for Clark. But obstacles stand in the way--including a deranged man bent on taking ownership of the farm Rebecca and her father have journeyed hundred's of miles to help save.

This first book in a new series is a story of inner healing and the power of God's guiding mercies. Solid writing, romance, and a message of hope woven within.

[Marie]

Thank you in advance to the author, Cara Grandle, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.This is the book that starts the series – SISTERS OF THE PORCELAIN DOLL.

The title comes not only from the item (a ring) that Rebecca places in Cora Mae’s doll, but also THE LORD IS MY ROCK.

Rebecca is the main character, but we’re also introduced to:

🎀 Heather
🪆 Cora Mae
🌹 Rose
🌽 Otis
🏡 Leander
🏡 Clark
🏹 Naantam
🏡 Joe
🏡 Eddie
🏡 Ruben

Despite all the characters, this is told in third person from three POVS: Rebecca, Clark, and mystery man (revealed about 41% in).

This does have some themes that mention or allude to drunkenness, as well an attempted sexual assault. There are also uses of the word “injin” to talk about an Indian (Native American). This is authentic to the time period and used solely for that context.

Grandle starts off the story with Rebecca and her father (Otis) cleaning up after a whiskey still explosion. And, it is clear, Otis has zero regrets. As Rebecca laments – he’s always chosen the whiskey, never her. But, with nothing left there in Meramac, he has to do something.

There is a letter, having been sent a year earlier, from his brother-in-law Leander. There is mention of an inheritance and plans.

At the same time in Oregon Territory, Clark – the only boy in his family – is dealing with pressures stemming from his father’s expectations and the pressures of her mother and sisters about him getting married. Clark doesn’t want to work at the bank under his father. After working with Eddie, Clark decides to quit his job. Of course, that means he has to find his own shelter, provisions, and job. Clark has some money saved, but has to be careful.

Rebecca knew nothing of her mother, and so little of her other family it is a shock about Leander. Otis makes the decision to head towards the Oregon Territory. Their timing works out as someone is determined to kill Leander for his home and property. Thankfully, an Indian rescues him; thwarting someone’s plan. However, the person will try again, vowing not to let Leander swindle him.

While Rebecca doesn’t want to leave, she knows staying isn’t an option. She, along with her three friends make their pact. And, three weeks later, Rebecca and her father leave on the Oregon Trail.

When they arrive, Rebecca meets Clark who is trying to run from his sisters after one sister’s wedding. He doesn’t want them to fix him up.

Rebecca is done walking and wants to be “home”. She, unlike her father, wants roots. And, she wants to plant her rose bush somewhere. And, she thinks she’s found her home at Leander’s farm.

After seeing Rebecca a second time, Clark is insistent he will marry her. She’s the type of girl he wants.

It isn’t long until two brothers – Joe and Ruben are introduced. And, readers learn who the mystery man is.

Rebecca wants to make a home, and her father just wants to make whiskey. Rebecca also gets some “training” from Naantam. It is because of his training that Rebecca has issues with Joe right off. It is clear Naantam doesn’t like Joe.

Clark shows up with provisions for Rebecca, and they learn Eddie is Leander’s nephew (Rebecca’s cousin). Clark’s mom also knew Rebecca’s mother. Rebecca soon gets a letter from “home” and this is where Heather’s story begins to bloom (and will be book #2).

The five people begin to make the place liveable with crops and livestock, but they soon being seeing the signs of “sabotage” – first with a bull getting into the corn, shorting their stock – then other mishaps.

Things change when Rebecca learns her uncle wants Eddie to take the farm. But, she also doesn’t realize there is an inheritance for her. She also learns a devastating secret about herself that causes her to re-think her future there.

She’s also in danger from someone who has their own plans and won’t hesitate to commit murder to get what he feels he is owed in this “must read” novel set in the wilderness of the Oregon Territory with twists, turns, and duplicity that kept me reading well past my bedtime.

