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Celia's Gifts #2
Tangled Beginnings
A captivating series that masterfully weaves the complexities of modern family life with the surprise joys and gifts of midlife reinvention.
Jess Rand is eager to rebuild her life after a long-overdue divorce. First, she’ll sell the house that used to feel like home and start fresh at Whispering Pines, the Minnesota lake resort gifted to her sister by their late Aunt Celia. Her tumultuous marriage has mangled her belief in “happily ever after,” yet she’s excited to embrace her newfound independence. A savvy businesswoman, Jess mirrors Celia’s many talents. She’s determined to live up to the confidence Celia placed in her, despite a jumble of nerves and shaky optimism.
But just as Jess finds her footing again, unforeseen challenges emerge, testing her resolve in ways she never expected.
A web of deceit begins to unravel when her estranged husband disrupts a family celebration. How dare he ask Jess to care for the child he fathered with another woman? The sins of his past collide with Jess’s dreams, shattering the serene future she’d envisioned and saddling her with an unfair moral dilemma.
Her emotional turmoil grows when hidden secrets and shocking accusations tied to Celia emerge. A forced collaboration with a vexing younger man from her aunt’s past could prove to be more than her bruised and battered heart can take.
As she navigates a tangled maze of love, lies, and loss, will Jess discover that
protecting her family is the ultimate way to honor Celia’s legacy?
Tangled Beginnings, the second book in Kimberly Diede’s Gift of Whispering Pines series, brings an uplifting story of the inherent strength found in a woman wronged, the power of forgiveness, and the remarkable resilience of a mother’s heart.
Jess Rand is eager to rebuild her life after a long-overdue divorce. First, she’ll sell the house that used to feel like home and start fresh at Whispering Pines, the Minnesota lake resort gifted to her sister by their late Aunt Celia. Her tumultuous marriage has mangled her belief in “happily ever after,” yet she’s excited to embrace her newfound independence. A savvy businesswoman, Jess mirrors Celia’s many talents. She’s determined to live up to the confidence Celia placed in her, despite a jumble of nerves and shaky optimism.
But just as Jess finds her footing again, unforeseen challenges emerge, testing her resolve in ways she never expected.
A web of deceit begins to unravel when her estranged husband disrupts a family celebration. How dare he ask Jess to care for the child he fathered with another woman? The sins of his past collide with Jess’s dreams, shattering the serene future she’d envisioned and saddling her with an unfair moral dilemma.
Her emotional turmoil grows when hidden secrets and shocking accusations tied to Celia emerge. A forced collaboration with a vexing younger man from her aunt’s past could prove to be more than her bruised and battered heart can take.
As she navigates a tangled maze of love, lies, and loss, will Jess discover that
protecting her family is the ultimate way to honor Celia’s legacy?
Tangled Beginnings, the second book in Kimberly Diede’s Gift of Whispering Pines series, brings an uplifting story of the inherent strength found in a woman wronged, the power of forgiveness, and the remarkable resilience of a mother’s heart.
- GenresContemporary
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2018
228 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Diede
21 books57 followersKimberly Diede writes contemporary and historical novels that weave together family, friends, hope, and romance. She writes family sagas, suspense, and women’s fiction that you’ll find hard to put down. She truly believes we are never too old for second chances at love and life.
Kimberly has always lived in the Midwest and enjoys spending the short summer months on the lakeshores of Minnesota and North Dakota. Nothing is better than time with family at the cabin. Her love of tradition and all things vintage comes through in her stories.
In a world too often filled with sadness and tragedy, her mission is to offer stories of optimism and hope. If she can keep you reading past your bedtime, she has accomplished what she set out to do. As a life-long reader, she loves to get lost in the pages of a great book and strives to give you the same experience.
Kimberly has always lived in the Midwest and enjoys spending the short summer months on the lakeshores of Minnesota and North Dakota. Nothing is better than time with family at the cabin. Her love of tradition and all things vintage comes through in her stories.
In a world too often filled with sadness and tragedy, her mission is to offer stories of optimism and hope. If she can keep you reading past your bedtime, she has accomplished what she set out to do. As a life-long reader, she loves to get lost in the pages of a great book and strives to give you the same experience.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 29, 2022
This series is absolutely heart warming. The mystery behind the family scandals and the inheritance from
Aunt Cecilia kept my brain whirling throughout the book. On to the next one, “Rebuilding Home”. Can’t wait to see what deceased Aunt Cecelia is up to now!
Aunt Cecilia kept my brain whirling throughout the book. On to the next one, “Rebuilding Home”. Can’t wait to see what deceased Aunt Cecelia is up to now!
September 11, 2018
Tangled Beginnings was a very enjoyable read for me. It's a heartwarming story about family bonds, loyalty, and the sacrifices we make to do the right thing. Each chapter is titled with a certain 'gift' and reminds us of the genuine, unconditional love between family. Jess has great familial relationships with her parents, siblings, and children--it was refreshing to read about well-rounded, wholesome teenagers who genuinely love their family. So where's the tension and conflict, you ask? That's with her 'other' relationships, the relationships of the heart! Throw in some mystery and intrigue, and it makes for an entertaining story. For me, it started out a bit slow and was character heavy in the beginning. I also felt there were a few too many descriptions and unnecessary details for some scenes. But once it picked up the pace, I couldn't put it down. A truly fun read and very well-written! **Also, I haven't read the first book yet. Perhaps if I had, I'd already know the characters in the beginning of book two! ;)
July 14, 2024
Another great story by Ms.Diede! At first, I was almost ready to stop reading this book- too many negative things were happening. But then the story picked up pace, revealing secrets and hidden happenings from the past. The suspense and mystery increased, but I became quite frustrated with the plot again, because of the main character's weakness. She allowed her manipulator and big liar, selfish, controlling, power seeking husband to intimidate her. I was happy to see that she opened her eyes finally, and saw the light, it was great to see how the transformation came about, especially with the help of her family and friends, who stood with her the whole way. There are men who are such great manipulators, (jerks, if you don't mind me saying)- all for the sake of self-power, status, and wealth!
Anyway, thank you, Ms. Diede for writing this story!
Anyway, thank you, Ms. Diede for writing this story!
January 24, 2020
The story continues
I was so happy to see there is a third book in this series. As I was reading first the Whispering Pines book with Renee and her story of how she used her Aunt Celia's gift, I was looking forward to hearing more about Jess, too. Tangled Beginnings focused mainly on her, but we still get continuing story of Renee. Towards the end of Jess's story, the third sister, Val, has a serious health scare and I was hoping a third book about her and her four boys would follow. But still, I'm really looking forward to learning more about the brother and his gift from Aunt Celia. Great idea for a series. You really get characters that are well developed and the whole family is a good example of people you really would enjoy meeting. I highly recommend this series.
I was so happy to see there is a third book in this series. As I was reading first the Whispering Pines book with Renee and her story of how she used her Aunt Celia's gift, I was looking forward to hearing more about Jess, too. Tangled Beginnings focused mainly on her, but we still get continuing story of Renee. Towards the end of Jess's story, the third sister, Val, has a serious health scare and I was hoping a third book about her and her four boys would follow. But still, I'm really looking forward to learning more about the brother and his gift from Aunt Celia. Great idea for a series. You really get characters that are well developed and the whole family is a good example of people you really would enjoy meeting. I highly recommend this series.
September 11, 2018
Jess’s life seems to be falling apart around her. Her ex-husband has landed himself in prison and Jess has taken on the responsibility of his new born daughter (with another woman). Add this to the responsibilities left her by Aunt Celia and her work at Whispering Pines, the last thing she needs is prove Aunt Celia’s innocence. Diede’s second installment in the Whispering Pines series delivers all the great things we discovered in Book 1: a beautiful setting, a strong female lead and engaging plot. Another 5 star read!
June 29, 2023
A little Disappointing
I simply loved book 1 It showed a lot of thought went into the multiple mystery story line. A creative author with some well thought out characters I really enjoyed. While book 1 was a stunner, book 2 was just a good story. There was a good opportunity to take book 2 on the same path as book 1 but it lacked in the storyline and almost lost me several times. I read so much I hesitate to waste time on mediocre books. I don't think I will go to book 3 at this point. We shall see.
I simply loved book 1 It showed a lot of thought went into the multiple mystery story line. A creative author with some well thought out characters I really enjoyed. While book 1 was a stunner, book 2 was just a good story. There was a good opportunity to take book 2 on the same path as book 1 but it lacked in the storyline and almost lost me several times. I read so much I hesitate to waste time on mediocre books. I don't think I will go to book 3 at this point. We shall see.
February 21, 2019
Life, love, family
A great book that keeps you coming back for more. This one is more about Jess, Renee's older sister. A strong woman who shows that love trumps whatever life throws at you, with family being the one constant in their journeys. The members of this family each have their own things to deal with, but they all have each others' backs always. An inspiration that makes you want to plan that next family reunion at Whispering Pines!
A great book that keeps you coming back for more. This one is more about Jess, Renee's older sister. A strong woman who shows that love trumps whatever life throws at you, with family being the one constant in their journeys. The members of this family each have their own things to deal with, but they all have each others' backs always. An inspiration that makes you want to plan that next family reunion at Whispering Pines!
March 3, 2019
Anxious for next book!
I started book one as a bit of a skeptic. I read cozy mysteries on occasion but they're not my favorite genre. The Celia's Gifts series have a bit more edge than most. I fell in love with this family and truly can't wait for the next one. The characters are well fleshed out. The women are strong. Their men are supportive but not overbearing.
Thank you Ms. Diede for the gift of this series!
I started book one as a bit of a skeptic. I read cozy mysteries on occasion but they're not my favorite genre. The Celia's Gifts series have a bit more edge than most. I fell in love with this family and truly can't wait for the next one. The characters are well fleshed out. The women are strong. Their men are supportive but not overbearing.
Thank you Ms. Diede for the gift of this series!
May 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Really enjoyed book #2 in the Whispering Pines series. This book focused on Jess. She’s divorcing her husband, who is a real piece of work. She’s also dealing with family drama and rumors that are left over from when her aunt Cecelia passed away. In book one, Renee (Jess’ sister) got a second chance at love…Will Jess also get the same opportunity?
I love these characters and this entire family! Looking forward to reading book number three in this series! #booksbyashleynicole
Really enjoyed book #2 in the Whispering Pines series. This book focused on Jess. She’s divorcing her husband, who is a real piece of work. She’s also dealing with family drama and rumors that are left over from when her aunt Cecelia passed away. In book one, Renee (Jess’ sister) got a second chance at love…Will Jess also get the same opportunity?
I love these characters and this entire family! Looking forward to reading book number three in this series! #booksbyashleynicole
October 5, 2018
Find a lake and visit every year with your family!
This really kept me interested. I enjoyed the first book and the second, waiting eagerly for Ethan's story. Hope it's just around the corner!
Loved the close family bonds and how the families roll up their sleeves when necessary and circle the wagons to defend and protect each other!
This really kept me interested. I enjoyed the first book and the second, waiting eagerly for Ethan's story. Hope it's just around the corner!
Loved the close family bonds and how the families roll up their sleeves when necessary and circle the wagons to defend and protect each other!
January 25, 2019
.I got this book as a gift from a friend so I was very excited to read it but I was so BORED. The story goes a million different directions and the characters talk about things that don't even relate to the book. I mean common! Every book that's written in this genre has an Aunt Celia!Please PLEASE be more creative! It was very dull and predictable.
September 12, 2018
Great book
Loved whispering pines and tangled beginnings. Both books kept you waiting to see what was going to happen next. They are both the type of books you don't want to put down. I hope book three is in the future.
Loved whispering pines and tangled beginnings. Both books kept you waiting to see what was going to happen next. They are both the type of books you don't want to put down. I hope book three is in the future.
October 31, 2018
Amazing
Once again Kimberly has created such a wonderful world. This book just draws you in. Kimberly does an amazing job making her characters so relatable. When reading her books, you can just picture it happening. I can’t wait for the next one!!
Once again Kimberly has created such a wonderful world. This book just draws you in. Kimberly does an amazing job making her characters so relatable. When reading her books, you can just picture it happening. I can’t wait for the next one!!
February 14, 2019
Inspiring
Just as refreshing as Whispering Pines!! I found it hard to put down!! Very inspiring as it takes you through trying times and rewards of a typical family.
