What do you think?
Rate this book
Sedgwick County Chronicles #2
The Songs That Could Have Been
Two couples in love. Two sets of impossible circumstances. One powerful God of grace.
After a tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson's life is finally back on track. Her battle with bulimia is under control, her career is taking off, and she's surrounded by a loving family. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, leads to old feelings returning with new strength. And suddenly her well-balanced world is thrown off kilter.
Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But the reasons they broke up aren't lost--and those old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. He isn’t sure he's courageous enough to make a different choice this time around.
When Lauren's elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim--a name her family has never heard before--a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie's past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives--and Rosie’s--forever. Along the way they'll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.
The Songs That Could Have Been is full of the same deftly handled, resonant writing that readers and critics alike enjoyed in Amanda Wen's first book in the series. Fans of Lisa Wingate and Rachel Hauck will add Amanda Wen to their must-read shelves.
After a tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson's life is finally back on track. Her battle with bulimia is under control, her career is taking off, and she's surrounded by a loving family. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, leads to old feelings returning with new strength. And suddenly her well-balanced world is thrown off kilter.
Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But the reasons they broke up aren't lost--and those old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. He isn’t sure he's courageous enough to make a different choice this time around.
When Lauren's elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim--a name her family has never heard before--a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie's past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives--and Rosie’s--forever. Along the way they'll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.
The Songs That Could Have Been is full of the same deftly handled, resonant writing that readers and critics alike enjoyed in Amanda Wen's first book in the series. Fans of Lisa Wingate and Rachel Hauck will add Amanda Wen to their must-read shelves.
272 pages, Paperback
Published May 24, 2022
14 people are currently reading
498 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Wen
7 books338 followersAmanda Wen’s debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone, released to both reader and critical acclaim, including a Christy Award nomination for First Novel. She also placed first in multiple contests, including the 2017 Indiana Golden Opportunity Contest, the 2017 Phoenix Rattler Contest, and the 2016 ACFW First Impressions Contest, among others.
In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.
In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
December 7, 2021
There are so many brilliant moments in The Songs That Could Have Been. Amanda Wen took risks that paid off with a treasure trove of themes which will resonate in my heart for a very long time. Peppered with struggle and yearning, the journeys of Carter and Lauren, Rosie and Ephraim, will ultimately fill you with deep hope and joy. Have tissues ready, but know they will be mostly for happy tears.
June 11, 2022
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via Audra Jennings publicity tours. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Eph. 4:22-24
Spiritual Themes
I feel that this book was rich with spiritual truths, and it is one that I am delighted to recommend on the basis of its treatment of romance. Whereas I often need to include a content note about books that imply that fulfillment can be found a romantic partner, Wen makes it very clear that broken people CANNOT be “enough” for each other.
I am sitting here typing, praising God, as I recall this beautiful message. It wasn’t an afterthought. It was central to the plot, along with the idea that Christ WILL be near us, renewing our spirits and healing that brokenness.
The other central biblical theme was the idea that love is not selfish, but sacrificial (1 Cor. 13:5).
What I Liked
This felt like a really “quick read,” for me, and not just because it’s on the shorter side for an adult novel. Wen’s pacing was fantastic, with three different speakers, contributing four different perspectives. (Chapters were also fairly short, or were broken into sections, which really improves the reading experience, for me.)
I enjoyed the Fiddler on the Roof references (and wow, I just realized the symbolism of that particular allusion. Brilliant!). I felt that these were a meaningful addition to the plot, which also added a fun pop-culture flair.
I also want to note that I was blown away by the introduction of the third speaker. This speaker was introduced a few chapters in. Up until this point, I had already been enjoying the book, but when this speaker started narrating, that really “sealed” my impression of the writer’s skill. Wow! This was my first time reading first person narration of this sort (which is an ambiguous statement, because I don’t want to spoil anything), and it felt very authentic to me.
The novel also has two different time settings, which I have noticed as a trend in recent books. While I have read books that span a number of years, I think this is the first (non-time-travel) book I’ve finished where one part of the book is clearly “Contemporary,” whereas the other part would be classified as historical fiction.
As I’ve mentioned before, historical fiction isn’t usually my first choice, so I was very impressed that, at points, I was much more interested in the historical plotline than I was in the contemporary story. The nature of that plotline also really captured my interest– and I feel that it was very well-executed.
Content
The book summary alludes to a major upheaval in the main character’s life, prior to the start of the novel. This is possibly a small spoiler, but I do think it would be fair for the reader to know that she is recovering from bulimia. In all fairness, I would have been less likely to read the book if I had known that this would be part of the characterization, and I feel that this portrayal was tastefully executed. There wasn’t a ton of emphasis on the specifics of her physique, so for me (as someone who has struggled, to some extent, with body image), the book was not harmful. However, I do think this information could be helpful for readers who may “trigger” with this content.
There was one joking reference to drag, which I felt uncomfortable given the pervasiveness of cross-dressing in today’s culture.
There are also a few kissing scenes.
Recommendation Status
This was such an excellent, enjoyable read– in terms of the message, quality of the writing, and the plot. I’m eager to read more works by Amanda Wen.
Scripture Connection
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Eph. 4:22-24
Spiritual Themes
I feel that this book was rich with spiritual truths, and it is one that I am delighted to recommend on the basis of its treatment of romance. Whereas I often need to include a content note about books that imply that fulfillment can be found a romantic partner, Wen makes it very clear that broken people CANNOT be “enough” for each other.
I am sitting here typing, praising God, as I recall this beautiful message. It wasn’t an afterthought. It was central to the plot, along with the idea that Christ WILL be near us, renewing our spirits and healing that brokenness.
The other central biblical theme was the idea that love is not selfish, but sacrificial (1 Cor. 13:5).
What I Liked
This felt like a really “quick read,” for me, and not just because it’s on the shorter side for an adult novel. Wen’s pacing was fantastic, with three different speakers, contributing four different perspectives. (Chapters were also fairly short, or were broken into sections, which really improves the reading experience, for me.)
I enjoyed the Fiddler on the Roof references (and wow, I just realized the symbolism of that particular allusion. Brilliant!). I felt that these were a meaningful addition to the plot, which also added a fun pop-culture flair.
I also want to note that I was blown away by the introduction of the third speaker. This speaker was introduced a few chapters in. Up until this point, I had already been enjoying the book, but when this speaker started narrating, that really “sealed” my impression of the writer’s skill. Wow! This was my first time reading first person narration of this sort (which is an ambiguous statement, because I don’t want to spoil anything), and it felt very authentic to me.
