What do you think?
Rate this book
Something Old, Something New
Sometimes treasure can be found where you least expect it.
In the decade since high school graduation, Christine Sawyer has realized her dream of opening Treasure Hunting Antique Mall, the place where shoppers find gems that are new to them. Between her store, her house, and her role as a doting aunt, she’s happy with her life—if a bit lonely. But she’s used to being less lucky in love than her fraternal twin sister. Britney was always the popular one, the head cheerleader who dated the homecoming king and quarterback, while Christine stayed in the shadows.
Brent Nicholson is still trying to come to grips with the shambles his life has become. After leading his football team to a state championship, he suffered a career-ending injury. Now he’s lost his construction business thanks to his so-called best friend. So when his great-aunt Midge asks for his help readying her home to put it on the market, the opportunity to spend time with his biggest fan is a balm to his bruised soul.
But the antiques Brent finds in his aunt’s house lead him to an unexpected partnership with Christine. After being blind to her for so many years, is it too late for the former high school jock to win the heart of the self-proclaimed “nerdy twin”?
As they shift through items of the past, Christine and Brent learn to let go of the pieces they don’t want to bring into the future—and realize the value of what’s in front of them today.
“Hometown charm and swoon-worthy second chances make this a must read.” —Kristen Mckanagh, author of Snowball’s Christmas
Sweet, stand-alone contemporary romance
Book length: approximately 90,000 words
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
More contemporary romance to love by Amy Clipston:?The Heart of Splendid Lake and The View from Coral Cove
In the decade since high school graduation, Christine Sawyer has realized her dream of opening Treasure Hunting Antique Mall, the place where shoppers find gems that are new to them. Between her store, her house, and her role as a doting aunt, she’s happy with her life—if a bit lonely. But she’s used to being less lucky in love than her fraternal twin sister. Britney was always the popular one, the head cheerleader who dated the homecoming king and quarterback, while Christine stayed in the shadows.
Brent Nicholson is still trying to come to grips with the shambles his life has become. After leading his football team to a state championship, he suffered a career-ending injury. Now he’s lost his construction business thanks to his so-called best friend. So when his great-aunt Midge asks for his help readying her home to put it on the market, the opportunity to spend time with his biggest fan is a balm to his bruised soul.
But the antiques Brent finds in his aunt’s house lead him to an unexpected partnership with Christine. After being blind to her for so many years, is it too late for the former high school jock to win the heart of the self-proclaimed “nerdy twin”?
As they shift through items of the past, Christine and Brent learn to let go of the pieces they don’t want to bring into the future—and realize the value of what’s in front of them today.
“Hometown charm and swoon-worthy second chances make this a must read.” —Kristen Mckanagh, author of Snowball’s Christmas
Sweet, stand-alone contemporary romance
Book length: approximately 90,000 words
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
More contemporary romance to love by Amy Clipston:?The Heart of Splendid Lake and The View from Coral Cove
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
69 people are currently reading
5734 people want to read
About the author
Amy Clipston
116 books2,199 followersHi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.
Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)
Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)
Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)
An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)
An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)
An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)
An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)
Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)
Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)
Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)
Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)
Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)
Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)
Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)
Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)
Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)
An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)
An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)
An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)
An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)
Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)
Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)
Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)
Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)
Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)
Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
December 28, 2022
I am drawn to books about twins since I am a twin myself, so this book caught my eye. Christine grew up in the shadow of her sister Britney. Ten years post-graduation, they have very different lives and a former boyfriend of Britney's is back in town. He was the homecoming king and Britney the queen. They were the it couple until their relationship crashed and burned. Now Brent is back in town to help Great-Aunt Midge get her house ready for the market. Britney has Brent on her black list. Christine is not so sure Britney has all her facts right. Will she have to choose between her twin and a new love? If you love antiques, remodeling, a smidge of football, and a clean romance -- this is the title for you. It's a charming and heartwarming read.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 15, 2023
This is a sweet small-town romance with likeable, realistic characters and a great setting. Local high football star is back for a short time to help his aunt get her house ready to sell when he connects with his old girlfriend's twin. Both are attracted to each other, but the timing isn't right for Brent. Christine has always lived in her popular twin's shadow. Their romance is delightful with lighthearted moments overshadowed by their past insecurities and other issues. Both claim they are just friends. I enjoyed their banter and fun times and was pulling for them, but things seem impossible. Romance lovers will enjoy this story. I received a complimentary copy for the purpose of an honest review.
October 3, 2022
So heartwarming! I could not stop reading!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think small-town romance is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres to read. We find strong characters who have to learn quickly how to get over their issues so they can survive. They usually are running businesses or farms and learning how to deal with everyday life.
That is exactly what we see in Christine and Brent. These two connected on such a visceral level it was hard to stop reading. They connected in interests, humor, family, talent, and work ethic. I was fully committed to this story from the beginning and could not wait to see how Clipston would manage to build Brent's self-esteem back so we could get a happily ever after.
The author delivered delightful scenes of small-town USA with splashes of family drama, life challenges, and the warmth of growing love. Something Old, Something New is a treat that blends the love of old and new with a bright future of new romance that warms the heart. Perfect for women's fiction and romance readers alike. Plus, the cover is perfect!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/something-ol...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think small-town romance is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres to read. We find strong characters who have to learn quickly how to get over their issues so they can survive. They usually are running businesses or farms and learning how to deal with everyday life.
That is exactly what we see in Christine and Brent. These two connected on such a visceral level it was hard to stop reading. They connected in interests, humor, family, talent, and work ethic. I was fully committed to this story from the beginning and could not wait to see how Clipston would manage to build Brent's self-esteem back so we could get a happily ever after.