I enjoyed reading this book very much!
Just as refreshing as Whispering Pines!! I found it hard to put down!! Very inspiring as it takes you through trying times and rewards of a typical family.
I enjoyed reading this book very much!
March 23, 2019
Another really great story
Well she has done it again another great read! I'm so into this family they feel so real.It will be great to read her third book and etc. I can hardly wait to see or read about Ethan and his new girlfriend and his kids .again what a great read thanks
Well she has done it again another great read! I'm so into this family they feel so real.It will be great to read her third book and etc. I can hardly wait to see or read about Ethan and his new girlfriend and his kids .again what a great read thanks
June 29, 2020
A great read
I have read both of the first two of the series for Whispering pines a d thoroughly enjoyed both. I figured d myself trying to talk to the heroines in both cases -- I get so engrossed i the story lines. Looking forward to Ethan's story next.
I have read both of the first two of the series for Whispering pines a d thoroughly enjoyed both. I figured d myself trying to talk to the heroines in both cases -- I get so engrossed i the story lines. Looking forward to Ethan's story next.
May 28, 2024
I enjoyed this book and the first one from the Whispering Pines series. They were light reading and very family oriented which I liked and a little romance and mystery too. Great job Kimberly Diede in light entertainment.
August 24, 2024
Full of surprises
This is the second book in the series that I have read and I have difficulty putting them down, they are full of mystery, family entanglements and romance, very enjoyable reads
This is the second book in the series that I have read and I have difficulty putting them down, they are full of mystery, family entanglements and romance, very enjoyable reads
August 30, 2025
Good to read what happens next although about the other sister this time. A few from first book play a part too. More interesting storyline and different to the first one. Again very American but easy to read and enjoyable.
September 11, 2018
It was interesting book with a few unforeseen twists and turns. I found some of our heroines decisions curious but based on her background those are decisions she would have made.
A good read.
A good read.
September 18, 2018
Next One, Please!
I'll be anxiously awaiting the next one in the series! The characters are so well developed and they are easy to read (no errors like so many books these days).
I'll be anxiously awaiting the next one in the series! The characters are so well developed and they are easy to read (no errors like so many books these days).
October 2, 2018
Loved it
So sorry for #2 to end. Ready for #3. These stories have it all, family, love, intrigue, a little bit of everyday life. The characters are becoming stronger in each book.
So sorry for #2 to end. Ready for #3. These stories have it all, family, love, intrigue, a little bit of everyday life. The characters are becoming stronger in each book.
January 4, 2019
Good Storyline and a few plot twists here and there
Good Storyline just like the first book and a few plot twists here and there. Excited to read the third book in the series.
Good Storyline just like the first book and a few plot twists here and there. Excited to read the third book in the series.
January 30, 2019
Love it
I hope we see more books by this author ! She has a way of drawing you in and you don't want to put the book down! I was so hoping for the next chapter!! More please!!!
I hope we see more books by this author ! She has a way of drawing you in and you don't want to put the book down! I was so hoping for the next chapter!! More please!!!
February 19, 2019
Great read!
Very good book!! Kept me wanting more! I couldn't put it down. It was nice to read that families help each other out.
Very good book!! Kept me wanting more! I couldn't put it down. It was nice to read that families help each other out.
June 20, 2019
A new favorite author is a gift also
Charlie's gifts is a heart warming series. If you enjoy stories about families as they overcome past heart aches, this series is for you.
Charlie's gifts is a heart warming series. If you enjoy stories about families as they overcome past heart aches, this series is for you.
April 22, 2020
Mystery and Love
Keep the books coming...you have a natural talent! I am off to find book number 3 in this series! Thank you for an enjoyable story
Keep the books coming...you have a natural talent! I am off to find book number 3 in this series! Thank you for an enjoyable story
March 20, 2021
Hardship, perserverance, and new paths followed
Great story how a woman picks up the pieces of her crumbled life and carries on with support of those around her.
Great story how a woman picks up the pieces of her crumbled life and carries on with support of those around her.
July 7, 2021
I’m glad to have met Jess. She has such a big heart! I’m glad to see that when life threw her lemons she made lemonade! I love the way this family always seems to pull together!
August 11, 2021
Another great book in this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews