My grandmother introduced me to books when I was a little girl. Her small apartment was filled with books which she called her friends. She always asked me what I learned from the story. Reading stories with the mindset of “what am I learning?” was very helpful in making decisions throughout my life.
D.L. Finn’s poetry in Just Her Poetry Seasons of a Soul is a book I read in 2019. However, because it was so beautiful and powerful even now I often open the pages randomly and gain some peace and joy.
In this short story, Mountain Laurel Christmas, the lesson that fame and fortune do not bring happiness is taught. The author, Jan Sikes, brings the important message that only family can fill a heart with love.
Is money the answer to happiness? When it comes to love, do age differences matter? These are questions central to the short story I’ll Be Right Back, by Maura Beth Brennan.
No Such Luck, by Staci Troilo, is a story of a young woman who returns to her hometown after a significant absence. A short story with a powerful message of the importance of choices, people, and events from which we can learn.
Happy Reading! May each book enrich your life.
KAREN INGALLS, AUTHOR, BLOGGER & SURVIVOR 
Some of my favorite authors are listed here. I’ve read a couple of these books. Congratulations to each of these authors. Thanks for sharing, Karen!
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Thank you for your comment, Beem. It was good to hear your voice on the phone last evening.
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Wonderful selection of authors. Thank you for sharing them with us.
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It was my pleasure, Craig. Thank you for your comment.
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You are so right, Karen. I have read Jan and Staci’s books and enjoyed them very much. Congratulations to all the authors.
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What a beautiful gift your grandmother gave you, Karen! It makes me so happy to know you enjoy the poetry that means a lot to me. I have read all the rest and agree there is a lesson within a great story. Hugs xo
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My grandmother was (and still is) a powerful influence on me. She taught me so much. Thank you for sharing a comment, Denise.
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A wonderful collection of books, Karen. Thank you for sharing your reviews. I’ve read and reviewed three of the books (Denise’s, Jan’s, and Staci’s) — loved them. Congratulations to each of the writers. Hugs to all.
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Thank you for your comment, Gwen.
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What a lovely post, Karen. Wonderful thoughts about three books I’ve also enjoyed. Congrats to Denise, Jan, and Staci. 🙂
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Thank you for your comment. It was a challenge to narrow if down to so few from so many.
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That’s why I can’t do “top ten” books. Just too many that I loved.
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Wonderful collection of book friends. I read two of them (and enjoyed them) and wrote one (I appreciate the shout-out and am so glad you liked it). Thanks for sharing, Karen.
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You are most welcome, Staci. You deserved the recognition.
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💕
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Great post and shout-out too! Thanks, Karen.
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Glad you enjoyed the blog, Bette. It was difficult to narrow the books/authors down to just these few.
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I would have loved to have met your grandmother, Karen! What a wonderful way to introduce you to books and reading. I’ve read and enjoyed all but one of these books and highly recommend them. Congratulations to Denise, Jan, Maura Beth, and Staci on these wonderful reviews. Thanks for sharing your thoughts 💕🙂
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My grandmother taught me so much. I still feel her presence though she left the earth 40 years ago! She never went beyond the 8th grade but was one of the most knowledgeable women I have ever met. She was self-taught and read about a wide variety of subjects.
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💖🤗💖
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Isn’t it wonderful when a beloved adult introduces you to books? For me it was my parents. They started y taking me to the library when I was a child, and I never looked back.
I’ve read all three of these wonderful books. It’s great to she showcased here today. Congratulations to the authors. Many thanks for sharing, Karen!
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I so agree! My mother read every Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie, and Ellery Queen book she could get her hands on. I love such books too, but not as avidly as she did.
It breaks my heart to see that the young people are not as interested in books and too many have poor reading skills.
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I completely agree, Karen. I wish more kids would set aside their devices and pick up books. It’s such a rich world waiting to be discovered by so many!
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I love that your grandmother called books her friends. She gave you a special gift. I’ve read and enjoyed all three of these books. Nice selections.
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Each of those books conveyed a special message that I believe we each need to live by. Thank you, Joan
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My dear Karen, thank you SO much for reading and reviewing Mountain Laurel Christmas. I am honored to sit here with these other talented authors. I have read the other three and agree they are wonderful stories! I appreciate you sharing!
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I loved the message of the book. You are a gifted writer and it is always a pleasure to read your books.
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