Read: January 2025
Format: Audible audiobook
Narrator: Caroline Hewitt (freaking fabulous!)
Challenge Prompt: to be decided 

Book #01 of 2025: I don't think someone could read this novel without giving it five stars. Seriously! This was my first Michelle Shocklee novel and I will *not* hesitate to read more in the future. It is a split-time novel predominantly set in the Appalachian Mountains. 

As I listened to this novel being so masterfully narrated by Caroline Hewitt, I went on a journey to a place I'd never been, but felt as though I were there. I loved Bertie and her sisters. Bertie reminded me so much of my paternal Grandmother. The situation with the pregnant teen Songbird and her baby, Josh, was sad but became oh-so-beautiful. It so wonderfully illustrated how God can create so much good out of that which seems so bleak. It's all in His timing. 

It's hard to put anything into words but this story moved me deeply. It kept me immersed from start to finish despite not feeling well at the time. This novel reminds us how family is about so much more than blood. Helping others and being there for those we love is our mandate for this world. The Lord tells us in scripture that loving others is the second greatest commandment. 

I can't recommend this book enough and I strongly encourage listening to the audiobook for the amazing vocal narration. It's like swirling caramel through the smoothest chocolate. Divine!