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Born Under a Lucky Moon
Smart, touching, and utterly engaging, Born Under a Lucky Moon is a polished gem of contemporary women’s fiction—and it boldly announces the arrival of author Dana Precious, who immediately takes her place at the winner’s table beside Rebecca York, Jennifer Weiner, and Rebecca Wells. Not unlike Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood and other beloved works of southern women’s fiction—except set in the American Midwest— Born Under a Lucky Moon is a story of family, love, murder, sex scandals, and new beginnings that is, at once, intelligent, endearing, and delightfully quirky.
432 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2011
133 people are currently reading
1377 people want to read
About the author
Dana Precious
4 books19 followersDanaPreciouswrites.com
Hi all, this is Dana. I live in Marina Del Rey, California with my son, Gus and my dog, Thompson. I grew up in N. Muskegon, Michigan. I've has worked at several film studios including Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox and Marvel Studios as an advertising executive. I've been writing at a little joint in Santa Monica, CA. since I was 23 years old. It used to be called The Novel Cafe and now is called 212 Pier.
At 212 Pier bookshelves line the walls and rickety tables are kept steady by sticking magazines under table legs. More frequently than one would hope -- a water pipe breaks and the ceiling has a minor cave-in on top of the cash register. But the food is very good. And the atmosphere is just right. A lot of writers hang out here. We will buy a latte and be free to spend the day at 'our table'. We know who's table is who's. And if a newcomer comes and takes 'our table' we scowl.
I've written five books at this place. Two of which are published. One of which deserves to be. And another two that should probably be tossed.
I hope you enjoy my books, Murder In Malibu and Born Under A Lucky Moon.
Cheers!
Dana
Hi all, this is Dana. I live in Marina Del Rey, California with my son, Gus and my dog, Thompson. I grew up in N. Muskegon, Michigan. I've has worked at several film studios including Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox and Marvel Studios as an advertising executive. I've been writing at a little joint in Santa Monica, CA. since I was 23 years old. It used to be called The Novel Cafe and now is called 212 Pier.
At 212 Pier bookshelves line the walls and rickety tables are kept steady by sticking magazines under table legs. More frequently than one would hope -- a water pipe breaks and the ceiling has a minor cave-in on top of the cash register. But the food is very good. And the atmosphere is just right. A lot of writers hang out here. We will buy a latte and be free to spend the day at 'our table'. We know who's table is who's. And if a newcomer comes and takes 'our table' we scowl.
I've written five books at this place. Two of which are published. One of which deserves to be. And another two that should probably be tossed.
I hope you enjoy my books, Murder In Malibu and Born Under A Lucky Moon.
Cheers!
Dana
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
February 25, 2017
This is the only book, out of the thousands my wife has read, where I can recall her laughing so hard that tears were streaming down her face. There were also numerous "Awww" moments as well. Does that make this a chick book? Probably, but I read it too as a favor to the author who happens to be a friend of mine.
Now mind you, that's *always* a dicey situation. As a published author I've had friends ask me to read their books and have usually demurred. Problem is, what if it sucks? I've known Dana for over 20 years, "your books sucks" would certainly have put a damper on the friendship. Fortunately I was saved by the wise heads at Avon A who snatched it up (soon thereafter it also got optioned for a movie). So I figured, good enough for a Harper/Collins imprint, good enough for me.
So the premise: The (mostly) true story of a precocious small town girl (the youngest of five kids) who makes it big as a Hollywood ad exec but can't seem to escape the wondrously destructive vortex that her family keeps dragging her into. The story is told as a series of flashbacks in which she very patiently explains to her would-be fiance why he might want to reconsider his offer. Both the present day scenes in which she deals with over-pampered starlets agents, studio, heads and directors as well as the flashback scenes in which she deals with the decidedly 'by the bootstrap to a fault' family members and townies are wonderfully revealing and expertly told. At first I found myself along for the ride with the first person voice that was disarmingly neutral. However, as the book progressed I found myself falling head over heals for the character and her seemingly impossible situations.
In short this was an amazing read (made even more so by the fact that I had no expectations for it). I'm honored to get to be able to write the book's first-ever review and happier still that I get to make it a good one.
It releases next in February 2011. Strong recommend to buy (guys, this is the one you get for your girlfriend/wife).
Dani
Merged review:
This is the only book, out of the thousands my wife has read, where I can recall her laughing so hard that tears were streaming down her face. There were also numerous "Awww" moments as well. Does that make this a chick book? Probably, but I read it too as a favor to the author who happens to be a friend of mine.
Now mind you, that's *always* a dicey situation. As a published author I've had friends ask me to read their books and have usually demurred. Problem is, what if it sucks? I've known Dana for over 20 years, "your books sucks" would certainly have put a damper on the friendship. Fortunately I was saved by the wise heads at Avon A who snatched it up (soon thereafter it also got optioned for a movie). So I figured, good enough for a Harper/Collins imprint, good enough for me.
So the premise: The (mostly) true story of a precocious small town girl (the youngest of five kids) who makes it big as a Hollywood ad exec but can't seem to escape the wondrously destructive vortex that her family keeps dragging her into. The story is told as a series of flashbacks in which she very patiently explains to her would-be fiance why he might want to reconsider his offer. Both the present day scenes in which she deals with over-pampered starlets agents, studio, heads and directors as well as the flashback scenes in which she deals with the decidedly 'by the bootstrap to a fault' family members and townies are wonderfully revealing and expertly told. At first I found myself along for the ride with the first person voice that was disarmingly neutral. However, as the book progressed I found myself falling head over heals for the character and her seemingly impossible situations.
In short this was an amazing read (made even more so by the fact that I had no expectations for it). I'm honored to get to be able to write the book's first-ever review and happier still that I get to make it a good one.
It releases next in February 2011. Strong recommend to buy (guys, this is the one you get for your girlfriend/wife).
Dani
Now mind you, that's *always* a dicey situation. As a published author I've had friends ask me to read their books and have usually demurred. Problem is, what if it sucks? I've known Dana for over 20 years, "your books sucks" would certainly have put a damper on the friendship. Fortunately I was saved by the wise heads at Avon A who snatched it up (soon thereafter it also got optioned for a movie). So I figured, good enough for a Harper/Collins imprint, good enough for me.
So the premise: The (mostly) true story of a precocious small town girl (the youngest of five kids) who makes it big as a Hollywood ad exec but can't seem to escape the wondrously destructive vortex that her family keeps dragging her into. The story is told as a series of flashbacks in which she very patiently explains to her would-be fiance why he might want to reconsider his offer. Both the present day scenes in which she deals with over-pampered starlets agents, studio, heads and directors as well as the flashback scenes in which she deals with the decidedly 'by the bootstrap to a fault' family members and townies are wonderfully revealing and expertly told. At first I found myself along for the ride with the first person voice that was disarmingly neutral. However, as the book progressed I found myself falling head over heals for the character and her seemingly impossible situations.
In short this was an amazing read (made even more so by the fact that I had no expectations for it). I'm honored to get to be able to write the book's first-ever review and happier still that I get to make it a good one.
It releases next in February 2011. Strong recommend to buy (guys, this is the one you get for your girlfriend/wife).
Dani
Merged review:
This is the only book, out of the thousands my wife has read, where I can recall her laughing so hard that tears were streaming down her face. There were also numerous "Awww" moments as well. Does that make this a chick book? Probably, but I read it too as a favor to the author who happens to be a friend of mine.
Now mind you, that's *always* a dicey situation. As a published author I've had friends ask me to read their books and have usually demurred. Problem is, what if it sucks? I've known Dana for over 20 years, "your books sucks" would certainly have put a damper on the friendship. Fortunately I was saved by the wise heads at Avon A who snatched it up (soon thereafter it also got optioned for a movie). So I figured, good enough for a Harper/Collins imprint, good enough for me.
So the premise: The (mostly) true story of a precocious small town girl (the youngest of five kids) who makes it big as a Hollywood ad exec but can't seem to escape the wondrously destructive vortex that her family keeps dragging her into. The story is told as a series of flashbacks in which she very patiently explains to her would-be fiance why he might want to reconsider his offer. Both the present day scenes in which she deals with over-pampered starlets agents, studio, heads and directors as well as the flashback scenes in which she deals with the decidedly 'by the bootstrap to a fault' family members and townies are wonderfully revealing and expertly told. At first I found myself along for the ride with the first person voice that was disarmingly neutral. However, as the book progressed I found myself falling head over heals for the character and her seemingly impossible situations.
In short this was an amazing read (made even more so by the fact that I had no expectations for it). I'm honored to get to be able to write the book's first-ever review and happier still that I get to make it a good one.
It releases next in February 2011. Strong recommend to buy (guys, this is the one you get for your girlfriend/wife).
Dani
July 3, 2011
Loved it....
If you want to laugh and perhaps compare your family to the Thompson family, I would highly recommend this book. It is a really fun read and also about love.
"My family made him nervous. Being a highly disciplined sort, he did not view my family as a vibrant force but as a disorganized mess that needed cleaning up." Page 99 "The entire town is buzzing about us. If this family ever moves out of town, no one will have anything to talk about." Page 148
The Thompson family made everyone nervous...they had four daughters, one son, many dramatic events, hilarious things happening to them all the time, and they were the talk of the town.....ALWAYS. One sister was the organizer and one was the never-finish anything you started, but they all had a fun childhood and shared one bathroom and one mirror....this mirror was the scene for much of the fun that went on.
The sisters were in predicaments over the years, but their mother and father took everything in stride. The current predicament was that Evan and Anna were getting married on Saturday...it was a planned one...and Lucy and Chuck were getting married on Sunday.....this was a wedding put together in a week. Lucy and Chuck didn't know about the wedding, and you can just imagine how that went. No wedding dress, no veil, no tuxedos, no caterer, and no flowers until the last minute.
Last minute organizing seemed to be order of the day for the Thompsons, and most of the situations they got themselves in were funny. Things just seemed to happen to them. I laughed out loud at some parts of the book.
The book is a perfect summer read....it gets you thinking about your relationship with your siblings and your entire family. The characters were a very loving, caring, but crazy family. They were always there supporting each other. "The more love you give, the more you create." Page 393
Funny things happened most of the time, but as in all families some bad situations occur as well. If this is the author's actual life's story, she is a lucky gal. It is a wonderful, fun read. I truly enjoyed it.
You will also find out how to "shake things out" when you have a worry. 5/5 ENJOY!!! I hope you love it too.
If you want to laugh and perhaps compare your family to the Thompson family, I would highly recommend this book. It is a really fun read and also about love.
"My family made him nervous. Being a highly disciplined sort, he did not view my family as a vibrant force but as a disorganized mess that needed cleaning up." Page 99 "The entire town is buzzing about us. If this family ever moves out of town, no one will have anything to talk about." Page 148
The Thompson family made everyone nervous...they had four daughters, one son, many dramatic events, hilarious things happening to them all the time, and they were the talk of the town.....ALWAYS. One sister was the organizer and one was the never-finish anything you started, but they all had a fun childhood and shared one bathroom and one mirror....this mirror was the scene for much of the fun that went on.
The sisters were in predicaments over the years, but their mother and father took everything in stride. The current predicament was that Evan and Anna were getting married on Saturday...it was a planned one...and Lucy and Chuck were getting married on Sunday.....this was a wedding put together in a week. Lucy and Chuck didn't know about the wedding, and you can just imagine how that went. No wedding dress, no veil, no tuxedos, no caterer, and no flowers until the last minute.
Last minute organizing seemed to be order of the day for the Thompsons, and most of the situations they got themselves in were funny. Things just seemed to happen to them. I laughed out loud at some parts of the book.
The book is a perfect summer read....it gets you thinking about your relationship with your siblings and your entire family. The characters were a very loving, caring, but crazy family. They were always there supporting each other. "The more love you give, the more you create." Page 393
Funny things happened most of the time, but as in all families some bad situations occur as well. If this is the author's actual life's story, she is a lucky gal. It is a wonderful, fun read. I truly enjoyed it.
You will also find out how to "shake things out" when you have a worry. 5/5 ENJOY!!! I hope you love it too.
February 10, 2011
I'm in love with North Muskegon Michigan, and I've never even been there. Reading this book makes the place seem like the coolest little lakeside town ever. The way this author weaves the fabric of life there is masterful. With the touch of a true Michigander, she plants us in the world of the solid midwestern citizen--the kind whose deadpan fortitude provides hilarious contrast to the main character, Jeannie, and her close but craziness-prone family.You can smell the damp, hot summer air and feel worn wood of the dock beneath your feet as you read about Jeannie's summer at the shore back at home with her family, who are both her biggest problem and her greatest asset. The antics that surround them are so appallingly entertaining, they remind us to appreciate family life for all its ridiculous and beautiful imperfections. Worth the read for the Grandma scene alone. I got so attached to my evenings with this book, I really missed them after I finished the read. I hope Dana Precious is planning on writing many more like this!
April 18, 2020
Not a romance fan but this was one of the most entertaining ones I've read. (Maybe it's just the Covid19 stay at home order getting to me!) In thinking about it, there's more about family interactions than romance. Funny, quirky family. Well written and laugh out loud moments. Looking for a fast, light read? This is worth a few hours of your time.
February 20, 2011
Family relationships are difficult, sticky and often taken for granted. For Jeannie, her family comes with a few extra quirks that even the most generous person would have a hard time not finding fault with. With an erratic work schedule, demanding family life and an increasingly waning insomnia problem her own romantic life hangs in the balance. Even with her love life hanging by a thread though she's not convinced she can risk making the commitment to make it a permanent relationship. Why? Those she loves most dearly. Her family.
Brilliant. I've been noticing a pattern in my reading since the beginning of the year and I'm quite happy with it. Nearly all the books I've been able to get my hands on have been exceedingly well written, have excellent character development and are just plain old enjoyable to read. Born Under A Lucky Moon is no exception. From beginning to end I kept reminding myself that I was reading this with other people around and needed to keep my giggling to a minimum noise level. Honestly, I could not stop laughing. Not only that, but I was instantly hooked.
Dana Precious' writing had an almost Southern feel to it and within pages I couldn't help but feel absolutely at home in Jeannie's two worlds. The story alternated between the present time where Jeannie worked as a movie production executive and her life in 1986 back in her home town of Muskegon Michigan. Entirely different worlds in every way imaginable, one high-paced with action happening every minute of every day and the other just happy to watch the second hand click slowly and gently by. It creates an incredible shift as you rock between stories, but it's written just appropriately so that the pace of the story chucks along nicely.
My absolute favorite part about this story was without a doubt, Jeannie's family. I couldn't help but be reminded of my own while reading the stories of Jeannie, her three sisters and one brother. Though I only have two younger sisters it was easy to relate to the kind of drama that can happen in a house filled with women. Not only drama, but something I've long known is that what one sister knows everyone knows. It's something my own father has long warned sons-in-laws about prior to joining the family; of course jokingly, but with a lingering truth. It was fun to see this dynamic played out through these incredible sisters and one lucky brother. The most enjoyable part about their relationship to one another though was their love for each other. With all of their family's quirky behavior and sometimes hurt feelings they still loved each other tremendously. Which is what family is all about.
Born Under A Lucky Moon was an extremely delightful read. On almost every page I found something I could relate to and more often than not, giggle about. With the occasional grandmother streaking down main street and double wedding to add to the overall character of the family on a whole. Jeannie's life wasn't unlike many at some point or another; no, not all of us will be successful movie executives, but the vast majority of us have a family. In our own ways each family is different, quirky and exactly what we each need at the end of the day. And as Jeannie's mom would say, "People need loving the most when they deserve it the least" (p.211). We all have our faults, but it's those who can see past those faults and love us despite them that matter the most. An incredible book that I have no doubt you'll absolutely love!
Brilliant. I've been noticing a pattern in my reading since the beginning of the year and I'm quite happy with it. Nearly all the books I've been able to get my hands on have been exceedingly well written, have excellent character development and are just plain old enjoyable to read. Born Under A Lucky Moon is no exception. From beginning to end I kept reminding myself that I was reading this with other people around and needed to keep my giggling to a minimum noise level. Honestly, I could not stop laughing. Not only that, but I was instantly hooked.
Dana Precious' writing had an almost Southern feel to it and within pages I couldn't help but feel absolutely at home in Jeannie's two worlds. The story alternated between the present time where Jeannie worked as a movie production executive and her life in 1986 back in her home town of Muskegon Michigan. Entirely different worlds in every way imaginable, one high-paced with action happening every minute of every day and the other just happy to watch the second hand click slowly and gently by. It creates an incredible shift as you rock between stories, but it's written just appropriately so that the pace of the story chucks along nicely.
My absolute favorite part about this story was without a doubt, Jeannie's family. I couldn't help but be reminded of my own while reading the stories of Jeannie, her three sisters and one brother. Though I only have two younger sisters it was easy to relate to the kind of drama that can happen in a house filled with women. Not only drama, but something I've long known is that what one sister knows everyone knows. It's something my own father has long warned sons-in-laws about prior to joining the family; of course jokingly, but with a lingering truth. It was fun to see this dynamic played out through these incredible sisters and one lucky brother. The most enjoyable part about their relationship to one another though was their love for each other. With all of their family's quirky behavior and sometimes hurt feelings they still loved each other tremendously. Which is what family is all about.
Born Under A Lucky Moon was an extremely delightful read. On almost every page I found something I could relate to and more often than not, giggle about. With the occasional grandmother streaking down main street and double wedding to add to the overall character of the family on a whole. Jeannie's life wasn't unlike many at some point or another; no, not all of us will be successful movie executives, but the vast majority of us have a family. In our own ways each family is different, quirky and exactly what we each need at the end of the day. And as Jeannie's mom would say, "People need loving the most when they deserve it the least" (p.211). We all have our faults, but it's those who can see past those faults and love us despite them that matter the most. An incredible book that I have no doubt you'll absolutely love!
July 7, 2011
Jeannie Thompson's life has never been boring. Her family is filled with colorful, and often embarrassing, relatives who seem to be the victims of some of the oddest things; making them the talk of the little Michigan town where they live.
It is 2006, and Jeannie's longtime boyfriend is thinking of taking their relationship to the next level. She's not sure they should rock the boat. Not only are they both busy in the entertainment industry, she knows how other boyfriends have felt about her less than normal family, and she's not sure Aidan will be any better.
As Jeannie's past and present collide, she must reconsider her life growing up near the Great Lakes of Michigan, and the career she carved out that has alienated her from her family.
Debut author Dana Precious pulls together a stellar plot, quirky characters, the love/hate relationship we can have with our family/stomping grounds, and a romance to come up with a major winner. I loved everything about this book. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. I read it in one day. Born Under A Lucky Moon is filled with laughs and tears, unexpected twists, family, and down home charm. It's about the Thompson family, but it could be about any family.
Born Under A Lucky Moon is the perfect book to choose if you want a great read that is funny, yet moving.
It is 2006, and Jeannie's longtime boyfriend is thinking of taking their relationship to the next level. She's not sure they should rock the boat. Not only are they both busy in the entertainment industry, she knows how other boyfriends have felt about her less than normal family, and she's not sure Aidan will be any better.
As Jeannie's past and present collide, she must reconsider her life growing up near the Great Lakes of Michigan, and the career she carved out that has alienated her from her family.
Debut author Dana Precious pulls together a stellar plot, quirky characters, the love/hate relationship we can have with our family/stomping grounds, and a romance to come up with a major winner. I loved everything about this book. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. I read it in one day. Born Under A Lucky Moon is filled with laughs and tears, unexpected twists, family, and down home charm. It's about the Thompson family, but it could be about any family.
Born Under A Lucky Moon is the perfect book to choose if you want a great read that is funny, yet moving.
March 21, 2011
I was a goodreads winner for this book and I was very excited to read it. There were some moments in the book - particularly about the town she grew up in and the characters in it - that seemed very authentic and charming. They almost tricked me into thinking I liked the book.
The problem is that the premise of the book made no sense to me - a girl who has a very loving, affectionate (if a bit crazy) family AND a man who she loves and who wants to marry her - just can't seem to get it together for reasons that are never really clear. She won't introduce him to her family, she won't give him an answer on his proposal, she won't prioritize anyone over work, and she never seems to have any sense of humor about the family stories that should be - at least in retrospect - pretty funny... It felt contrived and in the end I didn't like the main character enough. Although I did like all the characters she wouldn't prioritize.
The problem is that the premise of the book made no sense to me - a girl who has a very loving, affectionate (if a bit crazy) family AND a man who she loves and who wants to marry her - just can't seem to get it together for reasons that are never really clear. She won't introduce him to her family, she won't give him an answer on his proposal, she won't prioritize anyone over work, and she never seems to have any sense of humor about the family stories that should be - at least in retrospect - pretty funny... It felt contrived and in the end I didn't like the main character enough. Although I did like all the characters she wouldn't prioritize.
August 22, 2025
This book had me laughing out loud at times, which is very rare! It is about a crazy large family growing up in a rural Michigan town, and having grown up across Lake Michigan in Wisconsin in a small town, there was much I could relate to. The story does jump back and forth from current times to the late 1980's when the sisters in this story were beginning their adult lives. It is all quite outlandish but that is what made it so fun to read. The ending was an unexpected surprise.
February 23, 2019
This is a wonderful book about a nutty family whose love holds them together through everything. Things happen to them, they do things themselves, but at the end there is always the love of their family to support them and make things right. Great story, very funny, and a lovely picture of growing up in a small town.
January 13, 2025
I loved this book so much and found myself reaching for it every spare moment I had this weekend. The humor and story-line really captured my attention and I did not want to put the book down. I laughed so much and cried at the ending. If you are looking for an easy read that will make you laugh, cry and give you all the feels this is a great book that can give you just that.
February 24, 2017
I'd rate this more at a 3.5 if I could. I loved the ending. I appreciated the bonds of the family members. I laughed pretty often but also got frustrated with the main character at times for being such a stubborn and dramatic character. Overall, it was a pretty good read.
July 7, 2017
Light-hearted book about a bunch of weddings and a crazy family. Jeannie's boyfriend has asked her to marry her but she is sure her family will drive him away. What follows is the crazy stories of why. Laugh out loud funny! Great read.
November 5, 2017
Fun reading about familiar settings. A portion of this book takes place about ten years after my time, not much had changed in those ten years. I did not know the "Thompson" family but I sure wish I had.
March 24, 2018
I would give this book 10 stars if I could, and not just because it's set in my home State of Michigan! I loved this family, it reminds me so much of mine. Take the time to enjoy every minute of this book!
June 16, 2020
As someone who grew up in the town where this book takes place, I found this so fun and heartwarming to read. This book is a fun, relaxing read with relatable content (even if you didn't grow up in this town!).
January 18, 2022
This book was okay, a light read but predictable. Probably wouldn’t recommend.
“Who is going to tell you the truth if not your family?”
“Who is going to tell you the truth if not your family?”
June 3, 2022
i honestly dont know what it is about this book, i just love everything about it. I've read it like 3 times and loved it each time
March 17, 2023
An easy to read book. My mom will like it.
August 22, 2023
interesting story
July 7, 2025
This was such a fun book! I literally laughed out loud at most of it. There were some pretty emotional scenes between the siblings. A feel-good book for sure. It should be made into a movie.
August 16, 2025
The crazy family and small town Michigan parts were perfect summer reading, the Hollywood parts were bland and annoying, but overall it was light and fun
August 29, 2025
delightful read
Enjoyed this book from the first page to the last. I was reminded of all the layers of love that come from growing up in a big family.
Enjoyed this book from the first page to the last. I was reminded of all the layers of love that come from growing up in a big family.
September 11, 2025
I actually laughed out loud a couple of times. Reminded me of the craziness of growing up in a big family. My grandmother always said that we lived in each other’s pockets.
September 20, 2025
Such a funny read!
I had a hard time putting this book down. It was very funny and yet realistic. Family relationships can be rocky.
I had a hard time putting this book down. It was very funny and yet realistic. Family relationships can be rocky.
September 22, 2025
struggled with the flashback/forward - enjoyed the ending, but it was a long trip to get there.
January 14, 2026
A crazy fun read
I was so involved in the story and so curious how it would end that I woke up at 2am and just had to finish the last 20% of the book.
It’s really that good!
I was so involved in the story and so curious how it would end that I woke up at 2am and just had to finish the last 20% of the book.
It’s really that good!
January 20, 2026
I love that it is about Muskegon/N Muskegon where I am from. I recognize a lot of places in the book. Cute story too
January 25, 2026
Made me laugh but a predictable story. Lighthearted for a little escape.
February 13, 2011
Article first published as Book Review: Born Under A Lucky Moon by Dana Precious on Blogcritics.
Susan Elizabeth Phillips, the respected New York Times bestselling author, was recently quoted; “Lucky the reader who picks up this funny, charming, and touching debut novel. I loved it.”
I couldn't agree more. In fact, I didn't just love it, I bonded with it! I fell in love with its colorful characters and wacky to wonderful plot. The novel became a funny and fabulous friend, one I looked forward to spending my down-time with. Nestled on the couch with a comfy blanket and a small glass of my favorite French wine, I turned the pages quickly, anticipating great story.Once the final line was read, I closed the cover on its four- hundred- and nineteen –fast moving pages, smiled to myself, and whispered one word; “Wow…”
Like a good friend, unforgettable and utterly endearing, our nightly conversations ( where I’d always play the intent listener) would be missed, but I predicted that somewhere, in the not- too- far- away- future, I'd rekindle the old friendship. Years from now, I pictured myself pulling it off an overcrowded, dusty library shelf, and reading it once again; Yes! It’s that good!
It’s not just a chick- lit- novel either. Sure, the female reader will absolutely fall in love with the story and the main character but I’m betting it will leave its magical mark on the male population too.
Why? (I can hear you asking.)
Because how many novels have the power to move you or make you belly-laugh in public? (-It’s embarrassing but true!) Dana Precious’ new book, Born Under A Lucky Moon, to be released on February 8, 2011, isn’t just another smart story written by another witty writer - it’s an event!
It’s a fast moving train ride, sweeping the reader into a world that’s richly entertaining and unpredictable. The pages have weight and contain interesting plot, filled with humor, twists and some surprises. Its original flavor is hard to describe but it's delicious from beginning to end; a cream de la cream that not only rises to the top, but leaves the reader wanting more from Dana Precious, one talented- tale- spinner.
Born Under A Lucky Moon is fictional, but it’s also based on the author’s real life events. Told in first person narrative, we meet Jeannie, the lovable main character. In chapter one, she tries to explain to Aidan, her would –be-fiance, why he should reconsider his proposal.
Quickly, the reader understands why Jeannie is hesitant to accept. Her past is layered with family drama and the icing is complicated, sprinkled with some sticky situations that mold the final masterpiece; a one of a kind love story- a family love story, that is.
In a series of flashbacks, the reader travels to mid-west Americana. It's in the mid-eighties, where we meet the young, precocious Jeannie and her four older siblings who add the fun to family dysfunction and dynamics.
In the present, Jeannie is a Hollywood ad exec, dealing with spoiled actors, Hollywood agents and executives; a sharp contrast to yesterday’s little Jeannie.
If you visit Dana Precious’ website, Born Under A Lucky Moon, you’ll find a marvelous quote taken from Life Lessons from Lemony Snicket (via tobeshelved-one great blog about books and their covers): It reads: “Deciding whether or not to trust a person is like deciding whether or not to climb a tree, because you might get a wonderful view from the highest branch, or you might simply get covered in sap. For this reason, many people choose to spend their time alone and indoors, where it’s harder to get a splinter.”
I’m so glad Dana Precious isn’t the kind of gal to run away from sticky sap or fear the sharp prick from one of life's unpredictable splinters. Like a master artist, using spectacular, bold color, she has successfully painted with words a unique impression or portrait of one family. It's a genuine article that might have been envied by the likes of Norman Rockwell; for Dana Precious has brilliantly captured and skillfully redefined his famous impression, "Freedom From Want".
This is a feel-good, amazing read and ( just in case you haven't guessed it yet), I"m highly recommending it.
To learn more about Dana Precious, visit her website at http://bornunderaluckymoon.com/
Susan Elizabeth Phillips, the respected New York Times bestselling author, was recently quoted; “Lucky the reader who picks up this funny, charming, and touching debut novel. I loved it.”
I couldn't agree more. In fact, I didn't just love it, I bonded with it! I fell in love with its colorful characters and wacky to wonderful plot. The novel became a funny and fabulous friend, one I looked forward to spending my down-time with. Nestled on the couch with a comfy blanket and a small glass of my favorite French wine, I turned the pages quickly, anticipating great story.Once the final line was read, I closed the cover on its four- hundred- and nineteen –fast moving pages, smiled to myself, and whispered one word; “Wow…”
Like a good friend, unforgettable and utterly endearing, our nightly conversations ( where I’d always play the intent listener) would be missed, but I predicted that somewhere, in the not- too- far- away- future, I'd rekindle the old friendship. Years from now, I pictured myself pulling it off an overcrowded, dusty library shelf, and reading it once again; Yes! It’s that good!
It’s not just a chick- lit- novel either. Sure, the female reader will absolutely fall in love with the story and the main character but I’m betting it will leave its magical mark on the male population too.
Why? (I can hear you asking.)
Because how many novels have the power to move you or make you belly-laugh in public? (-It’s embarrassing but true!) Dana Precious’ new book, Born Under A Lucky Moon, to be released on February 8, 2011, isn’t just another smart story written by another witty writer - it’s an event!
It’s a fast moving train ride, sweeping the reader into a world that’s richly entertaining and unpredictable. The pages have weight and contain interesting plot, filled with humor, twists and some surprises. Its original flavor is hard to describe but it's delicious from beginning to end; a cream de la cream that not only rises to the top, but leaves the reader wanting more from Dana Precious, one talented- tale- spinner.
Born Under A Lucky Moon is fictional, but it’s also based on the author’s real life events. Told in first person narrative, we meet Jeannie, the lovable main character. In chapter one, she tries to explain to Aidan, her would –be-fiance, why he should reconsider his proposal.
Quickly, the reader understands why Jeannie is hesitant to accept. Her past is layered with family drama and the icing is complicated, sprinkled with some sticky situations that mold the final masterpiece; a one of a kind love story- a family love story, that is.
In a series of flashbacks, the reader travels to mid-west Americana. It's in the mid-eighties, where we meet the young, precocious Jeannie and her four older siblings who add the fun to family dysfunction and dynamics.
In the present, Jeannie is a Hollywood ad exec, dealing with spoiled actors, Hollywood agents and executives; a sharp contrast to yesterday’s little Jeannie.
If you visit Dana Precious’ website, Born Under A Lucky Moon, you’ll find a marvelous quote taken from Life Lessons from Lemony Snicket (via tobeshelved-one great blog about books and their covers): It reads: “Deciding whether or not to trust a person is like deciding whether or not to climb a tree, because you might get a wonderful view from the highest branch, or you might simply get covered in sap. For this reason, many people choose to spend their time alone and indoors, where it’s harder to get a splinter.”
I’m so glad Dana Precious isn’t the kind of gal to run away from sticky sap or fear the sharp prick from one of life's unpredictable splinters. Like a master artist, using spectacular, bold color, she has successfully painted with words a unique impression or portrait of one family. It's a genuine article that might have been envied by the likes of Norman Rockwell; for Dana Precious has brilliantly captured and skillfully redefined his famous impression, "Freedom From Want".
This is a feel-good, amazing read and ( just in case you haven't guessed it yet), I"m highly recommending it.
To learn more about Dana Precious, visit her website at http://bornunderaluckymoon.com/
February 23, 2011
Born Under a Lucky Moon is a book that pretty much covers all that can be covered within life: love, marriage, careers, humor, crazy family life, insecurities and, oh yeah - murder. I have to first off say that this author truly amazes me. Her writing voice and technique are insanely engaging and "real". Ms. Precious brings to life the story of one woman who has had an anything but normal life, since the day she was conceived. I was very quickly and easily absorbed within the story of Jeannie Thompson and her many trials and tribulations from youth through adulthood.
Born Under a Lucky Moon is told in an alternating time frame between Jeannie's youth and her present-time adulthood. These transitions are smooth and incredible. The way in which Ms. Precious leaves the reader hanging right before making the transitions are painful - but in a way that left me not wanting to stop reading to see what the next thing that was going to happen was. The author's witty dialog is ingenious and left me laughing out loud several times. Just to give you a taste, here is a small piece from page 198:
Grandma tipped her head down and looked at me over her bifocals. "Oh, yes," she said, "the fifth one. What in the world were your parents thinking?"
They probably weren't thinking, I thought. I was conceived a few years after the Pill hit the market. Mom had said she was too busy with the three little kids to get to the doctor for the prescription. That's when Lucy was born. Then Mom said that she got the birth control prescription but couldn't find the time to get to the pharmacy. That's when I was born. Dad got a vasectomy after that.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yes, Jeannie has a crazy family, but don't we all? I found each and every family member to be lovable and wonderful. I just wanted to wrap them each up in a giant hug - well, except for the grandmother. Not so much feeling the love there.
This is a story that delves into a family who is loving, caring and always there for one another. Things don't always go smoothly - okay, hardly ever go smoothly - but they are such an amazingly close family. Jeannie is scared to introduce her long-time boyfriend (who just recently popped the question to her) to her family, however, for fear that their zest for life will scare him off. This presents some major conflict and when her job begins to spiral out of control, Jeannie feels herself unraveling.
Though I liked the character of Jeannie, there were times that I wanted to grab a hold of her and give her a good shake. She does everything imaginable to keep her boyfriend, Aidan, from any and all contact with any of her family members. Jeannie comes across as very ashamed of her family - though I don't think this is truly the case, she just harbors a ton of fear and is unable to trust in love completely. It probably doesn't help that she spent her entire life with people constantly commenting on her and her family's goings on. Family dynamics galore and a nosy town - complete with a very "interesting" minister, amazing love and support and true laugh-out-loud hilarity as well as touching moments that will warm the heart. Born Under a Lucky Moon is, simply put, an amazing and not-to-be-missed novel. Other than my irksomeness of Jeannie at times, there truly is nothing that I can say against this book. Even that has an important role within the story, so I can't complain about her, if she was all cheery, this would definitely be a different story.
Do I recommend Born Under a Lucky Moon?! You are darned right I do!! This is the perfect story to lighten one's day and engage the reader from beginning to end. My personal experience with the ending of the story? A huge smile, as I closed the book after reading the final words.
Born Under a Lucky Moon is told in an alternating time frame between Jeannie's youth and her present-time adulthood. These transitions are smooth and incredible. The way in which Ms. Precious leaves the reader hanging right before making the transitions are painful - but in a way that left me not wanting to stop reading to see what the next thing that was going to happen was. The author's witty dialog is ingenious and left me laughing out loud several times. Just to give you a taste, here is a small piece from page 198:
Grandma tipped her head down and looked at me over her bifocals. "Oh, yes," she said, "the fifth one. What in the world were your parents thinking?"
They probably weren't thinking, I thought. I was conceived a few years after the Pill hit the market. Mom had said she was too busy with the three little kids to get to the doctor for the prescription. That's when Lucy was born. Then Mom said that she got the birth control prescription but couldn't find the time to get to the pharmacy. That's when I was born. Dad got a vasectomy after that.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yes, Jeannie has a crazy family, but don't we all? I found each and every family member to be lovable and wonderful. I just wanted to wrap them each up in a giant hug - well, except for the grandmother. Not so much feeling the love there.
This is a story that delves into a family who is loving, caring and always there for one another. Things don't always go smoothly - okay, hardly ever go smoothly - but they are such an amazingly close family. Jeannie is scared to introduce her long-time boyfriend (who just recently popped the question to her) to her family, however, for fear that their zest for life will scare him off. This presents some major conflict and when her job begins to spiral out of control, Jeannie feels herself unraveling.
Though I liked the character of Jeannie, there were times that I wanted to grab a hold of her and give her a good shake. She does everything imaginable to keep her boyfriend, Aidan, from any and all contact with any of her family members. Jeannie comes across as very ashamed of her family - though I don't think this is truly the case, she just harbors a ton of fear and is unable to trust in love completely. It probably doesn't help that she spent her entire life with people constantly commenting on her and her family's goings on. Family dynamics galore and a nosy town - complete with a very "interesting" minister, amazing love and support and true laugh-out-loud hilarity as well as touching moments that will warm the heart. Born Under a Lucky Moon is, simply put, an amazing and not-to-be-missed novel. Other than my irksomeness of Jeannie at times, there truly is nothing that I can say against this book. Even that has an important role within the story, so I can't complain about her, if she was all cheery, this would definitely be a different story.
Do I recommend Born Under a Lucky Moon?! You are darned right I do!! This is the perfect story to lighten one's day and engage the reader from beginning to end. My personal experience with the ending of the story? A huge smile, as I closed the book after reading the final words.
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