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Della and Darby
In this small Mississippi town, everyone has long memories and loud opinions. Twins Della and Darby Redd may be identical in appearance, but they couldn’t be more different. Della is outspoken, obsessed with purple, and desperate to be accepted by her peers. Darby is introverted, creative, and sees no need to speak to anyone besides her sister and grandmother, Birdie. Due to a tragedy from their past, all three women’s lives have been blanketed in judgment, scandal, and rumor, preventing them from experiencing true peace and contentment in their small town of Clay Station, Mississippi. When the sisters enter the final year of their twenties, Birdie and Della begin planning an elaborate thirtieth birthday bash. Della believes the party will finally win her acceptance with the in-crowd and dreams of bringing her boss, Dr. Brian Faulkner, as her date. But when Darby begins to form an unexpected friendship with her goofy coworker, Cliff, she learns through him about a scandalous secret involving Dr. Faulkner that is sure to end in disaster. Telling her sister the truth will force them both to face the reality of who they have become—and whether they still have a place in each other’s future. In her latest novel, beloved Southern author Susannah B. Lewis explores the burden and blessing of family legacies and the moments along the way for which to give thanks and celebrate.
288 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
About the author
Susannah B. Lewis
15 books615 followersSusannah B. Lewis is an author, humorist, and podcaster. She has written nine books, including Can’t Make This Stuff Up and How May I Offend You Today, both USA Today Bestsellers published by Thomas Nelson. Her work has been featured on Erma Bombeck’s Humor Writers, TODAY, and US Weekly, and her articles have appeared in Parents Magazine, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is the winner of the Southern Writers’ Magazine Short Story Contest and a recipient of the BlogHer Voices of the Year Award. Susannah also hosts the Moral of the Story Podcast, produced by AccessMore.
She lives on 90 beautiful acres in Tennessee with her husband, their three children, and a "whole bunch" of dogs and cats.
She lives on 90 beautiful acres in Tennessee with her husband, their three children, and a "whole bunch" of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
January 18, 2023
This was fine but lacked character depth. Some of the southern colloquialisms seemed a little over the top. I liked the Darby chapters, Della was unhinged (in a bad way). Leans into religion.
January 28, 2023
Four Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Della and Darby by Susannah B. Lewis is a sweet look at two sisters who are very different and yet were brought up together by their grandmother. This sweet romance also shows the struggles of growing up under the shadow of a tragic event.
Story Recap:
Della and Darby are twins sisters who look alike, but couldn’t be more different on the inside. Della is outspoken and loves the color purple, and Darby is an introvert and perfectly happy with just her own company. They live with their grandmother, as their mother died in a tragic car crash when they were seven years old. The car crash caused a scandal in their small town, one that has tainted the twins' reputations, and one that will never go away.
Della has decided to throw a huge party for their 30th birthdays and wants to invite everyone. She thinks that an over-the-top birthday bash will bring her the acceptance from her peers that she’s always craved. She wants to bring her boss, Dr. Brian Faulkner, a man she admires and wants to date. Darby becomes friends with a co-worker, Cliff, who has admired Darby from afar for a long time. As Darby and Cliff get closer, he confides in Darby a secret about Dr. Faulkner. Darby knows she must tell Della, but she also knows that telling Della will devastate her.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this look into these women’s lives. Both Della and Darby had a tough childhood and they each dealt with it in different ways. The book alternates between both girls' POVs and their grandmother, Birdena, or Birdie as her granddaughters call her. The book is full of southern charm, and perhaps too much of it at times. Birdie seems to only talk in southern colloquialisms, which was cute for a bit, but I did get tired of them after a while.
The romances were good. They were sweet and closed-door. There is also a religious element to the book, but not overpowering.
Recommendation:
I recommend Della and Darby to anyone who loves a sweet romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Della and Darby by Susannah B. Lewis is a sweet look at two sisters who are very different and yet were brought up together by their grandmother. This sweet romance also shows the struggles of growing up under the shadow of a tragic event.
Story Recap:
Della and Darby are twins sisters who look alike, but couldn’t be more different on the inside. Della is outspoken and loves the color purple, and Darby is an introvert and perfectly happy with just her own company. They live with their grandmother, as their mother died in a tragic car crash when they were seven years old. The car crash caused a scandal in their small town, one that has tainted the twins' reputations, and one that will never go away.
Della has decided to throw a huge party for their 30th birthdays and wants to invite everyone. She thinks that an over-the-top birthday bash will bring her the acceptance from her peers that she’s always craved. She wants to bring her boss, Dr. Brian Faulkner, a man she admires and wants to date. Darby becomes friends with a co-worker, Cliff, who has admired Darby from afar for a long time. As Darby and Cliff get closer, he confides in Darby a secret about Dr. Faulkner. Darby knows she must tell Della, but she also knows that telling Della will devastate her.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this look into these women’s lives. Both Della and Darby had a tough childhood and they each dealt with it in different ways. The book alternates between both girls' POVs and their grandmother, Birdena, or Birdie as her granddaughters call her. The book is full of southern charm, and perhaps too much of it at times. Birdie seems to only talk in southern colloquialisms, which was cute for a bit, but I did get tired of them after a while.
The romances were good. They were sweet and closed-door. There is also a religious element to the book, but not overpowering.
Recommendation:
I recommend Della and Darby to anyone who loves a sweet romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 5, 2023
I love the cover of Della and Darby, Susannah B. Lewis' newest release. I have been looking forward to this one for months.
Della and Darby is told from three POVs, these two and their grandmother Birdie. It worked out alright, but it also made it a bit repetitive in parts.
Della and Darby may be identical twins, but they could not be more different. I found Darby to be a bit more relatable, but Della got on my last nerve. She was immature and just shy of her thirtieth birthday, still acting like a teenager. I get that we can struggle well into adulthood with who we are and how we want others to see us, but she was over the top.
I enjoyed the character growth that Darby and Della had. I just felt like Della's was almost too late. I am torn on whether or not she was redeemed in my mind.
This book was not what I expected. I thought it would be a humorous, light read with a romcom feel. It wasn't. I didn't get humor from the book, it's a bit heavy in parts, especially as we explore their past, and it was very much a drama. The fights between the sisters got tense!
If you can't tell from the review, the book was a mixed bag for me. I wanted to love it, but in the end, I liked it.
Della and Darby is told from three POVs, these two and their grandmother Birdie. It worked out alright, but it also made it a bit repetitive in parts.
Della and Darby may be identical twins, but they could not be more different. I found Darby to be a bit more relatable, but Della got on my last nerve. She was immature and just shy of her thirtieth birthday, still acting like a teenager. I get that we can struggle well into adulthood with who we are and how we want others to see us, but she was over the top.
I enjoyed the character growth that Darby and Della had. I just felt like Della's was almost too late. I am torn on whether or not she was redeemed in my mind.
This book was not what I expected. I thought it would be a humorous, light read with a romcom feel. It wasn't. I didn't get humor from the book, it's a bit heavy in parts, especially as we explore their past, and it was very much a drama. The fights between the sisters got tense!
If you can't tell from the review, the book was a mixed bag for me. I wanted to love it, but in the end, I liked it.
May 19, 2024
THE GOOD:
A minimalist read with happy endings for all.
Clean fiction with no coarse language or sex scenes.
The characters learn and grow and resolve their struggles.
THE BAD:
As a shorter read, the story arcs will feel too fast for some readers.
Della and Darby do come off much younger, as early 20-somethings instead of almost thirty.
CONCLUSION:
Great for a day at the beach or by the pool. And for those who like a peppering of Christian fiction with their tales.
A minimalist read with happy endings for all.
Clean fiction with no coarse language or sex scenes.
The characters learn and grow and resolve their struggles.
THE BAD:
As a shorter read, the story arcs will feel too fast for some readers.
Della and Darby do come off much younger, as early 20-somethings instead of almost thirty.
CONCLUSION:
Great for a day at the beach or by the pool. And for those who like a peppering of Christian fiction with their tales.
March 13, 2023
I really enjoy this author. This was my second book by her, and her books just have such a cozy chick lit feel.
Della and Darby are twins who've had a rough go of things. They had a hard loss when they were very young and were bullied incessantly in their school years. They grew up in and still live in a small town, and the book definitely has a small town feel. They journey as adults through realizing how much the abuse they took from classmates has impacted who they have become. I wont give spoilers, but will say....this is not a fast paced book, but still held my attention. Both Della and Darby deal with issues a lot of women deal with. Social anxiety, rejection, and so much more. Their grandmother is also a main character, and she also deals with her own host of women’s issues.
It's a clean book with a very small faith based element at the very end.
Della and Darby are twins who've had a rough go of things. They had a hard loss when they were very young and were bullied incessantly in their school years. They grew up in and still live in a small town, and the book definitely has a small town feel. They journey as adults through realizing how much the abuse they took from classmates has impacted who they have become. I wont give spoilers, but will say....this is not a fast paced book, but still held my attention. Both Della and Darby deal with issues a lot of women deal with. Social anxiety, rejection, and so much more. Their grandmother is also a main character, and she also deals with her own host of women’s issues.
It's a clean book with a very small faith based element at the very end.
December 7, 2022
Della and Darby are twin sisters months shy of their thirtieth birthday. They both are living with their grandmother, Birdie. The girls were raised by their grandmother primarily because their mother was an alcoholic and later died in a car accident due to her addiction.
Della seems to be stuck in a time warp, and a color warp (everything purple) intent on being part of the in-crowd when it’s obvious that they just aren’t not going to let her in.
Darby is a well-worn introvert who is happy to spend time alone and write poems. She has the wisdom that no one (well her sister, Della) listens to, but Darby doesn’t care and intends to stay in her shell, until Cliff a work colleague keeps talking to her, giving her Christmas gifts, and just tries to be her friend until she relents and starts to let him into her life, and she begins to blossom as a person.
I liked Della and Darby but it was the ending that I enjoyed the most. This was mostly a ho-hum for most of the read, but I felt this was a realistic portrayal of what a lot of people do, they’re afraid of what they really capable of. Della and Darby, I felt accurately showed what can happen when anyone is willing to make those hard choices instead of always, in the case, of Della always doing what doesn’t work like being friends with people who aren’t nice to her, or dating men not good for her. I really hope she wears something other than purple now.
So while this story did drag on me, I did like the changes in both Della and Darby and for me, that’s worthy of a three-star rating.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are honest and mine.
Della seems to be stuck in a time warp, and a color warp (everything purple) intent on being part of the in-crowd when it’s obvious that they just aren’t not going to let her in.
Darby is a well-worn introvert who is happy to spend time alone and write poems. She has the wisdom that no one (well her sister, Della) listens to, but Darby doesn’t care and intends to stay in her shell, until Cliff a work colleague keeps talking to her, giving her Christmas gifts, and just tries to be her friend until she relents and starts to let him into her life, and she begins to blossom as a person.
I liked Della and Darby but it was the ending that I enjoyed the most. This was mostly a ho-hum for most of the read, but I felt this was a realistic portrayal of what a lot of people do, they’re afraid of what they really capable of. Della and Darby, I felt accurately showed what can happen when anyone is willing to make those hard choices instead of always, in the case, of Della always doing what doesn’t work like being friends with people who aren’t nice to her, or dating men not good for her. I really hope she wears something other than purple now.
So while this story did drag on me, I did like the changes in both Della and Darby and for me, that’s worthy of a three-star rating.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are honest and mine.
November 4, 2022
3 ⭐️
Perfect for fans of Eleanor Oliphant!
Following the perspectives of Della. Darby, and Birdie, we learn the quirkiness of this family and their difficult past. Della and Darby are twins who are nearly 30, single, and unique in their own ways. Della works in a doctor's office, is constantly tormented and bullied by her coworkers, and LOVES the colour purple 💜. Darby works in a factory where she has an admirer with who she is constantly annoyed. Birdie, their grandmother, spends a lot of time with a widow while also constantly worrying about her granddaughter's happiness as they grow up without a mother. We slowly learn about their mother's death and how they struggled to live in a small town where everyone knows everyone's business.
What I liked:
- i enjoyed reading the characters as they went through their special routines, navigated new and old friendships and relationships, and grew up so much in just one year.
- the story felt very real. Because there was so much detail in the girls' everyday routines, it was very relatable - especially their small-town, high school experience.
What I didn't like:
- the writing felt plain. Nothing stood out to me as incredibly well-written or moving. It wasn't comical or emotional. I didn't feel anything when reading 😐.
- parts of the plot fell flat. I was hopeful for some of the mysteries of the book to bring some energy to the story but when the shoe finally dropped, it wasn't anything shocking or climactic.
Overall, I just didn't feel moved or compelled by the story. It was an enjoyable, easy read though.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this eARC! 💓
Perfect for fans of Eleanor Oliphant!
Following the perspectives of Della. Darby, and Birdie, we learn the quirkiness of this family and their difficult past. Della and Darby are twins who are nearly 30, single, and unique in their own ways. Della works in a doctor's office, is constantly tormented and bullied by her coworkers, and LOVES the colour purple 💜. Darby works in a factory where she has an admirer with who she is constantly annoyed. Birdie, their grandmother, spends a lot of time with a widow while also constantly worrying about her granddaughter's happiness as they grow up without a mother. We slowly learn about their mother's death and how they struggled to live in a small town where everyone knows everyone's business.
What I liked:
- i enjoyed reading the characters as they went through their special routines, navigated new and old friendships and relationships, and grew up so much in just one year.
- the story felt very real. Because there was so much detail in the girls' everyday routines, it was very relatable - especially their small-town, high school experience.
What I didn't like:
- the writing felt plain. Nothing stood out to me as incredibly well-written or moving. It wasn't comical or emotional. I didn't feel anything when reading 😐.
- parts of the plot fell flat. I was hopeful for some of the mysteries of the book to bring some energy to the story but when the shoe finally dropped, it wasn't anything shocking or climactic.
Overall, I just didn't feel moved or compelled by the story. It was an enjoyable, easy read though.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this eARC! 💓
September 5, 2023
I wanted to give this book a 4.5, but since it’s not an option I choose to give it 5 stars. Childhood bullying has the devastating ability to leave scars well into adulthood even affecting adult decision making for some. This books explores bullying, but also the beauty in forgiveness and in finding safe spaces where we can lower our walls and be the perfect selves God created us to be.
April 20, 2023
Such a sweet story about twin sisters playing their single 30th birthday. And the way author talks about bullying made me teary eyed.
September 23, 2022
I was reading daily, but not really enjoying any of the books. Della and Darby had me hooked from beginning with the sisterly relationship and humor that only Susannah Lewis can produce. I read authors that can write funny nonfiction and those who produce humorous novels, but Susannah Lewis is talented enough to give us both.
Della and Darby are twins that are identical in looks and the fact that both are outcasts in their small town due to the accident that killed their mother. In every other way they are completely different. Della still wants former classmates to accept her into their grown up cliques. Darby is happy working at a factory and coming home and writing poems in her room. They live with their grandma Birdie who wants more for both of them. The novel takes us through a year of life before they turn 30 and readers cheers for Darby to try a new friendship with Cliff at work and wish Della for more self-confidant and not make a fool of herself for her interest in her boss.
Della and Darby is a unique story and will be one of my top reads for the year.
I received a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley, but all opinions are my own.
Della and Darby are twins that are identical in looks and the fact that both are outcasts in their small town due to the accident that killed their mother. In every other way they are completely different. Della still wants former classmates to accept her into their grown up cliques. Darby is happy working at a factory and coming home and writing poems in her room. They live with their grandma Birdie who wants more for both of them. The novel takes us through a year of life before they turn 30 and readers cheers for Darby to try a new friendship with Cliff at work and wish Della for more self-confidant and not make a fool of herself for her interest in her boss.
Della and Darby is a unique story and will be one of my top reads for the year.
I received a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley, but all opinions are my own.
January 17, 2023
I come to this book as a fan of of the author; having read both of her nonfiction anecdotal works, along with her fiction “Bless Your Heart, Rae Sutton” (LOVED that one!).
This reads like a true Women’s Fiction work, centered on three ladies (adult twins + their grandmother) as they grow and heal - with a slight romance mixed in. I found it to be a informative and sensitive portrayal of the devastating affects of addition on family members, both in the moment and long term.
As I dove into this story, I was tickled to find I could hear the author’s true voice in the pages. From the authentically southern lingo (like “heavens to Betsy” & “knee high to a grasshopper”) to the down home cooking to hints of her own personal story I noticed throughout.
I did find one particular character especially cringey through almost the whole book. And she only barely turned me around on her at the end. But apart from that, and some differing theological perspectives in spiritual advice offered, I chiefly enjoyed it.
I appreciated the clear sharing of the gospel and the emphasis on dealing and healing from the past.
Loved the ending with needed self-realization & change shown by the twins and I found the storylines tied up sweetly & satisfyingly.
Clean with no bedroom content or language.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishers and NetGalley for the complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This reads like a true Women’s Fiction work, centered on three ladies (adult twins + their grandmother) as they grow and heal - with a slight romance mixed in. I found it to be a informative and sensitive portrayal of the devastating affects of addition on family members, both in the moment and long term.
As I dove into this story, I was tickled to find I could hear the author’s true voice in the pages. From the authentically southern lingo (like “heavens to Betsy” & “knee high to a grasshopper”) to the down home cooking to hints of her own personal story I noticed throughout.
I did find one particular character especially cringey through almost the whole book. And she only barely turned me around on her at the end. But apart from that, and some differing theological perspectives in spiritual advice offered, I chiefly enjoyed it.
I appreciated the clear sharing of the gospel and the emphasis on dealing and healing from the past.
Loved the ending with needed self-realization & change shown by the twins and I found the storylines tied up sweetly & satisfyingly.
Clean with no bedroom content or language.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishers and NetGalley for the complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 20, 2023
Della and Darby by Susannah B. Lewis
282-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction
Featuring: 2016-2017, Multiple POVs, Twin Sisters, Grandma, Medical Office, Mississippi, Dated Chapters, Redemption, Birthdays, Church, Author's Note, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
My thoughts: 🔖Page 33 of 282 Ch. 4 Della Redd - I wasn't expecting 3 POVs or 29-year-olds; I thought these were teens. Nothing is interesting so far, but it's just setting the stage at this point.
🔖74 Ch. 8 Birdena Redd - This feels like 3 stars. I was even considering giving up on it, but the last 2 chapters changed my mind.
🔖114 Ch. 12 Darby Redd - It's growing on me. I'm only stopping because I have things to do.
This had a slow start but it blossomed well at the end, so I'm giving it a round-up to 4-star. I was expecting a YA story based on the cover but it turned out to be something else. The nearly 30-somethings were acting like teens in many ways. I was confused about the Christian Fiction label as well but by the end I understood it.
Recommend to others?: Yes, it's not for everyone but it's a quick but thoughtful story and not at all typical. Could be a breath of fresh air to some readers.
282-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction
Featuring: 2016-2017, Multiple POVs, Twin Sisters, Grandma, Medical Office, Mississippi, Dated Chapters, Redemption, Birthdays, Church, Author's Note, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG-13
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
My thoughts: 🔖Page 33 of 282 Ch. 4 Della Redd - I wasn't expecting 3 POVs or 29-year-olds; I thought these were teens. Nothing is interesting so far, but it's just setting the stage at this point.
🔖74 Ch. 8 Birdena Redd - This feels like 3 stars. I was even considering giving up on it, but the last 2 chapters changed my mind.
🔖114 Ch. 12 Darby Redd - It's growing on me. I'm only stopping because I have things to do.
This had a slow start but it blossomed well at the end, so I'm giving it a round-up to 4-star. I was expecting a YA story based on the cover but it turned out to be something else. The nearly 30-somethings were acting like teens in many ways. I was confused about the Christian Fiction label as well but by the end I understood it.
Recommend to others?: Yes, it's not for everyone but it's a quick but thoughtful story and not at all typical. Could be a breath of fresh air to some readers.
February 8, 2023
Della and Darby
A Novel of Sisters
by: Susannah B. Lewis
Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson
General Fiction (Adult), Southern Contemporary Women's Fiction
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Lewis' new book, with its small-town setting, twin sisters' story, and Southern atmosphere, was a fully satisfying read for me. Set in Clay Station, Mississippi, it covers one year between the twenty ninth and thirtieth October birthdays of oh-so-different twin sisters, Della and Darby. The women, who live with their endearing grandmother Birdie, have scars from tragedy in their youth.
The narrative is written from the alternating points of view of Della, Darby, and Birdie, giving readers understanding and insight into their pasts. I liked each character and rooted for them during a year of tension, change, and growth. Working through their obstacles and relationships was difficult for the three women. All eyes from the close community watched their every move and remembered each moment from years ago. With humor, warmth, and charm, lessons are learned about moving forward with the help of family, faith, and internal strength.
I really felt connected to the setting in this book, and was captured with references to Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lookout Mountain, and Fort Payne, Alabama, all near my home in Georgia. Fond memories of visiting my late aunt in Mississippi also added to my enjoyment.
Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A Novel of Sisters
by: Susannah B. Lewis
Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson
General Fiction (Adult), Southern Contemporary Women's Fiction
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Lewis' new book, with its small-town setting, twin sisters' story, and Southern atmosphere, was a fully satisfying read for me. Set in Clay Station, Mississippi, it covers one year between the twenty ninth and thirtieth October birthdays of oh-so-different twin sisters, Della and Darby. The women, who live with their endearing grandmother Birdie, have scars from tragedy in their youth.
The narrative is written from the alternating points of view of Della, Darby, and Birdie, giving readers understanding and insight into their pasts. I liked each character and rooted for them during a year of tension, change, and growth. Working through their obstacles and relationships was difficult for the three women. All eyes from the close community watched their every move and remembered each moment from years ago. With humor, warmth, and charm, lessons are learned about moving forward with the help of family, faith, and internal strength.
I really felt connected to the setting in this book, and was captured with references to Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lookout Mountain, and Fort Payne, Alabama, all near my home in Georgia. Fond memories of visiting my late aunt in Mississippi also added to my enjoyment.
Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson-FICTION, Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 7, 2023
This book have 3 Pov. From the twins Della and Darby also their grandmother Birdie. Their family struggle with judgemntal people in town, make the twins hard to get socialize without reminder what their mother was.
Della had sucsess live outside the town but she comeback because of Birdie stroke. All her life, she tried to impress and get acceptance, sometime she lies too but still people keep her outsider. Darby is introvert and quite. She enjoy it, alone dosnt matter to her. When Cliff try to be friend with her she confused how to respond it. Birdie the grandma want the twins get out more, socialize more.
It a long journey for the twins. Della to release her need to be acceptance and be what she wanna be without need anyone approve. Darby to open up and accept friendship with love from Cliff, se learn how to communicate and share her though with him.
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#DellaandDarby #SusannahBLewis #ThomasNelsonFiction #NetGalley #ARC
Della had sucsess live outside the town but she comeback because of Birdie stroke. All her life, she tried to impress and get acceptance, sometime she lies too but still people keep her outsider. Darby is introvert and quite. She enjoy it, alone dosnt matter to her. When Cliff try to be friend with her she confused how to respond it. Birdie the grandma want the twins get out more, socialize more.
It a long journey for the twins. Della to release her need to be acceptance and be what she wanna be without need anyone approve. Darby to open up and accept friendship with love from Cliff, se learn how to communicate and share her though with him.
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#DellaandDarby #SusannahBLewis #ThomasNelsonFiction #NetGalley #ARC
October 24, 2023
I didn't feel any sort of care or compassion for the majority of the people living in this fictional Mississippi small town. Darby grew on me a little but Della was a victim of her circumstances but people lowkey enabled her to not really grow despite her being a full grown adult. The enormous amount of Southern phrases and sprinkle of Bible conversations were unexpected but grating after the first handful of times. This isn't something I would recommend except to those who are used to (& actually enjoy) Southern based books with no diversity in them and insufferable characters.
February 15, 2023
Just a good, quick read.
July 11, 2023
Adorable book of twin sisters living in the small town they grew up in. Sweet lessons learned.
December 19, 2023
This was a sweet story that falls somewhere between the Hallmark channel and a made for TV Lifetime movie. It was a sweet story of growth and healing. I enjoyed the multiple POV's highlighting the female MC's relationship to each other.
July 8, 2023
Uplifting and heartwarming story.
March 6, 2023
Delightful read! Great story line, christian theme, loveable characters, and plenty of laughs! Don't pass this up if you can relate!
February 14, 2023
Susannah B Lewis is one of my favorite authors of the 2000s. Her books never disappoint. Her southern writing style is very relatable to those of us who live in the deep south. Thank you for always delivering quality reading. Lots of laughs and smiles throughout each one.
January 28, 2023
Della and Darby is a well written story. I enjoyed the plot and the character dynamics. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.
March 2, 2023
This book did not leave much of an impression on me, and in many ways just felt a bit boring. The characters were unique but flat, and the plot was interesting but also fell flat at the end, the writing was good though, and overall was just an okay book. Was it good? No. Was it bad? No.
It was just Meh.
It was just Meh.
November 29, 2022
After I started reading this book, I hopped on Goodreads to read some reviews of other readers. It was a mixed bag of opinions. Some gushed about how wonderful the book was and others about how slow the plot moved, how the characters were bland, etc. I found points of agreement with several of the reviewers.
This is the second book I have read by Susannah B Lewis, and I have a mixed bag of emotions about the book myself. I did feel the plot was too slow, the characters were caricatures, exaggerated beyond believability, but there were parts I could relate to all too well.
Della and Darby are twins raised by their grandmother after their alcoholic mother killed herself drinking and driving. After that episode, they were bullied all the way through school. Della wanted nothing more than to fit in, while Darby just crawled into herself and hid there. Their thirtieth birthday is coming up and their Grandma Birdie wants to throw them a party. At first they resist, but Della comes on board and wants to show the town they aren't the no-accounts they've always been presumed to be.
Della works with the doctor in town and believes herself to be in love with him. The fly in her ointment is that the two nurses who work with her take on the role of "mean girls" in her life. She wants so much to befriend them and knows she's quirky (at best), but they seem to get their jollies by tormenting her.
Darby works at the local prescription bottle factory and stays to herself as much as she can. Cliff tries to talk to her every single day, in spite of her rebuffs.
It's not until the birthday party that everything seems to fall into place for Della and Darby, and it's not until the birthday party that I gained a real interest in the book. It just wasn't my favorite. Three Stars.
This is the second book I have read by Susannah B Lewis, and I have a mixed bag of emotions about the book myself. I did feel the plot was too slow, the characters were caricatures, exaggerated beyond believability, but there were parts I could relate to all too well.
Della and Darby are twins raised by their grandmother after their alcoholic mother killed herself drinking and driving. After that episode, they were bullied all the way through school. Della wanted nothing more than to fit in, while Darby just crawled into herself and hid there. Their thirtieth birthday is coming up and their Grandma Birdie wants to throw them a party. At first they resist, but Della comes on board and wants to show the town they aren't the no-accounts they've always been presumed to be.
Della works with the doctor in town and believes herself to be in love with him. The fly in her ointment is that the two nurses who work with her take on the role of "mean girls" in her life. She wants so much to befriend them and knows she's quirky (at best), but they seem to get their jollies by tormenting her.
Darby works at the local prescription bottle factory and stays to herself as much as she can. Cliff tries to talk to her every single day, in spite of her rebuffs.
It's not until the birthday party that everything seems to fall into place for Della and Darby, and it's not until the birthday party that I gained a real interest in the book. It just wasn't my favorite. Three Stars.
March 17, 2023
Della and Darby are twins who were raised by their grandmother, Birdie, after their single, alcoholic mom got into a deadly car accident and killed the family of the police chief. The three of them are shunned by the town for the mother's awful deed. But Birdie gets the idea in her head that they should have a 30th birthday party for the twins. What follows is the year they great up for the party, as told from each of the women's POVs.
I honestly could not finish this. I've been trying for almost a month to get through this book, and now, at halfway through the book, only one person is only vaguely likeable in any way.
Della is absolutely delusional and immature, solely focused on how the man girls from high school are still mean girls as adults, and then starts imagining a relationship with her boss. Birdie keeps trying to make her granddaughters socialize with the people that shun them (thereby perpetuating Della's immaturity) even though she knows the whole town hates them. Darby is PAINFULLY introverted, but instead of just not wanting to speak to others, she blows up at people who try to start conversations and treats others like they're jerks for daring to speak to her. And the whole town (save maybe 3 people?) treats them like pariahs for being related to someone who made a terrible mistake.
There is no forward progress for either Della or Birdie, and they seem to revel in their stuck-ness. Darby is the only one that seems to make any progress for herself, but it takes about 125 pages for her to even start the progress, which makes it a slog.
The way the summary reads, this sounds like it's supposed to be light hearted and fun. But 160 pages into this, I just could not deal with them anymore. I have too many other books I would rather spend my time with.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy via NetGalley in return for sharing my thoughts on this book. Thanks to the author and publisher for this opportunity!
I honestly could not finish this. I've been trying for almost a month to get through this book, and now, at halfway through the book, only one person is only vaguely likeable in any way.
Della is absolutely delusional and immature, solely focused on how the man girls from high school are still mean girls as adults, and then starts imagining a relationship with her boss. Birdie keeps trying to make her granddaughters socialize with the people that shun them (thereby perpetuating Della's immaturity) even though she knows the whole town hates them. Darby is PAINFULLY introverted, but instead of just not wanting to speak to others, she blows up at people who try to start conversations and treats others like they're jerks for daring to speak to her. And the whole town (save maybe 3 people?) treats them like pariahs for being related to someone who made a terrible mistake.
There is no forward progress for either Della or Birdie, and they seem to revel in their stuck-ness. Darby is the only one that seems to make any progress for herself, but it takes about 125 pages for her to even start the progress, which makes it a slog.
The way the summary reads, this sounds like it's supposed to be light hearted and fun. But 160 pages into this, I just could not deal with them anymore. I have too many other books I would rather spend my time with.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy via NetGalley in return for sharing my thoughts on this book. Thanks to the author and publisher for this opportunity!
April 3, 2023
After loving "Bless You Heart, Rae Sutton" by Susannah; last year, I was very excited for this new book from her. Unfortunately, this one missed the mark for me. I never connected with Della as a character, to be honest she irritated me greatly. She was immature and didn't come off at all as a character to be sympathetic to given her backstory. I really wanted to shake some sense into her and yell at her to grow up and don't be so stupid. I also hated her reactions to Darby later in the story. Della was a very unlikable character for close to 80% of the story. Overall, the story for me, was sad and utterly depressing. The ending chapters were good and were most of what I liked about the book-although I did like Darby and Birdie and I thought Cliff was perfect for Darby. Darby was a cool character. I liked her growth in the novel. While this book didn't work for me-I do recommend "Bless Your Heart, Rae Sutton" as it was a fantastic read.
April 20, 2023
Books about twins intrigue me because there are many identical twin girls in my family history. I liked this book because the similarities and differences between twins, how they react to each other and to outside influences is fascinating. The ending upholds my belief that eventually twins find their way to understanding and believing in one another.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2022
Identical twins Della and Darby Redd confound everyone with their differences instead of their likeness. Della, college-educated and vibrant, makes purple her signature color and, at 29, still works hard at fitting in. Even though the people of Clay Station, Mississippi, can’t seem to overlook the sins of her mother and delight in exacting revenge on Della and Darby.
Darby keeps her head down and seems content living in her own small world—working at a pill bottle factory and hanging out in her bedroom at home. As an introvert, she doesn’t see the need to expand her horizons or worry much about what others think. She wishes Della would return to Chattanooga and her circle of friends instead of settling for a dead-end job as a receptionist at a doctor’s office.
Both girls live with Birdie, their maternal grandmother, and the woman who raised them after their mother’s tragic death. Most people in town would consider their mother’s death a blessing and the circumstances a tragedy for the rest of the town. Birdie can’t forgive herself for her mistakes as a parent and wants nothing more than for Della and Darby to find happiness. But it looks like a losing battle.
When Della and Birdie decide to throw a 30th birthday bash for the sisters, Darby has her doubts. Della fantasizes about showing up with her suddenly-in-love-with-her boss and finding redemption in the town’s eyes after 25 years of ridicule and bullying.
When a new employee at the factory starts pestering Darby with unwanted friendship, Darby struggles to know how to react. Even worse, her unasked-for friend, Cliff, tells her about a sting operation involving Della’s boss. When Darby shares the information with Della, she fears she may have pushed her sister out of her life for good.
What I Loved About this Book
While the subtitle proclaims Della and Darby is a novel about sisters, it could just as easily be subtitled ‘a novel about regrets.’ We all have them, and we often forget how we deal with them has a ripple effect that touches other people’s lives.
Another possible subtitle, ‘a novel of blindness,’ works, too. We all have a blind side to our characters where we buy into false narratives—victim, introvert, failure as a parent, or extrovert. Della, Darby, and Birdie show us how false narratives can take over our lives and trap us in places we never want to go.
Told from multiple points of view (Della’s, Darby’s, and Birdie’s), I found it sometimes painful to enter Della’s point of view. Her desperation to fit in made me ache physically. Birdie’s point of view made me examine my parenting failures and how I grieve and move on (or don’t).
But most of all, Della and Darby helped me understand and have compassion for those on the margins. We each have beautiful, painful, intriguing, and heart-rending stories which shape us. The world would be better if we took the time to explore, listen more, and judge less.
Darby keeps her head down and seems content living in her own small world—working at a pill bottle factory and hanging out in her bedroom at home. As an introvert, she doesn’t see the need to expand her horizons or worry much about what others think. She wishes Della would return to Chattanooga and her circle of friends instead of settling for a dead-end job as a receptionist at a doctor’s office.
Both girls live with Birdie, their maternal grandmother, and the woman who raised them after their mother’s tragic death. Most people in town would consider their mother’s death a blessing and the circumstances a tragedy for the rest of the town. Birdie can’t forgive herself for her mistakes as a parent and wants nothing more than for Della and Darby to find happiness. But it looks like a losing battle.
When Della and Birdie decide to throw a 30th birthday bash for the sisters, Darby has her doubts. Della fantasizes about showing up with her suddenly-in-love-with-her boss and finding redemption in the town’s eyes after 25 years of ridicule and bullying.
When a new employee at the factory starts pestering Darby with unwanted friendship, Darby struggles to know how to react. Even worse, her unasked-for friend, Cliff, tells her about a sting operation involving Della’s boss. When Darby shares the information with Della, she fears she may have pushed her sister out of her life for good.
What I Loved About this Book
While the subtitle proclaims Della and Darby is a novel about sisters, it could just as easily be subtitled ‘a novel about regrets.’ We all have them, and we often forget how we deal with them has a ripple effect that touches other people’s lives.
Another possible subtitle, ‘a novel of blindness,’ works, too. We all have a blind side to our characters where we buy into false narratives—victim, introvert, failure as a parent, or extrovert. Della, Darby, and Birdie show us how false narratives can take over our lives and trap us in places we never want to go.
Told from multiple points of view (Della’s, Darby’s, and Birdie’s), I found it sometimes painful to enter Della’s point of view. Her desperation to fit in made me ache physically. Birdie’s point of view made me examine my parenting failures and how I grieve and move on (or don’t).
But most of all, Della and Darby helped me understand and have compassion for those on the margins. We each have beautiful, painful, intriguing, and heart-rending stories which shape us. The world would be better if we took the time to explore, listen more, and judge less.
May 5, 2023
An unusual sibling relationship and small town complications sets up the latest novel by Susannah B. Lewis, an award-winning author and well-known social media presence. She’s known for clean storytelling with a shout-out to Christian fiction.
“Della and Darby” is the fictional story of twins growing up in Clay Station, Mississippi. While they look alike, they are very different in their approaches to life. Della is outspoken, loves the color purple and yearns to be accepted by others. Darby is shy, loves to write and will only begrudgingly speak to anyone other than her sister or grandmother Birdie.
The twins, now grown women, have only known the love of their grandmother. Their mom, Birdie’s daughter, was the town drunk before she died, as well as several others, in a fatal DUI crash. From then on, the town has looked down on, talked about and pointed fingers at Birdie, Della and Darby. Birdie can’t forgive herself for her mistakes as a parent and wants nothing more than for Della and Darby to find happiness. But it looks like a losing battle.
As an adult, Della escapes for a time to Chattanooga and a circle of friends. But when Birdie has health issues, she returns to Clay’s Station and takes up a dead-end job as a receptionist at a doctor’s office. Darby works at a pill bottle factory, keeping to herself until a co-worker forces her to break her silence.
As the sisters approach their 30th birthday, Birdie and Della make plans for a fancy celebration. Della envisions a grand entrance on the arm of her boss, a handsome doctor. Darby would rather spend the evening in her room alone with a pen and paper.
Nothing goes as planned. The doctor snubs Della, and Darby finally makes a friend. The bond between the sisters is stretched thin as they begin to face the past, present and future. They finally must acknowledge how their adult journey has been impacted by their childhoods.
What sets this novel apart from others is the tenderness shown by Lewis for her characters and their relationships. As a native of the South, she understands how colloquialisms are part of the regional vocabulary, often carrying a deeper meaning than just the words spoken.
At times, the novel is funny; it’s easy to picture the characters as people you might have encountered in your life. It’s also sad; dealing with age and failing health is never easy. In the end, it’s a positive message of growth, healing and being open to true love.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my opinion.
“Della and Darby” is the fictional story of twins growing up in Clay Station, Mississippi. While they look alike, they are very different in their approaches to life. Della is outspoken, loves the color purple and yearns to be accepted by others. Darby is shy, loves to write and will only begrudgingly speak to anyone other than her sister or grandmother Birdie.
The twins, now grown women, have only known the love of their grandmother. Their mom, Birdie’s daughter, was the town drunk before she died, as well as several others, in a fatal DUI crash. From then on, the town has looked down on, talked about and pointed fingers at Birdie, Della and Darby. Birdie can’t forgive herself for her mistakes as a parent and wants nothing more than for Della and Darby to find happiness. But it looks like a losing battle.
As an adult, Della escapes for a time to Chattanooga and a circle of friends. But when Birdie has health issues, she returns to Clay’s Station and takes up a dead-end job as a receptionist at a doctor’s office. Darby works at a pill bottle factory, keeping to herself until a co-worker forces her to break her silence.
As the sisters approach their 30th birthday, Birdie and Della make plans for a fancy celebration. Della envisions a grand entrance on the arm of her boss, a handsome doctor. Darby would rather spend the evening in her room alone with a pen and paper.
Nothing goes as planned. The doctor snubs Della, and Darby finally makes a friend. The bond between the sisters is stretched thin as they begin to face the past, present and future. They finally must acknowledge how their adult journey has been impacted by their childhoods.
What sets this novel apart from others is the tenderness shown by Lewis for her characters and their relationships. As a native of the South, she understands how colloquialisms are part of the regional vocabulary, often carrying a deeper meaning than just the words spoken.
At times, the novel is funny; it’s easy to picture the characters as people you might have encountered in your life. It’s also sad; dealing with age and failing health is never easy. In the end, it’s a positive message of growth, healing and being open to true love.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my opinion.
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April 27, 2023"I had secondhand embarrassment for her, just as I did when she invited herself to Morgan Doyle's slumber party in the sixth grade." -Darby Redd
Della and Darby by Susannah B. Lewis
Della and Darby is about twin sisters living with the grandmother who raised them. Their mother had them young and a tragic accident took her away from the girls. They have had to live in a small town in Mississippi where the community not only never forgets but has ostracized Della, Darby, and Grandmother Birdie. It doesn't help matters that Della has always wanted to be a part of the "in-crowd" while Darby is content to be alone.
Della finally got her chance to leave town after high school but came rushing back when Birdie suffered a stroke. Della is working for a family practice as a receptionist and Darby is working in a warehouse that manufactures pill bottles. Della thinks that things between her and the Doctor that runs the clinic might be changing romantically but she quickly discovers he views her as a friend only. Darby has never had a friend, let alone been in a romantic relationship. Now, things are changing with Darby and Della is jealous. When Darby and her new friend Cliff tell Della a rumor about her boss, she flies off the handle. But in the end, Della and Darby make up and realize they need and love each other.
Della and Darby was a fun, quick, read. I enjoyed Darby much more than Della. Darby grew as a character for me. Della seemed a little unhinged, and like Darby said, the secondhand embarrassment was real with her. It was like a train wreck though, I just kept reading but I cringed almost every time it was her chapter. Then when I got to her final chapter, she was redeemed and finally saw what Darby had been trying to tell her the entire time. Be content. I feel like the southern colloquialisms were a hit or miss, but being from the south myself I think it was just strange seeing them written instead of hearing them spoken aloud. It was a solid four star read and I can't wait to see what else Susannah B. Lewis writes next.
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