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When the Moon Turns Blue
One woman fights to hold on to her friends, her family, and all that she holds dear as the battle over a Confederate statue divides her small-town Georgia communityin this powerful novel from the author of The Sweet Taste of Muscadines.
On the morning after Harry Cline’s funeral, a rare ice storm hits the town of Wesleyan, Georgia. The community wakes up to find its controversial statue of Confederate general Henry Benning destroyed—and not by the weather. Half the town had wanted to remove the statue; the other half wanted to celebrate it. Now that the matter has been taken out of their hands, the town’s long-simmering tensions are laid bare.
This conflict is especially personal to Harry’s widow, Marietta, who’s never been a fan of the statue. Her brother, Macon, the top defense attorney in the Southeast, is representing Old Man Griffin, the owner of the park where the statue stood. Despite Marietta’s pleas to let the matter rest, Macon is determined to find those responsible for the damage and protect the Griffin legacy—and he’s far from the only person Marietta stands to lose over a statue. Without Harry beside her, Marietta longs to salvage those connections, but the world is changing, and the divide can no longer be ignored.
With a cast of poignant, relatable characters, When the Moon Turns Blue is a compassionate and timely novel about family, friendship, and what can happen when we discover that we don’t particularly like the people we love.
On the morning after Harry Cline’s funeral, a rare ice storm hits the town of Wesleyan, Georgia. The community wakes up to find its controversial statue of Confederate general Henry Benning destroyed—and not by the weather. Half the town had wanted to remove the statue; the other half wanted to celebrate it. Now that the matter has been taken out of their hands, the town’s long-simmering tensions are laid bare.
This conflict is especially personal to Harry’s widow, Marietta, who’s never been a fan of the statue. Her brother, Macon, the top defense attorney in the Southeast, is representing Old Man Griffin, the owner of the park where the statue stood. Despite Marietta’s pleas to let the matter rest, Macon is determined to find those responsible for the damage and protect the Griffin legacy—and he’s far from the only person Marietta stands to lose over a statue. Without Harry beside her, Marietta longs to salvage those connections, but the world is changing, and the divide can no longer be ignored.
With a cast of poignant, relatable characters, When the Moon Turns Blue is a compassionate and timely novel about family, friendship, and what can happen when we discover that we don’t particularly like the people we love.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 21, 2023
192 people are currently reading
11419 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Terry
4 books292 followersA lifelong Southerner, Pamela Terry learned the power of storytelling at a very early age. For the past decade, Terry has been the author of the internationally popular blog From the House of Edward, which was named one of the top ten home blogs of the year by London's The Telegraph. She lives in Smyrna, Georgia, with her songwriter husband, Pat, and their three dogs, Apple, Andrew, and George. She travels to the Scottish Highlands as frequently as possible and is currently at work on her second novel.
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January 24, 2023
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‘Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.’ - W.H. Auden
Last year I read and loved The Sweet Taste of Muscadines by Pamela Terry so when I saw this on NetGalley I had to read it. Ms. Terry does not disappoint with When the Moon Turns Blue. In fact, I loved this book even more. Southern fiction is one of my favourite genres. This book has everything I am looking for in a good story. There are racial tensions, a dead body and a couple of acts of vandalism all during a Georgia ice storm, what's not to love!?
Pamela Terry is a wonderfully beautiful writer, her prose is like a warm hug on a cold day. Her words evoke emotions and there is a lot to get emotional about between these pages. She also writes amazing characters that you can't help but love, or in some cases love to hate. I enjoyed the fact that the town of Wesleyan felt like a character as well. Terry hits hard and truly portrays what the United States has been going through since Donald J. Trump was elected president in 2016. The author managed to do this without getting too political or preachy. I was sad when the book ended and I had to say goodbye to the people of Wesleyan. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
‘Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.’ - W.H. Auden
Last year I read and loved The Sweet Taste of Muscadines by Pamela Terry so when I saw this on NetGalley I had to read it. Ms. Terry does not disappoint with When the Moon Turns Blue. In fact, I loved this book even more. Southern fiction is one of my favourite genres. This book has everything I am looking for in a good story. There are racial tensions, a dead body and a couple of acts of vandalism all during a Georgia ice storm, what's not to love!?
Pamela Terry is a wonderfully beautiful writer, her prose is like a warm hug on a cold day. Her words evoke emotions and there is a lot to get emotional about between these pages. She also writes amazing characters that you can't help but love, or in some cases love to hate. I enjoyed the fact that the town of Wesleyan felt like a character as well. Terry hits hard and truly portrays what the United States has been going through since Donald J. Trump was elected president in 2016. The author managed to do this without getting too political or preachy. I was sad when the book ended and I had to say goodbye to the people of Wesleyan. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
December 23, 2022
Pamela Terry returns to the small town of Wesleyan, Georgia, where “houses were passed down through families like Bibles”. The story starts at the funeral of Harry Cline, as his wife is forced to leave early due to a migraine. Luckily, her childhood friend notices and takes her home Told from multiple perspectives, we get a snapshot of life in the town. This isn’t a community with all opinions aligned. When the statue of a Confederate general is destroyed, the town divides.
Terry writes beautifully. She is able to capture a scene or a personality with just the right few words. And I adored her characters. Marietta is a chip off the block of her liberal, newspaper editor father. Her front lawn still bears the scars where a cross was burned. Her brother is her polar opposite - a conservative, concerned with financial success and respect above all else. His wife experiences either a moment of clarity or madness and does something that ensures they won’t stay together. There are a multitude of characters but I had no trouble keeping everyone straight. You might worry they will come across as cliches, but they don’t.
An ice storm ensures that Marietta’s house will become the home base for an unlikely group of four. The story deals with friendships, family and community, of epiphanies and awakenings. There are even a few “come to Jesus” moments.
The statue is as much a lightning rod in this town as similar statues have been across the south. Terry makes the town a microcosm of the country.
There’s an undertone of magic realism involving a raven. This part of the story didn’t work as well for me, but then, I’m not a big fan of magic realism.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
Terry writes beautifully. She is able to capture a scene or a personality with just the right few words. And I adored her characters. Marietta is a chip off the block of her liberal, newspaper editor father. Her front lawn still bears the scars where a cross was burned. Her brother is her polar opposite - a conservative, concerned with financial success and respect above all else. His wife experiences either a moment of clarity or madness and does something that ensures they won’t stay together. There are a multitude of characters but I had no trouble keeping everyone straight. You might worry they will come across as cliches, but they don’t.
