A Good Measure

Savannah Skies #3

by Nan Rossiter

"Sinking into a Nan Rossiter story is like coming home."--Robyn Carr

Return to Tybee Island off the coast of Georgia in USA Today bestselling author Nan Rossiter's third Savannah Skies novel, a heartwarming story about love, acceptance, finding your place in the world, and learning to carry on in the face of overwhelming loss.

It's been eight months since Libby Tennyson's husband, Jack, passed away, and now every afternoon when the fiery sun sinks below the horizon, she finds herself wandering through the empty old farmhouse in which they raised their six sons. Melancholy hour, she calls it--the time of day that was once a flurry of dinner, homework, and chores. With her sons grown and on their own, she grieves for all she has lost--and worries about what the future holds for her youngest son, twenty-eight-year-old Chase.

All the Tennyson boys are handsome--but there's something about Chase that has always made women swoon. Growing up in the shadow of his older brothers, Chase was different--gentler, kinder, a boy with a big heart who looked after those most vulnerable. Though his family loved him deeply, Chase never felt he could truly be himself until he met Liam Evans, his partner in business and love. After six years, he and Liam are ready to make a lifetime commitment . . . yet neither is sure if his family is ready for a same sex wedding.

But life is full of surprises. Libby finds solace and unexpected hope when she connects with The Guild, a group of widows, including her neighbors and life-long friends, Ames and Payton, who get together every Thursday evening for wine, laughter, and companionship. She discovers that her friends all know and adore Chase and accept him for who he is--support that helps Libby find a measure of faith that everything will be all right for her and for the son she dearly loves.

Genres: Fiction, Womens Fiction

336 pages, Paperback

First published March 29, 2022

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Nan Rossiter loves to weave together stories about the complicated relationships to which all readers can relate -- motherhood, sisterhood, friendship, marriage and romance. She draws from her own life experiences to create authentic situations that mirror the trials and triumphs we all face. Compassionate, real, and funny, her books take readers on emotional journeys that often include heartbreak and joy, but also include threads of faith, a furry friend or two, and uplifting endings. Nan's books have been highly acclaimed by reviewers from Publisher's Weekly to Booklist. Her novel, SUMMER DANCE, was the 2018 winner of the Nancy Pearl Award.

Nan is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and began her writing career in the world of children's books. Along with her many contemporary fiction novels, Nan is also the author/illustrator of several books for children, including RUGBY & ROSIE, winner of Nebraska's Golden Sower Award, and THE FO'C'SLE: Henry Beston's Outermost House. 



Nan lives on a quiet country road in Connecticut with her husband and a solemn black Lab named Finn, who diligently watches their every move and can be roused from a nap in a distant room by the sound of a banana being peeled or a cookie crumb hitting the floor. Nan and her husband are the parents of two handsome sons who have struck out on life journeys of their own and are pursuing careers in aviation.

For more information, visit
nanrossiter.com/
facebook.com/NanRossiter/
instagram.com/nanrossiter/
twitter.com/NanRossiter
bookbub.com/profile/nan-rossiter

Reviews

[Bam cooks the books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in the Savannah Skies series by Nan Rossiter set in Georgia finds the Tennyson family planning son Gage's wedding on the farm. But now it looks like there will be two weddings as Chase and Liam announced they are engaged.

This is faith-based fiction and very warm-hearted and joyful with fully-fledged, likable characters. Rossiter handles the many issues she brings up in the story well. The ultimate take-away lesson seems to be: out of life's burdens come blessings.

I received an arc of this new novel from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend time in the company of these good people. It's a breath of fresh air.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review galley courtesy of Harper Paperbacks and Nan Rossiter.

If you enjoy women’s fiction novels about family, friends and life in general you’ll want to read one of Nan Rossiter’s books. A Good Measure is about all these things and I really enjoyed it.

There are three longtime friends who’ve been widowed in recent years: Libby, Payton and Ames. They all face various life challenges and find support and unconditional love in their friends. I most related to Libby but enjoyed the camaraderie of all three.

Libby is learning to live without her husband who passed fairly quickly after a cancer diagnosis. Payton runs a coffee shop with her son who is on the Autism spectrum. Ames is learning to enjoy life as she wants. All three women have grown children who they worry about – as probably every mother on earth does!