The novel also has two different time settings, which I have noticed as a trend in recent books. While I have read books that span a number of years, I think this is the first (non-time-travel) book I’ve finished where one part of the book is clearly “Contemporary,” whereas the other part would be classified as historical fiction.
As I’ve mentioned before, historical fiction isn’t usually my first choice, so I was very impressed that, at points, I was much more interested in the historical plotline than I was in the contemporary story. The nature of that plotline also really captured my interest– and I feel that it was very well-executed.
Content
The book summary alludes to a major upheaval in the main character’s life, prior to the start of the novel. This is possibly a small spoiler, but I do think it would be fair for the reader to know that she is recovering from bulimia. In all fairness, I would have been less likely to read the book if I had known that this would be part of the characterization, and I feel that this portrayal was tastefully executed. There wasn’t a ton of emphasis on the specifics of her physique, so for me (as someone who has struggled, to some extent, with body image), the book was not harmful. However, I do think this information could be helpful for readers who may “trigger” with this content.
There was one joking reference to drag, which I felt uncomfortable given the pervasiveness of cross-dressing in today’s culture.
There are also a few kissing scenes.
Recommendation Status
This was such an excellent, enjoyable read– in terms of the message, quality of the writing, and the plot. I’m eager to read more works by Amanda Wen.
June 21, 2022
'Could it be God wasn't finished writing their story?'
When I read Amanda Wen's debut novel last year, it just moved me so much and I began to watch for her next offering. Now I've read it and I can tell you that it did not disappoint. She is a great storyteller! Wen tackles a very difficult subject here, well, three actually, and does them in the most wonderful and caring way that it melts the reader's heart.
Full of such great characters, this book is going on my top reads list for the year. We see more than one story here in Wen's dual time novel. Each is very moving in its own right and totally captures the reader's mind completely. It did mine, at least. I could barely put it down.
Wen's theme of God's grace and redemption resonate throughout. His love for His creation is so evident here, and Wen's telling of it moved me to tears more than once. She excels at this story and I'm so happy to be a fan. The blurb on the back cover says, in part, 'God wastes nothing and his timing is perfect.' How very true this is! These characters simply leapt off the pages and right into my heart, along with their hurts, joys, and love. I will not stop thinking about this one for a while. Perfection! Very well done!
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book. The opinion in this review is expressly my own.
When I read Amanda Wen's debut novel last year, it just moved me so much and I began to watch for her next offering. Now I've read it and I can tell you that it did not disappoint. She is a great storyteller! Wen tackles a very difficult subject here, well, three actually, and does them in the most wonderful and caring way that it melts the reader's heart.
Full of such great characters, this book is going on my top reads list for the year. We see more than one story here in Wen's dual time novel. Each is very moving in its own right and totally captures the reader's mind completely. It did mine, at least. I could barely put it down.
Wen's theme of God's grace and redemption resonate throughout. His love for His creation is so evident here, and Wen's telling of it moved me to tears more than once. She excels at this story and I'm so happy to be a fan. The blurb on the back cover says, in part, 'God wastes nothing and his timing is perfect.' How very true this is! These characters simply leapt off the pages and right into my heart, along with their hurts, joys, and love. I will not stop thinking about this one for a while. Perfection! Very well done!
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book. The opinion in this review is expressly my own.
July 8, 2022
This story has all the feels - love, loss, challenges, and family dynamics.
There are two stories being told in this novel. The first is of Lauren and Carter. They meet 13 years ago in the theater and due to circumstances they split apart and have not seen each other until now, and that was by chance in the makeup aisle at the drug store. Sometimes you meet the right person but not at the right time and that is their situation. Carter had family issues he was dealing with and Lauren had her own issues that resulted from their breakup. But perhaps the second time around will be better because they have both had time to grow and deal with their issues.
The second story is one that really touched my heart and is about Lauren's grandmother, Rosie, and her first love during high school in 1955. Despite living in Kansas, interracial relationships were not accepted and especially not by her parents. I loved reading about the love affair that Rosie had with Ephraim, how they hid it from everyone, and what they taught each other. Rosie's grandchildren would never have known about this part of her life if it weren't for a bible that they brought to the memory care unit to ask her about it in one of her more lucid moments. Dementia is not a kind disease and having lost a parent to this, I could understand what Lauren and Garrett were dealing with and the emotions that ran through them not knowing if it would be a good or a bad day.
If this book teaches us nothing else, it is to grab life while you can and enjoy every moment because you never know what tomorrow will bring. Lauren and Carter learn this through incidents with their families and their own lives. I also appreciated the fact that Lauren could admit to counseling even years later because her issues weren't gone and had flared back up.
These stories are also about hope and that God has a bigger plan for all of us, more than we can ever imagine. Faith may be tested for several characters, but holding on to hope will get them through. It is a time of growth and reflection for several characters as well.
I loved this book and was sad to see it end. It reminded me to have faith, believe in myself, and remember that no problem is too large that it can't be solved.
We give this book 5 paws up.
There are two stories being told in this novel. The first is of Lauren and Carter. They meet 13 years ago in the theater and due to circumstances they split apart and have not seen each other until now, and that was by chance in the makeup aisle at the drug store. Sometimes you meet the right person but not at the right time and that is their situation. Carter had family issues he was dealing with and Lauren had her own issues that resulted from their breakup. But perhaps the second time around will be better because they have both had time to grow and deal with their issues.
The second story is one that really touched my heart and is about Lauren's grandmother, Rosie, and her first love during high school in 1955. Despite living in Kansas, interracial relationships were not accepted and especially not by her parents. I loved reading about the love affair that Rosie had with Ephraim, how they hid it from everyone, and what they taught each other. Rosie's grandchildren would never have known about this part of her life if it weren't for a bible that they brought to the memory care unit to ask her about it in one of her more lucid moments. Dementia is not a kind disease and having lost a parent to this, I could understand what Lauren and Garrett were dealing with and the emotions that ran through them not knowing if it would be a good or a bad day.
If this book teaches us nothing else, it is to grab life while you can and enjoy every moment because you never know what tomorrow will bring. Lauren and Carter learn this through incidents with their families and their own lives. I also appreciated the fact that Lauren could admit to counseling even years later because her issues weren't gone and had flared back up.
These stories are also about hope and that God has a bigger plan for all of us, more than we can ever imagine. Faith may be tested for several characters, but holding on to hope will get them through. It is a time of growth and reflection for several characters as well.
I loved this book and was sad to see it end. It reminded me to have faith, believe in myself, and remember that no problem is too large that it can't be solved.
We give this book 5 paws up.
July 6, 2022
This is definitely one of those stories that captures you from the first line. Not because the first line is life changing mind you but because its rather comical and intriguing at the same time. I mean it's literally " Carter Douglas hated running out of makeup." I mean if that doesn't make you stop and want to figure out what is going on I don't know what will! I definitely had to read the story and boy am I glad I did.
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. I know this is part of a series and I am sure I would've met some of these characters in the previous books and gotten to know more about some of them but honestly reading this story I did not feel like I was missing anything. This is a dual time line but I would not consider it a true dual time line like I am used to reading as it didn't really go back and forth but rather gave us glimpses into the past rather than a true full storyline. But the transitions between the glimpses and the present were done very smoothly.
I really, really enjoyed this story. The are strong themes of faith throughout. The author tackles some heavy topics such as alcoholism, bulimia and dementia/Alzheimers and she does it in a matter that truly captures your heart and tugs at the heart strings. She makes it relatable and true. I personally have encountered these with people in my life and personally and so the story for me definitely more personal. The way she portrays the grandmother, Rosie, had me in tears. I mean I like to think that a person with Alzheimers has that thought process within themselves when encountering family members they cannot recall.
The love story between both Carter and Lauren and Rosie and Ephraim were spectacular. Rosie and Ephraim was unheard of in those days. I mean we all know in the 1950's it was extremely rare and looked down upon for a white and black person to integrate much less fall in love. Their love story was beautiful and heartbreaking. Carter and Lauren's story was equally as emotional. There was some serious baggage between these two. They moved a bit too quick in their relationship but I am glad that it was a wake-up call to them as well and it truly made them see who they were supposed to be in God, in themselves and as a couple.
Overall I thought this story was not only well written but captivating. I can't believe it was my first time reading anything by this author and it certainly wont be my last time!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. I know this is part of a series and I am sure I would've met some of these characters in the previous books and gotten to know more about some of them but honestly reading this story I did not feel like I was missing anything. This is a dual time line but I would not consider it a true dual time line like I am used to reading as it didn't really go back and forth but rather gave us glimpses into the past rather than a true full storyline. But the transitions between the glimpses and the present were done very smoothly.
I really, really enjoyed this story. The are strong themes of faith throughout. The author tackles some heavy topics such as alcoholism, bulimia and dementia/Alzheimers and she does it in a matter that truly captures your heart and tugs at the heart strings. She makes it relatable and true. I personally have encountered these with people in my life and personally and so the story for me definitely more personal. The way she portrays the grandmother, Rosie, had me in tears. I mean I like to think that a person with Alzheimers has that thought process within themselves when encountering family members they cannot recall.
The love story between both Carter and Lauren and Rosie and Ephraim were spectacular. Rosie and Ephraim was unheard of in those days. I mean we all know in the 1950's it was extremely rare and looked down upon for a white and black person to integrate much less fall in love. Their love story was beautiful and heartbreaking. Carter and Lauren's story was equally as emotional. There was some serious baggage between these two. They moved a bit too quick in their relationship but I am glad that it was a wake-up call to them as well and it truly made them see who they were supposed to be in God, in themselves and as a couple.
Overall I thought this story was not only well written but captivating. I can't believe it was my first time reading anything by this author and it certainly wont be my last time!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 9, 2022
Having loved the debut, Roots of Wood and Stone by Amanda Wen, I could not wait to see what she tackled in her second book, and tackled was right. Some hard subjects were handled well: views on race in the 50s, alcoholism, eating disorders and letting Christ control your life. The characters jump off the page and into your heart as they deal with life situations.
This dual time story was heartbreaking at times: “They had made the right choice. The mature choice. The loving choice. But that didn’t mean it wouldn’t shatter her heart.” But also uplifting and filled with hope: “God had a plan, even man’s stupidity could not thwart that plan... it is never too late for God. Nothing is too far gone for Him to redeem it.”
Ms. Wen handled the race conflict of the 50s in a sensitive way, showing the conflicting emotions of two teens, Rosie and Ephriam. I liked the way she voiced Rosie’s thoughts as she struggled with alzheimers in later life.
The book was not at all depressing. It was rounded out nicely throughout. Because Lauren is a food blogger, I liked that she named her cats Alton and Nigella! I also caught the weather related references since Carter was a weatherman.
This book was every bit as good as the first and gave me more of a glimpse into the lives of the characters I connected with in the first book.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel as part if the I Read with Audra book tour. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This dual time story was heartbreaking at times: “They had made the right choice. The mature choice. The loving choice. But that didn’t mean it wouldn’t shatter her heart.” But also uplifting and filled with hope: “God had a plan, even man’s stupidity could not thwart that plan... it is never too late for God. Nothing is too far gone for Him to redeem it.”
Ms. Wen handled the race conflict of the 50s in a sensitive way, showing the conflicting emotions of two teens, Rosie and Ephriam. I liked the way she voiced Rosie’s thoughts as she struggled with alzheimers in later life.
The book was not at all depressing. It was rounded out nicely throughout. Because Lauren is a food blogger, I liked that she named her cats Alton and Nigella! I also caught the weather related references since Carter was a weatherman.
This book was every bit as good as the first and gave me more of a glimpse into the lives of the characters I connected with in the first book.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel as part if the I Read with Audra book tour. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
July 4, 2022
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.
It shouldn’t have taken me nearly a month to get to page 114. Every time I picked up this book, I quickly lost interest. I couldn’t really figure out why at first. It took chatting it out with a friend to sort out why my attention was getting lost so much. That’s because I’m rarely bored by a book, so it takes me a bit to catch up with that ideal when it happens.
The cover of this book was absolutely beautiful and drew my attention right away. The blurb sounded right up my alley.
Yet, the blurb fell far short of properly foreshadowing the content of the story beneath the cover. Once again, I’ve closed a Kregel book early because of this irritating feeling of being deceived into reading a book I wouldn’t have chosen had I had more accurate information in the blurb to make a better educated decision in my leisure reading.
This book felt racist in a time when color is all a lot of people are seeing. Honestly, y’all, I don’t understand this hyper-focus on color when people are so much more complex and beautiful than just their skin (although there are loads of gorgeous skin tones out there to show off God’s full color palette). I’m so tired of this destructive rhetoric that only drives people apart instead of pulling a community together. We have enough division; it’s time we choose to unite in kindness.
On top of that, one “color” church was reduced to a “history class with hymns,” while another “color” church was hyped up to be like a “football game.” Neither of those descriptions is accurate to the churches I’ve attended, and neither felt respectful or reverent to God. This was very disheartening to me.
The one aspect I was really enjoying and hated to give up on was the modern-day Rosie scenes. Seeing her lose her memory was heartbreaking, but it felt like the most realistic aspect of the entire story through page 114.
There were other little things that bugged me, but the reason I gave up on this book was that there was something about it that I couldn’t pin down that rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning. That feeling never left.
Content: racism, crude sexual terms (excessive), replacement expletives, unnecessary mention of sexual perversion, tobacco, alcohol, teen sex mentioned, “Goddess” as a nickname, Catholicism, replacement profanity, one profane phrase
It shouldn’t have taken me nearly a month to get to page 114. Every time I picked up this book, I quickly lost interest. I couldn’t really figure out why at first. It took chatting it out with a friend to sort out why my attention was getting lost so much. That’s because I’m rarely bored by a book, so it takes me a bit to catch up with that ideal when it happens.
The cover of this book was absolutely beautiful and drew my attention right away. The blurb sounded right up my alley.
Yet, the blurb fell far short of properly foreshadowing the content of the story beneath the cover. Once again, I’ve closed a Kregel book early because of this irritating feeling of being deceived into reading a book I wouldn’t have chosen had I had more accurate information in the blurb to make a better educated decision in my leisure reading.
This book felt racist in a time when color is all a lot of people are seeing. Honestly, y’all, I don’t understand this hyper-focus on color when people are so much more complex and beautiful than just their skin (although there are loads of gorgeous skin tones out there to show off God’s full color palette). I’m so tired of this destructive rhetoric that only drives people apart instead of pulling a community together. We have enough division; it’s time we choose to unite in kindness.
On top of that, one “color” church was reduced to a “history class with hymns,” while another “color” church was hyped up to be like a “football game.” Neither of those descriptions is accurate to the churches I’ve attended, and neither felt respectful or reverent to God. This was very disheartening to me.
The one aspect I was really enjoying and hated to give up on was the modern-day Rosie scenes. Seeing her lose her memory was heartbreaking, but it felt like the most realistic aspect of the entire story through page 114.
There were other little things that bugged me, but the reason I gave up on this book was that there was something about it that I couldn’t pin down that rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning. That feeling never left.
Content: racism, crude sexual terms (excessive), replacement expletives, unnecessary mention of sexual perversion, tobacco, alcohol, teen sex mentioned, “Goddess” as a nickname, Catholicism, replacement profanity, one profane phrase
June 27, 2022
Oh my heart, this book gave me so many feelings. The story of Lauren and Carter showed a flawed couple working through their own personal struggles and finding God in the mix. Issues of bulimia and alcoholism were handled with love. But the story that kept me page turning was that of Grandma Rosie and her mysterious past. Their story thread was so well done. Every scene made me FEEL, warm love, worry for what they might go through, heartbreak and joy. ALL the feels. Bravo, Amanda Wen... you wrote such a beautiful story.
June 9, 2022
Lauren Anderson's grandmother Rosie has advanced Alzheimer's. With trembling and tears she begins to ask about someone named Ephraim. Lauren and her brother have no idea who this Ephraim is, so Lauren digs and digs into the past while looking for answers.
The story shifts back to 1950s Arkansas when high schooler Rosie met another student - one of the few Black students in her high school. Despite the difficult race relations that went on at that time, Rosie and Ephraim were drawn to one another, yet doomed to a future that could never be.
In present day, Carter Douglas, a meteorologist, runs into someone from his past, and that is Lauren. Someone from over a dozen years ago. Someone he loved dearly. Lauren is in shock when she sees Carter. The two shared a very strong bond thirteen years previously, but they both ended up with broken hearts. Thirteen years now seemed like the blink of an eye for Carter and Lauren once they locked eyes. Sparks fly right and left and feelings long ago lost have quickly resurfaced.
While it seems they just might go their separate ways, a new cooking segment at the station Carter works for brings Lauren to the set. The segment is bringing in the views and is immensely popular, especially due to those undeniable sparks between Lauren and Carter. However, Lauren was really hurt when they ended things all those years ago and she is not sure she is ready to trust her heart again. The baggage just might be too heavy for either of them.
Back in 1954, Rosie doesn't understand why the races did not get along. It is clear she and Ephraim get along, but the separation between races was just so very wide, making their love, their bond, something that was doomed right from the very start.
This sensitive book deals with some serious issues, which include eating disorders, alcoholism, racism and segregation. But it also includes love and the power of forgiveness, as well as second chances for the young and old.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The story shifts back to 1950s Arkansas when high schooler Rosie met another student - one of the few Black students in her high school. Despite the difficult race relations that went on at that time, Rosie and Ephraim were drawn to one another, yet doomed to a future that could never be.
In present day, Carter Douglas, a meteorologist, runs into someone from his past, and that is Lauren. Someone from over a dozen years ago. Someone he loved dearly. Lauren is in shock when she sees Carter. The two shared a very strong bond thirteen years previously, but they both ended up with broken hearts. Thirteen years now seemed like the blink of an eye for Carter and Lauren once they locked eyes. Sparks fly right and left and feelings long ago lost have quickly resurfaced.
While it seems they just might go their separate ways, a new cooking segment at the station Carter works for brings Lauren to the set. The segment is bringing in the views and is immensely popular, especially due to those undeniable sparks between Lauren and Carter. However, Lauren was really hurt when they ended things all those years ago and she is not sure she is ready to trust her heart again. The baggage just might be too heavy for either of them.
Back in 1954, Rosie doesn't understand why the races did not get along. It is clear she and Ephraim get along, but the separation between races was just so very wide, making their love, their bond, something that was doomed right from the very start.
This sensitive book deals with some serious issues, which include eating disorders, alcoholism, racism and segregation. But it also includes love and the power of forgiveness, as well as second chances for the young and old.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 13, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. It touched on a sensitive subject back in the 1950s that created lots of surprise and tension within the dual timeline narrative. The writing was easy to read and the characters from both timelines are full of depth and my heart was captivated by them.