The author delivered delightful scenes of small-town USA with splashes of family drama, life challenges, and the warmth of growing love. Something Old, Something New is a treat that blends the love of old and new with a bright future of new romance that warms the heart. Perfect for women's fiction and romance readers alike. Plus, the cover is perfect!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/something-ol...
dnf
January 10, 2023This is a Small Town Romance. This book never pulled me into the story. I also felt it was very slow moving which is not my thing. I just could not make myself want to keep reading this book, so I ended up DNFing this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
March 8, 2023
I liked this one ok, but not as much as I'd expected. Overall, it's a heartwarming story with plenty of small town charm.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
December 23, 2022
I'm overjoyed to say that I enjoyed reading this. Really, it was a nice, decent modern tale. I don't like things that are extremely corny, but this has a nice amount that I appreciate. After reading far too many Christmas themed books for several weeks, it was fun to take up this modern romance.
Christine Sawyer, the self-described nerdy twin, and Britney were twins. Britney, her sister, was the well known cheerleader. Two sisters are polar opposites in every way.
Living in her sister's shadow is nothing Christine seems to mind because she is doing okay. Christine was someone I really liked and admired for her tenacity and drive. Being a twin with an attractive and well-liked sister is unimaginable to me.
While Brent Nicholson, the former high school quarterback who dated Britney, Christine's twin sister, throughout high school, has also returned to their community due to a significant issue that he must face and is powerless to dodge.
As I followed Christine and Brent's tale, I kept wondering how they would be able to get over all the challenges that were in their path, including people, situations from their past, their families, and even their own ambitions and insecurities. Brent and Christine were incredibly generous and nice.
I also really enjoy how Christine and Britney's connection is developing and how they are able to resolve the problem, particularly as it relates to Brent since she has been holding a grudge against him for years. I can relate to how Britney feels knowing that her sister started with her ex.
Despite being a little predictable, it was still filled with wonderful moments, and I would absolutely read it again if I needed to. Secrets are disclosed that have changed people's lives for years; relationships are repaired; and forgiveness and reconciliations take place. This is a charming, touching story that is nicely written.
This one was definitely a pleasant surprise from beginning to end, and I think fans of clean romances and small town romances will adore it!
Go get yours when it is anticipated to publish on January 3, 2023!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson-Fiction & Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Christine Sawyer, the self-described nerdy twin, and Britney were twins. Britney, her sister, was the well known cheerleader. Two sisters are polar opposites in every way.
Living in her sister's shadow is nothing Christine seems to mind because she is doing okay. Christine was someone I really liked and admired for her tenacity and drive. Being a twin with an attractive and well-liked sister is unimaginable to me.
While Brent Nicholson, the former high school quarterback who dated Britney, Christine's twin sister, throughout high school, has also returned to their community due to a significant issue that he must face and is powerless to dodge.
As I followed Christine and Brent's tale, I kept wondering how they would be able to get over all the challenges that were in their path, including people, situations from their past, their families, and even their own ambitions and insecurities. Brent and Christine were incredibly generous and nice.
I also really enjoy how Christine and Britney's connection is developing and how they are able to resolve the problem, particularly as it relates to Brent since she has been holding a grudge against him for years. I can relate to how Britney feels knowing that her sister started with her ex.
Despite being a little predictable, it was still filled with wonderful moments, and I would absolutely read it again if I needed to. Secrets are disclosed that have changed people's lives for years; relationships are repaired; and forgiveness and reconciliations take place. This is a charming, touching story that is nicely written.
This one was definitely a pleasant surprise from beginning to end, and I think fans of clean romances and small town romances will adore it!
Go get yours when it is anticipated to publish on January 3, 2023!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson-Fiction & Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 20, 2023
3 stars - In this story, we have Christine Sawyer who has achieved her dream of opening an antique mall 10 years after high school graduation. She used to being the nerdy, hiding in the shadows twin sister, whereas her twin sister Brittany was always the popular one, head cheerleader who dated the homecoming king and quarterback. Then we have Brent Nicholson, who is having a tough time in life as he lost his construction business and continues to think of the past where he suffered a career-ending injury. Brent goes to help his great-aunt Midge to help make it ready to sell, when he ends up partnering with Christine after finding all the antiques in his aunt's home. They start to get close but the problem? Brent dated Christine's twin sister Brittany in high school, with their relationship ending their sophmore year of college many years ago.... Christine finds herself between a rock and a hard place of trying to figure out what to do as feelings for Brent start to develop....
This book was a clean, contemporary romance published by Thomas Nelson. No faith content, but a cute, clean contemporary romance. Overall, 3 stars. It was just ok, it didn't blow me away, wasn't bad but wasn't the best either. It was just a simple, light read with a small-town romance. I personally didn't care for the twin sister, Brittany, who gave Christine so much grief over hanging out with her ex. Brittany was married now and had moved on from the situation, and it was many years later at this point. The reason they had broken up was also full of assumptions and miscommunications. So it just felt a little repetative and annoying to keep seeing her sister make her choose between Brent and her and make her feel guilty for being around him.
I did like Brent's aunt Midge, she was funny and entertaining. The characters were fine, they had some chemistry throughout and I enjoyed them working together. I didn't love the conflict at the end of course, but it was fine. I am also not the biggest fan of the trope of dating a sister's ex-boyfriend, regardless of how long it had been, but I knew that when getting into the story of course so I am not knocking the story for that at all.
Overall a cute, clean, quick romance read with small town and family vibes. Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing an Advanced Reader Copy to honestly read and review.
This book was a clean, contemporary romance published by Thomas Nelson. No faith content, but a cute, clean contemporary romance. Overall, 3 stars. It was just ok, it didn't blow me away, wasn't bad but wasn't the best either. It was just a simple, light read with a small-town romance. I personally didn't care for the twin sister, Brittany, who gave Christine so much grief over hanging out with her ex. Brittany was married now and had moved on from the situation, and it was many years later at this point. The reason they had broken up was also full of assumptions and miscommunications. So it just felt a little repetative and annoying to keep seeing her sister make her choose between Brent and her and make her feel guilty for being around him.