An ice storm ensures that Marietta’s house will become the home base for an unlikely group of four. The story deals with friendships, family and community, of epiphanies and awakenings. There are even a few “come to Jesus” moments.
The statue is as much a lightning rod in this town as similar statues have been across the south. Terry makes the town a microcosm of the country.
There’s an undertone of magic realism involving a raven. This part of the story didn’t work as well for me, but then, I’m not a big fan of magic realism.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
February 22, 2023
An ice storm in Georgia?
Definitely something that shuts down an entire town and keeps everyone in.
Someone was out, though.
A controversial statue was knocked down overnight.
WHEN THE MOON TURNED BLUE has lovely, descriptive writing and heartwarming characters....well most of them.
The description of the town, the characters, and the events is wonderful, but the story line is very confusing because of so many characters and going all over the place.
I honestly had a difficult time following.
I enjoyed her book THE SWEET TASTE OF MUSCADINES more than this book. 3/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Definitely something that shuts down an entire town and keeps everyone in.
Someone was out, though.
A controversial statue was knocked down overnight.
WHEN THE MOON TURNED BLUE has lovely, descriptive writing and heartwarming characters....well most of them.
The description of the town, the characters, and the events is wonderful, but the story line is very confusing because of so many characters and going all over the place.
I honestly had a difficult time following.
I enjoyed her book THE SWEET TASTE OF MUSCADINES more than this book. 3/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
March 3, 2023
WHEN THE MOON TURNS BLUE
BY: PAMELA TERRY
About 4.5 Stars!
"Once in a while the odd things happen, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue."
The poetry of Auden's is how the Title, "When the Moon Turns Blue," a superb endeavor of crystalline prose is weaved like a tapestry of spun gold written with language that is breathtaking throughout.
This is Southern Contemporary fiction that seems to echo what our Country is going through at the present with it being divided as it never has before. The writing is lovely and it also represents so much more. It highlights the power of friendship to help us weather the storms in our life that without those friendships we might not be able to overcome the crises we face, as evident of the arcs of several characters displayed. I just said recently while reviewing a prior novel not to long ago, that politics are not my favorite themes while reading a novel, and this is a main theme explored in this Southern contemporary fiction. This one manages to succeed as the beauty of its prose and razor sharp dialogue are too mesmerizing to ignore.
An ice storm that happens in Wesleyan, Georgia is a rare occurrence, and as rare as Auden's blue moon. It happens one evening turning the community with a large cast of characters into an ethereal landscape to become frozen with a setting described as poetic with the style of writing not often found in contemporary novels with its starkness and beauty. Also during the ice storm which wreaks havoc for most who inhabit this town it brings together some and it also divides them. A Confederate statue of a General in a local park is struck down at the same time and it is evident that it wasn't destroyed by Mother nature. It is a mystery how this monument was knocked down that Old Man Griffin upon viewing the morning after drops dead. Some think that he died because he is overwhelmed with shock and he never would have removed it since it was erected by his father as far back as 1918.
There is a committee whose mission was to protest against letting the statue of the Confederate General remain. They were led by a young man freshly graduated from College whose return to Wesleyan, Georgia has formed a segment of volunteers who made it their mission to remove the statue. They seem to be peacefully devoted to removing the statue of the General in this private park by handing out pamphlets. Wesleyan is divided by those who want to replace this symbol of inequality that is a blight and cries racism, and there are those in this population who are thrilled that the statue was destroyed.
Marietta has just lost her beloved husband Harry to pancreatic cancer, which this couple decided to keep his illness a secret right up to his death. Marietta leaves her husband's funeral to go home to her opulent surroundings, whose lovely estate becomes a haven for three others to flock to after the havoc of the storm. The descriptions of the frozen town by the ice are stunning and worthy of Pamela Terry's incredible talent as a gifted wordsmith. Marietta leaves because she is suffering from a migraine headache. Soon her childhood friend Butter's state of the art home is flooded by frozen pipes bursting, making her newer home inhabitable so she arrives on Marietta's doorstep. Her best friend Gordon also arrives because his home is freezing and too cold. The third unlikely guest shows up and everyone is surprised because she is Marietta's Sister-in-law. Her only sibling is a brother who is somewhat arrogant whose wife embarrassed him at Marietta's luncheon following Harry's burial.
Marietta's sister-in-law is questioning her marriage and drives to Marietta's oasis and between Butter and Gordon their company is welcomed. These guests all seemed to me to be transforming their existence. Near this wonderful novel's conclusion the mystery of who knocked down the statue is revealed and I was shocked to learn who did it. I don't think it's possible for anyone who reads this to be equipped to guess who the culprit was.
The mayor of Wesleyan is retiring and Marietta's brother throws his hat in the ring to enter the campaign with the promise to restore the Confederate General by erecting a replacement statue. The mayor sees this as a possible powder keg which currently has caused such a rift in this otherwise quiet and idyllic town. The citizens are polarized with the decision of whether to replace this statue. Some want it fully restored and some think that it should be kept down and let well enough alone as it represents inequality and is a symbol of keeping things as they were and are, which the Author is sending a message of how racism is still a fact in the South. She does mention that four Confederate statues have been removed in another State.
This reminded me of how our democracy is at stake. Most of the citizens of Wesleyan that are represented as background characters want equality. There is much to this multilayered gorgeous depiction of reality. I loved the descriptions of the way Marietta's home is described and how it is a sanctuary and the healing power of strong friendship to serve as a place of growth and a balm for the soul. There is a hint of romance and as many characters are introduced they are easy to keep straight. This novel was enjoyable and the writing was well above average infused with heart. A few characters have a reckoning which is portrayed as a slice of modern life. This is Pamela Terry's second novel and I am anxious to read her debut as she depicts contemporary fiction with depth. I highly recommend this to everyone. I took a chance on this and was rewarded with a wonderful discovery of an Author to watch. With a cast of relatable characters', "When the Moon Turns Blue," is a poetic rendering about family, friendship and a compassionate look into how we don't always like the people we love.
Publication Date: 2-21-2023
Thank you to Net Galley, Pamela Terry and, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine Ballantine Books for generously providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#WhentheMoonTurnsBlue #PamelaTerry #RandomHousePublishingGroupBallantineBallantineBooks #NetGalley
BY: PAMELA TERRY
About 4.5 Stars!