This is a story that will give you lots to think about long after you have turned the last page. There is mystery and the ending was sweet. The author wrapped everything up nicely. The storyline is steeped in faith, loss, enduring love and forgiveness.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
This is a story that will give you lots to think about long after you have turned the last page. There is mystery and the ending was sweet. The author wrapped everything up nicely. The storyline is steeped in faith, loss, enduring love and forgiveness.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
July 17, 2024
I laughed. I cried. I got really angry on behalf of the characters. It's a good story -- maybe not happy, at certain parts, but good all the same. And that ending... 🥰
July 23, 2022
“Just might be that after all the twists and turns, God’s not done writing our story yet.”
I fell in love with Grandma Rosie in Roots of Wood and Stone – in many ways, she reminds me of my own grandmothers and their journey through Alzheimer’s. Her relationship with her grandchildren fed some weary places in my own heart in that first book, but in this book… oh, yall… in this book we get inside Grandma Rosie’s head and heart and soul – and it was everything beautiful and heartbreaking all at once. Wen’s grace-filled writing voice has perfectly captured the essence of a person with Alzheimer’s/dementia, and she uses that gift to elevate the story beyond what you think it will be into something so precious that I’m still thinking about it.
It was lovely to spend time with Garrett and Sloane from book one, too, but it’s Garrett’s sister Lauren who steps into the spotlight in The Songs That Could Have Been. When she stumbles into her first love in the makeup aisle (yes, you read that right – it’s such a fun way to start the story!), she can’t help but be drawn to Carter all over again, despite how his long-ago rejection set her life on a trajectory from which she’s still recovering. Yet she’s not the only one with a secret, self-destructive past, and when these two secrets collide none of us will walk away from this read unchanged. In looking at Carter & Lauren’s past and present journeys – as well as the part of her own history that Grandma Rosie has kept under lock and key – Wen gently and lyrically reminds us that all of us are broken and that only Jesus can fully bind up those broken places and break the chains that have held us captive.
Bottom Line: Against a backdrop that could be overwhelmingly sad in the wrong hands, Amanda Wen instead infuses The Songs That Could Have Been with joy, warmth, love, grace and hope. Moments of well-timed wit and sweet romance subplots will lift your heart, harmonizing exquisitely with the larger melody being sung across the pages and soothing any tender marks the story may have left on your heart (or your toes). I laughed, I swooned, and I cried a little, too – all my emotions were engaged by these layered characters, just as they were while reading book one. But even more importantly I learned some things about myself and was reminded of some things about my Savior. This is a book that will linger in my heart for days to come and should be on everyone’s TBR lists.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I fell in love with Grandma Rosie in Roots of Wood and Stone – in many ways, she reminds me of my own grandmothers and their journey through Alzheimer’s. Her relationship with her grandchildren fed some weary places in my own heart in that first book, but in this book… oh, yall… in this book we get inside Grandma Rosie’s head and heart and soul – and it was everything beautiful and heartbreaking all at once. Wen’s grace-filled writing voice has perfectly captured the essence of a person with Alzheimer’s/dementia, and she uses that gift to elevate the story beyond what you think it will be into something so precious that I’m still thinking about it.
It was lovely to spend time with Garrett and Sloane from book one, too, but it’s Garrett’s sister Lauren who steps into the spotlight in The Songs That Could Have Been. When she stumbles into her first love in the makeup aisle (yes, you read that right – it’s such a fun way to start the story!), she can’t help but be drawn to Carter all over again, despite how his long-ago rejection set her life on a trajectory from which she’s still recovering. Yet she’s not the only one with a secret, self-destructive past, and when these two secrets collide none of us will walk away from this read unchanged. In looking at Carter & Lauren’s past and present journeys – as well as the part of her own history that Grandma Rosie has kept under lock and key – Wen gently and lyrically reminds us that all of us are broken and that only Jesus can fully bind up those broken places and break the chains that have held us captive.
Bottom Line: Against a backdrop that could be overwhelmingly sad in the wrong hands, Amanda Wen instead infuses The Songs That Could Have Been with joy, warmth, love, grace and hope. Moments of well-timed wit and sweet romance subplots will lift your heart, harmonizing exquisitely with the larger melody being sung across the pages and soothing any tender marks the story may have left on your heart (or your toes). I laughed, I swooned, and I cried a little, too – all my emotions were engaged by these layered characters, just as they were while reading book one. But even more importantly I learned some things about myself and was reminded of some things about my Savior. This is a book that will linger in my heart for days to come and should be on everyone’s TBR lists.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
July 12, 2022
Can I give this book 10 stars?
I loved Amanda Wen's debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone, and was eager to read her next book. You never know how a sophomore release will compare to the first—but let me put your mind at ease: The Songs That Could Have Been is every bit as good, and in my opinion better, than Roots of Wood and Stone! It's the best book I've read in a long time.
Lauren's beloved grandma Rosie slips away a little more each day as Alzheimer's takes over her life. When Rosie becomes agitated and keeps repeating the name Ephraim, Lauren goes on a quest to find out why Ephraim is important to her grandmother.
Carter's past keeps haunting him, even though he's done a lot to outpace it. The lack of control he felt over his upbringing caused him to go into meteorology, where at least he can warn people about life's literal unpredictable storms. When his paths cross with Lauren, one of the biggest regrets of his life, he can't help but feel the tug of attraction and the hope of a second chance.
But when the trail for Ephraim goes cold and the past comes back to bite both Carter and Lauren, will they choose to stick together or let their fears drive them apart?
Sprinkled throughout the pages is Rosie's own story of earnest, youthful love and a heart full of brave dreams. I loved how these two timelines wove together, each pulling me in with their poignant emotions.
This book deals with very sensitive issues, notably eating disorders, alcoholism, and interracial relationships. It's done with realism, yet portrays grace, hope, and the gospel in a clear way. I highly recommend this book for readers who love digging deeper into life's real struggles, knowing that Jesus will meet us even there. One last note—keep the tissues handy!
I received my copy of the book from Read With Audra. All opinions in this review are my own.
I loved Amanda Wen's debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone, and was eager to read her next book. You never know how a sophomore release will compare to the first—but let me put your mind at ease: The Songs That Could Have Been is every bit as good, and in my opinion better, than Roots of Wood and Stone! It's the best book I've read in a long time.
Lauren's beloved grandma Rosie slips away a little more each day as Alzheimer's takes over her life. When Rosie becomes agitated and keeps repeating the name Ephraim, Lauren goes on a quest to find out why Ephraim is important to her grandmother.