The novel is told from the three women’s POV and in alternating short chapters. I turned the final page with a smile and glad to have read the book.

Recommended to fans of the genre and Nan Rossiter.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have not read any of this author’s books before but I found the premise intriguing and thoroughly enjoyed becoming immersed in the family life of the main characters. I especially loved the character of Ellie, and was fascinated by the love story of Chase and Liam, and how the family came to acceptance. This was lovely Christian fiction that warmed my heart.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Good Measure by Nan Rossiter is a beautiful well written novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.

This is a brand new author to me, and I am always so excited to find a new author!

This women's fiction novel embraces family , friends and life with christian elements that were so refreshing.

We meet Libby, Payton, and Ames who are all widows and have been friends their entire lives.
I always find it so encouraging how women can support women during lifes challenges and the author does such a fantastic job at portraying that in these three women's lives.

I really like how the story is told in alternate points of view as to see each of the women's perspectives. The themes in this book that I really related to were acceptance , love and support especially amongst friends.

This is a beautiful, well written book that I enjoyed every single word of.

Highly recommend !

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Friends helping friends….

From a Christian perspective, #AGoodMeasure by Nan Rossiter features a diverse cast of characters dealing with real life issues in healthy ways. Storylines include satisfying friendships, women supporting women, mother and adult child relationships, acceptance, grief, a child on the spectrum, widowhood, complicated family, and m/m romance (closed door).

Told from three “well-seasoned” women’s perspectives,this heartwarming and emotional story is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Thanks #netgalley @HarperPerennial #OliveInfluencer for a complimentary eARC. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com

[Ti · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Short of It:

A heartfelt story about a family’s loss, their eagerness for happiness, and how their love for one another hold each other up.

The Rest of It:

I have reviewed many of Nan’s books. So many of them hold a special place in my heart. A Good Measure is book #3 in the Savannah Skies series and yet I don’t think you need to read the first two to really enjoy this one. But, you will still want to read them just to spend more time with this family.

Libby Tennyson’s husband Jack passed away less than a year ago and although her life has always been full, raising six sons into grown adults, her time alone in the farmhouse leaves her a little sad, and worried about what the future holds. Her son Chase has found the love of his life, but his relationship with Liam presents some challenges when Liam’s folks fail to show support for what they consider to be a non-traditional relationship.

Libby is surrounded by ladies her own age, ones who try repeatedly to get her to come out of her shell and join them for drinks and fellowship but Libby is reluctant. Her young grand-daughter, a vision of vitality and yes, energy, bridges the loneliness gap by providing much needed company and silliness. But can there really be more for Libby out there? At this age? Yes!

Pick up any Rossiter book and you will be regaled with food talk, a love for all animals, especially Labs and Goldens, and honestly just the love and friendship that result in close relationships. Reading her stories just FEEL good. Like a hug. These are the types of reads that you cozy up with and who doesn’t need that right now? I highly recommend her books. All of them.

For more reviews, visit my blog: Book Chatter.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Good Measure is a beautifully written story about family, friendship and love. Families face changes constantly and this book looks at coping with grief at the loss of a spouse, changing relationships with children and how to love your children no matter how they live their lives. It's an emotional look at many parts of life that we all face.

Libby's husband has been dead for eight months and she is still trying to process his loss. She has five living sons and several of them are keeping the dairy farm running. She is have trouble facing the changes in her life and resisting help from her friends. She finally joins a group of widowed women who meet weekly. Her two best friends from childhood - Ames and Payton are part of the group and help Libby.

Payton runs a coffee shop with her 28 year old son who is on the autism spectrum. She is having a problem letting him learn how to live life on his own and feels like the only way he can get through life is by having her run his life. Ames is afraid to visit her daughter on the west coast because she doesn't want to leave her dog who has become her constant companion since her husband died. She also has to face an issue with her health that was very scary. Libby is worried about her son Chase and trying to keep the fact that he is getting married to his male partner a secret from her friends.

I especially enjoyed this book because the three female characters are older and facing issues about age and declining health. This is well told story is an emotional book about love, friendship and change. We all know the importance of female friendships in our lives and the long term friendship between Libby, Ames and Payton is a great example of friends helping friends through difficult life changes.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review.

[Dawnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this heartwarming story of family. Libby is having trouble moving on after the death of her husband. Her boys help keep their farm going. Libby decides to join a support group with her friends Ames and Payton who are also widows and the friends help eachother heal. All of the characters have obstacles to hurdle. As for Libby's son Chase he longs for acceptance as he and his partner Liam plan to marry. I could very easily relate to the widows being one myself. This was a beautiful story of family, moving on after loss, love and acceptance. I enjoyed this.

Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Savannah skies series set on Tybee Island. Libby is still dealing with finding her husband Jack dead out in the field on their farm. Now her sons are running the farm and she is starting to visit friends who are also widows. She is very involved with the 2 weddings that are going to take place soon in their big barn. Her daughter who lives nearby and her gay son who is living in Washington DC. This book can be read as a stand alone. I particularly enjoy the interaction between Libby and her granddaughter. They are so close.

[Karen Wahl · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Good story, third book in series. A nice with characters from last two books. It touched on “older” women and the power of friendship. The author also touched on autism, being gay, homelessness and family after loss. A lovely story….

[Sue · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not sure where to begin with this one. I know there is a market for this type of book, but I am now sure it's not me. I guess the purpose of this "Christian" book is to convince other Christians that being gay is okay. (?) It revolves around three older widows and their children and grandchildren and their lives. I guess if you enjoy looking in on other people's mostly boring lives, you might be the target audience here. For me, it was too behind the times, too many cliches...it just did nothing for me. I don't think homosexuality needed the weird "thumbs up" this book provided.
Thanks to Goodreads for the free book.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book from page one. This story is full of Christian values, family, and friends. Nan Rossiter has woven a tale of how long-time friends Ames, Libby, and Peyton learn to embrace the future by excepting the present for how things are and helping each other. Thanks to author Nan Rossiter, Harper Perennial and Paperbacks, and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Stefanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

The sunset painted the sky with burnished reds and vibrant oranges as she sipped a hot tea on her back porch. The air was filled with future promises and love, but her heart was still so heavy. The cows mooed in the distance as they were being led inside from the pasture for the night. Birds called out and flew from the fields, traveling home to their nests to settle in. She sighed in a weary contentment, feeling thankful for the family and friends around her. She would get through.

A Good Measure is the story of three widows all grappling with grief in their own way. A book about their lives and their kids. While the premise of this book sounded nice it just seemed to be a Christian fiction book that tried to have some edge by having swear words, drinking, and gayness. The author just tossed in a gay character to I guess showcase for a broader market and it felt like it was also just there to prove to other Christians that being gay was cool. I wasn’t okay with that.

Each chapter is told from the perspective of one of the widows and honestly nothing truly exciting happened. It was just a day to day journal of their lives for the most part. I also wasn’t a big fan of the fact that they all worried about their kids marrying and making babies… I understand that is the mindset of that generation, but it rubbed me the wrong way.

I did like the friendship aspect and how important it is to have good friendships in your life, but that was truly all I liked. Anyway, this just wasn’t the book for me.

TW: Homophobia, Death of a Loved One, Grief, Cancer.

*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great novel about friendships, family, life and community! I really loved all of the characters in this novel, and that each had something a little different going on in their life, yet all of the women still had one thing in common - being widowed. I really connected with Payton's character as I have just gone through almost the same exact medical situation as her. Libby is staying busy with her grandkids but knows that her other friends do meet to try and help get through the loss of their husbands, but she always seems to find a reason to not go. Ames, although her marriage was a bit different than her friends marriages, she is still having a hard time changing herself to be free and do what she wants for once in life. The three are all in various stages of life and yet are grappling with this new life of being without their husbands. Told through the women as well as some of the children of these women, this story was a nice heart felt story that reminds us that we all have a lot going on, but sometimes we need to take a step back and do what is best for ourselves and that it's ok to ask or help and rely on others to get us through tough times. Thank you to the author for the autographed book and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. I will be looking to buy and read more of her novels when I need light heartfelt read.

