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Butterfly Box #2
Hometown Girl
Jocelyn Rogers's life is in a rut. Maybe she should step outside her comfort zone and move to Milford Falls, where she has inherited her grandmother's house. With the encouragement of the other Butterfly Girls, Jocelyn musters her courage and starts a new life. However, when she arrives in the small town that holds both good and bad memories for her, she discovers the house in worse shape than she expected, and getting repairs done is anything but easyespecially when it comes to dealing with Jack Emerson, a man who seems to be agitated by Jocelyn and everyone else within a fifty-mile radius. To make matters worse, she has begun to worry that moving back to the place where she once spent a troubled summer will expose the deep personal secret she has kept hidden for fourteen years. But Jack also has a hidden secret that has prevented him from getting close to anyone in a long time. And now it seems that interfering neighbors may prevent both Jack and Jocelyn from moving forward with their lives. Join the Butterfly Girls in this charmingly romantic story that shows sometimes it takes a leap of faith to land on your feet.
282 pages, Paperback
First published May 28, 2010
379 people want to read
About the author
Michele Ashman Bell
43 books342 followersI grew up in St. George, Utah, where a lot of my family still lives, but now reside with my husband and family in the Salt Lake City area. My favorite thing to do is support my kids in their many interests. Between basketball, ballet and piano lessons we squeeze a lot into a week, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
August 29, 2010
Hometown Girl by Michele Ashman Bell
This second in Michele's Butterfly Box series is my favorite of the two, mainly because the setting takes place in a small town by Seattle, Washington, which is about two hundred miles from where I live, which also happens to be a small town.
The story evolves around Jocelyn, the Art Teacher, who was responsible for the Butterfly Box in the first place. Her grandmother died, leaving Jocelyn her old house. When the mayor of Milford Falls calls to tell her the house is in disrepair, that the property has become an eyesore to the community, Jocelyn is torn, as she is comfortable in her hometown of St. George. When the Butterfly Girls get together for their annual get together, her friends encourage her to move to Milford Falls.
When she arrives, she is given a ticket for going 13 miles over the speed limit, a parking ticket, then has major issues with her car. To make matters worse, she finds her ceiling caving in because of old pipes, birds in her bedroom, so she gets the local handyman, Jack Emerson, to fix the repairs while she does the painting and refinishing of new furniture she finds in town. She finds a friend in her neighbor Harry, a widower, who helps her in a business venture by growing a Raspberry Farm, utilizing both properties.
When things are looking promising for Jocelyn and Jack, the town and ward busybody lets Jack know Jocelyn's long ago secret she's been having difficulty dealing with and she feels the reason he has been shunning her is because of this, but when she finds out the real reason, that Jack has had secrets himself, it is a shock, but is a startling revelation for each.
When a teaching position opens up in Milford Falls, she knows that her prayers are being answered and she realizes living in a small town is what she has needed to really belong and feel loved and to put the past behind her.
Forever Friends Rating 5 Stars by Teri
Until Next Time, See You Around The Book Nook.
I received this review copy from Michele.
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Date Published: July 2010
ISBN: 978-1-59811-922-0
282pp
This second in Michele's Butterfly Box series is my favorite of the two, mainly because the setting takes place in a small town by Seattle, Washington, which is about two hundred miles from where I live, which also happens to be a small town.
The story evolves around Jocelyn, the Art Teacher, who was responsible for the Butterfly Box in the first place. Her grandmother died, leaving Jocelyn her old house. When the mayor of Milford Falls calls to tell her the house is in disrepair, that the property has become an eyesore to the community, Jocelyn is torn, as she is comfortable in her hometown of St. George. When the Butterfly Girls get together for their annual get together, her friends encourage her to move to Milford Falls.
When she arrives, she is given a ticket for going 13 miles over the speed limit, a parking ticket, then has major issues with her car. To make matters worse, she finds her ceiling caving in because of old pipes, birds in her bedroom, so she gets the local handyman, Jack Emerson, to fix the repairs while she does the painting and refinishing of new furniture she finds in town. She finds a friend in her neighbor Harry, a widower, who helps her in a business venture by growing a Raspberry Farm, utilizing both properties.
When things are looking promising for Jocelyn and Jack, the town and ward busybody lets Jack know Jocelyn's long ago secret she's been having difficulty dealing with and she feels the reason he has been shunning her is because of this, but when she finds out the real reason, that Jack has had secrets himself, it is a shock, but is a startling revelation for each.
When a teaching position opens up in Milford Falls, she knows that her prayers are being answered and she realizes living in a small town is what she has needed to really belong and feel loved and to put the past behind her.
Forever Friends Rating 5 Stars by Teri
Until Next Time, See You Around The Book Nook.
I received this review copy from Michele.
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Date Published: July 2010
ISBN: 978-1-59811-922-0
282pp
August 11, 2010
I liked this book, but not as much as the first one. LDS authors seem to have to put sexual problems in their books to make it sell and I don't think it is right. I think it would be better off without it. Sometimes it seems like the authors have no clue how much that stuff really hurts and they are just exploiting it. I don't agree.
March 23, 2014
Not as good as the first one in the series, but still pretty good. I don't think it really addressed the issues of the main character too well. I think it could have influenced the story more.
May 23, 2011
Great book about how our trials make us a better person. Jocelyn is getting older. She lives in St. George, has an art teaching job that she loves, but doesn't like the management. Has an apartment that is tolerable, but that she isn't attached to and just isn't satisfied with the predictability of her life. She decides that she will make a change and go live in Milford Washington where her late grandmother has willed her a house. She is hesitant of change, but plunges in.
When she arrives there is one problem after another. Her pipes in the house need replaced, her kitchen ceiling caves in, her car transmission goes out and all need fixing on her limited budget. However, the town and the ward rally around her. Jack Emerson in particular helps her to see that she can't just give up, but measure her decision to leave or stay on the things going for her. She gets a art job in WA too which seals the deal. Jack does the repairs for her and she finds that she is starting to like him and him her. They both have pasts that they are still dealing with. His is revealed after they share a kiss and he gets scared off by his feelings for her. He pulls away and Jocelyn doesn't know what to think besides that he judged her for her pregnancy that resulted from the rape in HS that even she hasn't revealed to her best friends. She decides it's time to let go of the past and move on. She reveals her secret and he reveals that he is a famous singer who vowed never to hurt anyone again or love because of his part in his wife and daughter's death. They help each other heal and both learn to love again and are married.
Her other butterfly friends are involved in their own life and she doesn't see them much but keeps in touch. Emma is seeing a guy, Nicholas who is from Greece, but whose relationship and influence on Emma is more secretive. Lauryn is living in NY with Jace her husband and still a clothes designer. Chloe is dealing with her separation from her husband due to this addition to porn and later they divorce. The last girl, Andrea, who has dealt with anorexia, starts a new job, but is asked to do a "Looking for Mrs. Right" TV show and she accepts, but is hesitant to get excited because of her values.
When she arrives there is one problem after another. Her pipes in the house need replaced, her kitchen ceiling caves in, her car transmission goes out and all need fixing on her limited budget. However, the town and the ward rally around her. Jack Emerson in particular helps her to see that she can't just give up, but measure her decision to leave or stay on the things going for her. She gets a art job in WA too which seals the deal. Jack does the repairs for her and she finds that she is starting to like him and him her. They both have pasts that they are still dealing with. His is revealed after they share a kiss and he gets scared off by his feelings for her. He pulls away and Jocelyn doesn't know what to think besides that he judged her for her pregnancy that resulted from the rape in HS that even she hasn't revealed to her best friends. She decides it's time to let go of the past and move on. She reveals her secret and he reveals that he is a famous singer who vowed never to hurt anyone again or love because of his part in his wife and daughter's death. They help each other heal and both learn to love again and are married.
Her other butterfly friends are involved in their own life and she doesn't see them much but keeps in touch. Emma is seeing a guy, Nicholas who is from Greece, but whose relationship and influence on Emma is more secretive. Lauryn is living in NY with Jace her husband and still a clothes designer. Chloe is dealing with her separation from her husband due to this addition to porn and later they divorce. The last girl, Andrea, who has dealt with anorexia, starts a new job, but is asked to do a "Looking for Mrs. Right" TV show and she accepts, but is hesitant to get excited because of her values.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2011
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be married to a rock star? or move from a big city to a small town to a small town? well if you would like to find out these questions then just open up this amazng book and find out these questions for yourself. once i picked up this book i couldnt put it down. i mean finding out your best friend is a rock star. how awesome would that be.
This book was awesome and i just couldn't put it down.the characters are very well placed and the setting is perfect. nothing should be changed. if i were to recommend someone to read this book then that would have to be teenager girls or adults. it has a lot of romance in it and it keeps you thinking through out the whole book.
this book has two main characters named Jack and Jocelyn. each of the characters fits there personality very well and the roll they play in this book. Jocelyn is from St. George and moves to a small town because her grandmother's house is going to be sold because of its condition. so Jocelyn moves to Washington to her grandmothers house to take care of it. while she is there she meets this guy named jack. soon finds out he is a rock star. Jack doesnt want to be the same person he was before so he joined the church of jesus christ of later day saints. they soon fall in love and he proposes to Jocelyn.
Jocelyn and her friends while graduating high school one of there best friends got murdered and now someone is out to get the rest of her friends. nothing bad happens in this book but in the next one. well ill just let you find out for yourself.
This book had two other series with it. this is the second book. the author of this book is Michelle Ashmon Bell. when i first read this book i couldnt put it down. it kept me thinking and the characters fir the setting and the role they play in the book. if i was to recommend this book to someone then it would have to be to teenagers girls and adults. this book is an amazing romance. it is also an LDS book so its even better. so if you lobe romance books then i strongly recommend this book.
This book was awesome and i just couldn't put it down.the characters are very well placed and the setting is perfect. nothing should be changed. if i were to recommend someone to read this book then that would have to be teenager girls or adults. it has a lot of romance in it and it keeps you thinking through out the whole book.
this book has two main characters named Jack and Jocelyn. each of the characters fits there personality very well and the roll they play in this book. Jocelyn is from St. George and moves to a small town because her grandmother's house is going to be sold because of its condition. so Jocelyn moves to Washington to her grandmothers house to take care of it. while she is there she meets this guy named jack. soon finds out he is a rock star. Jack doesnt want to be the same person he was before so he joined the church of jesus christ of later day saints. they soon fall in love and he proposes to Jocelyn.
Jocelyn and her friends while graduating high school one of there best friends got murdered and now someone is out to get the rest of her friends. nothing bad happens in this book but in the next one. well ill just let you find out for yourself.
This book had two other series with it. this is the second book. the author of this book is Michelle Ashmon Bell. when i first read this book i couldnt put it down. it kept me thinking and the characters fir the setting and the role they play in the book. if i was to recommend this book to someone then it would have to be to teenagers girls and adults. this book is an amazing romance. it is also an LDS book so its even better. so if you lobe romance books then i strongly recommend this book.
July 30, 2010
By G.G. Vandagriff
As a writer struggling to write her own "ensemble series," featuring only four characters, I can definitely tell you that Michele Ashman Bell is a gifted writer! In her Butterfly Box series (Hometown Girl is #2), Bell deals with a crowd of five women, best friends since High School. In her opening chapters, we are introduced to each of these characters effortlessly, until we not only know them apart, but know all the angst that they let their friends see, and a lot that we can guess at. This is a great achievement.
When the book narrows down to one member of the ensemble, Jocelyn, who has decided to move from St. George to a tiny town in Washington state, she seems to regress in the maturity and capability she demonstrated when she was home with the "girls." However! Do not be fooled! Though Jocelyn seems to struggle overmuch with problems that seem small compared to conquering world hunger, balancing the budget, and redeeming the world, there is a good reason for her seeming lack of perspective.
Jocelyn is dealing with problems in her past that occurred in this very locality—her grandmother's house--years before. And, though it seems absurd that a beautiful girl of 31 would be so inexperienced with the male sex, take it from me, there is a very good reason for that as well.
Once the horrible tale is told, we are introduced to another of Bell's brilliant strengths. She can write romance like nobody's business. She avoids all known clichés and draws you in to her character's heart in such a way that you feel loved down to your toes. This is a wonderful strength, surprisingly unusual in today's world of literature. Since this is another weak spot for me, I appreciate her skill immensely. Some may think this is profane, but she does it even better than Austen!
September 9, 2010
The Butterfly Girls are back in Michele Ashman Bell’s new release Hometown Girl. The second book in the Butterfly Box Series, the much anticipated sequel to A Modest Proposal opens with Lauren, Chloe, Emma, Jocelyn, and Andrea endeavoring to navigate the twists and turns of their individual lives. Though they are each pulled by the varying forces in different directions their determination to support one another through thick and thin is as strong as ever.
In this book we find out more about Jocelyn, her life, and the forces that have shaped her. The book gets off to an unhurried start with a Butterfly Girl Reunion; for readers who haven’t read the first volume the ample back story helps each woman come into focus. As the story builds steam, Jocelyn departs and, despite misgivings, attempts to begin a new life. Michele has penned a cast of affable townspeople in the small community where Jocelyn finds herself after inheriting her grandmother’s house. The characters keep the story moving forward and the town itself comes alive through Michele’s vivid description and attention to detail. With Michele’s knack for intriguing dialogue we follow Jocelyn as she faces a series of difficult decisions.
When a secret she has kept woven into the depths of her soul for fourteen years begins to unravel, Jocelyn turns to the Butterfly Girls. Though they nurture her with support and understanding, she must summon inner courage to steer her life back on course. Handsome Jack Emerson is appealing to her, but he has secrets of his own and doesn’t get too close. Michele tackles some difficult subject material with tact and we see Jocelyn emerge as a strong and capable woman.
I found the Butterfly Girls to be an enjoyable read. I look forward to more installments in this series.
In this book we find out more about Jocelyn, her life, and the forces that have shaped her. The book gets off to an unhurried start with a Butterfly Girl Reunion; for readers who haven’t read the first volume the ample back story helps each woman come into focus. As the story builds steam, Jocelyn departs and, despite misgivings, attempts to begin a new life. Michele has penned a cast of affable townspeople in the small community where Jocelyn finds herself after inheriting her grandmother’s house. The characters keep the story moving forward and the town itself comes alive through Michele’s vivid description and attention to detail. With Michele’s knack for intriguing dialogue we follow Jocelyn as she faces a series of difficult decisions.
When a secret she has kept woven into the depths of her soul for fourteen years begins to unravel, Jocelyn turns to the Butterfly Girls. Though they nurture her with support and understanding, she must summon inner courage to steer her life back on course. Handsome Jack Emerson is appealing to her, but he has secrets of his own and doesn’t get too close. Michele tackles some difficult subject material with tact and we see Jocelyn emerge as a strong and capable woman.
I found the Butterfly Girls to be an enjoyable read. I look forward to more installments in this series.
August 30, 2011
Second try posting my review. First one did not post due to a Goodreads problem. Too bad. It was pretty good I thought. Spent an hour or two composing it. Oh well...
So, I really liked this one. First, this is "LDS Chick Lit". For those unfamiliar with this genre, that translates to "clean reads" with a palatable dose of LDS doctrine incorporated into it's story line. This book is part of a series by Ms. Bell that has ongoing characters and plot lines. In the case of Book 2 in the Butterfly Box series, one of my favorite characters from Book 1 is the focus of this episode. (Which is one of the reasons I liked this as much as I did).
Jocelyn Rogers is the central character in this story. There is a bit of a mystery about her. The Butterfly Box contains cherished mementos from each of the five Butterfly "Sisters". In Jocelyn's case, the small white box she contributed, she has never shared with her "sisters" what the box contains. What is inside represents a significant event that occurred in her life, that is mostly responsible for her massive insecurities. An event which none of her "sisters" have any knowledge of.
This story deals with concepts that are very familiar to LDS readers.
The efficacy of "The Atonement". Forgiveness, particularly self-forgiveness. The abundant blessings in the giving and receiving of service. All are driving forces in the plot lines of this book.
This story has a very satisfying ending. The "romantic lead" in this tale is another reason why I liked this one. His name is Jack. For those who know me well, they will understand why I have a fondness for this novel. This one fulfilled my expectations in terms of my reading enjoyment.
So, I really liked this one. First, this is "LDS Chick Lit". For those unfamiliar with this genre, that translates to "clean reads" with a palatable dose of LDS doctrine incorporated into it's story line. This book is part of a series by Ms. Bell that has ongoing characters and plot lines. In the case of Book 2 in the Butterfly Box series, one of my favorite characters from Book 1 is the focus of this episode. (Which is one of the reasons I liked this as much as I did).
Jocelyn Rogers is the central character in this story. There is a bit of a mystery about her. The Butterfly Box contains cherished mementos from each of the five Butterfly "Sisters". In Jocelyn's case, the small white box she contributed, she has never shared with her "sisters" what the box contains. What is inside represents a significant event that occurred in her life, that is mostly responsible for her massive insecurities. An event which none of her "sisters" have any knowledge of.
This story deals with concepts that are very familiar to LDS readers.
The efficacy of "The Atonement". Forgiveness, particularly self-forgiveness. The abundant blessings in the giving and receiving of service. All are driving forces in the plot lines of this book.
This story has a very satisfying ending. The "romantic lead" in this tale is another reason why I liked this one. His name is Jack. For those who know me well, they will understand why I have a fondness for this novel. This one fulfilled my expectations in terms of my reading enjoyment.
November 30, 2010
Hometown Girl is a delightful romance full of humor. When Jocelyn moves into the home she inherited from her grandmother, the laughter begins. One thing after another happens to her while fixing up the home, which is in need of great repair. When a couple birds find their way into the house, she tries chasing them outside with a tennis racket. But they end up chasing her outside, screaming with her hands flailing in the air erratically and still holding her racket. Quickly the scene from Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds comes back to her as she screams in fear. It's a hilarious scene. But you laugh even harder when Jocelyn finally settles down, turns around, and finds Jack, the hero of the book, parked in his truck and watching her with amusement.
Humor isn't the only element in this story. With a house falling apart, loneliness, frustration, and mysterious nightmares, Jocelyn learns what charity really is and learns to accept her trials. She also has a deep secret that she has kept hidden for fourteen years that seems to haunt her.
Jack is a fun character. He's a good-looking young man who owns his own repair shop. I love his description. He's a "scruffy bearded, pony tailed man wearing a plaid flannel shirt." I loved him right away. Even though he and Jocelyn don't hit it off at first, I knew this couple would get together eventually. Between these two characters, Michele has her readers thoroughly entertained. This is an excellent novel. Bravo, Michele! I would recommend this book for teens and adults.
Written by Linda Weaver Clarke, author of the new mystery series “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.”
Humor isn't the only element in this story. With a house falling apart, loneliness, frustration, and mysterious nightmares, Jocelyn learns what charity really is and learns to accept her trials. She also has a deep secret that she has kept hidden for fourteen years that seems to haunt her.
Jack is a fun character. He's a good-looking young man who owns his own repair shop. I love his description. He's a "scruffy bearded, pony tailed man wearing a plaid flannel shirt." I loved him right away. Even though he and Jocelyn don't hit it off at first, I knew this couple would get together eventually. Between these two characters, Michele has her readers thoroughly entertained. This is an excellent novel. Bravo, Michele! I would recommend this book for teens and adults.
Written by Linda Weaver Clarke, author of the new mystery series “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.”
May 28, 2013
This book was full of adventure and fun! The main character(Jocelyn) tries to fit in when she moves into her Grandmother's house. This book could have taken place in a different setting but the setting fit the feel that this book gave.
Jocelyn is the main character. Jocelyn lives in St. George. She grew up with her grandma. When her grandma died, she moved to St. George. Her Grandma's house was in very bad shape. The people that owned Jocelyn's grandma's house said that she either had to move into her grandma's house or she had to let them sell it. Jocelyn had a hard time deciding but she eventually came to her decision and it led to her happily ever after.
I loved this book because it kept me wanting to read it and it also had very good descriptions about the setting and the surroundings of the place that Jocelyn spent most of her time. Two quotes that I liked in this book were; "She looked up. Oh-it had to be him! "Hello Jack." pg.66. "Well, she'd give anything to be bored back in St. George right now." pg.78.
I chose the theme for this book because I beleve that this was the message of the book or the lesson that could be learned from this book. Decisions are hard but you have to trust yourself to make them. I think that is a true statement and I think this book teaches a great lesson on how we have to make our own decisions and trust ourselves to do so. I recommend this book to teenage girls and adult females. It is a romatic novel and I think teenage girls and adult women would enjoy it the most. I liked this book because it didn't swear and it was positive and fun to read.
Jocelyn is the main character. Jocelyn lives in St. George. She grew up with her grandma. When her grandma died, she moved to St. George. Her Grandma's house was in very bad shape. The people that owned Jocelyn's grandma's house said that she either had to move into her grandma's house or she had to let them sell it. Jocelyn had a hard time deciding but she eventually came to her decision and it led to her happily ever after.
I loved this book because it kept me wanting to read it and it also had very good descriptions about the setting and the surroundings of the place that Jocelyn spent most of her time. Two quotes that I liked in this book were; "She looked up. Oh-it had to be him! "Hello Jack." pg.66. "Well, she'd give anything to be bored back in St. George right now." pg.78.
I chose the theme for this book because I beleve that this was the message of the book or the lesson that could be learned from this book. Decisions are hard but you have to trust yourself to make them. I think that is a true statement and I think this book teaches a great lesson on how we have to make our own decisions and trust ourselves to do so. I recommend this book to teenage girls and adult females. It is a romatic novel and I think teenage girls and adult women would enjoy it the most. I liked this book because it didn't swear and it was positive and fun to read.
August 2, 2010
Being a fan of Michele's, I knew that I was in for a real treat as I snuggled into my bed to read Hometown Girl, Book Two of the Butterfly Box Series. (I know that I'm missing out in the series if I don't read Book One.)
Jocelyn Rogers is living comfortably in her little life surrounded by everything she could ever want. Good friends, a great job, and the nice city of St. George.
That all changed with a single telephone call.
The mayor of quaint little Milford Falls is distressed over the condition of a dollhouse cottage in his trim residence. Jocelyn must return and fix it up or he'll sell it. What makes it a hard choice is that she loves her life, but yet, she also loves the cottage, once belonging to her grandmother before she had passed on.
Encouraged for a fresh start and adventure, Jocelyn follows her friends' enthusiastic urges.
This story is about growth, friendship, love, and forgiveness. Every character is vividly painted, realistic, yet lovable. They breathe their heart into mine, sharing their love, and secrets that whisper quiet strength to me.
My favorite part is when Jocelyn finally finds the courage to move on, and realizes that the Lord loves her and that she can love others wholly as well. That part really brought tears to my eyes because I've been there, too!
Michele Ashman Bell still amazes me with her perception of heart, love and courage and what it takes to reach across the pages of a book to touch the reader in so many ways.
Jocelyn Rogers is living comfortably in her little life surrounded by everything she could ever want. Good friends, a great job, and the nice city of St. George.
That all changed with a single telephone call.
The mayor of quaint little Milford Falls is distressed over the condition of a dollhouse cottage in his trim residence. Jocelyn must return and fix it up or he'll sell it. What makes it a hard choice is that she loves her life, but yet, she also loves the cottage, once belonging to her grandmother before she had passed on.
Encouraged for a fresh start and adventure, Jocelyn follows her friends' enthusiastic urges.
This story is about growth, friendship, love, and forgiveness. Every character is vividly painted, realistic, yet lovable. They breathe their heart into mine, sharing their love, and secrets that whisper quiet strength to me.
My favorite part is when Jocelyn finally finds the courage to move on, and realizes that the Lord loves her and that she can love others wholly as well. That part really brought tears to my eyes because I've been there, too!
Michele Ashman Bell still amazes me with her perception of heart, love and courage and what it takes to reach across the pages of a book to touch the reader in so many ways.
August 9, 2010
I’ve only read two of Michele’s books, but I’ve really enjoyed both of them. In fact, this one had me up until 2am because I couldn’t put it down until I knew what had happened in the end. I didn’t find Jack nearly as crusty and unapproachable in the book as he’s made out to be on the back cover, however. I liked him from the start, but that could be because I knew I was reading a romance, and he was THE GUY.
Jocelyn’s secrets are big, and they run deep. So do Jack’s, which is why I think I enjoyed watching them work their way to one another. So much of this book reminded me of my own life. I could, at this moment, move to a small town (with my family) and take up residence in a grandmother’s house—that is also likely in need of a great many expensive repairs. I have moved recently, and found—like Jocelyn does in the book—a friendly, welcoming ward who also seem to be everywhere I go. And some of the moments she shares with Jack remind me of my husband.
I’ve learned I’m an emotional reviewer. If a book brings an emotional response from me, then I’m going to like it. Even if it makes me cry. Hometown Girl had several touching moments, but enough laugh out loud moments to keep me going. I had a great time staying up all night to read it—even if I was a zombie the next day!
Jocelyn’s secrets are big, and they run deep. So do Jack’s, which is why I think I enjoyed watching them work their way to one another. So much of this book reminded me of my own life. I could, at this moment, move to a small town (with my family) and take up residence in a grandmother’s house—that is also likely in need of a great many expensive repairs. I have moved recently, and found—like Jocelyn does in the book—a friendly, welcoming ward who also seem to be everywhere I go. And some of the moments she shares with Jack remind me of my husband.
I’ve learned I’m an emotional reviewer. If a book brings an emotional response from me, then I’m going to like it. Even if it makes me cry. Hometown Girl had several touching moments, but enough laugh out loud moments to keep me going. I had a great time staying up all night to read it—even if I was a zombie the next day!
November 25, 2015
This second book in the Butterfly Box Series is even better for me than the first book! Ms. Bell continues the story begun in The Modest Proposal but this book focuses on Jocelyn and her struggles. When Jocelyn gets a call from the Mayor of Millford Falls, Washington, telling her that the home her grandmother left her two years ago at her passing is falling apart and that she is in jeopardy of legal recourse if not taken care of in 30 days, Jocelyn makes a bold move to uproot her safe life to go take care of the home she can't bear to sell. When things fall apart, literally, Jocelyn wants to take the easy way out and move back to St. George Utah. New acquaintance and handy man, Jack talks her through her struggles and helps her to see the situation more clearly so Jocelyn decides to give the new small town a second chance. The plot moves steadily. The characters are so likable. I had trouble putting it down!
August 28, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. However, Milford Falls, seemed a little to unrealistic. Things usually don't work out that perfect. :) You don't go to a town where everyone gives you good deals on everything, and everyone is so pleasant and perfect, except for maybe a few people. I wish at the end he would of just bought the painting back for her..and not had the artist come. That was a little over the op. I also didn't like the girl named Lacey was the bad girl...but that's just because of my name. :) However, that being said, I did enjoy the rest of the book. I love the idea of the butterfly box, and the special bond these girls share. I am anxiously waiting for #3 to come out, we can learn more about what happens to Emma & Ava.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2011
The second book of the Butterfly Box Series, Hometown Girl focuses on Jocelyn Rogers' life. Jocelyn inherits her grandmother's house in Milford Falls, Washington which is many miles away from where she lives in St. George, Utah.
The house must be taken care of or sold. Her butterfly friends encourage her to move there and start a new life. How will she survive? Who will she meet? With no employment or friends, Jocelyn must take a leap of faith to go. The time she spent there when her grandmother was alive was troubling and her family life was not happy. What will happen to her? A wonderful LDS romance story of taking chances, finding friends and forgiving yourself.
The house must be taken care of or sold. Her butterfly friends encourage her to move there and start a new life. How will she survive? Who will she meet? With no employment or friends, Jocelyn must take a leap of faith to go. The time she spent there when her grandmother was alive was troubling and her family life was not happy. What will happen to her? A wonderful LDS romance story of taking chances, finding friends and forgiving yourself.
July 20, 2010
Such a cute story! The first couple of chapters moved a little slowly for me, but once the real story began, I was hooked.
Jocelyn inherited her grandmother's house a few years earlier. When the mayor of the town called, asking her to take care of it or sell it, she decided to move there and fix it up. Problem after problem occurred, with the house, her friends, and her love life; but everything worked out.
I also loved the proposal story that was included. It was fun to see that worked into the story.
Jocelyn inherited her grandmother's house a few years earlier. When the mayor of the town called, asking her to take care of it or sell it, she decided to move there and fix it up. Problem after problem occurred, with the house, her friends, and her love life; but everything worked out.
I also loved the proposal story that was included. It was fun to see that worked into the story.
December 8, 2010
Made me miss small-town Washington life. One thing bugged me, though. I know this is nit-picky, but it always rubs me wrong when people talk about pine trees and (in this case) pine-scented air in reference to western WA. I could probably count the pines on the western side. Pine trees are eastern. Western WA is full of Douglas Fir, Cedar, Hemlock and Spruce. Guess it's like asking someone if they want a coke when you're refering to all varieties of pop. A silly little thing, I suppose. Probably comes from being a forester's daughter, but still.... I'm tired of hearing (or reading) that!
July 22, 2010
Well, this book was quite a bit of a let down I'm afraid. I wanted to love it so bad! It just didn't work for whatever reason. Jocelyn, the main girl character wasn't that loveable to me. And the town she moved to was just way too perfect. Everyone was willing to trust her and give her good deals on stuff so easily it was unbelievable to me. And, I'm sorry, unfortunately I couldn't believe that the painter would come visit her personally at the end. So...only 2 stars.
September 4, 2010
I loved this book. I was excited that the contents of Jocelyn's box was revealed.
I really enjoyed the love story in this book. I loved how a romance didn't instantly develop between Jake and Jocelyn. It was nice that a friendship developed before the romance.
I was sad about what happened with Emma and I hope that works out without shattering Emma's heart.
I can't wait for the next book. I'm hoping it's about the "Finding Mrs. Right" show.
I really enjoyed the love story in this book. I loved how a romance didn't instantly develop between Jake and Jocelyn. It was nice that a friendship developed before the romance.
I was sad about what happened with Emma and I hope that works out without shattering Emma's heart.
I can't wait for the next book. I'm hoping it's about the "Finding Mrs. Right" show.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2010
I've decided that rather than try to review books like these, I'll refer to them as a 'chocolate read.' That means it's a book that is indulgent, fun, and lightens things up between reads that are more weighty and substantial. I appreciate and need my chocolate reads, so I'm glad to have another author to draw on (as Anita Stansfield, Nicholas sparks and maybe even Richard Paul Evans are now out.)
July 1, 2011
Jocelyn gets the butterfly box this year as she embarks on a major change in her life--prompted by the other girls. She'll move into her grandmother's house having inherited it after her passing. Memories return (both good and bad) as the house falls apart. Making Milford Falls and her grandmother's house her home takes great determination and heartbreak. Jocelyn proves to be amazing and beautful! I loved that it's Jack who's the love interest in this book.
January 28, 2013
I started reading this series in order even though i am writing my review out of order. This was a little slow of pace for me after the first book in this series. i was surprised that it was only a three or so week period of time. i enjoyed getting to know Jocelyn even though I knew what her secret was, i guess i really have read too many romance novels, they are my favorite though. i was happy that she finally released her demons and shared her story with her friends.
September 16, 2010
Second book in the butterfly box series. It's about Jocelyn. She moves from St. George to Milton Falls to take care of her grandmother's house. Her plumbing goes haywire. Her car breaks down. She meets Jack.
Love blossoms. Problems are worked out. The butterfly girls find out what is in the white box that has been in the butterfly box for all these years.
Love blossoms. Problems are worked out. The butterfly girls find out what is in the white box that has been in the butterfly box for all these years.
September 29, 2010
I thoroughly loved this second installment of the the Butterfly Box series, Hometown Girl! I really enjoyed getting to know more about Jocelyn and having her finding the strength to finally open-up about what had happened to her as a teenager. It was horrible, but she has learned to love again! Wonderful journey!
November 9, 2010
Not my favorite of Michele's books. The writing was great but the story itself was a bit choppy for me. It didn't seem to wrap up some of the major points of the story. The communication was lacking between the main couple and they never really talked about some serious issues that needed working out. I enjoyed the whole learning to forgive yourself part however.
January 7, 2011
Cute, sweet, and fluff. Yes I like fluff and that can be a good thing. I look to more from this series. I do wish that some LDS authors would take some topics and have couples work out their problems rather than the divorce route. (A side story in the book) It would be refreshing to see people work out those problems rather than the man becoming a horrible human being.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2011
I absolutely loved this 2nd book in the butterfly box series. The main character in the story Jocelyn reminded me so much of myself and I feel in love with the town she moved to called Milford Falls in Washington. THis was a delightful read full of romance, gospel perspectives and I loved every bit!
March 9, 2011
This was an enjoyable and fun read. I really like how Michele builds up her characters and the suspense of what they may be hiding. This book is a great second installment of the butterfly box series. I loved that the main character moves to a small town, is an Art teacher, and is trying to redo her grandmothers charming home on a budget! Right up my ally :)
April 10, 2013
So far a modest proposal has been my favorite in this series. Hometown girl has a decent story line, but not one that I would call compelling. I was able to put it down and go to sleep on time with no problems.
Having said that, it was interesting enough to finish and it helps to have all the different girls' story lines down as I continue reading the series.
Having said that, it was interesting enough to finish and it helps to have all the different girls' story lines down as I continue reading the series.
December 19, 2011
I know, I know. I read the first book of this series and hated it, so why did I read the second?? I don't know.
This one still had the stereotypical lds fictional romance garbage that I can't stand but I did like the story/plot a little better that the previous installment.
Still though. Not my favorite.
This one still had the stereotypical lds fictional romance garbage that I can't stand but I did like the story/plot a little better that the previous installment.
Still though. Not my favorite.
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