Carter's past keeps haunting him, even though he's done a lot to outpace it. The lack of control he felt over his upbringing caused him to go into meteorology, where at least he can warn people about life's literal unpredictable storms. When his paths cross with Lauren, one of the biggest regrets of his life, he can't help but feel the tug of attraction and the hope of a second chance.
But when the trail for Ephraim goes cold and the past comes back to bite both Carter and Lauren, will they choose to stick together or let their fears drive them apart?
Sprinkled throughout the pages is Rosie's own story of earnest, youthful love and a heart full of brave dreams. I loved how these two timelines wove together, each pulling me in with their poignant emotions.
This book deals with very sensitive issues, notably eating disorders, alcoholism, and interracial relationships. It's done with realism, yet portrays grace, hope, and the gospel in a clear way. I highly recommend this book for readers who love digging deeper into life's real struggles, knowing that Jesus will meet us even there. One last note—keep the tissues handy!
I received my copy of the book from Read With Audra. All opinions in this review are my own.
May 24, 2025
3.5 rounded up to a 4. I found myself having a much harder time staying interested in this one than the first book. A lot of it had to do with how two of the main characters went from zero to a hundred. And although I understood the history, it just left me feeling uninterested. I was also not happy at all that Sloan took such a back seat, especially with the digging for history this one entailed.
This story focused on Laurens life, and the heartache we got glimpses of in the first story. I really did like the dark elements of addiction and shame that were heavy threads in this story, although the faith based themes felt light. Well written though. I'm definitely interested in trying other books by this author in the future.
This story focused on Laurens life, and the heartache we got glimpses of in the first story. I really did like the dark elements of addiction and shame that were heavy threads in this story, although the faith based themes felt light. Well written though. I'm definitely interested in trying other books by this author in the future.
June 25, 2022
A resurfaced memory, a painful past relationship, can they move forward?
A powerful story about love, redemption, and forgiveness. A story told in the present day with glimpses into a past of forbidden love and lost hopes. I loved that this story picks up with familiar characters from the previous book, but could also be read as a standalone.
A beautifully told story, well written, with effortless transitions. I think that my favorite part of the book was Ephraim and Rosie's story set in the 1950's and how the author vividly brought that time to life in a realistic and conscious way.
Compelling storytelling, with strong themes of faith throughout. I thought that the author did an excellent job of showing the heartbreak of Alzheimer's disease, the loss and heartbreak, as well as the bright moments. Lauren and Carter are likable protagonists, flawed, vulnerable, with past regrets that they are still overcoming.
Overall, a memorable read, compelling, engaging, and well written, dealing deftly with difficult topics. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A powerful story about love, redemption, and forgiveness. A story told in the present day with glimpses into a past of forbidden love and lost hopes. I loved that this story picks up with familiar characters from the previous book, but could also be read as a standalone.
A beautifully told story, well written, with effortless transitions. I think that my favorite part of the book was Ephraim and Rosie's story set in the 1950's and how the author vividly brought that time to life in a realistic and conscious way.
Compelling storytelling, with strong themes of faith throughout. I thought that the author did an excellent job of showing the heartbreak of Alzheimer's disease, the loss and heartbreak, as well as the bright moments. Lauren and Carter are likable protagonists, flawed, vulnerable, with past regrets that they are still overcoming.
Overall, a memorable read, compelling, engaging, and well written, dealing deftly with difficult topics. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 26, 2022
From the beginning, The Songs That Could Have Been by Amanda Wen held my attention with smooth writing and a second chance romance between Lauren and Carter. I enjoyed the delicious chemistry of this dynamic couple while they addressed their past choices and wounds. As the plot unfolded and tackled difficult topics, a powerful message of healing and undying love emerged. The novel shined as it avoided formulaic answers and addressed the realities of addiction. Although the romantic tension dwindled a bit in the latter half, I loved how the story wrapped up for both Lauren and her grandmother.
The Songs That Could Have Been lands as the second installment in the Sedgwick County Chronicles by Amanda Wen. This novel reads fine as a standalone, but Roots of Wood and Stone (book one) is a fabulous read and two characters from that novel show up regularly in The Songs That Could Have Been. With the romance and emotional depth, it is easy to recommend this novel to fans of dual timeline romances, but I suggest reading the Sedgwick County Chronicles series in order.
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.
The Songs That Could Have Been lands as the second installment in the Sedgwick County Chronicles by Amanda Wen. This novel reads fine as a standalone, but Roots of Wood and Stone (book one) is a fabulous read and two characters from that novel show up regularly in The Songs That Could Have Been. With the romance and emotional depth, it is easy to recommend this novel to fans of dual timeline romances, but I suggest reading the Sedgwick County Chronicles series in order.
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.
October 26, 2022
Present Day and 1954/1955 Wichita, Kansas
This novel pulled me in immediately with the opening pages! I quickly got absorbed into Lauren and Carter's characters in the present day thread. In particular I enjoyed the weather analogies and banter between Lauren and Carter.
While not as much time is spent in the 1950s, the sections set in the past were powerful. The author realistically portrays race relations for the time and location.
Well written time slip novel. This is the conclusion to the Sedgwick & County Chronicles Series.
This novel pulled me in immediately with the opening pages! I quickly got absorbed into Lauren and Carter's characters in the present day thread. In particular I enjoyed the weather analogies and banter between Lauren and Carter.
While not as much time is spent in the 1950s, the sections set in the past were powerful. The author realistically portrays race relations for the time and location.
Well written time slip novel. This is the conclusion to the Sedgwick & County Chronicles Series.
July 7, 2022
The Songs That Could Have Been is an amazing time-slip novel by new-to-me author, Amanda Wen. Wen’s characters are endearing and multi-dimensional and her dialogue is both fresh and robust. I was pulled into the story from the opening line and couldn’t read fast enough to discover how she would meld the two timelines together.
The second installment in the Sedgwick County Chronicles centers around Lauren’s grandmother, Rosie, and her friend, Ephraim, during their high school years in the 1950s. When present-day Rosie, who is suffering from dementia, continues mentioning Ephraim, a mysterious man from her past, Lauren and her brother attempt to find him. At the same time, Lauren also has a chance encounter with a man from her past and the two rekindle their friendship. They must fight the demons from their past if they have any hope of their relationship blossoming into something more.
Wen deftly handles such emotionally charged subjects as forbidden love, prejudice, addiction, eating disorders, and dementia with grace and compassion. I appreciated how the author helped the characters overcome their past by relying on their faith and trusting God’s mercy and healing in the present.