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nan Rossiter, the author of “A Good Measure” has written a thought-provoking, and memorable novel. The genres for this novel are Women’s Domestic Fiction, Family Life Fiction, and Contemporary Fiction. This is the third in a series that takes place on Tybee Island, and other places, and can be read as a stand-alone. Nan Rossiter vividly describes her characters as complex and complicated. I appreciate that the author has diversity in her characters. There are a group of widows, gay marriage, characters with autism and on the spectrum, veterans and PSTD, and a love of animals. This is a novel that addresses loss, family acceptance, friendship, forgiveness, second chances, and love.

Being an animal lover, I appreciate the author’s description of different animals, kittens, cats, dogs, horses, and cows, and kindness can make a difference.

Some of the characters have to deal with obstacles and have to learn to adapt to new situations. Especially touching is the relationships between mothers and children and mothers and their friends. I would highly recommend this heartwarming novel.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of a series and even though I read the second book, PROMISES TO KEEP, you can easily read this one as a stand alone.

This book hit just right with me and I’ll tell you now it was a perfect mix of people and plot that stirred so many emotions.

I felt like this book is real life. There are good times and not so good times. We want to keep hurt and sadness far away from our family and friends, but existing day to day in this world isn’t perfect.

This book had several wonderful stories going on at the same time. Libby, Ames, and Payton have been friends since childhood. Each of these women now widows have had their own journeys with marriage and raising families. They are all ready to make some changes as they move toward their next life chapter. In this read, we see their development and enjoy each of their self discoveries.

Chase is Libby’s youngest son. He has had the same partner, Liam, since college and they are now ready to wed. Both men are fearful of how family will react.

I hope you will fall in love with these characters and this work of women’s fiction as much as I did.

[Jane Dennish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story has a lot of heart and love. There are a lot of characters who show love through friendship and familial relationships. They come together for each other when they most need it and express that love in ways that are most needed. This book takes place in Savannah and in Tennessee. At times it feels like the relationships and beliefs harken back to a time from the past, but at other times the relationships seem modern. I think it intended to show relationships in a small southern town.

There are a lot of topics and themes covered in the book and a lot of characters. I have not read the previous two books in this series. It is not necessary to read them, but there are a lot of characters and I found myself getting confused at times because two of the names are similar, so I had to go back and forth to make sure I had the story lines straight. Once I did, it was easy to understand and follow the different plot lines.

Thank you so much to Nan Rossiter for reaching out to me to send me an advanced copy of her book that comes out on April 12th!

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I sat down with my iced coffee in hand, and opened this book, I knew I was is for a treat. I knew that Nan Rossiter would once again bring her readers a fabulously written novel filled with unforgettable characters and a plot line that will make you feel a part of the story.

I wasn’t wrong! I was instantly brought to the heart of the story, making new friends with these beautifully chiseled women, feeling their emotions like my own. I loved their friendships, I loved their struggles, I loved how they came together and overcame them!

This is an emotional, 4⭐️ read that you do not want to miss. You’ll want to grab a tissue or two, along the way, but by the end, you’ll feel right at home, and not wanting to say goodbye! As a mom, Nan Rossiter hit the nail on the head with this roller coaster and I was so glad that I had the chance to read this one! I am looking forward to another amazing novel from this highly talented author!

* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed coming back to Tybee Island to characters that feel like family. This story is told from the POV of friends Libby, Payton and Ames. All three are widows trying to find their way through all of life's changes.

Payton runs a coffee shop with her 28 year old son who is on the Autistic spectrum. She is finding it hard to let him learn how to live his life on his own.

Ames is afraid to visit her daughter who lives on the west coast because she doesn't want to leave her constant companion Ned. She also faces a health scare.

Libby's husband Jack passed away 8 months ago. Her youngest son Chase has been with his partner Liam for 6 years. They have decided to get married and she doesnt know how her friends will react. With her family and friends urging, she finally joins a group of widows that meet at Paytons coffee shop.

A GOOD MEASURE is an emotional story of acceptance. change, love, family and friendship. I enjoyed the closeness of the three friends who were there for each other through health and family issues. This book can be read as a stand alone.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This charming, old fashioned novel is a delight to read. Focusing on the lives of small town widows, A Good Measure is full of family values. The novel centers on Libby, newly widowed, whose life on the family farm was dominated by her late husband. Now in her sixties, she is learning how to make a path for herself. Meanwhile, Payton struggles with freedom for her son Cash who has Asperger’s. A health scare makes her realize just how important that is. And her friend Ames longs to reestablish softball games…

This engaging story will appeal to all readers of a certain age and fans of Jan Karon’s Mitford series. Chase and Liam’s relationship shows how families adapt to change with love and understanding. 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Perennial and Nan Rossiter for this ARC.

