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Quilts of Love #10
Raw Edges
Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, or ovarian cancer support groups now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connection. When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
10 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Sandra D. Bricker
44 books265 followersSandra D. Bricker was an entertainment publicist in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, where she attended school to learn screenwriting and eventually taught the craft for several semesters. She became a best-selling, award-winning author of Live-Out-Loud Fiction for the inspirational market, authored books such as the Jessie Stanton novels, and was best known for her Emma Rae Creation series. Over the years, as an ovarian cancer survivor, she spent time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure. Sandra lived in Toledo, Ohio before her passing in 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 16, 2013
Raw Edges Quilts of Love Series by Sandra D. Bricker
I had just read another Quilt of Love book and it was not a digital copy and truly fell in love with it and I know this book will measure up nicely with it and hope it will help me come up with an idea for all the fabric i've been saving to use for a quilt.
The McDonoughs: Jenna, Gray and Sadie were a family til Jenna died from an illness. He struggles with his 9 year old daughter and hopes he is bringing her up right-the way Jenna would've done things.
They would read from Jenna's journal and it would bring smiles and tears to their eyes.
The story also follows Annabelle Curtis story of working at the aquarium, having ovarian cancer and how the quilting group is helping her to cope and heal.
Sadie talked her dad into going to the support group meeting-where the women will talk and make a memory quilt.
At the end of chapters a bit of Jenna's journal is quoted along with a Bible passage.
Loved learning new things: about penguins feathers, fixing raw edges, and just all the ideas to help others cope with their pain and suffering.
Although Gray does not quilt or sew he is able to come up with an idea to help the project along. Sadie tries to get them together and it backfires.
Extras like the food recipes are such a great contribution. As the adults become closer Sadie is allowed to go with Annabelle to church then onto a quilting lesson where they learn so much-so did I.
Surprised who bought the quilt at the auction-didn't see that coming. Sadie going back to church was just the beginning...
Excerpt of The Christmas Quilt, Quilts of Love series is also included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
I had just read another Quilt of Love book and it was not a digital copy and truly fell in love with it and I know this book will measure up nicely with it and hope it will help me come up with an idea for all the fabric i've been saving to use for a quilt.
The McDonoughs: Jenna, Gray and Sadie were a family til Jenna died from an illness. He struggles with his 9 year old daughter and hopes he is bringing her up right-the way Jenna would've done things.
They would read from Jenna's journal and it would bring smiles and tears to their eyes.
The story also follows Annabelle Curtis story of working at the aquarium, having ovarian cancer and how the quilting group is helping her to cope and heal.
Sadie talked her dad into going to the support group meeting-where the women will talk and make a memory quilt.
At the end of chapters a bit of Jenna's journal is quoted along with a Bible passage.
Loved learning new things: about penguins feathers, fixing raw edges, and just all the ideas to help others cope with their pain and suffering.
Although Gray does not quilt or sew he is able to come up with an idea to help the project along. Sadie tries to get them together and it backfires.
Extras like the food recipes are such a great contribution. As the adults become closer Sadie is allowed to go with Annabelle to church then onto a quilting lesson where they learn so much-so did I.
Surprised who bought the quilt at the auction-didn't see that coming. Sadie going back to church was just the beginning...
Excerpt of The Christmas Quilt, Quilts of Love series is also included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
August 7, 2013
Raw Edges was a wonderful book. It is the story of three different people who are affected by ovarian cancer that are brought together by a quilt. Grayson lost his wife, Jenna, to ovarian cancer. They had a young daughter, Sadie. Annabelle overcame ovarian cancer and she is heading up the quilt project. When Sadie drags Gray to Overcome, an ovarian support group, meeting, they meet Annabelle and Sadie wants to help with the quilt. As Gray and Sadie spend more time with Annabelle, they open their hearts to her. This is a fast read that leaves you feeling good and gives you hope after you finish it. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Gray and Annabelle’s story. Sadie was also such a sweet little girl, I fell in love with her. I highly recommend this book, especially if you have suffered in any way from ovarian cancer or any type of cancer. But this book is great even if your life has never been touched by cancer. It is very insightful and gives a whole new perspective on the issue. Great job Sandie.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
August 4, 2013
I love Ms Bricker newest book. She has written a book that all of us can relate to. Most everyone has been touch by cancer someway or another.
I very much encourage you to read this book. I can not say enough good things about this book. It is hard to tell a story that has a happy ending that deals with cancer, Ms Bricker done it flawlessly.
She uses her wonderful sense of humor and love of God to tell this hard story of losing something to cancer. Be it a beloved mother and wife, or a worrior fought and over came cancer. And how they can beautifully intertwine and become stonger and better.
there are plenty of tears so get your tissues handy, but as with all children there are plenty of laughs.
This book will insire you to make a quilt or cook stew with bisquits or maybe not. But it will inspire you.
The Ovacome group is a real support group that helps the worriors and families. Because of this group we have a beautiful story.
Please give these a read you will not be diappointed.
I very much encourage you to read this book. I can not say enough good things about this book. It is hard to tell a story that has a happy ending that deals with cancer, Ms Bricker done it flawlessly.
She uses her wonderful sense of humor and love of God to tell this hard story of losing something to cancer. Be it a beloved mother and wife, or a worrior fought and over came cancer. And how they can beautifully intertwine and become stonger and better.
there are plenty of tears so get your tissues handy, but as with all children there are plenty of laughs.
This book will insire you to make a quilt or cook stew with bisquits or maybe not. But it will inspire you.
The Ovacome group is a real support group that helps the worriors and families. Because of this group we have a beautiful story.
Please give these a read you will not be diappointed.
June 29, 2013
Rarely does a book capture my attention before I've finished reading the prologue! Most often it takes at least the second chapter or more before I'm really hooked. My heart swelled with emotion for the characters and I felt like I had a personal involvement. Well done Sandie Bricker! This is one I will most definitely be reading over and over again!
August 4, 2013
This is such a touching and heartwarming story about love, loss, and finding love again when you least expect it. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a sweet story, but be warned: you will need tissues! Also, be prepared to have a serious pizza craving once you're finished reading :)
September 22, 2022
I started listening to the audiobook and found the narrator was too childish sounding for all the characters. She made Sadie sound like a brat which was not true when I read my physical copy.
The story while heartbreaking was beautiful.
The story while heartbreaking was beautiful.
June 8, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. The story is sweet with a scene stealing little girl named Sadie.
August 6, 2013
Raw Edges, Quilts of Love Series by Sandra D. Bricker
A brilliant story about the loss cancer causes. In preparation of her final days Jenna McDonough writes a journal for her daughter Sadie. This treasure is full of words to give peace, inspiration and love, a keepsake that will be treasured forever. Her husband Gary faithfully reads it to her. After the passing of her mother, Sadie and her father receive an invitation to attend an ovarian cancer support group meeting. Gary goes with her because he knows it may help. There they meet a great group of ladies preparing to make a memory quilt. By attending, Gary got more than he could have imagined. There he meets Annabelle Curtis, a cancer survivor, organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group. Somehow she gets both him and Sadie involved in the project. This story gives hope to the grieving. The author Sandra Bricker will have you laughing out loud, crying and smiling throughout the whole book. I especially loved the journal and the scripture it had, I thought this was a wonderful gift to leave behind for our loved ones. The death of a loved one is hard enough, but to me is even harder when you leave behind young children. This book touches on many painful and joyful things we experience with loss, feelings of grief, raising children as a single parent, moving on in life, and dating. As cancer touches many of our lives this book will give hope and inspiration to the hurting. I highly recommend this book. Sandra D. Bricker touched some tough subjects with sensitivity, grace and integrity. To think a book on such a hard subject could have a blessedly happy ending. I would like to thank the author and publisher for writing and bringing good clean Christian books to readers like me.
A brilliant story about the loss cancer causes. In preparation of her final days Jenna McDonough writes a journal for her daughter Sadie. This treasure is full of words to give peace, inspiration and love, a keepsake that will be treasured forever. Her husband Gary faithfully reads it to her. After the passing of her mother, Sadie and her father receive an invitation to attend an ovarian cancer support group meeting. Gary goes with her because he knows it may help. There they meet a great group of ladies preparing to make a memory quilt. By attending, Gary got more than he could have imagined. There he meets Annabelle Curtis, a cancer survivor, organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group. Somehow she gets both him and Sadie involved in the project. This story gives hope to the grieving. The author Sandra Bricker will have you laughing out loud, crying and smiling throughout the whole book. I especially loved the journal and the scripture it had, I thought this was a wonderful gift to leave behind for our loved ones. The death of a loved one is hard enough, but to me is even harder when you leave behind young children. This book touches on many painful and joyful things we experience with loss, feelings of grief, raising children as a single parent, moving on in life, and dating. As cancer touches many of our lives this book will give hope and inspiration to the hurting. I highly recommend this book. Sandra D. Bricker touched some tough subjects with sensitivity, grace and integrity. To think a book on such a hard subject could have a blessedly happy ending. I would like to thank the author and publisher for writing and bringing good clean Christian books to readers like me.
September 2, 2013
In short, AMAZING AWESOMENESS that will make you laugh, cry, build an outdoor pizza oven, and stay up late to finish this heartwarming funny read! The book goes beyond an engaging well-written story. It also raises awareness of ovarian cancer and the support systems available to both the patient and the family. It also gives a realistic view of surviving the diagnosis, treatment, triumph and loss that occurs with a cancer diagnosis. Don't let the fact that a central factor of the book is cancer! The book has a match making daughter, a series of life lessons/motherly advice, a new craft, and even hair advice. In all fairness, I feel the need to warn that after reading this book you may want to run a 5K, make a quilt, cook beef stew. Sandra D. Bricker has done it again...caused me to read a book in 1 sitting AND add the book to my rotation of re-reads. (At the time of this review the book has been read in full twice and bits & pieces several times). Get a copy today with no regrets!!! I was lucky to receive an advance copy of Sandra D. Bricker's Raw Edges: Quilts of Love Series in exchange for a true and honest review.
May 15, 2016
Poignant story of love, loss, and love's second chances.
The thread of a beautiful relationship between mother and young daughter figures throughout the story. Jenna's letters penned to her daughter, Sadie, offer guidance in life and love and understanding of her heart desires for Sadie's life after Jenna loses the battle with ovarian cancer. Her positive outlook inspires and encourages both Sadie and Grayson, Jenna's husband and father of Sadie, including openness toward beginning a new relationship.
When that possibility presents itself to this father daughter duo, they can step in that new direction without hesitation or regret. And the tenderness of their journey becomes an emotional read in the process.
Absolutely lovely addition to the Quilts of Love series and completely stand-alone for readers wondering if earlier books need reading.
Note: Author, Sandra D Bricker, herself an ovarian cancer survivor, gears time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure.
*Appreciation to Abingdon Press for the ecopy to read and review without cost or obligation.
The thread of a beautiful relationship between mother and young daughter figures throughout the story. Jenna's letters penned to her daughter, Sadie, offer guidance in life and love and understanding of her heart desires for Sadie's life after Jenna loses the battle with ovarian cancer. Her positive outlook inspires and encourages both Sadie and Grayson, Jenna's husband and father of Sadie, including openness toward beginning a new relationship.
When that possibility presents itself to this father daughter duo, they can step in that new direction without hesitation or regret. And the tenderness of their journey becomes an emotional read in the process.
Absolutely lovely addition to the Quilts of Love series and completely stand-alone for readers wondering if earlier books need reading.
Note: Author, Sandra D Bricker, herself an ovarian cancer survivor, gears time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure.
*Appreciation to Abingdon Press for the ecopy to read and review without cost or obligation.
September 20, 2013
About a year after Jenna passes away, Sadie and her father receive a card in the mail from Ovacome ( a Cancer support group in their area ). Sadie wants to join the group and help with the memory quilt that they are making, and when she and her father attend their first Ovacome meeting and meet Annabelle..they both realize how much this support group will help them.
Sadie really likes Annabelle, and I like the way that she forms a friendship with her right away.
The author combines the topics of Cancer, losing a loved one, moving on with life and making a memory quilt into a heartfelt story that will leave you smiling, laughing and maybe shedding a tear or two...
I loved the journal entries and Bible verses from Jenna to Sadie at the end of each chapter, they are so sweet and uplifting!
I recommend this book to everyone that loves touching heartfelt stories!
Sadie really likes Annabelle, and I like the way that she forms a friendship with her right away.
The author combines the topics of Cancer, losing a loved one, moving on with life and making a memory quilt into a heartfelt story that will leave you smiling, laughing and maybe shedding a tear or two...
I loved the journal entries and Bible verses from Jenna to Sadie at the end of each chapter, they are so sweet and uplifting!
I recommend this book to everyone that loves touching heartfelt stories!
June 26, 2013
Loved the book! I especially loved the journal entries from Jenna to Sadie. The turmoil of moving on after a loved one's death is so wonderfully, honestly and sensitively portrayed. I stayed up too late to find out what happened next, and next, and next! So many situations are covered in this novel besides cancer and cancer support- the feelings after being "left behind", dating after the death of a loved one, dating a parent and child, trying new things, taking on a task that suddenly seems bigger than you, getting involved... A wonderful novel that will touch your heart and will appeal to many. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
July 26, 2013
"Raw Edges" deals with tough subject of cancer and has a lot of quilting tied in throughout. Even though I am not into quilting it was an excellent book! Like all of the other books I've read by Sandra, this book had plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Be ready to cry, laugh, and smile.
Sandra did an amazing job, as always, developing the characters in this book. I fell head-over-heels in love with little Sadie!
I've read several of Sandra's books and this is my favorite so far!! Bravo to Sandra, another job well done!
*I received an advanced electronic copy of this book to read and review. This review is based on my honest opinion of this book.*
Sandra did an amazing job, as always, developing the characters in this book. I fell head-over-heels in love with little Sadie!
I've read several of Sandra's books and this is my favorite so far!! Bravo to Sandra, another job well done!
*I received an advanced electronic copy of this book to read and review. This review is based on my honest opinion of this book.*
April 10, 2013
Raw Edges is a sweet story. I was able to read this book in one day with ease and it was very enjoyable.
The chemistry between Annabelle and Grayson was great! I also loved how they both included Sadie in the things they did.
Raw Edges is a book I recommend.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
The chemistry between Annabelle and Grayson was great! I also loved how they both included Sadie in the things they did.
Raw Edges is a book I recommend.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
August 12, 2013
Sandie has done it again. This book is amazing from the first page. No matter what you have been through you will find a character you can relate to. Sandie gets to the heart and keeps you going to the end. Once you start you wont want to stop, so grab a box a tissue your favorite drink and a few hours and enjoy. THIS is a MUST READ
August 12, 2020
One year ago Greyson and Sadie lost someone very important to them due to ovarian cancer. Now Greyson is trying to raise his daughter Sadie alone and wishes everyday his wife Jenna had never gotten cancer and that she was still here to help. Instead all he has is the journal she left behind with instructions for their daughter, and anecdotes of Sadie's life. When the postcard arrives in the mail, Sadie gets it first and begs her dad to let her attend the ovacome meeting, for those who have survived or lost someone to ovarian cancer. Since she's only 9 Greyson attends with her, and happens to be there on the first night of the planning for their memory quilt they plan on selling at a silent auction. The project is spearheaded by Annabelle, who Sadie immediately attaches herself to, and Greyson finds himself wishing he could too. With Jenna only being gone a year, is he ready to move on or should wrap up his feelings and keep them forever?
I found this book to somewhat predictable. I wasn't really surprised by anything, but it was well written. I usually find this author to be funny as well, but this book was serious, probably due to the serious nature of the book. I would probably read this book again
I found this book to somewhat predictable. I wasn't really surprised by anything, but it was well written. I usually find this author to be funny as well, but this book was serious, probably due to the serious nature of the book. I would probably read this book again
November 28, 2022
Christian Contemporary Romance
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! Tender, sweet, emotional, and maybe because I'm the grown daughter of a victim to cancer, this story line was very near to my heart!
The narration was very good, but everytime Sadie's spoke, her loud character voice grated on my nerves. Her father on the other had was very soft spoken, so if I turned it down I couldn't hear everything he said, but when I turned it up, I cringed every time Sadie spoke. I usually listen to audiobooks at night when my family's gone to bed, so the big variation in volume made this a bit hard to listen too.
Also every time Sadie said "sorry", which is fairly often, it seemed so fake. It definitely didn't seem defiant like a teenager, or just not contrite enough, like a toddler. But, if I was to ever hear my own children say it like that, they would have been corrected. I'm not sure if either of my points are what the author asked for, or what the narrator added on her own. The journal was my favorite part of the book. A lot of wisdom was written in those words, and I especially loved the reiteration of Sadie's wonderful uniqueness and God's perfection!
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! Tender, sweet, emotional, and maybe because I'm the grown daughter of a victim to cancer, this story line was very near to my heart!
The narration was very good, but everytime Sadie's spoke, her loud character voice grated on my nerves. Her father on the other had was very soft spoken, so if I turned it down I couldn't hear everything he said, but when I turned it up, I cringed every time Sadie spoke. I usually listen to audiobooks at night when my family's gone to bed, so the big variation in volume made this a bit hard to listen too.
Also every time Sadie said "sorry", which is fairly often, it seemed so fake. It definitely didn't seem defiant like a teenager, or just not contrite enough, like a toddler. But, if I was to ever hear my own children say it like that, they would have been corrected. I'm not sure if either of my points are what the author asked for, or what the narrator added on her own. The journal was my favorite part of the book. A lot of wisdom was written in those words, and I especially loved the reiteration of Sadie's wonderful uniqueness and God's perfection!
November 18, 2020
Raw Edges, a great title
I had a hard time starting this book, not because of any similar experience with myself or a loved one in a similar situation. I’m a nurse, and, have dealt with loss of many a favorite patient or family over my 44 years as a nurse. I loved the beautiful connection you, the author, made between mother and daughter through the journaling, beautiful bible verses, and quilting to honor the love and memories for the family left behind and the new family beginning. Though my mother and I did not have a loving connected relationship, I somehow have come to believe and have hope she loved me in her own way, and feel some sadness with forgiveness for her now. Thank you for your beautiful story.
I had a hard time starting this book, not because of any similar experience with myself or a loved one in a similar situation. I’m a nurse, and, have dealt with loss of many a favorite patient or family over my 44 years as a nurse. I loved the beautiful connection you, the author, made between mother and daughter through the journaling, beautiful bible verses, and quilting to honor the love and memories for the family left behind and the new family beginning. Though my mother and I did not have a loving connected relationship, I somehow have come to believe and have hope she loved me in her own way, and feel some sadness with forgiveness for her now. Thank you for your beautiful story.
August 17, 2018
This is the story of Sadie and her dad, Grayson dealing with the loss of her mom when she was 8 to ovarian cancer. The story was a sweet romance of learning how to quilt and falling in love with the art of quilting as well as Annabel falling in love with Grayson. Annabel is an ovarian Cancer survivor. Humorous and sweet Sadie captivates this story. A great story.
July 12, 2017
this book was so applicable in my current state ... i highly recommend it if you are going thru a loss of a loved one.
August 23, 2022
This was such a lovely storey. It is sad how many woman ignore symptoms because they are afraid to face the truth. It has me thinking it is time I start doing my annual check ups.
January 1, 2023
One of my favorites of the series so far.
May 20, 2025
Love lives on
A beautiful story of loss and how new love comes in when you keep your heart open. Cancer can take away but God can give back.
A beautiful story of loss and how new love comes in when you keep your heart open. Cancer can take away but God can give back.
February 1, 2021
The 10th book in the Quilts of Love series. Christian fiction. Sweet romance.
July 4, 2013
SANDRA D. BRICKER - RAW EDGES
Quilts of Love #10
★★★★
4 of 5 Stars
Tampa, Florida.
In the Prologue we meet the McDonough family. Mom Jenna, Dad Grayson and 7-year-old Sadie. Jenna is reading a very moving bedtime story to little Sadies while Daddy secretly listens to the two females he loved most in the world. The bedtime story is part of a big book that Jenna wrote full of little important messages that she hopes will help Sadie and Gray once she is gone.
Because Jenna is dying.
In between chapters we will find those little messages from Jenna - always accompanied by a bible verse.
One year later....
Chapter One starts with Gray and Sadie arguing over a dinner, cooked by Sadie's Nanny Miss Essie.
Sadie is sad that her Dad forgot to come home on time for their Friday-pizza-date. And she's especially sad because it's the first anniversary of her mom 'leaving'.
"Today is one year since Mommy left," she announced. "Did you even remember?"
"It's Mommy's anniversary of when she got to be with Gramma and leave behind her pain."
Sadie thinks, because it's an anniversary she should get a present. Gray doesn't think so - and is half afraid of what she would want, like a dog or a swimming pool ☺ But she only wants to go to a Ovacome Support Group Meeting. Sadie says a postcard of this support group was in the mail that day.
(we later learn that Jenna asked the group to invite her husband and daughter a year after her death.)
Gray is not sure about the support group thing, but Sadie wants it so bad, that he agrees.
That's where we meet Anabelle Curtis. An ovarian cancer survivor. And a single woman - because her fiancé couldn't live with her having cancer! She works at the local Aquarium - after quitting her well-paid job
Anabelle and the group are planning on making a memory quilt with pieces of clothing from survivors and lost loved ones.
Sadie loves the idea of it and wants to help with cutting the clothes and she wants to donate one of her mom's dresses.
I don't want to spoil the story by saying too much.... only so much:
- it's very moving
- the little girl, Sadie is really funny and cute and wise for her age - she's adorable.
- Daddy Gray is quite yummy too ;)
- Annabelle is such a kind and nice person
- Miss Essie is adorable too
- lots of booktime is used to work on the quilt, and everything connected to it.
- we're going on a few 'dates' with Gray, Sadie & Annabelle
.............
♥ Happy End ♥
My opinion
The book had me crying on page 2 already! I really liked Gray and Sadie - she's such a cute and wise and funny little girl. 9 going on 29!
There are some really moving and heartbreaking moments in the book - but all in all nothing really happens.
It's just a nice little story about a father and his little girl - and finding their way again after their loss. Finding their Faith again - especially Gray - who lost all of his belief in God when his wife got sick.
And of course finding love again -> Annabelle.
It's a book that I really recommend for survivors or loved ones of Cancer patients. Maybe they will find some help, hope and inspiration.
For information about Ovarian Cancer please visit this website:
♥ Ovarian Cancer National Alliance ♥
What I didn't like - but that's not the author's fault of course - especially since this book categorized as a christian novel - what I didn't know, unfortunately, when I requested this book from netgalley. Sorry ☻.
Those little messages Jenna wrote to Sadie, always contain lots of talk about God plus a bible verse. That feels a bit too much. Like she wants her daughter to grow up über-religious. She should not have done that. She should let her decide if she wants to be religious or not, and not push it on her.
You probably already noticed already that I'm not religious at all. So the whole religion thing in the book was really too much for me, all the praying and going to church etc. I didn't realize the book was a christian thing - I just liked the blurb ☺ But I don't regret reading it at all.
So - go and buy the book! Oh, and I suggest you buy a box of tissues too!
March 23, 2022
Story of healing and second chances.
September 24, 2013
Grayson McDonough wished that they made something like bias tape to fix the raw edges in his own life. After spending more than a year dealing with the loss of his wife Jenna to Ovarian Cancer, he still couldn't find a way to move forward. It seems that it was easier for his young nine-year-old daughter, Sadie and reading the journal her mother left her with life lessons made those days easier to manage. Even though she missed her mother deeply, the words she penned in the journal offering snippets of wisdom, advice and even insights into her dad enabled Sadie to believe that her mother was still a part of their lives, if she could only get her dad to read it.
It seems like they need a door to open and the invitation came in the form of a quilting group through a cancer support group known as Ovacome. The young women running the project, Annabelle Curtis knows how much cancer can affect the family. Not only just the families dealing with the loss of a loved one, but also for survivors like herself. In Annabelle's situation her future was dashed when she learned she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and had to undergo a hysterectomy that resulted in her fiancè calling off their wedding and also their relationship in favor of someone who could have children.
Now that Sadie has been drawn to helping put together a quilt of scraps of fabric from those who had loss a loved one to cancer and also those who are survivors, she forms a connection with Annabelle that helps her move forward in her own life, finding joy in the simple ways of simply spending time enjoying life instead of merely getting by. Slowly over the course of the novel, Gray has no choice but to get involved since Sadie needs transportation to get to the quilting meetings and soon finds himself working on a project to help benefit the sale of the quilt. Along the way, he realizes that even though life is hard to get through on some days, his wife Jenna left behind a legacy that will last forever.
I received Raw Edges by Sandra D. Bricker compliments of Abingdon Press and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. This is such a poignant story to read and you can't help but get emotionally involved not only in Sadie and Gray's situation but also Annabelle's story as a survivor. It really is about healing and dealing with the loss of broken hearts and shows that time will slowly allow those wounds to heal but those memories we create will truly last a lifetime. This is my first novel with Sandra D. Bricker and I will be on the lookout for more of her books. She invests the time to entice the reader to become a part of the story and for that reason I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars. This novel is number 10 in the Quilts of Love Series and can be read in any order.
It seems like they need a door to open and the invitation came in the form of a quilting group through a cancer support group known as Ovacome. The young women running the project, Annabelle Curtis knows how much cancer can affect the family. Not only just the families dealing with the loss of a loved one, but also for survivors like herself. In Annabelle's situation her future was dashed when she learned she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and had to undergo a hysterectomy that resulted in her fiancè calling off their wedding and also their relationship in favor of someone who could have children.
Now that Sadie has been drawn to helping put together a quilt of scraps of fabric from those who had loss a loved one to cancer and also those who are survivors, she forms a connection with Annabelle that helps her move forward in her own life, finding joy in the simple ways of simply spending time enjoying life instead of merely getting by. Slowly over the course of the novel, Gray has no choice but to get involved since Sadie needs transportation to get to the quilting meetings and soon finds himself working on a project to help benefit the sale of the quilt. Along the way, he realizes that even though life is hard to get through on some days, his wife Jenna left behind a legacy that will last forever.
I received Raw Edges by Sandra D. Bricker compliments of Abingdon Press and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. This is such a poignant story to read and you can't help but get emotionally involved not only in Sadie and Gray's situation but also Annabelle's story as a survivor. It really is about healing and dealing with the loss of broken hearts and shows that time will slowly allow those wounds to heal but those memories we create will truly last a lifetime. This is my first novel with Sandra D. Bricker and I will be on the lookout for more of her books. She invests the time to entice the reader to become a part of the story and for that reason I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars. This novel is number 10 in the Quilts of Love Series and can be read in any order.
September 2, 2013
One year has passed since Jenna McDonough lost her battle with ovarian cancer. Grayson McDonough and his daughter, Sadie, have muddled through the year. Nine-year-old Sadie discovers a local support group named Ovacome, which lends support to ovarian cancer survivors and families who have lost loved ones to the disease. Sadie arranges for her father to accompany her to the support group where Annabelle Curtis, a survivor of ovarian cancer, has begun planning a quilt to honor survivors and those who lost their lives to ovarian cancer. Grayson feels like a fish out of water in a room filled with women, but Sadie is committed to becoming involved with the quilt project. Her overwhelming energy and enthusiasm finally break down her father's resolve, and he agrees to allow Sadie to participate in the quilt project. Grayson's enthusiasm is lacking due to his loss and his anger at God, but he also realizes that Sadie needs something to help her move forward. Sadie takes an immediate liking to Annabelle, and Grayson agrees to let them work on the quilt project at their home where Sadie can be supervised.
Raw Edges is an engaging story of overcoming extreme loss and finding healing and renewed faith in God. The issue of ovarian cancer and Ovacome, the ovarian cancer support group play key roles in bringing about awareness of the disease and available support networks. Sandra D. Bricker has presented a cast of realistic and lovable characters in this story. She brings them to life in a perceptive manner with encouraging and humorous situations that are captivating. She intertwines her characters throughout the story and develops a lovable community of people supporting and encouraging of one another. I thoroughly enjoyed this story of hope and love, and renewed faith.
Disclaimer: I received this book from Wynn-Wynn Media for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Raw Edges is an engaging story of overcoming extreme loss and finding healing and renewed faith in God. The issue of ovarian cancer and Ovacome, the ovarian cancer support group play key roles in bringing about awareness of the disease and available support networks. Sandra D. Bricker has presented a cast of realistic and lovable characters in this story. She brings them to life in a perceptive manner with encouraging and humorous situations that are captivating. She intertwines her characters throughout the story and develops a lovable community of people supporting and encouraging of one another. I thoroughly enjoyed this story of hope and love, and renewed faith.
Disclaimer: I received this book from Wynn-Wynn Media for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
March 10, 2014
Raw Edges Quilts of Love Series by Sandra D. Bricker
I had just read another Quilt of Love book and it was not a digital copy and truly fell in love with it and I know this book will measure up nicely with it and hope it will help me come up with an idea for all the fabric i've been saving to use for a quilt.
The McDonoughs: Jenna, Gray and Sadie were a family til Jenna died from an illness. He struggles with his 9 year old daughter and hopes he is bringing her up right-the way Jenna would've done things.
They would read from Jenna's journal and it would bring smiles and tears to their eyes.
The story also follows Annabelle Curtis story of working at the aquarium, having ovarian cancer and how the quilting group is helping her to cope and heal.
Sadie talked her dad into going to the support group meeting-where the women will talk and make a memory quilt.
At the end of chapters a bit of Jenna's journal is quoted along with a Bible passage.
Loved learning new things: about penguins feathers, fixing raw edges, and just all the ideas to help others cope with their pain and suffering.
Although Gray does not quilt or sew he is able to come up with an idea to help the project along. Sadie tries to get them together and it backfires.
Extras like the food recipes are such a great contribution. As the adults become closer Sadie is allowed to go with Annabelle to church then onto a quilting lesson where they learn so much-so did I.
Surprised who bought the quilt at the auction-didn't see that coming. Sadie going back to church was just the beginning...
Excerpt of The Christmas Quilt, Quilts of Love series is also included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
I had just read another Quilt of Love book and it was not a digital copy and truly fell in love with it and I know this book will measure up nicely with it and hope it will help me come up with an idea for all the fabric i've been saving to use for a quilt.
The McDonoughs: Jenna, Gray and Sadie were a family til Jenna died from an illness. He struggles with his 9 year old daughter and hopes he is bringing her up right-the way Jenna would've done things.
They would read from Jenna's journal and it would bring smiles and tears to their eyes.
The story also follows Annabelle Curtis story of working at the aquarium, having ovarian cancer and how the quilting group is helping her to cope and heal.
Sadie talked her dad into going to the support group meeting-where the women will talk and make a memory quilt.
At the end of chapters a bit of Jenna's journal is quoted along with a Bible passage.
Loved learning new things: about penguins feathers, fixing raw edges, and just all the ideas to help others cope with their pain and suffering.
Although Gray does not quilt or sew he is able to come up with an idea to help the project along. Sadie tries to get them together and it backfires.
Extras like the food recipes are such a great contribution. As the adults become closer Sadie is allowed to go with Annabelle to church then onto a quilting lesson where they learn so much-so did I.
Surprised who bought the quilt at the auction-didn't see that coming. Sadie going back to church was just the beginning...
Excerpt of The Christmas Quilt, Quilts of Love series is also included.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
August 19, 2013
Title: RAW EDGES
Author: Sandra D. Bricker
Publisher: Abingdon Press
September 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4267-4275-9
Genre: Contemporary romance
Will a memory quilt open old wounds—or revive a broken heart?
Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, ovarian cancer support groups, or even church on Sunday now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connections back to her mom.
When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?
RAW EDGES is the newest in the Quilts of Love series (book ten) by Abingdon Press. All the books are stand alone and written by different authors. This particular story has a bit of melancholy taste, with the loss of life represented by parts of the fabric in the quilt, and the taste of hope with the survivors’ contributions.
I loved that Sadie was independent and even a bit bossy in dealing with her more reclusive father. Gray was content to sit back, do his job, and enjoy his daughter while morning his beloved wife his own way. But Sadie forced him out of his shell, into the Ocacome support group, and then doing other things. I hoped Gray would move beyond his grief and embrace life—but at the same time, it was a touch sad. Cancer is a terrible thing. And RAW EDGES is a gift of love for survivors or families that lost a loved one due to ovarian cancer. $12.99. 256 pages.
Author: Sandra D. Bricker
Publisher: Abingdon Press
September 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4267-4275-9
Genre: Contemporary romance
Will a memory quilt open old wounds—or revive a broken heart?
Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, ovarian cancer support groups, or even church on Sunday now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connections back to her mom.
When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?
RAW EDGES is the newest in the Quilts of Love series (book ten) by Abingdon Press. All the books are stand alone and written by different authors. This particular story has a bit of melancholy taste, with the loss of life represented by parts of the fabric in the quilt, and the taste of hope with the survivors’ contributions.
I loved that Sadie was independent and even a bit bossy in dealing with her more reclusive father. Gray was content to sit back, do his job, and enjoy his daughter while morning his beloved wife his own way. But Sadie forced him out of his shell, into the Ocacome support group, and then doing other things. I hoped Gray would move beyond his grief and embrace life—but at the same time, it was a touch sad. Cancer is a terrible thing. And RAW EDGES is a gift of love for survivors or families that lost a loved one due to ovarian cancer. $12.99. 256 pages.
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