"Once in a while the odd things happen, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue."
The poetry of Auden's is how the Title, "When the Moon Turns Blue," a superb endeavor of crystalline prose is weaved like a tapestry of spun gold written with language that is breathtaking throughout.
This is Southern Contemporary fiction that seems to echo what our Country is going through at the present with it being divided as it never has before. The writing is lovely and it also represents so much more. It highlights the power of friendship to help us weather the storms in our life that without those friendships we might not be able to overcome the crises we face, as evident of the arcs of several characters displayed. I just said recently while reviewing a prior novel not to long ago, that politics are not my favorite themes while reading a novel, and this is a main theme explored in this Southern contemporary fiction. This one manages to succeed as the beauty of its prose and razor sharp dialogue are too mesmerizing to ignore.
An ice storm that happens in Wesleyan, Georgia is a rare occurrence, and as rare as Auden's blue moon. It happens one evening turning the community with a large cast of characters into an ethereal landscape to become frozen with a setting described as poetic with the style of writing not often found in contemporary novels with its starkness and beauty. Also during the ice storm which wreaks havoc for most who inhabit this town it brings together some and it also divides them. A Confederate statue of a General in a local park is struck down at the same time and it is evident that it wasn't destroyed by Mother nature. It is a mystery how this monument was knocked down that Old Man Griffin upon viewing the morning after drops dead. Some think that he died because he is overwhelmed with shock and he never would have removed it since it was erected by his father as far back as 1918.
There is a committee whose mission was to protest against letting the statue of the Confederate General remain. They were led by a young man freshly graduated from College whose return to Wesleyan, Georgia has formed a segment of volunteers who made it their mission to remove the statue. They seem to be peacefully devoted to removing the statue of the General in this private park by handing out pamphlets. Wesleyan is divided by those who want to replace this symbol of inequality that is a blight and cries racism, and there are those in this population who are thrilled that the statue was destroyed.
Marietta has just lost her beloved husband Harry to pancreatic cancer, which this couple decided to keep his illness a secret right up to his death. Marietta leaves her husband's funeral to go home to her opulent surroundings, whose lovely estate becomes a haven for three others to flock to after the havoc of the storm. The descriptions of the frozen town by the ice are stunning and worthy of Pamela Terry's incredible talent as a gifted wordsmith. Marietta leaves because she is suffering from a migraine headache. Soon her childhood friend Butter's state of the art home is flooded by frozen pipes bursting, making her newer home inhabitable so she arrives on Marietta's doorstep. Her best friend Gordon also arrives because his home is freezing and too cold. The third unlikely guest shows up and everyone is surprised because she is Marietta's Sister-in-law. Her only sibling is a brother who is somewhat arrogant whose wife embarrassed him at Marietta's luncheon following Harry's burial.
Marietta's sister-in-law is questioning her marriage and drives to Marietta's oasis and between Butter and Gordon their company is welcomed. These guests all seemed to me to be transforming their existence. Near this wonderful novel's conclusion the mystery of who knocked down the statue is revealed and I was shocked to learn who did it. I don't think it's possible for anyone who reads this to be equipped to guess who the culprit was.
The mayor of Wesleyan is retiring and Marietta's brother throws his hat in the ring to enter the campaign with the promise to restore the Confederate General by erecting a replacement statue. The mayor sees this as a possible powder keg which currently has caused such a rift in this otherwise quiet and idyllic town. The citizens are polarized with the decision of whether to replace this statue. Some want it fully restored and some think that it should be kept down and let well enough alone as it represents inequality and is a symbol of keeping things as they were and are, which the Author is sending a message of how racism is still a fact in the South. She does mention that four Confederate statues have been removed in another State.
This reminded me of how our democracy is at stake. Most of the citizens of Wesleyan that are represented as background characters want equality. There is much to this multilayered gorgeous depiction of reality. I loved the descriptions of the way Marietta's home is described and how it is a sanctuary and the healing power of strong friendship to serve as a place of growth and a balm for the soul. There is a hint of romance and as many characters are introduced they are easy to keep straight. This novel was enjoyable and the writing was well above average infused with heart. A few characters have a reckoning which is portrayed as a slice of modern life. This is Pamela Terry's second novel and I am anxious to read her debut as she depicts contemporary fiction with depth. I highly recommend this to everyone. I took a chance on this and was rewarded with a wonderful discovery of an Author to watch. With a cast of relatable characters', "When the Moon Turns Blue," is a poetic rendering about family, friendship and a compassionate look into how we don't always like the people we love.
Publication Date: 2-21-2023
Thank you to Net Galley, Pamela Terry and, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine Ballantine Books for generously providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#WhentheMoonTurnsBlue #PamelaTerry #RandomHousePublishingGroupBallantineBallantineBooks #NetGalley
February 13, 2023
A Stellar Story of Family and Friendships
SUMMARY
Tempers are flaring in the small Wesleyan, Georgia community over the statue of a confederate General erected in 1918. The threat to remove the statue has sharply divided the town. When a rare ice storm hits Wesleyan, the town wakes to find the controversial statue destroyed and much of the town damaged and without power for days.
The tensions over the statue concern Marietta Cline, who has never been a fan. Her brother, Macon, is a top defense attorney in the Southeast. He is representing the owner of the park where the statue has always stood on private property. Now Macon is determined to find and punish those responsible for destroying the statue, and Marietta is beside herself.
The ice storm has also caused Marietta’s beautiful family home to become a refuge and safe haven for an unlikely group of three remote acquaintances the day after her husband’s funeral. The four reconnect, and they come to appreciate each other for their differences, a gay bookstore owner, an estranged childhood friend of Marietta, and Marietta’s sister-in-law and Macon’s wife.
Once in a while the odd thing happens,
Once in a while the dreams come true,
And the whole pattern of life is altered,
Once in a while, the moon turns blue
W. H. Auden
REVIEW
WHEN THE MOON TURNS BLUE is a stellar story of friendship and family during a time of immense conflict. The timely story is told with compassion and care for both sides of the controversy. The writing is thought-provoking, descriptive, and easy to read, despite a large cast of characters.
It’s a dizzying carousel of a plot, with each chapter rotating between various groups of characters. The characters propel the narrative and are realistically drawn. The dialog is meaningful and at times, witty. It’s a touching drama reflecting real-life struggles.
WHEN THE MOON TURNS BLUES is a perfect book for a rainy day or a day in a comfy chair by a warm crackling fire. You’ll love Marietta’s character and her willingness to stand up for her beliefs.
Author Pamela Terry Is a lifelong Southerner who learned the power of storytelling at a very early age. A previous novel The Sweet Taste of Muscadines was published in 2021
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine
Published February 21, 2023
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
Tempers are flaring in the small Wesleyan, Georgia community over the statue of a confederate General erected in 1918. The threat to remove the statue has sharply divided the town. When a rare ice storm hits Wesleyan, the town wakes to find the controversial statue destroyed and much of the town damaged and without power for days.
The tensions over the statue concern Marietta Cline, who has never been a fan. Her brother, Macon, is a top defense attorney in the Southeast. He is representing the owner of the park where the statue has always stood on private property. Now Macon is determined to find and punish those responsible for destroying the statue, and Marietta is beside herself.
The ice storm has also caused Marietta’s beautiful family home to become a refuge and safe haven for an unlikely group of three remote acquaintances the day after her husband’s funeral. The four reconnect, and they come to appreciate each other for their differences, a gay bookstore owner, an estranged childhood friend of Marietta, and Marietta’s sister-in-law and Macon’s wife.
Once in a while the odd thing happens,
Once in a while the dreams come true,
And the whole pattern of life is altered,
Once in a while, the moon turns blue
W. H. Auden
REVIEW
WHEN THE MOON TURNS BLUE is a stellar story of friendship and family during a time of immense conflict. The timely story is told with compassion and care for both sides of the controversy. The writing is thought-provoking, descriptive, and easy to read, despite a large cast of characters.
It’s a dizzying carousel of a plot, with each chapter rotating between various groups of characters. The characters propel the narrative and are realistically drawn. The dialog is meaningful and at times, witty. It’s a touching drama reflecting real-life struggles.
WHEN THE MOON TURNS BLUES is a perfect book for a rainy day or a day in a comfy chair by a warm crackling fire. You’ll love Marietta’s character and her willingness to stand up for her beliefs.
Author Pamela Terry Is a lifelong Southerner who learned the power of storytelling at a very early age. A previous novel The Sweet Taste of Muscadines was published in 2021
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine
Published February 21, 2023
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
Read
March 2, 2023Ugh! Beyond page 70 this was a chore. One I refuse to finish. And the flow is horrid. DNF
March 1, 2023
Thank you, Random House, for the gifted copy of When the Moon Turns Blue {partner}
Genre: Fiction
Trope: Small-town
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 2.21.2023
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
“Memories are often stored in a place you don’t visit until trouble pushes open the door.”
When the Moon Turns Blue is my second book from Pamela Terry, and it’s the second time I’ve fallen in love with her writing style. Her words elicit so much emotion from me and bring everything to life. Sitting down and losing myself in her words is always a joy.
She also has this knack for creating characters and storylines that always pull me into the book. In this story, Terry brings to light a lot of issues that our country is facing and does so in a small southern community with a diverse demographic.
There are A LOT of characters in When the Moon Turns Blue, but at the start of each chapter, the reader is given a glimpse at who will be featured in that chapter (so pay attention). While there are a lot of characters, they all circle around the prominent people - Marietta, Butter, Gordon, Glinda, and Macon. I wrote down who was who at first, which helped me remember names and how they were related. But I never felt overwhelmed or confused about the characters. Plus, seeing how they all ultimately connected to the story was fun.
Another element I loved about When the Moon Turns Blue is that the main characters are all in their 60s and 70s. I love when authors break out of the typical character age we see and create characters with experience and wisdom.
👥 Lots of character connections
😍 Storytelling at its finest
😬 Depiction of America’s reality
💯 MCs in their 60’s and 70’s
I recommend reading When the Moon Turns Blue if you enjoy reading The Thursday Murder Club - they are different genres but have the same feel.
____
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Genre: Fiction
Trope: Small-town
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 2.21.2023
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
“Memories are often stored in a place you don’t visit until trouble pushes open the door.”
When the Moon Turns Blue is my second book from Pamela Terry, and it’s the second time I’ve fallen in love with her writing style. Her words elicit so much emotion from me and bring everything to life. Sitting down and losing myself in her words is always a joy.
She also has this knack for creating characters and storylines that always pull me into the book. In this story, Terry brings to light a lot of issues that our country is facing and does so in a small southern community with a diverse demographic.
There are A LOT of characters in When the Moon Turns Blue, but at the start of each chapter, the reader is given a glimpse at who will be featured in that chapter (so pay attention). While there are a lot of characters, they all circle around the prominent people - Marietta, Butter, Gordon, Glinda, and Macon. I wrote down who was who at first, which helped me remember names and how they were related. But I never felt overwhelmed or confused about the characters. Plus, seeing how they all ultimately connected to the story was fun.
Another element I loved about When the Moon Turns Blue is that the main characters are all in their 60s and 70s. I love when authors break out of the typical character age we see and create characters with experience and wisdom.
👥 Lots of character connections
😍 Storytelling at its finest
😬 Depiction of America’s reality
💯 MCs in their 60’s and 70’s
I recommend reading When the Moon Turns Blue if you enjoy reading The Thursday Murder Club - they are different genres but have the same feel.
____
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookend....
Follow my blog: https://thebookenddiner.com/
Follow me on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/thebookendd...
Follow me on StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
2023
June 17, 2024📖 Thank you to Goodreads and Ballantine Books
March 15, 2023
"Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue."
What an amazing book. This is definitely going to be one of my favorites of the year. The story is about grief, family, friends, bigotry and community. The writing is brilliant. The characters are diverse and so well developed. And, it all takes place in a small Southern town with a escalating controversy concerning a Confederate statute. It is nothing that I thought it would be. It is so much more. I highly recommend this book and the author's previous book "The Sweet Taste of Muscadines." Both works by this very talented author are wonderful.
What an amazing book. This is definitely going to be one of my favorites of the year. The story is about grief, family, friends, bigotry and community. The writing is brilliant. The characters are diverse and so well developed. And, it all takes place in a small Southern town with a escalating controversy concerning a Confederate statute. It is nothing that I thought it would be. It is so much more. I highly recommend this book and the author's previous book "The Sweet Taste of Muscadines." Both works by this very talented author are wonderful.
Read
March 1, 2023 I read Pamela Terry’s "The Sweet Taste of Muscadines" when it first came out. The vivid, graceful way Terry evoked small-town Georgia, and the complexity of the characters grabbed me, so when I saw this novel, I nabbed it. Glad I did.
It begins with an ice storm hitting the small southern town of Wesleyan, Georgia. This happens the same day as the funeral of a well-loved member of the community; his wife shocks the attendees by walking out of the funeral and vanishing. Turns out she was getting a major migraine, probably from the plunging barometer, but her vanishing ignites speculation, especially as her once-best friend follows after. And, after an action that seems insane, so does her silent, wimpy-seeming sister in law.
Another bomb drops in this town: a controversial Confederate statue is found destroyed in the town park. And so we arrived at why the line from the Auden poem was picked.
Terry does a terrific job with an omniscient narrator. Expertly weaving in and out of the lives and minds of the large cast, we get to know them well enough to easily tell them apart, as they spark off one another, connect, argue, and (some) heal. Terry's cast, as in her first novel, is a wonderful variety of complex characters, each with a backstory that makes sense of their goals and motivations. The confrontations, and the hard-won insights were especially fine, the whole woven through by a thread of magical realism/fantasy in the form of a raven. I enjoyed that touch, which underscored the rarity of that ice storm, and how it engendered isolation for some, huddling together for comfort in others, and above all, communication.
Along the way the narrative explores political strife, family, social strife, friendship, forgiveness, hidden anger, mourning and healing.It was such a satisfying read, coming full circle with the title quotation: “Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.”
It begins with an ice storm hitting the small southern town of Wesleyan, Georgia. This happens the same day as the funeral of a well-loved member of the community; his wife shocks the attendees by walking out of the funeral and vanishing. Turns out she was getting a major migraine, probably from the plunging barometer, but her vanishing ignites speculation, especially as her once-best friend follows after. And, after an action that seems insane, so does her silent, wimpy-seeming sister in law.
Another bomb drops in this town: a controversial Confederate statue is found destroyed in the town park. And so we arrived at why the line from the Auden poem was picked.
Terry does a terrific job with an omniscient narrator. Expertly weaving in and out of the lives and minds of the large cast, we get to know them well enough to easily tell them apart, as they spark off one another, connect, argue, and (some) heal. Terry's cast, as in her first novel, is a wonderful variety of complex characters, each with a backstory that makes sense of their goals and motivations. The confrontations, and the hard-won insights were especially fine, the whole woven through by a thread of magical realism/fantasy in the form of a raven. I enjoyed that touch, which underscored the rarity of that ice storm, and how it engendered isolation for some, huddling together for comfort in others, and above all, communication.
Along the way the narrative explores political strife, family, social strife, friendship, forgiveness, hidden anger, mourning and healing.It was such a satisfying read, coming full circle with the title quotation: “Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.”
November 1, 2023
Character driven and so well written.
February 21, 2023
This was the strangest book. I’m not sure what to think about it. It’s full of town characters and a bit of a mystery.
Every chapter was about someone else in the town and it flipped back and forth. I don’t think it was quite what I was expecting.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
Every chapter was about someone else in the town and it flipped back and forth. I don’t think it was quite what I was expecting.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
April 19, 2023
This book had a bit too much of the current day political theme to it for me. I prefer to read for entertainment value so this wasn’t for me. If you don’t mind the political point of view you may enjoy it, but not for me.
March 27, 2023
This didn’t really do it for me. There was a lot of potential with the premise, but there was a pretty massive cast of characters and therefore each story felt a bit surface level to me.
February 5, 2023
While this was a lovely clean story, I honestly am not sure how to classify this book.
If you're looking for a book written from several different perspectives of a fairly common week of people in a small southern town, this is the book for you.
If you're looking for a book written from several different perspectives of a fairly common week of people in a small southern town, this is the book for you.
February 28, 2023
Lifelong friends, Butter and Marietta gather at the funeral of Harry. What could be sadder? Well, the next morning the statue of confederate soldier, Henry Benning is discovered destroyed--and not by the previous night's ice storm. Who would do such a thing and how will it affect the community? And why do the people we love often do such despicable things that prevent us from actually liking them? Such great questions from a poetic author whose insights into this town will make you question your own loyalties and want to make you hold your family closer to your heart!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Read
June 9, 2023I tried, but keep having to reread to see what’s happening… and who the many characters are. I see so many mixed reviews…I’m at 35%, and just doesn’t seem to be holding my interest, going to call it a day…DNF
June 4, 2025
2.5 stars. Marietta struggles to preserve her relationships and sense of community as her small Georgia town erupts in conflict over the destruction of a Confederate statue. After her husband Harry’s funeral and a rare ice storm, the statue is found toppled—intentionally. The incident exposes deep divisions in the town, with Marietta caught in the middle. Her brother, a prominent defense attorney, is determined to pursue justice, even as Marietta urges peace. As loyalties are tested and old wounds reopened, Marietta must navigate grief, family tension, and a rapidly changing world.
I loved The Sweet Taste of Muscadines so I was so excited to read this next book from Pamela Terry. Unfortunately it just didn't grab me. The book felt like it had a lot going on which made each storyline feel very surface level despite some of the big topics it was trying to cover. I found myself skimming the last quarter of the book and didn't even really care to find out what actually happened.
I loved The Sweet Taste of Muscadines so I was so excited to read this next book from Pamela Terry. Unfortunately it just didn't grab me. The book felt like it had a lot going on which made each storyline feel very surface level despite some of the big topics it was trying to cover. I found myself skimming the last quarter of the book and didn't even really care to find out what actually happened.
December 18, 2022
This is a book about friendships and relationships, both lifelong and newly realized and discovered. Funny how we think we know someone for many years and suddenly find out we never really knew that person at all.
It is a contemporary fiction novel and the story line is about a battle over a Confederate statue being removed. I am tired of these subjects and really debated heavily about not reading this book at all but although this is the plot of the story, it just really is not, but rather it is a story of friendships and newly realized relationships with people Marietta and the other cast of characters cut off long ago. It’s about being willing to look at a current situation with open eyes and allow people into our lives.
It starts out with the funeral of Harry Cline, a beloved gentleman, in a historical town within the state of Georgia. His wife, Marietta gets a horrific migraine during the service and steps out for a second when, Butter, her old friend, but certainly not a current one comes to her rescue. From that point on we meet a host of other characters. Truly I thought a few too many characters but I tried to just concentrate on who I thought was important and that seem to work just fine. I love the writing of Pamela Terry, who also wrote, The Sweet Taste of Muscadines, which was excellent and you can read my review here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It is a contemporary fiction novel and the story line is about a battle over a Confederate statue being removed. I am tired of these subjects and really debated heavily about not reading this book at all but although this is the plot of the story, it just really is not, but rather it is a story of friendships and newly realized relationships with people Marietta and the other cast of characters cut off long ago. It’s about being willing to look at a current situation with open eyes and allow people into our lives.
It starts out with the funeral of Harry Cline, a beloved gentleman, in a historical town within the state of Georgia. His wife, Marietta gets a horrific migraine during the service and steps out for a second when, Butter, her old friend, but certainly not a current one comes to her rescue. From that point on we meet a host of other characters. Truly I thought a few too many characters but I tried to just concentrate on who I thought was important and that seem to work just fine. I love the writing of Pamela Terry, who also wrote, The Sweet Taste of Muscadines, which was excellent and you can read my review here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 23, 2023
I absolutely loved everything about Terry’s debut book, The Sweet Taste of Muscadines, so I was beyond thrilled to receive her latest work of southern fiction, When the Moon Turns Blue!
What appealed to you the most in this story?
I love how Terry is able to write a complex and compelling story based on friendship, family, and relationships centered around a small town in Georgia in the midst of a battle over a Confederate statue being removed.
Her writing is just exquisite. It’s fresh, witty and impeccably detailed. I cannot rave enough about her character development and the way she brought them to life along with her ability to weave a complex yet beautiful story full of drama, suspense, humor, and serious social issues. Terry also explores how blind hate can really limit a person’s ability to think rationally and logically.
How was the pace?
This is a slow burn that reads with a steady pace. It really sucks you in as the truth begins to unravel along with the web of lies, and I was right there with the characters feeling all the emotions (and it was the full spectrum).
Do you recommend this book?
If you love stories that deal with grief, community, friendship, and mystery, then dive into this ever so complex world of family relationships and dynamics with a splash of humor!
"Once in a while the odd things happen, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue."
Thank you, Random House/Ballantine Books, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
What appealed to you the most in this story?
I love how Terry is able to write a complex and compelling story based on friendship, family, and relationships centered around a small town in Georgia in the midst of a battle over a Confederate statue being removed.
Her writing is just exquisite. It’s fresh, witty and impeccably detailed. I cannot rave enough about her character development and the way she brought them to life along with her ability to weave a complex yet beautiful story full of drama, suspense, humor, and serious social issues. Terry also explores how blind hate can really limit a person’s ability to think rationally and logically.
How was the pace?
This is a slow burn that reads with a steady pace. It really sucks you in as the truth begins to unravel along with the web of lies, and I was right there with the characters feeling all the emotions (and it was the full spectrum).
Do you recommend this book?
If you love stories that deal with grief, community, friendship, and mystery, then dive into this ever so complex world of family relationships and dynamics with a splash of humor!
"Once in a while the odd things happen, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue."
Thank you, Random House/Ballantine Books, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 2, 2023
A heartwarming story of friendships, community and love.
The story is about the defacing of a stature of the founding father of a small Georgia town. This puts everyone on edge.
Who did it? Was it a member of the community? Was it a stranger coming through town?
A slow read but ok read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The story is about the defacing of a stature of the founding father of a small Georgia town. This puts everyone on edge.
Who did it? Was it a member of the community? Was it a stranger coming through town?
A slow read but ok read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 19, 2023
Thanks to Ballentine Books and NetGalley for a digital advance reader copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
This was a perfect book for reading right now. Themes of family, friendship, forgiveness, mourning and healing. It begins with a rare ice storm striking the small southern town of Wesleyan, Georgia on the morning of Harry Cline’s funeral. It’s also the morning that a controversial Confederate statue is found destroyed in the town park. One main character reflects on these events, “Ice storms in Georgia are rare. When that ice fell down on Wesleyan, it knocked a lot of things out of place, and we were but two of the many. And as you all doubtless know, before that cold week was out, well, let’s just say a lot of us discovered just how much we’re all connected to one another, whether we especially want to be or not.”
Each chapter is titled with the names of the primary characters featured in that chapter. And each chapter seems to introduce someone new. Despite the large cast, it was easy to keep everyone in this small-town novel straight. Some characters were quirky, some predictable, some sad, and others hopeful. I enjoyed how the author weaves together their relationships and illustrates the growth and connections that develop between several of the characters.
I also enjoyed the bird and feather symbolism, as well as the contrast between beauty and hate: “Life has two sides. The ugly is always tempered by the beautiful, the dark with the light.”
The book was a satisfying read, with a heartwarming ending that came full circle. As one of the characters says in a toast quoting the poet W.H. Auden: “Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.”
A few years ago, I read Pamela Terry’s "The Sweet Taste of Muscadines" so when I saw this novel, I knew it would likely also be a good read. I was not disappointed, and I encourage you to look for this book (and the earlier one, too).
This was a perfect book for reading right now. Themes of family, friendship, forgiveness, mourning and healing. It begins with a rare ice storm striking the small southern town of Wesleyan, Georgia on the morning of Harry Cline’s funeral. It’s also the morning that a controversial Confederate statue is found destroyed in the town park. One main character reflects on these events, “Ice storms in Georgia are rare. When that ice fell down on Wesleyan, it knocked a lot of things out of place, and we were but two of the many. And as you all doubtless know, before that cold week was out, well, let’s just say a lot of us discovered just how much we’re all connected to one another, whether we especially want to be or not.”
Each chapter is titled with the names of the primary characters featured in that chapter. And each chapter seems to introduce someone new. Despite the large cast, it was easy to keep everyone in this small-town novel straight. Some characters were quirky, some predictable, some sad, and others hopeful. I enjoyed how the author weaves together their relationships and illustrates the growth and connections that develop between several of the characters.
I also enjoyed the bird and feather symbolism, as well as the contrast between beauty and hate: “Life has two sides. The ugly is always tempered by the beautiful, the dark with the light.”
The book was a satisfying read, with a heartwarming ending that came full circle. As one of the characters says in a toast quoting the poet W.H. Auden: “Once in a while the odd thing happens, once in a while the dream comes true, and the whole pattern of life is altered, once in a while the moon turns blue.”
A few years ago, I read Pamela Terry’s "The Sweet Taste of Muscadines" so when I saw this novel, I knew it would likely also be a good read. I was not disappointed, and I encourage you to look for this book (and the earlier one, too).
October 4, 2022
Pamela Terry has become one of my favorite authors after two evocative novels set in Georgia. Her expressive language, clever turns of phrase, and luminous descriptions are so striking that I knew I needed to read more slowly than usual to make sure I didn't miss a single word. In When the Moon Turns Blue, a statue of a Confederate general has nearly split the town of Wesleyan in two--those who want it taken down immediately because of what it represents and those who want it to stay. But aside from a couple of gripping confrontations, it's not really a story about racism in the South. It is instead a poignant character study of those affected by what they find out about themselves in the space of a couple of weeks that begin with a rare ice storm and power outage that temporarily stuns the town.
Most interesting are the stories surrounding the major characters. Antiques dealer Harry Cline's wife, Marietta, has to leave during Harry's funeral when a migraine threatens, but she soon finds herself playing host to three disparate characters who don't have anywhere else to go: realtor extraordinaire Butter, who was Marietta's friend until they had a falling-out five years earlier; bookshop owner Gordon, Marietta's closest childhood friend, still grieving his partner's death many years ago; and Glinda, Marietta's sister-in-law, who is trying to come to terms with why she randomly humiliated her attorney husband at the reception following the funeral service. Macon, her spouse, is arguing the case for keeping the statue in the face of an opposing group's legal suit and plans to run for mayor. Other memorable characters include the little girl next door who particularly loved the late Harry, an ex-con who moved to the South from LA to make a new living as an artist, the church pianist who falls a lot but refuses to use a cane, and an idealistic young man who risks everything to pursue what he knows is right. Then there are delightful touches such as a raven that keeps returning to Marietta's window sill and a row of topiary elephants lovingly crafted by Harry for his garden, plus a bit of romance thrown into the mix.
This book has it all, and the author's own insights--some in the narrative, many others expressed through the characters' voices--left a lasting impression on me. The last chapter is especially satisfying. Highly recommended.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
Most interesting are the stories surrounding the major characters. Antiques dealer Harry Cline's wife, Marietta, has to leave during Harry's funeral when a migraine threatens, but she soon finds herself playing host to three disparate characters who don't have anywhere else to go: realtor extraordinaire Butter, who was Marietta's friend until they had a falling-out five years earlier; bookshop owner Gordon, Marietta's closest childhood friend, still grieving his partner's death many years ago; and Glinda, Marietta's sister-in-law, who is trying to come to terms with why she randomly humiliated her attorney husband at the reception following the funeral service. Macon, her spouse, is arguing the case for keeping the statue in the face of an opposing group's legal suit and plans to run for mayor. Other memorable characters include the little girl next door who particularly loved the late Harry, an ex-con who moved to the South from LA to make a new living as an artist, the church pianist who falls a lot but refuses to use a cane, and an idealistic young man who risks everything to pursue what he knows is right. Then there are delightful touches such as a raven that keeps returning to Marietta's window sill and a row of topiary elephants lovingly crafted by Harry for his garden, plus a bit of romance thrown into the mix.
This book has it all, and the author's own insights--some in the narrative, many others expressed through the characters' voices--left a lasting impression on me. The last chapter is especially satisfying. Highly recommended.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
February 21, 2023
‘Once in a while the odd thing happens,
Once in a while the dream comes true,
And the whole pattern of life is altered,
Once in a while, the moon turns blue.’
The tiny Georgia hamlet of Wesleyan is preparing to bury one of its own, and Mother Nature is preparing to cover the entire town in ice. But nobody—well, almost nobody—knows that a source of local tension is about to go nuclear, as someone is planning to topple and destroy the statue of a Confederate general in the park inside the boundaries of Old Man Griffin’s land. “The fight was just getting going good, and now somebody’s declawed the cat.”
This riveting, curiously charming and sometimes hilarious novel is the second by Pamela Terry, whose outstanding debut novel was The Sweet Taste of Muscadines. This one may be even better. My thanks go to Net Galley and Random House Ballantine for the invitation to read and review. This book is for sale now.
With the death of Harry Cline, we find ourselves at his funeral, a massively attended affair. But his wife, Marietta, develops a disabling, blinding migraine, and although they have been on the outs for years, Butter, her (former) best friend, comes to the rescue. By the time they’ve snuck out the side door of the church, we already know at least a little about both women, and now we want to know everything.
With just two novels published, Terry has already proven herself to be among the best authors when it comes to character development. Soon we’ll meet others—Marietta’s obnoxious brother, Macon and his beleaguered wife Glinda, who will have a large part in this story and is one of my favorite characters, as well as a host of others, who have smaller roles but are each so unmistakably established that it’s no work at all to keep track of them. But perhaps her finest achievement here is in creating a masterpiece that is ultimately a feel good book, despite the use of a red hot real world controversy within its pages.
I generally read several books at a time, and this one is the one that I saved for bedtime, because I wanted to be able to read it uninterrupted, and it is the one I wanted in my head when dreams came. It didn’t let me down.
This inspirational work of Southern fiction stands shoulder to shoulder with the finest classics, To Kill a Mockingbird and Fried Green Tomatoes. I wholeheartedly recommend it to you.
Once in a while the dream comes true,
And the whole pattern of life is altered,
Once in a while, the moon turns blue.’
The tiny Georgia hamlet of Wesleyan is preparing to bury one of its own, and Mother Nature is preparing to cover the entire town in ice. But nobody—well, almost nobody—knows that a source of local tension is about to go nuclear, as someone is planning to topple and destroy the statue of a Confederate general in the park inside the boundaries of Old Man Griffin’s land. “The fight was just getting going good, and now somebody’s declawed the cat.”
This riveting, curiously charming and sometimes hilarious novel is the second by Pamela Terry, whose outstanding debut novel was The Sweet Taste of Muscadines. This one may be even better. My thanks go to Net Galley and Random House Ballantine for the invitation to read and review. This book is for sale now.
With the death of Harry Cline, we find ourselves at his funeral, a massively attended affair. But his wife, Marietta, develops a disabling, blinding migraine, and although they have been on the outs for years, Butter, her (former) best friend, comes to the rescue. By the time they’ve snuck out the side door of the church, we already know at least a little about both women, and now we want to know everything.
With just two novels published, Terry has already proven herself to be among the best authors when it comes to character development. Soon we’ll meet others—Marietta’s obnoxious brother, Macon and his beleaguered wife Glinda, who will have a large part in this story and is one of my favorite characters, as well as a host of others, who have smaller roles but are each so unmistakably established that it’s no work at all to keep track of them. But perhaps her finest achievement here is in creating a masterpiece that is ultimately a feel good book, despite the use of a red hot real world controversy within its pages.
I generally read several books at a time, and this one is the one that I saved for bedtime, because I wanted to be able to read it uninterrupted, and it is the one I wanted in my head when dreams came. It didn’t let me down.
This inspirational work of Southern fiction stands shoulder to shoulder with the finest classics, To Kill a Mockingbird and Fried Green Tomatoes. I wholeheartedly recommend it to you.
February 22, 2023
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
When a loved one passes, people are filled with a myriad of emotions. When Harry Cline passed away, the whole town felt the loss because Harry took the time to invest his life in the lives of others and none more so than his wife, Marietta. Marietta finds herself close to being overwhelmed with her grief. A freak snowstorm turns her home into a port in the storm for an unlikely group of people who have known each other since they were children but most of whose relationships have become estranged. Then there is the odd entanglement of Marietta’s sister-in-law who has come to escape her husband, the big, bad, overbearing lawyer who is used to
getting his way about everything. The town is at a crossroads over a Civil War era astatue that represents life as it once was but now is a major point of contention and Marietta’s brother is smack dab in the middle of it!
What I like about this book is how this group of old friends rallies around Marietta in her time of grief. They each have something unique to offer her to help her cope. During the tension-filled parts when the town is going against Marietta’s brother, they still support her yet give her room to do what she thinks is best. This is a great story dealing with friends and family-the good, the bad, and all the stuff in the middle! In this case, “the stuff in the middle” is quite entertaining!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Random House & NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
When a loved one passes, people are filled with a myriad of emotions. When Harry Cline passed away, the whole town felt the loss because Harry took the time to invest his life in the lives of others and none more so than his wife, Marietta. Marietta finds herself close to being overwhelmed with her grief. A freak snowstorm turns her home into a port in the storm for an unlikely group of people who have known each other since they were children but most of whose relationships have become estranged. Then there is the odd entanglement of Marietta’s sister-in-law who has come to escape her husband, the big, bad, overbearing lawyer who is used to
getting his way about everything. The town is at a crossroads over a Civil War era astatue that represents life as it once was but now is a major point of contention and Marietta’s brother is smack dab in the middle of it!
What I like about this book is how this group of old friends rallies around Marietta in her time of grief. They each have something unique to offer her to help her cope. During the tension-filled parts when the town is going against Marietta’s brother, they still support her yet give her room to do what she thinks is best. This is a great story dealing with friends and family-the good, the bad, and all the stuff in the middle! In this case, “the stuff in the middle” is quite entertaining!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Random House & NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
March 8, 2023
More than anything, this is a character study of how characters can grow within the pages of a novel as they make discoveries about themselves and the people whom they think they already know well. The plot is centered around the destruction of a statue of a Confederate general and ends up tearing the town down the middle. Some are appalled at the destruction while others are upset about the lack of respect shown to the family of the general and the general himself. Controversial topics are dealt with in a thought-provoking way as the plot meanders from one group to another and captured my attention with some of the more outlandish philosophies. This is a story about moving forward as well as looking back, a poignant look at history and its effect on the present. I really admired Marietta and her unpopular stance as well as her courage in the face of opposition. Fans of women’s fiction with more than a tad of history and contemporary headlines made this a winner for me. The only thing that held me back from five stars was the slow start, but it did get more interesting quickly and kept my interest after about the first third of the book.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
January 25, 2023
*****Publishing February 21, 2023****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ From funerals to ice storms to controversial statue debate and vandalism, this book covers what it’s like to live in a small town of Georgia that experiences grief, love, loss, difficult relationships, racial issues and how it can affect friendships, family, and marriages.
I loved how each chapter was written from different perspectives as this gave depth to the story and showed that each character had their own struggles in life, but came out stronger in the end. This character driven book captures the dynamics of complex relationship when the community is divided over removing a controversial confederate statue.
It was a hard book to put down and It’s a story that leaves you thinking about it long after it’s done. This one will be great for book clubs as there is so much to discuss!
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, I was provided an ARC of When the Moon Turns Blue by Pamela Terry via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ From funerals to ice storms to controversial statue debate and vandalism, this book covers what it’s like to live in a small town of Georgia that experiences grief, love, loss, difficult relationships, racial issues and how it can affect friendships, family, and marriages.
I loved how each chapter was written from different perspectives as this gave depth to the story and showed that each character had their own struggles in life, but came out stronger in the end. This character driven book captures the dynamics of complex relationship when the community is divided over removing a controversial confederate statue.
It was a hard book to put down and It’s a story that leaves you thinking about it long after it’s done. This one will be great for book clubs as there is so much to discuss!
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, I was provided an ARC of When the Moon Turns Blue by Pamela Terry via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2023
My feelings about When the Moon Turns Blue is all over the place. You can tell that Pamela Terry is from the south by the way she writes. The characters in her books, this one included just jump off the page and remind me of people that I've known my whole life. Being from the south, reading southern fiction always warms my heart. This novel in particular deals with current social issues and does so in a way that brings light and empathy to the subject matter. However, the way the chapters were labeled with the characters who were in the chapter was jarring and it constantly brought me out of the story and then it took me a bit to find the flow again. The writing was often too wordy/flowery and I found myself skimming pages. There were also just too many characters and it often took me a bit to remember who was who. I did love the ending and Gordon's prose on grief and neighbors and the redemption of friendships and making most of the time you have.
June 2, 2023
This is a story about the characters in a small town grappling with issues surrounding a Confederate statue. The writer does a great job making the characters shine, each with unique personalities sometimes expected in more intimate communities. They struggle with all the typical arguments about "erasing history, etc." More importantly they learn more about themselves, some making major changes in their lives. By the end, one most unexpected event brings them together though painfully. I listened to the audio and all the readers did a great job.
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August 30, 2024Practically every chapter (36) had a new character or two which became very confusing as to "who was who"? There were some current political views. Unexpectd, veiled by obvious.
The guilty person who knocked down the statue was a surprise to me.
The guilty person who knocked down the statue was a surprise to me.
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