Warning: The Songs That Could Have Been has ALL the feels. Grab a box of tissues and clear your calendar, because once you begin this touching story you won’t be able to step away.
I received a copy of this book from the I Read with Audra book tour. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The second installment in the Sedgwick County Chronicles centers around Lauren’s grandmother, Rosie, and her friend, Ephraim, during their high school years in the 1950s. When present-day Rosie, who is suffering from dementia, continues mentioning Ephraim, a mysterious man from her past, Lauren and her brother attempt to find him. At the same time, Lauren also has a chance encounter with a man from her past and the two rekindle their friendship. They must fight the demons from their past if they have any hope of their relationship blossoming into something more.
Wen deftly handles such emotionally charged subjects as forbidden love, prejudice, addiction, eating disorders, and dementia with grace and compassion. I appreciated how the author helped the characters overcome their past by relying on their faith and trusting God’s mercy and healing in the present.
Warning: The Songs That Could Have Been has ALL the feels. Grab a box of tissues and clear your calendar, because once you begin this touching story you won’t be able to step away.
I received a copy of this book from the I Read with Audra book tour. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 11, 2023
The Songs That Could Have Been by Amanda Wen is well seasoned with characters who have been through the fire and survived to go on to second chances at love. In this split time story Wen tackles alcoholism, bulimia, racism in 1950s Kansas, and dementia without being heavy-handed. She even writes in the view point of Rosie, an elderly woman in the throes of dementia. Yet the overarching theme is hope because love makes life's trials worthwhile. That as broken as we are, God still loves us and cares for us and walks through these trials with us. Quite a feat. Recommended!
April 15, 2024
Dat je een hele gave toptitel uit de bieb meeneemt, hem in een paar dagen uitleest en bij het invoeren in Goodreads er achter komt dat het deel 2 is van een serie. Hahaha.
Naja. Dit boek is in ieder geval een enorme aanrader en kan dus prima los gelezen worden ;-) Knappe verschillende verhaallijnen waarbij tijd, plaats en persoon elke keer wisselen en je laten genieten en puzzelen naar het hele verhaal. Genoten van kaft tot kaft.
Naja. Dit boek is in ieder geval een enorme aanrader en kan dus prima los gelezen worden ;-) Knappe verschillende verhaallijnen waarbij tijd, plaats en persoon elke keer wisselen en je laten genieten en puzzelen naar het hele verhaal. Genoten van kaft tot kaft.
August 26, 2022
Well-written & touching
September 3, 2022
Liked this second installment of the Sedgwick County Chronicles more than the first ("Roots of Wood and Stone"), and can't wait for the third!! One of my new favorite Christian authors.
September 16, 2022
Though it deals with several tough subjects -
I felt that Amanda Wen wrote this split-timeline fiction in such a way that deals with them well, while still reminding us that God is the only One who can help us through the hard things we cannot conquer on our own.
The split-timeline was especially well executed as it flowed with the story, instead of trying to compete with it.
Definitely a five star read all the way around and one that I throughly enjoyed.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review positive or otherwise was not required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
I felt that Amanda Wen wrote this split-timeline fiction in such a way that deals with them well, while still reminding us that God is the only One who can help us through the hard things we cannot conquer on our own.
The split-timeline was especially well executed as it flowed with the story, instead of trying to compete with it.
Definitely a five star read all the way around and one that I throughly enjoyed.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review positive or otherwise was not required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
February 13, 2024
Wow! What an incredible dual timeline story by Amanda Wen. This author's storytelling skills shine in this second installment of her Sedgwick County Chronicles series as she weaves together a current day story rife with the difficult topics of alcoholism, bulimia, and Alzheimers with a 1950s forbidden interracial romance. Wen handles these emotionally charged subjects with grace, compassion, and wisdom while pointing readers to the truth of God' love and mercy. The love stories in each timeline are believable and the characters endearing.
I loved everything about this page-turning book and it's going straight to my favorites list. I highly recommend this read!
*I received an ARC of this book but was not required to submit a favorable review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved everything about this page-turning book and it's going straight to my favorites list. I highly recommend this read!
*I received an ARC of this book but was not required to submit a favorable review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 13, 2022
Wen's debut was a surprising delight and I was eager to read her follow-up. This one can be read stand alone, however, don't miss the first one as it's fabulous. This story revolves around Lauren Anderson and her Grandma Rosie and the loves of their lives. Lauren is early 30s and Grandma Rosie is 85 and living with dementia.
Rosie's story really grabbed my heart. She fell in love with a black man, Ephraim James, in the last year of school. It was the mid-1950s and in Wichita, Kansas a mixed relationship was unheard of and in fact frowned upon on both sides. Wen's powerful story telling combined with her empathy and grace plus some great research really shone when we saw Rosie's world back then. I also loved how Wen gave us an insight into Rosie's 85 year old dementia-muddled mind. It was brilliant and eye-opening giving the reader a much better insight into the mind of one who has dementia.
Lauren's love was local weatherman, Carter Douglas. They'd had a crazy 10 week courtship when they were late teens both starring in a local production of Fiddler on the Roof. Their breakup left some deep wounds for both of them. But Wen also explores other wounds and how addiction can manifest itself as a consequence. She also explores identity and God's grace in helping us heal and recover.
Lauren and Carter's romance didn't grab me like Rosie and Ephraim's did. It felt a bit immature and a little forced for the purposes of story. Certainly, Wen's portrayal of brokenness, of acceptance and loving wisdom from others (take a bow Garrett and Jim Ford) were well presented.
There is heartbreak, some great questions asked about love and reflections on God's grace and His ability to help us with our brokenness. Once again, Wen delivers a beautiful story that will linger for days after finishing it.
I was very fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from Kregel via Audra's Jennings PR with no expectation of a favourable review.
Rosie's story really grabbed my heart. She fell in love with a black man, Ephraim James, in the last year of school. It was the mid-1950s and in Wichita, Kansas a mixed relationship was unheard of and in fact frowned upon on both sides. Wen's powerful story telling combined with her empathy and grace plus some great research really shone when we saw Rosie's world back then. I also loved how Wen gave us an insight into Rosie's 85 year old dementia-muddled mind. It was brilliant and eye-opening giving the reader a much better insight into the mind of one who has dementia.
Lauren's love was local weatherman, Carter Douglas. They'd had a crazy 10 week courtship when they were late teens both starring in a local production of Fiddler on the Roof. Their breakup left some deep wounds for both of them. But Wen also explores other wounds and how addiction can manifest itself as a consequence. She also explores identity and God's grace in helping us heal and recover.
Lauren and Carter's romance didn't grab me like Rosie and Ephraim's did. It felt a bit immature and a little forced for the purposes of story. Certainly, Wen's portrayal of brokenness, of acceptance and loving wisdom from others (take a bow Garrett and Jim Ford) were well presented.
There is heartbreak, some great questions asked about love and reflections on God's grace and His ability to help us with our brokenness. Once again, Wen delivers a beautiful story that will linger for days after finishing it.
I was very fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from Kregel via Audra's Jennings PR with no expectation of a favourable review.
July 11, 2022
The Songs That Could Have Been is a wonderful split-time romance novel with two touching love stories. One of them is the achingly beautiful story of Rose and Ephraim, a teenage white girl and her black male classmate, growing up in Wichita, Kansas in the 1950s. This is Christian romance so the hugs and kisses are very pure but author Amanda Wen stunningly portrays their longing to be together and the obstacles that they encounter. The modern romance story between Lauren and Carter is equally painful, as their past relationship threatens the possibility of them sharing a future. Much of their current connection centers around their efforts to discover the identity of the Ephraim who floats in and out of Grandma Rose's confused mind. Lauren's deceased grandfather was Orrin Spencer, so who in the world is Ephraim?
This story is a poignant reminder of growing up in the 1950s and Wen perfectly captures the mindset of that era. Oh, how I wanted Rose and Ephraim to be together but I could understand the ramifications of their romance during that time! I was amazed by the author's ability to voice the thoughts and concerns of Carter, Lauren, Ephraim, and both young Rose and Grandma Rose. I also admired her willingness to tackle the difficult subjects of Alzheimers, eating disorders, alcoholism, and race relations.
There are many conflicts throughout this story but they are outweighed by Wen's extraordinary portrayal of love and redemption. Best of all, we are given the perfect ending! The Songs That Might Have Been is a must-read Christian fiction novel.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
This story is a poignant reminder of growing up in the 1950s and Wen perfectly captures the mindset of that era. Oh, how I wanted Rose and Ephraim to be together but I could understand the ramifications of their romance during that time! I was amazed by the author's ability to voice the thoughts and concerns of Carter, Lauren, Ephraim, and both young Rose and Grandma Rose. I also admired her willingness to tackle the difficult subjects of Alzheimers, eating disorders, alcoholism, and race relations.
There are many conflicts throughout this story but they are outweighed by Wen's extraordinary portrayal of love and redemption. Best of all, we are given the perfect ending! The Songs That Might Have Been is a must-read Christian fiction novel.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
October 16, 2024
Even better than the first
I enjoyed this second novel in Wen's Sedgwick County Chronicals series, even better than the first. It does function best to be read in the order written within the series since many characters were introduced in book one, but this is a complete novel on its own. This is a dual timeline plot with the historial line following Grandma Rosie and the mysterious Ephraim, her first love who happens to be Africal American. The contemporary timeline follows Rosie's granddaughter Lauren, who was introduced in book 1 as she reconnects with her own first love, local weatherman Carter. There are themes of reckless first love, trust, generational addication, forgiveness, and strength through reliance on Christ. Additional topics which were well woven throughout the plot included alcoholism and its consequences on families, bulemia, interracial relationships, racial differences with worship styles, the realities of dementia, and the plays Romeo and Juliet as well as Fiddler on the Roof. This is a work of Christian fiction and Christian references and themes are prominent throughout the story. There also are mentions of the characters from book 1, which allows glimpses of how the previous hero and heroine's romance continues to progress. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and am excited to begin the final book of this series soon.
I enjoyed this second novel in Wen's Sedgwick County Chronicals series, even better than the first. It does function best to be read in the order written within the series since many characters were introduced in book one, but this is a complete novel on its own. This is a dual timeline plot with the historial line following Grandma Rosie and the mysterious Ephraim, her first love who happens to be Africal American. The contemporary timeline follows Rosie's granddaughter Lauren, who was introduced in book 1 as she reconnects with her own first love, local weatherman Carter. There are themes of reckless first love, trust, generational addication, forgiveness, and strength through reliance on Christ. Additional topics which were well woven throughout the plot included alcoholism and its consequences on families, bulemia, interracial relationships, racial differences with worship styles, the realities of dementia, and the plays Romeo and Juliet as well as Fiddler on the Roof. This is a work of Christian fiction and Christian references and themes are prominent throughout the story. There also are mentions of the characters from book 1, which allows glimpses of how the previous hero and heroine's romance continues to progress. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and am excited to begin the final book of this series soon.
July 12, 2022
This book was well worth the wait!! I am so impressed with the author’s ability to take several sensitive subjects and write about them with such respect and accuracy that you feel the emotions of the characters as they grapple with them. I really liked the characters in the novel, both past and present. They are engaging and I found myself invested in their stories. The characters each have their trials but there is also a message of hope in the story. There are a lot of relatable truths in the book, but my favorite was the theme of trusting God to help us through our problems. I do recommend reading Of Roots and Stone first but both books really are great reads. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
May 24, 2022
This was the first book I’ve read by Amanda Wen and it will not be the last. I loved it! I truly love dual-decade books and this one was amazing. I loved Lauren and Carson and their story was intriguing, but add in Grandma Rosie, Ephraim (who none of her family knows about), Lauren’s brother Garrett and Sophie. I loved this book and the characters so much I want to read the first book in the series now. The author writes in such a way that I am experiencing the thrill, pain, heartache, emotional rollercoasters that the characters themselves are experiencing. The scene between Rosie and Ephraim’s mother – I could feel both from Rosie’s point of view and Ephraim’s mother’s point of view. That is an exceptional author who can help the reader experience both conflicting characters at once. Wonderful story, great storylines and sub storylines and definitely a book that stays with the reader long after reading “the end.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are strictly my own.
June 29, 2022
There was so much to like about this story. Flawed characters rising above their problems, sweet and tender romance (times two), and deep (without preaching) spiritual thread. Lauren and Carter were a great match for each other. Both were less than perfect and struggled with individual issues. I rooted for them to conquer their fears and gain their confidence in who they were in God. Without spoiling the story, I will say that it was so interesting how the author handled Rosie’s part of the story. Not just the story itself, but also the way it was written – it just gripped my attention and wouldn’t let go until the wonderful end.
Note: I received this book complimentary from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.
Note: I received this book complimentary from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews