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The Hourglass
Can forgiveness survive lies and unspoken truths?
Until Brenda McAllister’s husband committed suicide, she appeared to have the ideal life: a thriving psychology practice, success as a self-help author, and a model family. But her guilt over her affair with Jack’s best friend prevents her from moving on. Did Jack learn of her infidelity? Was she the cause of his death?
The release of Brenda’s second book forces her into an unexpected assignment with arrogant celebrity author CJ Morrison, whose irritating and edgy exterior hides the torment of his own mistakes. But as she grows closer to CJ, Brenda learns she wasn’t the only one with secrets—Jack had secrets of his own, unsavory ones that may have led to his death. While CJ helps Brenda uncover the truth about her husband, she finds the path to forgiveness isn’t always on the map.
Until Brenda McAllister’s husband committed suicide, she appeared to have the ideal life: a thriving psychology practice, success as a self-help author, and a model family. But her guilt over her affair with Jack’s best friend prevents her from moving on. Did Jack learn of her infidelity? Was she the cause of his death?
The release of Brenda’s second book forces her into an unexpected assignment with arrogant celebrity author CJ Morrison, whose irritating and edgy exterior hides the torment of his own mistakes. But as she grows closer to CJ, Brenda learns she wasn’t the only one with secrets—Jack had secrets of his own, unsavory ones that may have led to his death. While CJ helps Brenda uncover the truth about her husband, she finds the path to forgiveness isn’t always on the map.
- GenresRomance
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2013
About the author
Sharon Struth
14 books450 followersSharon Struth believes you’re never too old to pursue a dream. The Hourglass, her debut novel, was a finalist in the National Readers' Choice Awards for Best First Book, and her Blue Moon Lake Novels includes the Barnes & Noble bestseller, Share the Moon.
When she’s not working, she and her husband happily sip their way through the scenic towns of the Connecticut Wine Trail, travel the world, and enjoy spending time with their precious pets and two grown daughters.
She writes from the friendliest place she’s ever lived, Bethel, Connecticut. For more information, including where to find her published essays, please visit sharonstruth.com or visit her blog, Musings from the Middle Ages & More at www.sharonstruth.wordpress.com.
When she’s not working, she and her husband happily sip their way through the scenic towns of the Connecticut Wine Trail, travel the world, and enjoy spending time with their precious pets and two grown daughters.
She writes from the friendliest place she’s ever lived, Bethel, Connecticut. For more information, including where to find her published essays, please visit sharonstruth.com or visit her blog, Musings from the Middle Ages & More at www.sharonstruth.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 19, 2013
Life happens. Sometimes, bad things happen. And sometimes, despite those bad things, love happens. Sharon Struth gives her characters flaws, poor decisions, bad reactions--and yet never fails to show how very human such things are. Theese are real, believable--and over 45. Huzzah! Characters with real passion, real romance, and very real problems to overcome that are not young, beautiful and tragic.
The romance felt authentic, as did the lives of CJ and Brenda. The mystery surrounding both of their tragedies unfolded the way I imagine such things would if they happened to me, or to someone I know. Just enough drama. Just enough eye-dabbing when you think no one is looking. Just enough tension before she lets us off the hook. Perfectly paced. Loved it.
The romance felt authentic, as did the lives of CJ and Brenda. The mystery surrounding both of their tragedies unfolded the way I imagine such things would if they happened to me, or to someone I know. Just enough drama. Just enough eye-dabbing when you think no one is looking. Just enough tension before she lets us off the hook. Perfectly paced. Loved it.
October 8, 2013
So have you ever seen the show "Who the Bleep Did I Marry?" because it's a pretty fantastic show, you should watch it. But this book basically reminded me of this because of poor Brenda. Brenda the relationship expert, psychologist, who is also a widow after her own husband commits suicide for reasons unknown to her. She has residual guilt from her own infidelity and she wonders if that is what set him over the edge. But as you read the book you know quickly that it was for far more damaging reasons than that.
Enter CJ, who hires Brenda to assist with the character development on his upcoming book. After a terse first meeting and some awkward slash rude follow up encounters, Brenda isn't sure if she is sure she made the right decision agreeing to work with him. But she continues on because she is nothing if not professional, and she is looking for a challenge.
I've seen the term "boomer lit" pop up on other blogs and some online magazines I read and I don't think I totally understand what that is as a genre, but after reading this, I would put this there. It's kind of pegged as a romance, and while there is some of that in there, it's not what you would expect from a romance novel. Not that I'm saying you need to break out nipple clamps and ropes, but that there should be something. And the something in this book is some conversation, sweet gestures and a little more, but you don't get a glimpse into the bedroom, if you will. And at first I was turned off by this because that is a foreign thing to me, I know what I want from a romance book and I'm not saying no to nipple clamps all of the time, let's just say. But when I think of the ages of the characters, basically my parent's age, mid 50's, and that's not really their prerogative. Not to say a mid-50's guy or gal can't get freaky, I'm just saying that typically, it's not really their thing. So it's like a really cute, awkward couple dipping their toes into dating towards a meaningful relationship.
AND THEN.
While all of this sexual tension is happening with CJ, Brenda finds out her husband is being investigated for fraud. Her job, whether out of wifely duties, residual guilt, and/or fear of judgement from others, decides she's going to do everything she can to basically defend his name and legacy if not for him, but for their two children who in their own ways, still grieve for him though it's been a year.
The book is well written. The plot doesn't feel hokey and you can tell Sharon really put forth a good effort. I enjoyed the book and found it difficult to put down. In hindsight, it's not one that I would maybe have picked up right away, but I am glad I did because it didn't disappoint!
Enter CJ, who hires Brenda to assist with the character development on his upcoming book. After a terse first meeting and some awkward slash rude follow up encounters, Brenda isn't sure if she is sure she made the right decision agreeing to work with him. But she continues on because she is nothing if not professional, and she is looking for a challenge.
I've seen the term "boomer lit" pop up on other blogs and some online magazines I read and I don't think I totally understand what that is as a genre, but after reading this, I would put this there. It's kind of pegged as a romance, and while there is some of that in there, it's not what you would expect from a romance novel. Not that I'm saying you need to break out nipple clamps and ropes, but that there should be something. And the something in this book is some conversation, sweet gestures and a little more, but you don't get a glimpse into the bedroom, if you will. And at first I was turned off by this because that is a foreign thing to me, I know what I want from a romance book and I'm not saying no to nipple clamps all of the time, let's just say. But when I think of the ages of the characters, basically my parent's age, mid 50's, and that's not really their prerogative. Not to say a mid-50's guy or gal can't get freaky, I'm just saying that typically, it's not really their thing. So it's like a really cute, awkward couple dipping their toes into dating towards a meaningful relationship.
AND THEN.
While all of this sexual tension is happening with CJ, Brenda finds out her husband is being investigated for fraud. Her job, whether out of wifely duties, residual guilt, and/or fear of judgement from others, decides she's going to do everything she can to basically defend his name and legacy if not for him, but for their two children who in their own ways, still grieve for him though it's been a year.
The book is well written. The plot doesn't feel hokey and you can tell Sharon really put forth a good effort. I enjoyed the book and found it difficult to put down. In hindsight, it's not one that I would maybe have picked up right away, but I am glad I did because it didn't disappoint!
August 27, 2016
The Hourglass is a great contemporary romance that is filled with mystery and lots of emotion. I found the pacing of the story to be bang on and the characters to be quite enjoyable.
Brenda is exactly how I see a widow a year after her loss - still trying to put the pieces back together and wanting to move forward with her life, but just needing a gentle nudge from a friend. In her newly single life, Brenda decides she is not going to put up with crap from anyone, because life is too short.
At first CJ comes across as the kind of guy that I would avoid for fear of making him angry over the tiniest thing. But as I got to know his character, I came to realize that he was hiding behind all of his anger and self hatred for a very long time.
"One of my favorite quotes is from Dorothy Parker. She wrote, 'Four be the things I am wiser to know: idleness, sorrow, a friend, and a foe. Four be the things I'd been better without: love, curiousity, freckles, and doubt.'"
When the two main characters meet for the first time and realize they will be working together on a new assignment, the room couldn't get any colder. Their frostiness and attitude can be felt miles away. After spending much time together for work, Brenda realizes that CJ isn't who he portrays to be - there is someone else hiding behind his facade and her psychology skills have helped her to figure out what makes him tick.
The chemistry between them starts to heat up and allow you to see that maybe they can have another chance at love. Their relationship develops with alternating sweetness and raw emotion. I like to think they help each other to let go of their guilt and deal with their sorrow, by pushing each others limits.
And lastly, I loved the symbolism of the hourglass. So sweet once you get to the end of the book.
Brenda is exactly how I see a widow a year after her loss - still trying to put the pieces back together and wanting to move forward with her life, but just needing a gentle nudge from a friend. In her newly single life, Brenda decides she is not going to put up with crap from anyone, because life is too short.
At first CJ comes across as the kind of guy that I would avoid for fear of making him angry over the tiniest thing. But as I got to know his character, I came to realize that he was hiding behind all of his anger and self hatred for a very long time.
"One of my favorite quotes is from Dorothy Parker. She wrote, 'Four be the things I am wiser to know: idleness, sorrow, a friend, and a foe. Four be the things I'd been better without: love, curiousity, freckles, and doubt.'"
When the two main characters meet for the first time and realize they will be working together on a new assignment, the room couldn't get any colder. Their frostiness and attitude can be felt miles away. After spending much time together for work, Brenda realizes that CJ isn't who he portrays to be - there is someone else hiding behind his facade and her psychology skills have helped her to figure out what makes him tick.
The chemistry between them starts to heat up and allow you to see that maybe they can have another chance at love. Their relationship develops with alternating sweetness and raw emotion. I like to think they help each other to let go of their guilt and deal with their sorrow, by pushing each others limits.
And lastly, I loved the symbolism of the hourglass. So sweet once you get to the end of the book.
October 21, 2013
Brenda and CJ meet under stressful circumstances, but their encounter leaves them both with lingering feelings. Then a business proposal brings them back together. CJ is looking for some help with figuring out some character issues in his next book, and Brenda is a noted psychologist. But they both have secrets and are struggling with overwhelming loss.
As they work together, Brenda and CJ draw closer. Unfortunately, there's a lot between them with guilt and secrets only scratching the surface. Before they can be honest with each other about their past, they have to be honest with themselves. Can they find their way to each other?
One of my top criteria for a good read is memorable characters that are relatable. Both CJ and Brenda fit the bill, as do the cast of supporting characters. I especially loved that both CJ and Brenda had longtime friends who supported them even through the darkest times. CJ and Brenda are both flawed, but they are also fighting to come out on the other side of loss and fear. Plus, I really connected with the idea of an author reaching out to a psychologist to figure out character issues.
While I found the romance endearing, I was hooked by what happened to these characters. Kudos to the author for doing such a wonderful job weaving past and present. Instead of one large flashback, the author teased with just the right amount of revelations throughout the story.
I highly recommend The Hourglass to readers who are intrigued by mature romance, not some giggly will-they-or-won't-they light read, mixed with captivating story.
Rating: 4.5 stars (worthy of rounding up)
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
As they work together, Brenda and CJ draw closer. Unfortunately, there's a lot between them with guilt and secrets only scratching the surface. Before they can be honest with each other about their past, they have to be honest with themselves. Can they find their way to each other?
One of my top criteria for a good read is memorable characters that are relatable. Both CJ and Brenda fit the bill, as do the cast of supporting characters. I especially loved that both CJ and Brenda had longtime friends who supported them even through the darkest times. CJ and Brenda are both flawed, but they are also fighting to come out on the other side of loss and fear. Plus, I really connected with the idea of an author reaching out to a psychologist to figure out character issues.
While I found the romance endearing, I was hooked by what happened to these characters. Kudos to the author for doing such a wonderful job weaving past and present. Instead of one large flashback, the author teased with just the right amount of revelations throughout the story.
I highly recommend The Hourglass to readers who are intrigued by mature romance, not some giggly will-they-or-won't-they light read, mixed with captivating story.
Rating: 4.5 stars (worthy of rounding up)
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
May 30, 2013
The Hourglass is a wonderful debut novel by author Sharon Struth. It's tagged as women's fiction with romantic elements but I found it quite romantic.
The story takes us inside the lives of Brenda McAllister, a psychologist and author with a secret who is shaken by the unexpected death of her husband Jack, and CJ Morrison, bestselling author who has a dark, unforgiving past himself.
The plot is well thought out and well written. It's a nice blend of romance, corporate intrigue and suspense with complex characters that are real, flawed, compassionate and human, which made them completely relatable.
I've heard the term "boomer lit" thrown around a little bit and I would say this is the perfect example. The characters are middle-aged and have experienced the good and bad of life, they want love and romance with someone their own age and aren't twenty somethings acting on impulse. It's a welcome change and I hope the genre takes off and Ms. Struth writes more of it.
I don't like to give away the whole story in my reviews, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.
My one small complaint - Ms. Struth has written some terrific sexual tension but keeps the bedroom closed - for those who like to know these things - I prefer more sizzle and hope next times she leaves it open, if only a crack.
The story takes us inside the lives of Brenda McAllister, a psychologist and author with a secret who is shaken by the unexpected death of her husband Jack, and CJ Morrison, bestselling author who has a dark, unforgiving past himself.
The plot is well thought out and well written. It's a nice blend of romance, corporate intrigue and suspense with complex characters that are real, flawed, compassionate and human, which made them completely relatable.
I've heard the term "boomer lit" thrown around a little bit and I would say this is the perfect example. The characters are middle-aged and have experienced the good and bad of life, they want love and romance with someone their own age and aren't twenty somethings acting on impulse. It's a welcome change and I hope the genre takes off and Ms. Struth writes more of it.
I don't like to give away the whole story in my reviews, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.
My one small complaint - Ms. Struth has written some terrific sexual tension but keeps the bedroom closed - for those who like to know these things - I prefer more sizzle and hope next times she leaves it open, if only a crack.
May 16, 2013
Sharon Struth’s, The Hourglass, kept me glued to my iPad. Romance, fun and mystery filled the pages; her dialogue made me laugh out loud.
Psychologist and author, Brenda, presented a funny, outspoken outside to the world, but inside she was overcome with regret for taking advantage of an opportunity she wished she’d let pass.
Successful novelist, C.J., had a penchant for younger women and a novel stuck in writer’s purgatory. His gruff exterior hid his shame from an impulsive road he wished he’d not taken.
Neither impressed with each other at first glimpse, their crossing paths and the evolution of their relationship left me clung to the electronic pages. Tension followed their every meeting.
How will her husband’s business dealings impact her, a year after his death? How will an old flame emerge and undermine her new happiness?
How will C.J. get past his writer’s block and finish his new novel? Will he be able to open his heart to true love again?
Her characters learned that letting go of regret and forgiving yourself can help to find the light of love.
The Hourglass filled my rainy week as I spent hours snuck away, lost in the romance and excitement of her story.
Psychologist and author, Brenda, presented a funny, outspoken outside to the world, but inside she was overcome with regret for taking advantage of an opportunity she wished she’d let pass.
Successful novelist, C.J., had a penchant for younger women and a novel stuck in writer’s purgatory. His gruff exterior hid his shame from an impulsive road he wished he’d not taken.
Neither impressed with each other at first glimpse, their crossing paths and the evolution of their relationship left me clung to the electronic pages. Tension followed their every meeting.
How will her husband’s business dealings impact her, a year after his death? How will an old flame emerge and undermine her new happiness?
How will C.J. get past his writer’s block and finish his new novel? Will he be able to open his heart to true love again?
Her characters learned that letting go of regret and forgiving yourself can help to find the light of love.
The Hourglass filled my rainy week as I spent hours snuck away, lost in the romance and excitement of her story.
September 6, 2013
The Hourglass by Sharon Struth is a heart warming story. The book had me engrossed in a very short time. CJ and Brenda (the main characters) are relatable and real. More importantly, they are not your typical under 30 but are more mature, relatable on so many levels.
One of the things that has resonated with me is the trials each of the characters are facing... things from their past. It reminded me that as we grow older that we bring with us a wealth of experience but also the trials in our lives. I would read this book again and again.
If you are looking for a heart warming story with depth of character... this book is for you :)
One of the things that has resonated with me is the trials each of the characters are facing... things from their past. It reminded me that as we grow older that we bring with us a wealth of experience but also the trials in our lives. I would read this book again and again.
If you are looking for a heart warming story with depth of character... this book is for you :)
November 11, 2013
The Hourglass is a debut novel by Sharon Struth. It is well written and has a well paced story line. Guilt, deception and character analysis play a great part in this novel. The main character does plenty of soul searching throughout but somehow I didn't care much about the outcome. Perhaps it was a bit too romantic for my taste - I find it annoying when a female character daydreams about men. Perhaps I'm too cynical for a traditional love story. I received this book for free through GoodReads Giveaways and I wished I could have liked it more.
October 2, 2013
This was an interesting book. At the beginning it reminded me of another book I recently read, Equilibrium by Lorrie Thomson, because the main character in both novels is a widow who had lost her husband to suicide a year earlier. For this reason, I was a little slow getting into the story because I subconsciously made comparisons. However, once I got into the story, it was very easy to keep reading.
Brenda, the widow, is a psychologist, and one of the difficulties she is struggling is her guilt over being unable to prevent the suicide of her own husband. She is an author of self-help books who worries that this will affect her credibilty in the minds of her readers and patients. She is at a writers’ conference when she literally bumps into author C.J. Morrison. They do not get off to a good start when she spills hot coffee on him. Things get even tenser later that day, when they learn she is to be the psychological consultant for his newest book. C.J. is a highly visible widower who now runs around with younger women. As you may have guessed, sparks fly between C.J. and Brenda.
There is also a mystery aspect to this novel. Brenda’s late husband, Jack, was an accountant with a financial company. Brenda is struggling with the ‘why’ of his suicide. There was no note left and though he had been moody, she has no idea why he chose to kill himself. She learns that the SEC is currently investigating the company Jack worked for, and all indiscretions are being attributed to him. She feels this is totally out of character for him, and decides she needs even more to understand what was going on with him before he died. I really enjoyed this extra element to the story.
This book falls in the emerging genre of ‘boomer lit’. One thing I really enjoyed about this book is that both Brenda and C.J. are older than the average ‘romance character’. Brenda is the mother of grown children and C. J. has been widowed for ten years, after several years of marriage. Overall, this is a romance that is a little bit predictable, but there are enough other things going on to give the story a little substance. I really enjoyed this one.
My Rating: ★★★1/2 3-1/2 Stars
Brenda, the widow, is a psychologist, and one of the difficulties she is struggling is her guilt over being unable to prevent the suicide of her own husband. She is an author of self-help books who worries that this will affect her credibilty in the minds of her readers and patients. She is at a writers’ conference when she literally bumps into author C.J. Morrison. They do not get off to a good start when she spills hot coffee on him. Things get even tenser later that day, when they learn she is to be the psychological consultant for his newest book. C.J. is a highly visible widower who now runs around with younger women. As you may have guessed, sparks fly between C.J. and Brenda.
There is also a mystery aspect to this novel. Brenda’s late husband, Jack, was an accountant with a financial company. Brenda is struggling with the ‘why’ of his suicide. There was no note left and though he had been moody, she has no idea why he chose to kill himself. She learns that the SEC is currently investigating the company Jack worked for, and all indiscretions are being attributed to him. She feels this is totally out of character for him, and decides she needs even more to understand what was going on with him before he died. I really enjoyed this extra element to the story.
This book falls in the emerging genre of ‘boomer lit’. One thing I really enjoyed about this book is that both Brenda and C.J. are older than the average ‘romance character’. Brenda is the mother of grown children and C. J. has been widowed for ten years, after several years of marriage. Overall, this is a romance that is a little bit predictable, but there are enough other things going on to give the story a little substance. I really enjoyed this one.
My Rating: ★★★1/2 3-1/2 Stars
July 23, 2013
This story began with Brenda rushing to get a cup of coffee at the hotel where she was staying. When she turned, going back to her room, she bumped into CJ, spilling hot coffee down the front of his jacket as he was heading out for a very important meeting. As you can imagine, this didn’t go over well with CJ. He let her know in no uncertain terms what he thought of her. Unfortunately, Brenda had been hired to work with him on his upcoming book. You can imagine how the sparks flew between them.
As I continued reading, I realized that this was not a typical romance. Neither was a young, 20 to 30 year old. They were much more mature. As a psychologist, Brenda knew better, but CJ brought out the worst in her, much to her dismay. I really enjoyed the verbal back and forth battles between the two of them. As they fought, they each discovered things about themselves that they needed to learn.
The romance between them did evolve, and it was done in a beautiful and realistic way. Each had things in their past that had to be resolved. They each tried to hide these things from the other. Brenda was still dealing with the suicide of her husband two years before, and CJ had never gotten over the death of his wife in an automobile accident ten years previously.
As they continued meeting, their delightful back and forth arguments continued, but they actually began to enjoy them. It was fun watching them resolve their problems and really get to know each other. Also, there were mysteries involved with the death of both partners that they had to deal with-- CJ, because he felt guilty and thought he had caused the death of his wife, and Brenda because she couldn’t understand why her husband had killed himself.
How these mysteries were resolved was so well done, I felt I was sitting by the characters as things happened. This writer is exceptional, and the way you get to know all her characters so completely is outstanding. She showed how people can overcome life’s obstacles and begin to live again. I really enjoyed this story.
As I continued reading, I realized that this was not a typical romance. Neither was a young, 20 to 30 year old. They were much more mature. As a psychologist, Brenda knew better, but CJ brought out the worst in her, much to her dismay. I really enjoyed the verbal back and forth battles between the two of them. As they fought, they each discovered things about themselves that they needed to learn.
The romance between them did evolve, and it was done in a beautiful and realistic way. Each had things in their past that had to be resolved. They each tried to hide these things from the other. Brenda was still dealing with the suicide of her husband two years before, and CJ had never gotten over the death of his wife in an automobile accident ten years previously.
As they continued meeting, their delightful back and forth arguments continued, but they actually began to enjoy them. It was fun watching them resolve their problems and really get to know each other. Also, there were mysteries involved with the death of both partners that they had to deal with-- CJ, because he felt guilty and thought he had caused the death of his wife, and Brenda because she couldn’t understand why her husband had killed himself.
How these mysteries were resolved was so well done, I felt I was sitting by the characters as things happened. This writer is exceptional, and the way you get to know all her characters so completely is outstanding. She showed how people can overcome life’s obstacles and begin to live again. I really enjoyed this story.
July 8, 2013
Brenda and CJ meet at a writers' conference. She literally runs into him one morning and spills coffee on him. He's not pleased and is rude to her for the rest of the conference.
When his agent suggests they work together ... he needs her psychologist expertise to help with one of the characters in his book ... they both begrudgingly do it. As they get to know each and realize they have something in common (CJ is widower and Brenda is a widow), they become friends.
Brenda's late husband, Jack, worked for a financial services company and is now being accused of fraud ... and Brenda will do what she can to defend his honour.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I liked it. It flowed well and I wanted to know if Jack really was guilty, if he had killed himself because he'd found out about the affair Brenda had had with his best friend and why CJ was so tormented.
I liked Brenda and CJ. It was a nice change to have characters who were in their late forties/early fifties (my age) rather than their mid-twenties. Both have suffered a loss and are dealing with the guilt over the deaths of their spouses. Once they realized they liked each other, things moved along pretty quickly.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/07...
When his agent suggests they work together ... he needs her psychologist expertise to help with one of the characters in his book ... they both begrudgingly do it. As they get to know each and realize they have something in common (CJ is widower and Brenda is a widow), they become friends.
Brenda's late husband, Jack, worked for a financial services company and is now being accused of fraud ... and Brenda will do what she can to defend his honour.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I liked it. It flowed well and I wanted to know if Jack really was guilty, if he had killed himself because he'd found out about the affair Brenda had had with his best friend and why CJ was so tormented.
I liked Brenda and CJ. It was a nice change to have characters who were in their late forties/early fifties (my age) rather than their mid-twenties. Both have suffered a loss and are dealing with the guilt over the deaths of their spouses. Once they realized they liked each other, things moved along pretty quickly.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/07...
July 18, 2013
This debut novel by Sharon Struth is a true testament to how an author can use the power of their words to reach inside the reader's heart and fill it with hope. While on the surface The Hourglass is the story of a woman finding her way after the tragic loss of her husband--the mysteries surrounding his death and the growing attraction she shares with a famous author and work associate--on a deeper level, this book is about so much more. The human condition is such that we often spend much of our lives toting around a lot of extra baggage, usually in the form of past hurts we've either experienced firsthand or dealt toward others. At it's core, The Hourglass addresses this issue and how, with the help of faith, friends and--most importantly--forgiveness, we can set those bags down and discover true happiness. I give this book and author two thumbs way up for reminding me that no matter what mistakes I've made, the power to reconcile those negative thoughts lies within me. All it takes is a flip of the hourglass.
October 23, 2013
I feel like I've been in such a reading rut lately, where I'm just not enjoying the books I've picked up. Thankfully this was just the book I needed to escape! Part romance novel, part mystery, it's the type of book you start reading and while feels like only minutes later you're already halfway through.
Parts of it remind me of The Pilot's Wife or The Unfinished Work of Elizabeth D., where after a person's death you wonder how well you really knew them. But unlike those two where that was the main point of the book, here that story line is only part of what you're reading.
This may not be the type of book that has you thinking about it after you're finished, but it is one where you'll really enjoy the experience. You want the couple to be successful, and you want to know the end of the mystery, and those two together make it hard to put down.
Disclosure: I was provided this book through TLC Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own
Parts of it remind me of The Pilot's Wife or The Unfinished Work of Elizabeth D., where after a person's death you wonder how well you really knew them. But unlike those two where that was the main point of the book, here that story line is only part of what you're reading.
This may not be the type of book that has you thinking about it after you're finished, but it is one where you'll really enjoy the experience. You want the couple to be successful, and you want to know the end of the mystery, and those two together make it hard to put down.
Disclosure: I was provided this book through TLC Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own
May 22, 2013
This is a great example of the new genre of "Boomer Lit". It has elements of the traditional romance genre, but with a more mature protagonist and more realistic complications. I really enjoyed this novel, especially since the "older" heroine was every bit as sexy and capable as I hope to be when I am that age. Great suspense and plot development, although I wanted a little more intensity at the very end. This is a genre that bears watching, as more authors embrace the forty-fifty-something heroine and more mature themes of "the third phase" of life. I really liked that she was flawed, acknowledged her flaws and still retained her sense of self. Very little of the swooning woman falling head first into the arms of her swarthy savior, thank goodness! Although the man was definitely swoon-able!
June 27, 2014
I have to admit--I don't typically pick up "boomer lit" type books but I'm glad I picked up this story.
I instantly liked Brenda and her sense of humor--she's hilarious, outspoken and strong despite what she'd been through with Jack. It took me a little while to warm up to CJ, but as the story progressed, I fell in love with him. Both of these characters are relatable, flawed, and real, with their own issues and dark pasts. The way they came together in the end was perfect and the corporate drama Sharon injected into the story set the romance off nicely.
The heat level wasn't as high as I would've liked *wink wink* but the sexual tension was great and kept me turning the page. The ending was satisfying and left me smiling. Great story and definitely worth the read.
I instantly liked Brenda and her sense of humor--she's hilarious, outspoken and strong despite what she'd been through with Jack. It took me a little while to warm up to CJ, but as the story progressed, I fell in love with him. Both of these characters are relatable, flawed, and real, with their own issues and dark pasts. The way they came together in the end was perfect and the corporate drama Sharon injected into the story set the romance off nicely.
The heat level wasn't as high as I would've liked *wink wink* but the sexual tension was great and kept me turning the page. The ending was satisfying and left me smiling. Great story and definitely worth the read.
May 20, 2013
Incredible, Amazing,Fantastic!!! I loved, loved, loved the Hourglass! I was hooked from the very beginning and had a very hard time putting it down. This is the kind of book that once you start reading, you do not want to stop. The characters were so wonderfully developed and relatable and the chemistry between them was great. I want a CJ Morrison for myself!! I could not wait to finish the book to see how it ended but now that I am through, I am sad it is over because I really enjoyed it. I can't wait to read more from Sharon Struth!!!
June 13, 2013
I've read many great books, but finding a story that tugs on my emotions and won't let go even after the last page has turned is rare. The Hourglass by Sharon Struth is such a book. Her characters, CJ and Brenda, are real people. I liked these people...worried about them. They're the kind of people I'd like to know. Heck, I'd like to be them! Through love, loss, and gentle forgiveness, the author weaves a tale that had me drawing a deep breath and saying, "Now, that was a story worth reading."
Read it...you'll love it!
Read it...you'll love it!
March 12, 2016
Brenda and C J are both healing from tragedies. Accidentally meeting each other and being thrown together, they unravel their past and the difficulties and scars life has thrown at each of them. With a bit of humor, a bit of sadness, a bit of mystery and a lot of discovery, Ms. Struth tells a wonderful story of second chances. I would love to revisit these two a few years down their path of happiness. I felt myself rooting for Brenda and C J from the very beginning. This story will leave the reader with book hangover.
September 4, 2013
I enjoyed reading The Hourglass. The characters were easy to relate to, I felt as though their inner thoughts and feelings were genuine and believable. The writing was phenomenal.
**spoilers**
That being said, the side story regarding the controversy at her husband's firm seemed cut short. It built up satisfying drama, but didn't really feel fleshed out or even realistic.
Otherwise, I saw the story as an enjoyable and worthwhile read.
**spoilers**
That being said, the side story regarding the controversy at her husband's firm seemed cut short. It built up satisfying drama, but didn't really feel fleshed out or even realistic.
Otherwise, I saw the story as an enjoyable and worthwhile read.
September 2, 2013
An intriguing study in the challenges of facing our demons while helping a loved one do the same. Well researched and well written.
September 11, 2014
Showing my age, but for this genre, I like Grace Livingston Hill and Emilie Loring much better. The plot was thin, but it had real possibilities if more developed. The focus of the book was primarily on male bodies and male bodies and male bodies, rather than the plot. My instinct says that Chapter 28 is the author's most authentic chapter. The rest may have had too much editorial influence.
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