I did like Brent's aunt Midge, she was funny and entertaining. The characters were fine, they had some chemistry throughout and I enjoyed them working together. I didn't love the conflict at the end of course, but it was fine. I am also not the biggest fan of the trope of dating a sister's ex-boyfriend, regardless of how long it had been, but I knew that when getting into the story of course so I am not knocking the story for that at all.
Overall a cute, clean, quick romance read with small town and family vibes. Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing an Advanced Reader Copy to honestly read and review.
January 3, 2023
What a great way to end the year with a bang of a book. This small town romance drew me in from the beginning with characters that had real self esteem issues and watching them grow and fall in love was endearing to my heart. I loved Aunt Midge and what she added to the story. Ms Clipston is a pro at tender romance with broken people who find wholeness together. I wanted to visit the antique mall that Christine operated and I also wanted to help Brent renovate his aunt’s house as I’m interested in both. I didn’t want this one to end as I found it enjoyable from beginning to end. A must read for 2023.
I won a copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I won a copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
February 20, 2023
A sweet, clean, small town romance. While a bit predictable, I liked the setting and characters, especially Aunt Midge. A nice distraction from the worries of the world.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
December 16, 2022
Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
Something Old, Something New by Amy Clipston is a heartwarming small-town romance that I love to read.
Story Recap:
Christine Sawyer has realized her dream of opening an antique mall in her small town of Flowering Grove, North Carolina. She spends her time with her prettier, fraternal twin sister, Britney, and dotes on her twin nieces, “the M&M’s” Maddy and Mila. She’s perfectly happy if just a bit lonely.
Brent Nicholson was the star quarterback in High School, but his life hasn’t turned out the way he wanted, and he’s made many mistakes. He comes to Flowering Grove to help his aunt rehabilitate her home so she can move to a senior living place. When he finds his aunt’s home full of household items and furniture she won’t need in her new home, she convinces him to take her things to the new antique mall and sell them.
Brent used to date Christine’s sister, Britney in High School, and he broke her heart. Brent never had eyes for Britney’s plainer sister, Christine, but working together to sell his aunt's furniture, he starts to notice Christine’s beauty.
My Thoughts:
Something Old, Something New is a sweet romance set in a well-described charming small town. This had a romance, and some family drama, all set in a beautiful setting. I can’t imagine being a twin with a beautiful and popular sister, but Christine seems to do pretty well and doesn’t mind living in her sister's shadow. I liked Christine very much and loved her strength and determination. But, living in her sister's shadow, she’s never valued herself enough to believe the star quarterback would ever be interested in her.
Brent has his own self-esteem issues. He lost his business to his partner who stole from him, and his own parents are disappointed that he wasn’t able to pursue a career in the NFL. Helping his Aunt fix up her home is the break he needs.
I loved that Christine and Brent became friends first. They have so much in common and they are good together. Luckily, Christine’s sister is married with two children, so there wasn’t a love triangle. But, there was a big misunderstanding that led to Brent and Britney’s breakup, which causes some tension between Christine and her sister.
The small town is charming, the romance is swoony and sweet, and there is just enough drama to make the story interesting.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend Something Old, Something New to anyone who enjoys sweet romances. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Something Old, Something New by Amy Clipston is a heartwarming small-town romance that I love to read.
Story Recap:
Christine Sawyer has realized her dream of opening an antique mall in her small town of Flowering Grove, North Carolina. She spends her time with her prettier, fraternal twin sister, Britney, and dotes on her twin nieces, “the M&M’s” Maddy and Mila. She’s perfectly happy if just a bit lonely.
Brent Nicholson was the star quarterback in High School, but his life hasn’t turned out the way he wanted, and he’s made many mistakes. He comes to Flowering Grove to help his aunt rehabilitate her home so she can move to a senior living place. When he finds his aunt’s home full of household items and furniture she won’t need in her new home, she convinces him to take her things to the new antique mall and sell them.
Brent used to date Christine’s sister, Britney in High School, and he broke her heart. Brent never had eyes for Britney’s plainer sister, Christine, but working together to sell his aunt's furniture, he starts to notice Christine’s beauty.
My Thoughts:
Something Old, Something New is a sweet romance set in a well-described charming small town. This had a romance, and some family drama, all set in a beautiful setting. I can’t imagine being a twin with a beautiful and popular sister, but Christine seems to do pretty well and doesn’t mind living in her sister's shadow. I liked Christine very much and loved her strength and determination. But, living in her sister's shadow, she’s never valued herself enough to believe the star quarterback would ever be interested in her.
Brent has his own self-esteem issues. He lost his business to his partner who stole from him, and his own parents are disappointed that he wasn’t able to pursue a career in the NFL. Helping his Aunt fix up her home is the break he needs.
I loved that Christine and Brent became friends first. They have so much in common and they are good together. Luckily, Christine’s sister is married with two children, so there wasn’t a love triangle. But, there was a big misunderstanding that led to Brent and Britney’s breakup, which causes some tension between Christine and her sister.
The small town is charming, the romance is swoony and sweet, and there is just enough drama to make the story interesting.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend Something Old, Something New to anyone who enjoys sweet romances. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 15, 2023
This was one of those books that I didn't want to read because I didn't want it to end. It was really good!
I thought the relationship between Christine and Brent was well-paced and had great tension which is something I really enjoy in this author's writing. A misunderstanding between Brent and Christine's twin sister caused a lot of hard feelings and made Christine's family wary of her friendship with Brent and I enjoyed seeing how that resolved. I liked Brent's Aunt Midge as well as Brent's sister and how they tried to help bring Brent and Christine together. The setting of the antique mall, Christine's love of '80's music, and Christine's cats were fun additions to the book.