In all honesty, I thought this was more of a romance with a “light” suspense, but it had elements of a suspense without that element being so “prominent”, perfectly balancing the story. While the mystery man was revealed about 41% of the way in, it was interesting to see if the other characters would notice and how it would play out.

I honestly read this in less than 12 hours, with half if it read in about 4 hours. I was drawn right in and it kept my attention with the vivid and descriptive writing, short chapters, and the fast-paced story. The emotional storyline and multiple story arc were perfectly woven together. I loved all the connections and the suspense. Grandle is definitely a “must-read” author for me.

I definitely related to Rebecca when Joe rubbed her wrong. She didn’t like him right off, and had that “sense” about others. While feeling guilty initially, she was often proven to be right and have good reason.

This has happened to me on numerous occasions.

One notable incident was when I was working about 15-17 years ago. The manager of a pizza store had hired someone and asked what I thought. For some reason, I didn’t like the guy. Like Rebecca, I felt guilty about not liking the guy without “due cause”, but there was something “off” in the vibe. (If it has happened to you, you know; if not, it’s hard to explain).

Like Rebecca – my reasons came a few hours later. Not only was the employee’s spouse calling the store and harassing the staff – there was something amiss about the guy. With the “back-up” of three huge police officers, the manager terminated the employee who left the store. Thankfully, the ex-employee didn’t cause any issues then or later.

After it was over, the manager looked at me and asked “how did you know?”.

Honestly? I just knew. It was like a vibe, energy – things like that. So, I answered “my gut”. I just KNEW something wasn’t right – like Rebecca. After reading about her feelings towards Joe, that was something I definitely related to and have a tangible experience with.

Another thing I absolutely LOVED was the description of The Oregon Trail.

I actually have a hand-held game of it after playing it on a “wayback” website after seeing the “dysentery” memes (pre-Covid). I got it in 2019 with a gift card as it was a Christmas gift. I have been successful a few times with the “game” (making it and not losing my “people”).

So, reading this book was like seeing the game in reality, especially needing the Indian guide there at the end crossing the river to get there, and safely arriving at Oregon City

As I also got book #2 with this one, I will definitely be reading that next.

Anyone who enjoys historical romance set in the mid 1800’s is certain to enjoy this one.

[Helen]

The Rock, by Cara Grandle, is the first book in the Sisters of the Porcelain Doll series. This is a story of four young ladies that have made the agreement to stay in touch as they moved away starting new lives. This story is about Rebecca as she leaves with her father and moves to be with her uncle. Knowing nothing about her extended family, she has a lot of questions she hopes to find answers to. Clark is the only son with several sisters. His fathers is training him to work at the bank and his mother is constantly trying to set him up. Needing to have a life of his choice, he decided to raise pigs.

This is such a good story. The characters are so nice, they quickly become like friends I didn't want to say goodbye to. I adore Rebecca. She is so strong and hardworking, yet she is so fragile where having a real home is concerned. This story is so well written, it is fun to read and easy to imagine being there. I especially liked Rebecca's uncle. He was so thoughtful and understanding of Rebecca and her feelings, not just when tragedy happens. He is so appreciative of all help his extended family, friend and neighbor give him. I appreciate how Clarks family comes to understand his needs and their actions towards him.

This is a great story which I voluntarily received. This is my honest review

[Sydney]

Author Cara Grandle has written a sweet Oregon territory debut story that readers will connect with through the main characters and their life of hard work, struggles, tragedy and regrets, but also as they find little pockets of joy along the journey. This is an inspiring and heart-endearing Hallmark style story that connects readers not only to the characters but to the past and life in the 1840’s. Although the story has a bit of a slow start, this story about one of the Porcelain Doll Sisters is one that will be enjoyed by many readers to come.

Series: Sisters of the Porcelain Doll
Genre: historical, Christian, Romance
Publisher: Ashberry Lane
Publication date: May 15, 2021
Number of pages: 300

Other books in the series:
2-The Ribbon

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Kate (The Shelf Life)]

This was an engaging story from start to finish. This debut book from Cara Grandle kept me reading and wondering how Rebecca's story would unfold. The historical detail that Cara wrote about was so well done, it allowed the characters to pop with a background that enhanced the story to another level. Clark was a very well fleshed out hero. Having lived with a family of girls, he was a very well rounded man who understood different perspectives. He and Rebecca together were such a great mix to read about, they balanced each other. This was such an adventurous haptoral romance with a stunning backdrop. If you are a fan of Tracie Peterson, you will enjoy this book.

[Chelsie]

I love a great historical! Rebecca has been raised by her father and often she has to be the caring parent figure as her father's choice of brewing whisky has not bode well for him. After another catastrophe, they no longer have a house or income coming in to live. When an uncle Rebecca has never heard of sends a letter requesting help with his farm out west. The two head out on the Oregon trail and Rebecca feels like her whole life has been a lie. She really doesn't know who her mother was, this mysterious uncle and she also finds out her father has originally come from the West. Sad to have left her friends behind, she promises to write and return if things don't work out. She is on the brink of adult hood and her father has not been one to strive to better their lives with him often indulging himself in his own drink versus selling it for income. Once in Oregon, Rebecca finds a whole different kind of life from what they had in Missouri and she may just finally find some answers to who she is, her family's past and what home should feel like. I flew right through this book. There were so many great characters and storylines woven throughout. I cannot wait to read the next one. Thank you to JustReads Tours for the invite and to the author and publisher for the free novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Michelle Fritz PA]

Lovely imagery and a sweet prescriptive of a time long forgotten. I appreciate the era appropriate research that went into this book. At times I felt as if I were truly within the pages.

With a slow beginning and flawed characters this sets the tone of the journey ahead. When hearts have been so deeply wounded, it's difficult to rise above and allow a brighter future. Friendship and the responsibility of family play a central focus.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Andrea Parmelee]

I appreciate the way the author brought me along the journey the protagonist took not only to her new home but also her inner journey growing wiser and stronger. The characters are well developed and relatable. They were flawed, but also accepted and appreciated despite their flaws. I enjoy historical fiction that teaches me something new, evokes emotion, and entertains. The author accomplished all three! I’m looking forward to Book 2.

[Wren]

I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to read two of the books in Cara Grandle's amazing new series, Sisters of the Porcelain Doll. Four young women pledge community and sisterhood to each other. All of them are facing some immense difficulty. For this is 1846 Missouri; and these women are quite constrained, in their choices and opportunities. One, in caring for her father whose livelihood is the whiskey he makes on his precarious stills. Another cares for her dying mother. A third assists her half-brother at the local mercantile, and the fourth is subject to her wealthy father's plans to marry her off to a man she doesn't love.

After the women make their pledge, Rebecca Packwood and her father load up the few possessions they have left after his still exploded, and head off to Oregon via the Oregon Trail. Her father's brother-in-law (whom she didn't know existed) has invited them to join him on his farm, after an accident rendered him unable to keep all of it going alone.

In Oregon, Clark Sutherland has had his fill of his career in banking, and his mother's incessant matchmaking. When an opportunity comes to work on Rebecca's uncle Leander's farm, he jumps at it, relishing the hard work outdoors in the beautiful countryside. But he might do a little matchmaking of his own; for himself! Rebecca has caught his eye--and he has caught hers!

Yet, an enemy is lurking-literally-in the shadows of Leander's property. Animals are getting loose. Fences suddenly are missing sections. And a neighbor is making Rebecca feel unsafe in her new home. This person may stand between everyone on the farm, including Clark and Rebecca, and happiness.

What a story! I love Cara Grandle's character and story development. The protagonists' lives, choices, and faith were fascinating and so real...as well as Rebecca's and her friends' devotion to one another. The Rock is well worth your reading!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions shared here are my own.

[Jennifer]

Rebecca and her pa have lost everything in a fire. They decide to move west after receiving a letter from Rebecca’s uncle. On the family farm, she discovers secrets and a family. But will pa’s drinking and an unknown assailant ruin everything?
The faith element is subdued, which I don’t mind since I don’t care for preachy books.
I did appreciate the rock analogy and the friendship between Rebecca and her three friends from home. The friends actually had personality, and I wish all the book was that vibrant. The other characters were flat, dull and boring.
The interesting discussion questions at the end also allow readers to dive deeper into the meaning behind the story.
The writing contains passive voice and grammar errors that turned me off. I also didn’t appreciate the romance that felt childish and rushed.
While this book offers insights into homestead life in the 1800s, it’s not an engaging book that made me want to keep reading the series.

[Kendra Neal]

I LOVE Christian Historical Fiction so I was excited to read the Debut Novel by Cara Grandle. The Rock is Book 1 in Sisters of the Porcelain Doll series.

I really LOVE the setting of the 1840s and traveling West on the Oregon Trail. I have always been a fan of Oregon Trail Storylines. The main character in this story, Rebecca Packwood, is a courageous young woman who decides to move West in search of a Home and Family where she can settle down. Clark Sutherland meets Rebecca once she arrives in Oregon and he is immediately attracted to her. They must overcome obstacles, including a mysterious person before they can connect. I LOVE how their relationship progressed and how Clark really matured with Rebecca by his side. This book is one of God's Provisions, Healing, and Faith. I HIGHLY recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction. GREAT BOOK!

[Chelsea]

The writing needed a bit of work, but the story had a great premise and pace. Rebecca was a bit inconsistent -she was strong in a lot of ways, but too timid to ask her kind uncle some questions? Clark was sweet, but started out spoiled and should have acknowledged his easy life. I actually really liked how well the villain was written, though -great backstory/motivation. The dialogue was also a bit rough, stilted and awkward in places. Still, I liked seeing them pull together and work the homestead. And I liked that Rebecca found direction, and a home. The Christian themes seemed a bit forced in the end, but were very natural before that. It was a good story overall, and I will be reading the next one!

Content: clean.


I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Kimmie]

As you know by now, I am always on the lookout for new authors to read and after seeing the cover of this one I was intrigued.
This is evidently Cara Grandle’s debut book, but you couldn’t tell by reading it! She writes like a seasoned author who has fleshed out characters, great plotlines, and stories that leave you thinking long after the book is over.
The Rock is book one in a series (and I have book two sitting here staring at me) and it was a lovely introduction to the world Cara Grandle is weaving. And I am really looking forward to seeing where the next book takes me.
Overall, this book was beautifully done. I enjoyed Rebecca and Clarks story, their mannerisms, and the conversational tone between them. It was fun and I loved how everything pointed back where every story should.
4.5 Stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.

[Trudy Cordle]

This was a good book! It started off a little slower than I like, but picked up toward the end. Rebecca and her father have to leave their home in Missouri after a whiskey still explosion destroys their home. Rebecca is struggling with having to leave her friends and going somewhere where she knows no one. She feels as though she has no home and that's what she really wants. Clark has been working in his father's bank, though it's not what he really wants to do. He'd much rather be working outside and farming. Clark decides to leave and ends up at the same place as Rebecca and her father. When trouble comes for Rebecca, will she be able to see that she's with family, and that Clark loves her?

[Suzan Turley]

I won this book which introduced me to Cara Grandle as an author. The story was heartwarming with some mystery. It carried a subtle Christian message without being preachy. The book moved fast enough to keep me interested with some twists and turns here and there. Ms Grandle proves that home is not always think it is. I will definitely be reading more of her books. She even sent a handmade bookmark with the signed book and that caring showed through the story.

[Shilo]

Wonderful & Moving

This book hits something deep inside with it’s range of emotions. The author is able to bring the reader along during the moments of pain & moments of healing. Hope is the thread throughout the story.

[Leah]

I always have a hard time starting new books. I have to be captured pretty early on to know if I'm going to finish. The Rock had me hooked instantly. I didn't want it to end.

[Lori]

4.5

[Jeri Stockdale]

An involved plot, an unexpected villain, and main characters you're rooting for throughout the story. An excellent read!

[PottWab Regional Library]

A

[Amy Earls]

A sweet and enduring read.