[Bookoholiccafe · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Good Measure by Nan Rossiter is a touching story.
We meet three longtime friends; all three women are widowed and support each other through challenges.
Libby has recently lost her husband to cancer and is trying hard to live without him in their old farmhouse. She has six sons and we read about her youngest Chase more than the others.
Ames wants to live the best of her life and Payton runs her coffee shop with her autistic son.
The novel is told from these three friends' POVs. With short chapters. It is a story about family, loss, and love. I really liked the relationship between Libby, Ames, and Payton. At times I felt like I wanted to be in their circle too. Their support for each other was really heartwarming.
I really felt close to these characters and enjoyed the story.

[Louise Foerster · Rating 3 out of 5]

A GOOD MEASURE by Nan Rossiter was my first read by a renowned, beloved writer. I was captivated by this story of women who have survived husbands, tragedies, and tough times and their loved ones. However, the pace, the weaving in small daily routines, and uneven views into characters so some were profoundly relatable and others felt more cardboard caricature made for a less than enjoyable time. Beyond that, there were turns of event and wonderful moments that kept me slogging through the rough places. I enjoyed spending time in the country, a small town where people look out for one another, and wholehearted embrace of land, coffee and tea, and friendship. I received an early copy of this book and these opinions are my own unbiased thoughts.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time reading a book from this author. I found it hard for me to get in to the story line of this book but then again I am also not a religious person, a mom or a widow. My favorite character was Ellie, she reminded me a lot of myself with all of her knowledge that she liked to teach other people. This shows to me how while yes, life is hard but as long as you have a great support system things are easier to over come! While this book was a slow read for me, I didn't dislike it and will read another book from this author in the future!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have not read this author before and I enjoyed her descriptive style with a sprinkle of Christian faith added. I thought this book would be more about the loss Libby felt at losing her husband as she also struggled to reconcile her beliefs with her love for her son. But it was really the story of the paths of 3 widows who had been friends for life. Read this if you enjoy stories that describe a snapshot of life with love, friends, and family.

My sincere thanks to the author and @suzyapprovedbooktours for my gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.

[Mary]

I enjoyed this book from page one. This story is full of Christian values, family, and friends. Nan Rossiter has woven a tale of how long-time friends Ames, Libby, and Peyton learn to embrace the future by excepting the present for how things are and helping each other. Thanks to author Nan Rossiter, Harper Perennial and Paperbacks, and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Good Measure is a faith based fiction that is full of blessings.
A small town where everyone knows one another and look out for each other. Beautiful friendships, acceptance of each other and embracing life is what you will get when reading this story.
“Out of life’s burdens come blessings”
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨!

What an amazing and beautiful story about family, loss, acceptance and love. I fell in love the writing and the characters, I felt really close to them. This is my first book from this author and it won’t be my last.

Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours and Harper Books for this gifted copy.

A Good Measure by Nan Rossiter released April 12, 2022.

https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Libby lost her husband 8 months ago. She finds comfort when she gets more involved with the Guild, particularly her 2 life-long friends, Ames and Payton. Her concern is for her youngest son, Chase, who is still single at 28. Chase has always been different from others. He and his business partner, Liam, have developed a relationship but must open up to their families about the depth and nature of their feelings for each other. Libby will come to trust that Chase will be alright.

[Kathy Maher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was a very light read about three widows and the trials and tribulations that they go through. It was especially interesting for me because I know the author and I recognized some of the names that she used in this book, which was really exciting.

This was a make you feel good book. It times it had me laughing and at one point really crying. I enjoyed the relationships between brothers and rekindling old friendships. I definitely recommend this book

[Naomi · Rating 1 out of 5]

This isn't a fair rating, I know, because I didn't READ it. I couldn't do it. This is at least partly about how gay love is okay love too and it's NOT. It goes against God's plan for mankind and He IS the judge. I just couldn't read a book with a message like that. I stopped reading and read the synopsis of the book and sure enough...that's where it was heading.

I added it to my "not gonna read after all" shelf on Goodreads.