If you like clean, contemporary romance, I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought the relationship between Christine and Brent was well-paced and had great tension which is something I really enjoy in this author's writing. A misunderstanding between Brent and Christine's twin sister caused a lot of hard feelings and made Christine's family wary of her friendship with Brent and I enjoyed seeing how that resolved. I liked Brent's Aunt Midge as well as Brent's sister and how they tried to help bring Brent and Christine together. The setting of the antique mall, Christine's love of '80's music, and Christine's cats were fun additions to the book.
If you like clean, contemporary romance, I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 22, 2022
Something Old, Something New by Amy Clipston is a sweet small-town romance. I like Amy Clipston’s casual writing style. It makes the story easy to read. I enjoyed getting to know Christine Sawyer and Brent Nicholson. Christine operates an antique mall in Flowering Grove, North Carolina. Christine is a fraternal twin. She always felt she was the nerdy twin compared with her pretty, outgoing sister, Britney. Britney has fraternal twin girls, Maddy and Mila (“the M&M’s) whom Christine loves dearly. Maddy and Mila are cuties. They are active little girls who love the color purple. Brent dated Britney in high school. He was the star quarterback, and she was the popular cheerleader. Brent’s life has not turned out as he expected. He has returned to town to help his Aunt Millie get her house ready so she can list is for sale. Brent has no intention of staying in Flowering Grove because he cannot stand listening to his father’s criticisms. The chemistry between Brent and Christine was obvious from the beginning. The two are attracted to each other. They each have a different reason for not reacting to the attraction. I enjoyed the descriptions of Flowering Grove especially Christine’s shop (I could spend hours exploring). I wish I was Christine when she found the Nancy Drew’s packed away in Aunt Millie’s house. I am glad the romance was not rushed. I like how it progressed (become friends first and then move forward). Christine and Brent got to know each other as they worked at Aunt Millie’s house. I was not a fan of Britney. She reminded me of the cheerleaders in my school (the pretty, stuck-up blonds who thought they were better than everyone else). I thought the characters were realistic and relatable as was the town and situations. The Friday night high school football games which are attended by everyone in the town is something that occurs in small towns all over the south (I lived in one for twenty years). The story had some drama which kept things interesting. I would have liked less repetition of details regarding the characters. I just loved Aunt Millie. She is a kind woman who does not hesitate to help bring Brent and Christine together (she would get the mischievous twinkle in her eye). In Something Old, Something New we get to see that someone or something may have a beautiful exterior (or seems to have it all), it does not mean they do not have troubles. I like how the title played into the story. Something Old, Something New is a charming tale with Friday night football, a disparaging parent, lilac loving twins, an aunt in need, an improbable pairing, a twin conflict, and an abundance of antiques.
February 7, 2023
What a delightful book!!! If we all had the heart and faith in others as Christine Sawyer, the world would be a better place. I loved the slow romance, the sibling issues, and sweet aunt Midge.
January 3, 2023
Something Old, Something New pulled me in and wouldn’t let me go! I really liked these main characters and the way they grew into such a deep connection with each other. It was such an interesting situation, with Brent having been Christine’s sister’s boyfriend all though high school and into a bit of college. I liked that what built between Brent and Christine was a fresh beginning, even though it was in their hometown and there were definitely some big hurdles to overcome.
The biggest hurdle was Brent’s belief that he just wasn’t good enough. Even though it was clear that these two were falling in love with each other, Brent had some big disappointments in his life that were weighing him down and keeping him from offering his heart completely to Christine.
Christine and Brent’s story kept me riveted to the pages as they navigated their feelings for each other. Feelings that were sometimes full of love and possibilities, but also feelings that led to heartache and insecurity. But these two were truly so good for each other and the emotional journey they traveled in this story was one of great growth, which made them stronger and solidified their feelings for each other once they made it through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The biggest hurdle was Brent’s belief that he just wasn’t good enough. Even though it was clear that these two were falling in love with each other, Brent had some big disappointments in his life that were weighing him down and keeping him from offering his heart completely to Christine.
Christine and Brent’s story kept me riveted to the pages as they navigated their feelings for each other. Feelings that were sometimes full of love and possibilities, but also feelings that led to heartache and insecurity. But these two were truly so good for each other and the emotional journey they traveled in this story was one of great growth, which made them stronger and solidified their feelings for each other once they made it through.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 18, 2022
Christine Sawyer is surprised to see Brent Nicholson as she helps a customer move a purchase into her truck. Brent is an old high school boyfriend of her fraternal twin Britney, and according to Britney, he wasn’t faithful to her. Later Christine finds out this simply isn't true.
Brent has moved back to Flowering Grove to help his aunt Midge renovate her house so that she can put it on the market, and she can move into a condo with her other friends. He loves his aunt and his uncle when he was alive. Brent had to give up his football scholarship when he got injured and it was obvious he would not be playing it again professionally. This really grieved him to give up this opportunity.
Christine and Brent start spending time together and they found that they enjoyed each other's company, and their friendship leads to something more. The only problem is that Brent and Christine both have hang-ups and they don’t think that they are worthy of each other. Christine sees herself as the nerdy twin who could never win the affection of the Quarterback (Brent) and he doesn’t see how she would want to be with someone like him. He believes his life is in shambles after making some decision that didn't go as he had hoped.
Something Old, Something New was a great read for me, and I read it in two days! It was a reminder that just because someone may be beautiful, or gorgeous in our perspective that doesn’t mean that they don’t have struggles either.
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Brent has moved back to Flowering Grove to help his aunt Midge renovate her house so that she can put it on the market, and she can move into a condo with her other friends. He loves his aunt and his uncle when he was alive. Brent had to give up his football scholarship when he got injured and it was obvious he would not be playing it again professionally. This really grieved him to give up this opportunity.
Christine and Brent start spending time together and they found that they enjoyed each other's company, and their friendship leads to something more. The only problem is that Brent and Christine both have hang-ups and they don’t think that they are worthy of each other. Christine sees herself as the nerdy twin who could never win the affection of the Quarterback (Brent) and he doesn’t see how she would want to be with someone like him. He believes his life is in shambles after making some decision that didn't go as he had hoped.
Something Old, Something New was a great read for me, and I read it in two days! It was a reminder that just because someone may be beautiful, or gorgeous in our perspective that doesn’t mean that they don’t have struggles either.
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
January 22, 2025
1.5/5
this is a book. a book I, indeed, read for book club. what a book.
okay, so there were some things I liked. for starters, owning an antique store is rad and home reno boyfriend? never thought I needed that trop in my life but I also live for HGTV and this is basically a chip and joanna meet-cute fanfic. we should make more of those, just better than this.
now, onto things I disliked... which is a lot. the writing is stale, the plot predictable, and the romance uninspiring (some may say cringe, actually). name dropping car models was such a strange decision (I simply do not care she owns a gold tacoma, her sister a 2018 red prius, her neighbour a silver ford 400000x), along with the random lists? do I, the reader, really need to know characters' shopping lists or the order in which they ran errands? truly, is this vital information?
I also have major beef with the twin drama. literally shed (incredulous) tears because Christine cannot stop comparing her looks and career to her popular, beautiful, adoring, skinny, rich, super mom... twin. I know they're not fraternal, the author made that abundantly clear, but at the end of the day BITCH YOU ARE TWINS. the call is coming from inside the house. also, dating the guy who absolutely slept with your twin sister in high school is a bit yuck imo. omg and when Bret starts dogging on Brittany, claiming Christine is the better twin bc she is not as selfish and bitchy as her sister was when she was, mind you, probably 17 y/o. and she takes this as a compliment?? as a sister myself, that's actually diabolical behaviour. Christine needed to work through some deep-seeded feelings of resentment, preferably with a therapist and not a man.
alas, the writing wasn't completely horrible and the characters even vaguely likeable, if you're into hallmark het romances. I am not. sorry Morgan, this was a miss for me but I'm glad I can at least share this reading experience w the rest of book club. and if you loved this book that is even better since I live for yap and trivial debates !!
this is a book. a book I, indeed, read for book club. what a book.
okay, so there were some things I liked. for starters, owning an antique store is rad and home reno boyfriend? never thought I needed that trop in my life but I also live for HGTV and this is basically a chip and joanna meet-cute fanfic. we should make more of those, just better than this.
now, onto things I disliked... which is a lot. the writing is stale, the plot predictable, and the romance uninspiring (some may say cringe, actually). name dropping car models was such a strange decision (I simply do not care she owns a gold tacoma, her sister a 2018 red prius, her neighbour a silver ford 400000x), along with the random lists? do I, the reader, really need to know characters' shopping lists or the order in which they ran errands? truly, is this vital information?
I also have major beef with the twin drama. literally shed (incredulous) tears because Christine cannot stop comparing her looks and career to her popular, beautiful, adoring, skinny, rich, super mom... twin. I know they're not fraternal, the author made that abundantly clear, but at the end of the day BITCH YOU ARE TWINS. the call is coming from inside the house. also, dating the guy who absolutely slept with your twin sister in high school is a bit yuck imo. omg and when Bret starts dogging on Brittany, claiming Christine is the better twin bc she is not as selfish and bitchy as her sister was when she was, mind you, probably 17 y/o. and she takes this as a compliment?? as a sister myself, that's actually diabolical behaviour. Christine needed to work through some deep-seeded feelings of resentment, preferably with a therapist and not a man.
alas, the writing wasn't completely horrible and the characters even vaguely likeable, if you're into hallmark het romances. I am not. sorry Morgan, this was a miss for me but I'm glad I can at least share this reading experience w the rest of book club. and if you loved this book that is even better since I live for yap and trivial debates !!
January 16, 2023
A sweet clean romance that will bring a smile to your face.
Interesting look into family dynamics and how sometimes things aren’t as we perceive them.
Perfect read to get you ready for Valentine’s Day.
Interesting look into family dynamics and how sometimes things aren’t as we perceive them.
Perfect read to get you ready for Valentine’s Day.
July 28, 2022
I just love small town stories with the heroine running her own business. In this story we have Christine and she runs an antique store. It was a shared dream she had with her nana who has passed on. Running this shop is her passion and she's good at it. Christine is a fraternal twin to Brittany which Christine thinks is the pretty one. Christine considers herself the nerdy twin.. Brent comes into town to help his great aunt who is more like a grandmother to him, renovate her home so she can sell it. She wants to downsize and move into a condo.. Brent runs into Christine and Christine offers to help Brent and his aunt go through antiques in the home to sell in her shop. Brent used to date Christine's sister in high school and Britany is not happy at all that Christine and Brent are getting close. She thinks Brent cheated on her. I love it that Christine stood up to her sister and did not let her sister bully her into dropping Brent as a friend. Everyone in town saw that Christine and Brent were developing feelings for each other. I just loved Brent's aunt. She was one of the first who saw it coming but Brent did not feel like he was good enough for Christine. He had no money, was out of a job and he did not finish college. Loved it when he realized the error of his ways. Loved the ending. Just sad the story had to end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
January 1, 2023
BOOK REVIEW - Something Old, Something New - Amy Clipston - 4/5 Stars
What better book title to start off this year's book reviews than Amy Clipston's latest, Something Old, Something New!
THE STORY
I've only read Amy Clipston's contemporaries but I love them because her romances are so natural and real feeling that it makes single people like me believe in and hope for a similar romance in real life. Christine and Brent are lovely and their struggles relatable. I'm so used to reading stories of girls struggling with self-worth, so it was refreshing to read the role reversal in this story. I've always felt a bit like a wallflower so I love reading stories of other wallflowers as I always feel like I can relate to them and love cheering them on as they get their happily ever after!
THE ROMANCE
If you like slow burn this is the romance for you! Slow burns have to be the most frustrating yet satisfying stories out there. I don't like having to wait so long for a first kiss but can't really get mad at a person behaving so honorably!
THE TRUTHS
They say comparison is the thief of joy and it's so true! I'm never more miserable than when I'm comparing myself and my life to others. Like Brent and Christine, we need to learn to love and appreciate the person God has created us to be and we need to accept the different paths of life God has each of us on. Yearning for what others have will always leave us unhappy. Surround yourself with people who not only love you as you are but encourages you to keep walking in the path God has you on!
What better book title to start off this year's book reviews than Amy Clipston's latest, Something Old, Something New!
THE STORY
I've only read Amy Clipston's contemporaries but I love them because her romances are so natural and real feeling that it makes single people like me believe in and hope for a similar romance in real life. Christine and Brent are lovely and their struggles relatable. I'm so used to reading stories of girls struggling with self-worth, so it was refreshing to read the role reversal in this story. I've always felt a bit like a wallflower so I love reading stories of other wallflowers as I always feel like I can relate to them and love cheering them on as they get their happily ever after!
THE ROMANCE
If you like slow burn this is the romance for you! Slow burns have to be the most frustrating yet satisfying stories out there. I don't like having to wait so long for a first kiss but can't really get mad at a person behaving so honorably!
THE TRUTHS
They say comparison is the thief of joy and it's so true! I'm never more miserable than when I'm comparing myself and my life to others. Like Brent and Christine, we need to learn to love and appreciate the person God has created us to be and we need to accept the different paths of life God has each of us on. Yearning for what others have will always leave us unhappy. Surround yourself with people who not only love you as you are but encourages you to keep walking in the path God has you on!
January 23, 2025
i thought the characters were really cute and the story did its job— even though you know what is going to happen since its a romance book it still kept me enthralled and wanting to see what all happened on the journey
the only real issue i found with the writing was that the dialogue often did not seem realistic/ language that someone would actually use in normal conversation
the only real issue i found with the writing was that the dialogue often did not seem realistic/ language that someone would actually use in normal conversation
January 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! It's a wonderful story of small town romance!
October 6, 2023
4.5
Another great clean romance published by a Christian publisher but it has no faith content at all, once again proving the point that true Christian fiction doesn’t really exist. A clean story doesn’t equal Christian. But I did really enjoy the story- wholesome, small town, and a little bit of a forbidden romance feeling.
Another great clean romance published by a Christian publisher but it has no faith content at all, once again proving the point that true Christian fiction doesn’t really exist. A clean story doesn’t equal Christian. But I did really enjoy the story- wholesome, small town, and a little bit of a forbidden romance feeling.
February 4, 2025
Book Club read! 3.5 ~ This was a sweet story. And I really liked Aunt Midge - she really came through in the end. Some of the writing and descriptions felt stale; it felt like the author was at times, explicitly stating the emotions of the characters when context sufficed, and other times, glossing over important areas where evocative descriptions were needed. Also, I was irritated by the cheating storyline being drawn out. The electric spark between couples is what makes romance novels so exciting to me, but I think unfortunately the author didn’t quite reach the mark here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2023
Christine used to browse antique stores with her grandmother, and now has her own antique shop. She likes to say, 'what's old to you, is new to someone else.' People rent spaces inside her shop to sell their things.
Christine feels her shop, two cats and family-she has twin nieces she adores-are all she needs. Christine is also a twin. She has always felt inferior to her sister, Britney. Britney was the popular girl in school, while Christine felt like a nerdy wallflower.
Brent Nicholson was the high school quarterback who dated Britney. Well...he is back in town after losing his construction business, as well as his girlfriend. He is remodeling his aunt's home so she can sell it and move to a retirement center where her friends are.
He keeps running into Christine and there is a mutual attraction. But, how can she possibly fall for him when he broke her sister's heart in college?
For me, this book drone on and on. It was overly sappy and the two main characters acted like twelve year olds. While it was a clean story, it wasn't Christian fiction.
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Thomas Nelson through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.
Christine feels her shop, two cats and family-she has twin nieces she adores-are all she needs. Christine is also a twin. She has always felt inferior to her sister, Britney. Britney was the popular girl in school, while Christine felt like a nerdy wallflower.
Brent Nicholson was the high school quarterback who dated Britney. Well...he is back in town after losing his construction business, as well as his girlfriend. He is remodeling his aunt's home so she can sell it and move to a retirement center where her friends are.
He keeps running into Christine and there is a mutual attraction. But, how can she possibly fall for him when he broke her sister's heart in college?
For me, this book drone on and on. It was overly sappy and the two main characters acted like twelve year olds. While it was a clean story, it wasn't Christian fiction.
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Thomas Nelson through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.
January 7, 2023
Amy Clipston's Amish books are always wonderful, so it stands to reason that her forays into the contemporary romance genre would also be amazing. Something Old, Something New is a shining example of my "trust the author" method of choosing new books to read!
Christine Sawyer hasn't ventured far from her hometown since graduation 10 years ago. She has opened her dream, The Treasure Hunting Antique Mall, has her own home, and even refinishes antique furniture on the side. She throws herself into the lives of her family, ignoring the fact that, essentially, she is alone. She's used to being on the sidelines, watching her fraternal twin become head cheerleader, prom queen, homecoming queen in school, and now, watching her marry and have fraternal twins of her own. Will it ever be her turn?
Brent Nicholson left town a hero - the quarterback who took the team to the state championship. One injury was enough to make him lose his scholarship. Now his business has folded and he's returning to town to help his aunt, but feeling like the failure his father has always accused him of being. As he rehabs Aunt Midge's house, he realizes that the house needs to be cleared, and where better to get rid of the stuff than Christine's shop.
As the two work together, a friendship forms but, oh, the complications! Brent is the ex-boyfriend of Christine's twin, who, in spite of her happy marriage, is quite vocal about her sister staying away from him. Also, Brent is focused on a job that is waiting for him in Virginia Beach. He has no intention of staying, and Christine has no desire to leave. Can the love and support from Aunt Midge and Christine, change Brent's attitude from defeated to triumph?
It's been a while since I read a book and got so involved in the characters' lives that I actually said, "Yes!!!" when one of them finally gave another character a few home truths, but when Christine finally told her sister, Britney off, that was my reaction. Clipston has a gift for painting characters that could be next door neighbors and friends and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this cast of characters. Readers who enjoy a sweet contemporary romance will enjoy Something Old, Something New. I definitely recommend!
Christine Sawyer hasn't ventured far from her hometown since graduation 10 years ago. She has opened her dream, The Treasure Hunting Antique Mall, has her own home, and even refinishes antique furniture on the side. She throws herself into the lives of her family, ignoring the fact that, essentially, she is alone. She's used to being on the sidelines, watching her fraternal twin become head cheerleader, prom queen, homecoming queen in school, and now, watching her marry and have fraternal twins of her own. Will it ever be her turn?
Brent Nicholson left town a hero - the quarterback who took the team to the state championship. One injury was enough to make him lose his scholarship. Now his business has folded and he's returning to town to help his aunt, but feeling like the failure his father has always accused him of being. As he rehabs Aunt Midge's house, he realizes that the house needs to be cleared, and where better to get rid of the stuff than Christine's shop.
As the two work together, a friendship forms but, oh, the complications! Brent is the ex-boyfriend of Christine's twin, who, in spite of her happy marriage, is quite vocal about her sister staying away from him. Also, Brent is focused on a job that is waiting for him in Virginia Beach. He has no intention of staying, and Christine has no desire to leave. Can the love and support from Aunt Midge and Christine, change Brent's attitude from defeated to triumph?
It's been a while since I read a book and got so involved in the characters' lives that I actually said, "Yes!!!" when one of them finally gave another character a few home truths, but when Christine finally told her sister, Britney off, that was my reaction. Clipston has a gift for painting characters that could be next door neighbors and friends and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this cast of characters. Readers who enjoy a sweet contemporary romance will enjoy Something Old, Something New. I definitely recommend!
January 18, 2023
Something Old, Something New, by Amy Clipston, is a charming contemporary story full of heartwarming scenes and plenty of sweet romance. From beginning to end, this novel offers a satisfying blend of drama, emotion, and small town whimsy. With characters who are authentic and vulnerable, and a setting that is altogether engaging, this book is truly enjoyable. Featuring relevant themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances, this novel is genuinely touching and thoughtful.
A small town in North Carolina is the ideal setting for a story that shines with good friends, family dinners, and Friday night football games. A cheery antique shop that is also home to two fluffy cats is the opportune place for many important scenes. Add a house that is under renovation, and there are several meaningful spaces from which the story can easily unfold.
The appealing characters in this book are also quite special. Though they experience heartache and uncertainty, they dare to take risks, share their vulnerabilities, and overcome their insecurities. With honesty, perseverance, and courage, they endeavor to heal from hurt and rejection as they pursue wholeness and acceptance. They learn the value of honesty, generosity, and trust as they pursue their hearts’ desires.
Ms. Clipston has succeeded once again in writing a story that is uplifting and very entertaining. Something Old, Something New is certainly memorable and inspiring. It is a novel that is delightfully worthwhile, and I gladly recommend it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
A small town in North Carolina is the ideal setting for a story that shines with good friends, family dinners, and Friday night football games. A cheery antique shop that is also home to two fluffy cats is the opportune place for many important scenes. Add a house that is under renovation, and there are several meaningful spaces from which the story can easily unfold.
The appealing characters in this book are also quite special. Though they experience heartache and uncertainty, they dare to take risks, share their vulnerabilities, and overcome their insecurities. With honesty, perseverance, and courage, they endeavor to heal from hurt and rejection as they pursue wholeness and acceptance. They learn the value of honesty, generosity, and trust as they pursue their hearts’ desires.
Ms. Clipston has succeeded once again in writing a story that is uplifting and very entertaining. Something Old, Something New is certainly memorable and inspiring. It is a novel that is delightfully worthwhile, and I gladly recommend it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
July 19, 2022
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
A very sweet, heartwarming romance “Something Old, Something New”, by Amy Clipston (Thomas Nelson - FICTION), features two very relatable leads in an engaging setting and shows how hard their path to happiness is.
I really liked how Brent and Christine developed a friendship/connection and how attraction, chemistry and something deeper infiltrated the process ever so slowly.
Both have a history of being belittled and yet they are loving and generous; and I just loved this about their personalities.
The way the author depicted the hero’s vulnerabilities and insecurities shows a beautiful soul and made him endearing, besides his obvious handsomeness.
Brent is a fabulous Beta hero almost until the end, when I felt he became too defeatist, fatalistically seeing himself as a failure. But he surely is a wonderful departure from the usual Alpha male.
Those untamed dark curls are fabulous and give a fantastic visual image of him combined with other aspects Amy Clipston skillfully conveys.
I also liked that Christine stood up for Brent in general and in the particular issue of the former relationship with Britney.
Christine is also a great heroine, a rounded multidimensional character.
There are various obstacles for the hero and heroine to overcome and I really enjoyed that they aren’t the standard, beautiful, successful and super self-assured leads (even Christine has to fight fiercely for her prosperous business).
Besides appreciating the writing style, I enjoyed the interactions between the leads and the side characters.
I also liked the small town setting and the community of Flowering Grove and the side characters.
The resolution both with Brent’s father and Christine’s sister felt somewhat sudden, but I liked that they finally changed their ways.
At one point near the end I felt Brent’s feelings of lack of worth due in part to his father’s disappointment in him get repetitive.
3.5 stars.
A very sweet, heartwarming romance “Something Old, Something New”, by Amy Clipston (Thomas Nelson - FICTION), features two very relatable leads in an engaging setting and shows how hard their path to happiness is.
I really liked how Brent and Christine developed a friendship/connection and how attraction, chemistry and something deeper infiltrated the process ever so slowly.
Both have a history of being belittled and yet they are loving and generous; and I just loved this about their personalities.
The way the author depicted the hero’s vulnerabilities and insecurities shows a beautiful soul and made him endearing, besides his obvious handsomeness.
Brent is a fabulous Beta hero almost until the end, when I felt he became too defeatist, fatalistically seeing himself as a failure. But he surely is a wonderful departure from the usual Alpha male.
Those untamed dark curls are fabulous and give a fantastic visual image of him combined with other aspects Amy Clipston skillfully conveys.
I also liked that Christine stood up for Brent in general and in the particular issue of the former relationship with Britney.
Christine is also a great heroine, a rounded multidimensional character.
There are various obstacles for the hero and heroine to overcome and I really enjoyed that they aren’t the standard, beautiful, successful and super self-assured leads (even Christine has to fight fiercely for her prosperous business).
Besides appreciating the writing style, I enjoyed the interactions between the leads and the side characters.
I also liked the small town setting and the community of Flowering Grove and the side characters.
The resolution both with Brent’s father and Christine’s sister felt somewhat sudden, but I liked that they finally changed their ways.
At one point near the end I felt Brent’s feelings of lack of worth due in part to his father’s disappointment in him get repetitive.
December 4, 2022
Christine has always felt overshadowed by her popular, self-interested twin sister. When her (now married with kids) sister's high school sweetheart comes back to their small town after a long absence there's definitely something between them, but with those sparks come a lot of potential stumbling blocks. Brent doesn't feel he has much to offer, and Christine can't imagine he'd notice her in a special way, but they just keep finding reasons to spend time together...
This is a simple, light, almost aggressively wholesome small-town romance. The characters are drawn with broad brushes and the plot is not complicated. I had a great deal of trouble getting past the author's constant inclusion of extraneous detail. I don't need to know what song was playing on the radio every time Christine is in her store. I don't need to know the make and model of every car every character drives. I'm aware that people chew and swallow after taking a bite of food. It really was overdone to the point of being distracting. There isn't much nuance, either in the story or in the way it's told, but sometimes it's fun to take a mental vacation to a nice little town where people are mostly kind and well-intentioned. Fans of the author will enjoy this addition to her catalog.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
This is a simple, light, almost aggressively wholesome small-town romance. The characters are drawn with broad brushes and the plot is not complicated. I had a great deal of trouble getting past the author's constant inclusion of extraneous detail. I don't need to know what song was playing on the radio every time Christine is in her store. I don't need to know the make and model of every car every character drives. I'm aware that people chew and swallow after taking a bite of food. It really was overdone to the point of being distracting. There isn't much nuance, either in the story or in the way it's told, but sometimes it's fun to take a mental vacation to a nice little town where people are mostly kind and well-intentioned. Fans of the author will enjoy this addition to her catalog.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
December 30, 2022
I will forever be an Amy Clipston fan because I am completely enamored with her books.
Thank you Thomas Nelson for my complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. Something Old, Something New is a small-town romance and friends to lovers (kind of!) . It follows Christine Sawyer who owns Treasure Hunting Antique Mall and has a twin sister Britney who was the cheerleader and popular twin. While helping a customer she gets assisted by Britney's ex and a quarterback who suffered an injury that ended his career. Thanks to his Aunt's antiques they end up spending time together and one thing leads to another until the sparks are a fire. I absolutely loved how the author tackled family expectations, sibling, comparison, new beginnings and family bonds. Aunt Midge was just so adorable and the book is perfect for a lazy day.
Thank you Thomas Nelson for my complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. Something Old, Something New is a small-town romance and friends to lovers (kind of!) . It follows Christine Sawyer who owns Treasure Hunting Antique Mall and has a twin sister Britney who was the cheerleader and popular twin. While helping a customer she gets assisted by Britney's ex and a quarterback who suffered an injury that ended his career. Thanks to his Aunt's antiques they end up spending time together and one thing leads to another until the sparks are a fire. I absolutely loved how the author tackled family expectations, sibling, comparison, new beginnings and family bonds. Aunt Midge was just so adorable and the book is perfect for a lazy day.
September 7, 2023
So... this book has been sitting on my Kindle for awhile now. I kept meaning to get to it, but life got in the way and it just kept getting pushed further and further back on my list. And I have to say that now that I've read it? I have regrets! This book was absolutely fantastic and so very much worth the wait... even though I wished I'd have read it so much sooner! Christine and Brent were so fantastic together! The chemistry was great, but also I just love how they both learned their worth as the story progressed. As someone who has definitely played the comparison game, I feel like there is something in one or both of these characters that everyone can relate to! Such a wonderfully written story! If you've been unsure about or putting this one off, do yourself a favor and don't wait any longer!
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews