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Chapel Springs #1
Chapel Springs Revival
With a friend like Claire, you'll need a gurney, a mop, and a guardian angel.
Everybody in the small town of Chapel Springs, Georgia, knows best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski. It's impossible not to, what with Claire's zany antics and Patsy's self-appointed mission to keep her friend out of trouble. And trouble abounds.
During an early morning discussion at Dees 'n' Doughs bakery with their ladies group, all Chapel Springs entrepreneurs, attention is drawn to the slackened tourist trade. With their livelihoods threatened, they join forces to address the town's revitalization in hopes of drawing back the tourists. No one could have guessed the real issue needing restoration is their marriages.
Claire, a pottery artist, stumbles through life with her foot in her mouth. When she became a Christian, she thought life and her marriage would be included in the new creation part. But her thighs are just as big and her husband, Joel, is as ornery as ever. She's become nothing more than a sheet-changer, a towel-folder, a pancake-flipper. Her life is humdrum and she's tired of being taken for granted.
Patsy has plans for her empty nest, plans that include a cruise ship. However, her husband, Nathan, continues to work long hours, and he's not talking about slowing down. In fact, he's not talking much at all. She's asleep long before he comes home each night. At first she thought it was just because of tax season, but now she's not so sure. Something other than work seems to keep him late at the office every night. With the lines of communication closed, she'll have to find another way to reach him.
With their marriages as much in need of restoration as the town, Claire and Patsy embark on a mission of mishaps and miscommunication, determined to restore warmth to Chapel Springs —and their lives. That is if they can convince their husbands and the town council, led by two curmudgeons who would prefer to see Chapel Springs left in the fifties and closed to traffic.
Everybody in the small town of Chapel Springs, Georgia, knows best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski. It's impossible not to, what with Claire's zany antics and Patsy's self-appointed mission to keep her friend out of trouble. And trouble abounds.
During an early morning discussion at Dees 'n' Doughs bakery with their ladies group, all Chapel Springs entrepreneurs, attention is drawn to the slackened tourist trade. With their livelihoods threatened, they join forces to address the town's revitalization in hopes of drawing back the tourists. No one could have guessed the real issue needing restoration is their marriages.
Claire, a pottery artist, stumbles through life with her foot in her mouth. When she became a Christian, she thought life and her marriage would be included in the new creation part. But her thighs are just as big and her husband, Joel, is as ornery as ever. She's become nothing more than a sheet-changer, a towel-folder, a pancake-flipper. Her life is humdrum and she's tired of being taken for granted.
Patsy has plans for her empty nest, plans that include a cruise ship. However, her husband, Nathan, continues to work long hours, and he's not talking about slowing down. In fact, he's not talking much at all. She's asleep long before he comes home each night. At first she thought it was just because of tax season, but now she's not so sure. Something other than work seems to keep him late at the office every night. With the lines of communication closed, she'll have to find another way to reach him.
With their marriages as much in need of restoration as the town, Claire and Patsy embark on a mission of mishaps and miscommunication, determined to restore warmth to Chapel Springs —and their lives. That is if they can convince their husbands and the town council, led by two curmudgeons who would prefer to see Chapel Springs left in the fifties and closed to traffic.
350 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2014
537 people are currently reading
1431 people want to read
About the author
Ane Mulligan
18 books199 followersI've been a voracious reader ever since my mother instilled within me her own love of reading at an early age. Together we would escape together into worlds otherwise unknown.
A new love entered my life when I saw Mary Martin in PETER PAN. Struck with a fever from which I never recovered, I submerged myself in drama through high school and college, but, alas, Broadway never found my phone number.
While a large, floppy straw hat is my favorite, I've worn many different ones: hairdresser, legislative affairs director (that's a fancy name for a lobbyist), business manager, creative arts director and writer. My lifetime experience provides a plethora of fodder for my Southern-fried fiction (try saying that three times fast).
I wrote and published my first script in 1996 and to date have over 4-dozen scripts in print, nine books, and numerous articles on various aspects of Christian drama and the craft of writing. In Jan of 2003, having quit my job with my husband’s encouragement, I began to write full time. I reside in Sugar Hill, Georgia with my artist husband and a rascally Rottweiler.
A new love entered my life when I saw Mary Martin in PETER PAN. Struck with a fever from which I never recovered, I submerged myself in drama through high school and college, but, alas, Broadway never found my phone number.
While a large, floppy straw hat is my favorite, I've worn many different ones: hairdresser, legislative affairs director (that's a fancy name for a lobbyist), business manager, creative arts director and writer. My lifetime experience provides a plethora of fodder for my Southern-fried fiction (try saying that three times fast).
I wrote and published my first script in 1996 and to date have over 4-dozen scripts in print, nine books, and numerous articles on various aspects of Christian drama and the craft of writing. In Jan of 2003, having quit my job with my husband’s encouragement, I began to write full time. I reside in Sugar Hill, Georgia with my artist husband and a rascally Rottweiler.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 28, 2014
Ane Mulligan’s debut novel, Chapel Springs Revival, is a humorous look at old friends dealing with serious issues—in their own quirky ways. Patsy, the more mature of the two, spends most of the book trying to keep her best friend Claire from getting into messes. Fortunately for the reader, Patsy often fails, and we get to see the hilarious results. From grease fires to flying fish to angry monkeys, Claire faces more challenges between the covers of this book than most of us will face in a lifetime.
But Chapel Springs Revival is not all fun and games as Patsy and Claire deal with marital problems, business issues, and the upcoming wedding of Claire’s eldest son, which brings its own set of issues in the form of a bossy and stuck-up future mother-in-law. Mulligan combines all of this in a delightful and compelling novel that will make you both laugh and cry.
But Chapel Springs Revival is not all fun and games as Patsy and Claire deal with marital problems, business issues, and the upcoming wedding of Claire’s eldest son, which brings its own set of issues in the form of a bossy and stuck-up future mother-in-law. Mulligan combines all of this in a delightful and compelling novel that will make you both laugh and cry.
November 20, 2014
Looking for a down-home, fun-loving, sometimes slapstick hilarious read? Go ahead and visit Chapel Springs. It's like watching old Lucy re-runs. Chapel Springs is the hometown everyone wishes they could live in. Quirky neighbors. Quaint shops. Deep relationships that sometimes go a little wonky. Plus the writing is flawless.
May 20, 2015
Childhood friends and artists Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski have decided that not only does their drab little town need a revival—so do their marriages. While Claire wonders if God intended for her to marry someone else, her son’s wedding is approaching, and she tries hard to appease an overbearing mother of the bride. Patsy, afraid her husband is having an affair, must also face her sweet mother’s oncoming Alzheimers.
Challenging, right? But Anne Mulligan has written not only a story that deals with tough subjects, she’s filled it with touching and laughable moments. The friendship between Claire and Patsy is endearing. This book is just plain delightful!
Challenging, right? But Anne Mulligan has written not only a story that deals with tough subjects, she’s filled it with touching and laughable moments. The friendship between Claire and Patsy is endearing. This book is just plain delightful!
February 19, 2015
Ane Mulligan, is known throughout the blogging world for her sense of humor and good nature. Her debut novel, Chapel Springs Revival, does not disappoint delivering a humorous sweet read. This book begs for a cup of hot tea and a lazy Saturday afternoon and leaves the reader hoping for more visits to Chapel Springs.
October 28, 2014
Wonderful book.....People wanting things better Each with their own gifts and how it all comes together because of each persons gifts...........
God bless All of you
Chris Granville
God bless All of you
Chris Granville
August 26, 2015
Get your giggle-box oiled up and ready to rumble, 'cause Chapel Springs Revival is going to put it to good use. Patsy Kowalski and Claire Bennett are well on their way into the "unforgettable character" category for folks who love humorous women's fiction.
Take two artsy women, give them two neglectful spouses, and watch the antics unfold. Add to the mix a cleavage-showin' hussy who's unhappy with her husband and looking for a new one--anyone's husband will do--and you have a story that's uproariously funny.
Beneath the humor is a story all women of a certain age can appreciate, one that shares the insecurities of being involved in a marriage that has become too comfortable. Stagnant, maybe? Has he lost interest? How to rekindle the fire?
Many marriages of length go through this season. Many women suffer through the doubts. We look in our mirrors and see someone who wasn't there twenty years ago. We worry that his silence, his absences, his distraction are all because of our spreading hips, wrinkling skin, and graying hair. How many times are we worrying over nothing?
Ane's novel explores that question with humor and finesse. Definitely a winner.
Take two artsy women, give them two neglectful spouses, and watch the antics unfold. Add to the mix a cleavage-showin' hussy who's unhappy with her husband and looking for a new one--anyone's husband will do--and you have a story that's uproariously funny.
Beneath the humor is a story all women of a certain age can appreciate, one that shares the insecurities of being involved in a marriage that has become too comfortable. Stagnant, maybe? Has he lost interest? How to rekindle the fire?
Many marriages of length go through this season. Many women suffer through the doubts. We look in our mirrors and see someone who wasn't there twenty years ago. We worry that his silence, his absences, his distraction are all because of our spreading hips, wrinkling skin, and graying hair. How many times are we worrying over nothing?
Ane's novel explores that question with humor and finesse. Definitely a winner.
February 14, 2018
Claire's always been somewhat of a magnet for getting into troubles of various kinds. Seems that trouble beckons her and she can't seem to resist . In this novel, the first book in The Southern Fried Series she will have you laughing as one thing after another seems to get her into trouble .
Then there's her best BBF , Patsy. They grew up together. Married Joel and Nathan , two best friends. They share an art gallery where Patsy paints art and Claire is a very talented maker of unusual pottery. Pasty is very organized but Claire can't cook or prepare meals for her family. She rushes into things before giving it much thought while not considering the consequences of her actions.
There was always something happening . The book was very humorous and had me laughing out loud . Really Claire and Patsy reminded me of Lucy and Ethel. Not wanting to be a spoiler I'm going to stop here. You will need to read it yourself to see the mischief these two get themselves into.
There are four books in this series. It's Christian Fiction and good clean reading. I hope you will read this first book of The Southern Fried Series.
Then there's her best BBF , Patsy. They grew up together. Married Joel and Nathan , two best friends. They share an art gallery where Patsy paints art and Claire is a very talented maker of unusual pottery. Pasty is very organized but Claire can't cook or prepare meals for her family. She rushes into things before giving it much thought while not considering the consequences of her actions.
There was always something happening . The book was very humorous and had me laughing out loud . Really Claire and Patsy reminded me of Lucy and Ethel. Not wanting to be a spoiler I'm going to stop here. You will need to read it yourself to see the mischief these two get themselves into.
There are four books in this series. It's Christian Fiction and good clean reading. I hope you will read this first book of The Southern Fried Series.
October 23, 2014
Ane Mulligan’s debut novel Spring Chapel Revival two main characters remind me at times of my BFF and I on steroids. Claire and Patsy are middle-aged women who have been best friends since elementary school. Sometimes they still act like they are in grade school. Both are artists and own an art gallery together. Their husbands and other citizens of Spring Chapel remind me of exaggerated versions of people I know. Ane Mulligan has captured the struggles of middle-age in the pages of this story. And Claire and Patsy make you laugh out loud at them. Add lots of misunderstandings from every side and a revitalization project and you have not only a fun read but a theme that sneaks up on you in one of those Ah-ha moments. I look forward to more from this author.
September 13, 2014
This is one of those books that you don't think is speaking to that deep part of you until you have turned the final page and walked away. NOW you see ... the characters stay with you. You chuckle about something a week later and realize a scene has made you smile, even after seven days. There's also that "I want to live where THEY live" sense that crops up occasionally and you can't help but look at the cover and then go to a map and see if you can't find Chapel Springs SOMEWHERE.
Kudos on a first novel. Well done!
Kudos on a first novel. Well done!
March 3, 2015
Chapel Springs Revival made me laugh and made me cry. Ane Mulligan twists together the lives of Claire and Patsy and their antics into a joyful and meaningful read. It's been a long time since I read a book that I just flew through grinning from ear to ear. Mulligan's humor is sweet and her heart for dear friendship shines through. The characters are so real, I wanted to be their friend too. A great read. Wonderful breakout novel.
August 29, 2025
I had such high hopes for this book. I just don't know what to say. It wasn't all bad. It wasn't all good. Maybe it'll come to me what to say about it. But right now I'm just left shaking my head.
March 1, 2015
This is a delightful cozy read, with a wonderful cast of interesting characters and fun situations, that will have you torn between reading from cover to cover or taking it slow, and enjoy each and every bump along the road this town will travel on the road to revitalizing their town, and as Claire and Patsy work on their own revitalization projects, their marriages.
The daily gatherings at Dee's 'n' Doughs, has you smelling the sweets offered right along with the ladies, and doing your best to resist temptation. Or you could do as dear Claire, one of the creative ladies in the gathering did.
"The next morning, Claire hurried to Dee's 'n' Doughs with her dieting resolve in place. When she opened the bakery door, she wouldn't have any problem. The cotton wads, dabbed with Vick's VapoRub and stuffed inside her nose, should outwit any conniving aromas. Those extra pounds were on their way off her hips and thighs." pg. 22
And then there is Patsy, Claire's best friend, the grounded one in this twosome.
"See the woman couldn't see anything. 'Why won't---' Patsy's foot smacked Claire's ankle again. 'What?' She shot Patsy as innocent a stare as she could muster. 'I was saying why don't we go then?'"
On the way out the door, Claire whispered to Patsy, "You keep rolling your eyes like that and one day they're going to get stuck." pg. 26
As they determine to remake the town to attract more tourists there will be many fun antics these best friends will be involved in. Patsy, always is coming to Claire's rescue until Claire decides to try cooking school on her own. If I were Claire, I would be asking, "Am I on Candid Camera?" If something can go wrong, where Claire is concerned, it will. These fun outings/events will have you in stitches.
"Claire stared at the colorful remains of her prized pottery. "My turkey," she wailed. A turkey clobbered by a turkey. Her wail changed to a sniff and a giggle snuck out her nose. Did she really call Bev a tart? Her lips twitched and a snicker escaped." pg. 118
This book is so much more than just a fun read as real problems are faced: is Nathan, Patsy's husband cheating on her? Is Joel, Claire's husband of many years really the one she should be with? Will her flirting be their downfall?
Will a visiting art critic cause a rift between these best friends?Why won't Patsy's father realize that there is in fact something wrong with her mother, face it and deal with it? What will it take for him to face this new reality? Will Claire be able to cook a rehearsal dinner for her daughter-in-law's mom that will knock her socks off, especially when making coffee is the extent of her cooking skills?!
You will have to pick up the book and see for yourself, but trust me, you won't be disappointed. The only disappointing thing is that the book had to end. Here's hoping there is another visit to this quaint little town, and very soon.
I was given this book by bookfun.org and the author Ane Mulligan in exchange for an honest review. Wonderful first book Ane and I look forward to many more.
The daily gatherings at Dee's 'n' Doughs, has you smelling the sweets offered right along with the ladies, and doing your best to resist temptation. Or you could do as dear Claire, one of the creative ladies in the gathering did.
"The next morning, Claire hurried to Dee's 'n' Doughs with her dieting resolve in place. When she opened the bakery door, she wouldn't have any problem. The cotton wads, dabbed with Vick's VapoRub and stuffed inside her nose, should outwit any conniving aromas. Those extra pounds were on their way off her hips and thighs." pg. 22
And then there is Patsy, Claire's best friend, the grounded one in this twosome.
"See the woman couldn't see anything. 'Why won't---' Patsy's foot smacked Claire's ankle again. 'What?' She shot Patsy as innocent a stare as she could muster. 'I was saying why don't we go then?'"
On the way out the door, Claire whispered to Patsy, "You keep rolling your eyes like that and one day they're going to get stuck." pg. 26
As they determine to remake the town to attract more tourists there will be many fun antics these best friends will be involved in. Patsy, always is coming to Claire's rescue until Claire decides to try cooking school on her own. If I were Claire, I would be asking, "Am I on Candid Camera?" If something can go wrong, where Claire is concerned, it will. These fun outings/events will have you in stitches.
"Claire stared at the colorful remains of her prized pottery. "My turkey," she wailed. A turkey clobbered by a turkey. Her wail changed to a sniff and a giggle snuck out her nose. Did she really call Bev a tart? Her lips twitched and a snicker escaped." pg. 118
This book is so much more than just a fun read as real problems are faced: is Nathan, Patsy's husband cheating on her? Is Joel, Claire's husband of many years really the one she should be with? Will her flirting be their downfall?
Will a visiting art critic cause a rift between these best friends?Why won't Patsy's father realize that there is in fact something wrong with her mother, face it and deal with it? What will it take for him to face this new reality? Will Claire be able to cook a rehearsal dinner for her daughter-in-law's mom that will knock her socks off, especially when making coffee is the extent of her cooking skills?!
You will have to pick up the book and see for yourself, but trust me, you won't be disappointed. The only disappointing thing is that the book had to end. Here's hoping there is another visit to this quaint little town, and very soon.
I was given this book by bookfun.org and the author Ane Mulligan in exchange for an honest review. Wonderful first book Ane and I look forward to many more.
September 11, 2014
Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan
Everybody in the small town of Chapel Springs, Georgia, knows best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski. It's impossible not to, what with Claire's zany antics and Patsy's self-appointed mission to keep her friend out of trouble. And trouble abounds.
During an early morning discussion at Dees 'n' Doughs bakery with their ladies group, all Chapel Springs entrepreneurs, attention is drawn to the slackened tourist trade. With their livelihoods threatened, they join forces to address the town's revitalization in hopes of drawing back the tourists. No one could have guessed the real issue needing restoration is their marriages.
Claire, a pottery artist, stumbles through life with her foot in her mouth. When she became a Christian, she thought life and her marriage would be included in the new creation part. But her thighs are just as big and her husband, Joel, is as ornery as ever. She's become nothing more than a sheet-changer, a towel-folder, a pancake-flipper. Her life is humdrum and she's tired of being taken for granted.
Patsy has plans for her empty nest, plans that include a cruise ship. However, her husband, Nathan, continues to work long hours, and he's not talking about slowing down. In fact, he's not talking much at all. She's asleep long before he comes home each night. At first she thought it was just because of tax season, but now she's not so sure. Something other than work seems to keep him late at the office every night. With the lines of communication closed, she'll have to find another way to reach him.
With their marriages as much in need of restoration as the town, Claire and Patsy embark on a mission of mishaps and miscommunication, determined to restore warmth to Chapel Springs and their lives. That is if they can convince their husbands and the town council, led by two curmudgeons who would prefer to see Chapel Springs left in the fifties and closed to traffic.
the name of Claire Bennett best friend?
who is your favorite character in Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan?
the name of Claire's gallery?
how did Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski meet ?
Will Claire and Patsy restore Chapel Springs?
Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Ane Mulligan.
Everybody in the small town of Chapel Springs, Georgia, knows best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski. It's impossible not to, what with Claire's zany antics and Patsy's self-appointed mission to keep her friend out of trouble. And trouble abounds.
During an early morning discussion at Dees 'n' Doughs bakery with their ladies group, all Chapel Springs entrepreneurs, attention is drawn to the slackened tourist trade. With their livelihoods threatened, they join forces to address the town's revitalization in hopes of drawing back the tourists. No one could have guessed the real issue needing restoration is their marriages.
Claire, a pottery artist, stumbles through life with her foot in her mouth. When she became a Christian, she thought life and her marriage would be included in the new creation part. But her thighs are just as big and her husband, Joel, is as ornery as ever. She's become nothing more than a sheet-changer, a towel-folder, a pancake-flipper. Her life is humdrum and she's tired of being taken for granted.
Patsy has plans for her empty nest, plans that include a cruise ship. However, her husband, Nathan, continues to work long hours, and he's not talking about slowing down. In fact, he's not talking much at all. She's asleep long before he comes home each night. At first she thought it was just because of tax season, but now she's not so sure. Something other than work seems to keep him late at the office every night. With the lines of communication closed, she'll have to find another way to reach him.
With their marriages as much in need of restoration as the town, Claire and Patsy embark on a mission of mishaps and miscommunication, determined to restore warmth to Chapel Springs and their lives. That is if they can convince their husbands and the town council, led by two curmudgeons who would prefer to see Chapel Springs left in the fifties and closed to traffic.
the name of Claire Bennett best friend?
who is your favorite character in Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan?
the name of Claire's gallery?
how did Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski meet ?
Will Claire and Patsy restore Chapel Springs?
Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Ane Mulligan.
October 16, 2014
I am always a little apprehensive when someone I know offers me a book for a review.
Ane is just anybody I know either, for years she has been a staple in the Christian fiction world and mentor in my writing and blogging journey. Ane's new book Chapel Springs Revival is a long time coming. Mulligan has worked the craft and networks involved in writing. If anyone deserves to be published just because she has given so much to other writers it would be Ane.
But Mulligan isn't just a good writing citizen, she's a good writer with stories to tell that only she can.
Ane introduces us to Claire and Patsy and their lives in a sleepy little village. But even sleepy villages often have underlying currents and pleasant, tranquil settings sometimes need a little shot of passion and life. Chapel Springs is exactly there, and Patsy and Claire are treading in marital currents.
Both women discover that their long marriages have begun to look a lot like the formerly charming town square. Used-to-be, lackluster, dull and barely functional. The ladies, along with some friends and frenemies, set out to refurbish pretty much everything.
Claire, unfortunately, has a special knack for getting into hot water, so as the clean-up and self-improvement campaigns begin, Claire finds herself getting a little too immersed into the projects. My visual of Claire while reading about her antics is a mental merge of Lucille Ball in a panic, Tomb Raider's Lora Croft on a mission, and Mrs. Doubtfire with Mr. Mom on their learning curves. Let's just say that if something could go wrong and Claire is there it will go wrong in the worst way. My favorite scene in the book is at the end when she innocently has a mishap that lands her in an all dressed-up-and-no-way-out pickle.
This story is sweet escapism but there are teaching elements that I appreciated as well. After all, I'm at a certain age and been married for a long while and have struggled with some of the same concerns discussed by Patsy and Claire. I mean, reality isn't a romance novel, it's a whole lot more like working late, worrying about family members and different interests most of the time. So while I loved the escapism and the fact that the book is very well written, I also appreciated the depth and realistic issues faced by the characters.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Ane is just anybody I know either, for years she has been a staple in the Christian fiction world and mentor in my writing and blogging journey. Ane's new book Chapel Springs Revival is a long time coming. Mulligan has worked the craft and networks involved in writing. If anyone deserves to be published just because she has given so much to other writers it would be Ane.
But Mulligan isn't just a good writing citizen, she's a good writer with stories to tell that only she can.
Ane introduces us to Claire and Patsy and their lives in a sleepy little village. But even sleepy villages often have underlying currents and pleasant, tranquil settings sometimes need a little shot of passion and life. Chapel Springs is exactly there, and Patsy and Claire are treading in marital currents.
Both women discover that their long marriages have begun to look a lot like the formerly charming town square. Used-to-be, lackluster, dull and barely functional. The ladies, along with some friends and frenemies, set out to refurbish pretty much everything.
Claire, unfortunately, has a special knack for getting into hot water, so as the clean-up and self-improvement campaigns begin, Claire finds herself getting a little too immersed into the projects. My visual of Claire while reading about her antics is a mental merge of Lucille Ball in a panic, Tomb Raider's Lora Croft on a mission, and Mrs. Doubtfire with Mr. Mom on their learning curves. Let's just say that if something could go wrong and Claire is there it will go wrong in the worst way. My favorite scene in the book is at the end when she innocently has a mishap that lands her in an all dressed-up-and-no-way-out pickle.
This story is sweet escapism but there are teaching elements that I appreciated as well. After all, I'm at a certain age and been married for a long while and have struggled with some of the same concerns discussed by Patsy and Claire. I mean, reality isn't a romance novel, it's a whole lot more like working late, worrying about family members and different interests most of the time. So while I loved the escapism and the fact that the book is very well written, I also appreciated the depth and realistic issues faced by the characters.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 25, 2014
Ebook by Ane Mulligan Read 9/22-9/24 Christan religious fiction Chick Lit 4 1/2 stars
"...seems like yesterday we were sharing coffee and formula coupons.” Where had their youth gone? “It makes me think of that song, the one that says something about turning around and they’re grown.” The potatoes blurred. “It’s so true. Our babies are grown, and we’re getting old. I’m not ready to be old,..."
So says Claire to Patsy as the story draws to a close in this sweet story that has been compared to Jan Karon by some reviewers. This is a book about growing old, about the wings we give our children and those we see hovering around our elders.
Patsy and Claire have been friends forever. Both are artists, both are married to home town sweethearts. Both are gossip for the town rumor mill: Claire for her klutsy actions in everything but art, Patsy for saving her and every other helpless soul along the way. Claire is dependant on her loved ones to save her. Patsy can't save everyone, and none more obvious than her own mother, an accomplished artist whose age and actions suggests there may be something other than old age at work.
The faith of the town is lagging, and they take it upon themselves to revive the lagging spirit with paint, flowers and a new outlook. Along the way Claire questions her abilities and Patsy her talent but they never question their faith.
That's one of the wonderful things about this book: the characters, for the most part, have unshakable faith. The ones who don't aren't "bible thumped" by the ones who do. Perceptions and in some cases mis perceptions are noted, accepted and prayed about. There is one scene where a chracter asks if she can pray for another- not publically but privately, and another struggles with his spouse's religious faith when he says he'd really never had one. Faith has a walk as well as a talk, and the characters reflect that grounding.
This is Ane Mulligan's first book. I love the cover art and tried to win a lithograph of it even prior to purchasing the ebook. And the recipes listed at the end are simple, but sound wonderful. If Chapel Springs Revival is any indication, this is an author to watch.
"...seems like yesterday we were sharing coffee and formula coupons.” Where had their youth gone? “It makes me think of that song, the one that says something about turning around and they’re grown.” The potatoes blurred. “It’s so true. Our babies are grown, and we’re getting old. I’m not ready to be old,..."
So says Claire to Patsy as the story draws to a close in this sweet story that has been compared to Jan Karon by some reviewers. This is a book about growing old, about the wings we give our children and those we see hovering around our elders.
Patsy and Claire have been friends forever. Both are artists, both are married to home town sweethearts. Both are gossip for the town rumor mill: Claire for her klutsy actions in everything but art, Patsy for saving her and every other helpless soul along the way. Claire is dependant on her loved ones to save her. Patsy can't save everyone, and none more obvious than her own mother, an accomplished artist whose age and actions suggests there may be something other than old age at work.
The faith of the town is lagging, and they take it upon themselves to revive the lagging spirit with paint, flowers and a new outlook. Along the way Claire questions her abilities and Patsy her talent but they never question their faith.
That's one of the wonderful things about this book: the characters, for the most part, have unshakable faith. The ones who don't aren't "bible thumped" by the ones who do. Perceptions and in some cases mis perceptions are noted, accepted and prayed about. There is one scene where a chracter asks if she can pray for another- not publically but privately, and another struggles with his spouse's religious faith when he says he'd really never had one. Faith has a walk as well as a talk, and the characters reflect that grounding.
This is Ane Mulligan's first book. I love the cover art and tried to win a lithograph of it even prior to purchasing the ebook. And the recipes listed at the end are simple, but sound wonderful. If Chapel Springs Revival is any indication, this is an author to watch.
November 6, 2014
Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan is a delightful book about a small town in America, and the daily goings on of its residents. It follows the antics of best friends Claire and Patsy, who are co owners of the craft shop. Every morning the female residents of the town meet at Dee's doughnut cafe to eat, drink and put the world to rights before facing the day.
Newcomer Lydia, and owner of a recently furbished spa, notices that Chapel Springs is looking tired, and needs reviving to attract visitors. So the ladies set about recruiting supporters to spruce up the town.
Claire's eldest son announces that he is engaged, and non cook Claire is thrown into a panic as she finds that she is to cook and host the pre wedding dinner. Claire secretly books herself into college to have secret cookery lessons to surprise her husband Joel - but accident prone Claire soon finds that things do not always go to plan, much to the amusement of the reader.
With her son's wedding looming, Claire begins to examine her own marriage, and wonders if Joel was the husband that God intended for her. She looks to the life of her late Aunt Lola, who had seven husbands and died aged ninety five, as to how her marriage should be run. Claire's eyes are truly opened on reading Aunt Lola's journals.
Patsy confides in Claire her fears that her husband Nathan might be having an affair. Claire sets out to investigate, but what she perceives to be the truth and the actual truth, are miles apart.
I thoroughly enjoyed Chapel Springs Revival as a wonderful study in small town life. The close bond of friendship between Claire and Patsy was beautifully portrayed - as they helped and supported each other through life. The character of Claire was totally entertaining, as if anything could go wrong, it did! Claire's antics had me sniggering or laughing out loud throughout!!
Chapel Springs Revival is a light hearted book that will have the reader entertained from the start - but it's message is deadly serious - be guided by God and always keep your eyes on Him, living within His guidelines. And always be able to laugh at yourself. It is a fun novel, so don't miss out - pick up a copy today.
Newcomer Lydia, and owner of a recently furbished spa, notices that Chapel Springs is looking tired, and needs reviving to attract visitors. So the ladies set about recruiting supporters to spruce up the town.
Claire's eldest son announces that he is engaged, and non cook Claire is thrown into a panic as she finds that she is to cook and host the pre wedding dinner. Claire secretly books herself into college to have secret cookery lessons to surprise her husband Joel - but accident prone Claire soon finds that things do not always go to plan, much to the amusement of the reader.
With her son's wedding looming, Claire begins to examine her own marriage, and wonders if Joel was the husband that God intended for her. She looks to the life of her late Aunt Lola, who had seven husbands and died aged ninety five, as to how her marriage should be run. Claire's eyes are truly opened on reading Aunt Lola's journals.
Patsy confides in Claire her fears that her husband Nathan might be having an affair. Claire sets out to investigate, but what she perceives to be the truth and the actual truth, are miles apart.
I thoroughly enjoyed Chapel Springs Revival as a wonderful study in small town life. The close bond of friendship between Claire and Patsy was beautifully portrayed - as they helped and supported each other through life. The character of Claire was totally entertaining, as if anything could go wrong, it did! Claire's antics had me sniggering or laughing out loud throughout!!
Chapel Springs Revival is a light hearted book that will have the reader entertained from the start - but it's message is deadly serious - be guided by God and always keep your eyes on Him, living within His guidelines. And always be able to laugh at yourself. It is a fun novel, so don't miss out - pick up a copy today.
November 9, 2014
What a totally delightful book! This book was so much fun to read from beginning to end. Two best friends, Claire, a total klutz and Patsy, who is always there to help Claire out of her messes, have known each other since grade school. A new arrival to the little town of Chapel Springs points out that the town is not very inviting and would not be likely to bring new people or new business to the town. Claire and Patsy own a shop where Claire molds and shapes beautiful objects from clay and Patsy paints landscapes of the surrounding area. They definitely want new customers coming into their town so they start a campaign to get all the shop owners and businesses to go in with them and spruce up the town. All the shops are freshly painted and pots of flowers and hanging baskets are placed at strategic points. Along the way Claire hears of a woman that prayed specifically for her future husband and they have a wonderful marriage. She can't get her husband Joel to go to church with her and she starts thinking she married the wrong man because she didn't pray about it beforehand. She starts looking at all the men she meets with a question in her mind of "is he the one I should have married?" Patsy on the other hand starts thinking her husband Nathan is having an affair because he is always late coming home at night and he shows no interest in her anymore. Add to the mix a professor and his students brought in to try and find out why the springs in their area that the town is known for is gradually cooling down and all kinds of funny things can happen, and they do! Ane Mulligan, author of Chapel Springs Revival, will have you wishing you could travel to this town and meet all the residents and maybe even do a little shopping. I would definitely frequent "Dee's 'n' Doughs for a cup of coffee and one of her tasty pastries!
I received this book from the author and publisher through Bookfun.org for my honest review.
I received this book from the author and publisher through Bookfun.org for my honest review.
October 16, 2014
From the first pages of Chapel Springs Revival, Ane Mulligan introduces a remarkable group of characters. Readers will identify with whacky Claire Bennett and her thoughtful, closest buddy, Patsy Kowalski. The scenes in the little southern coffee shop reminded me spending time with my women friends, and the antics of Claire and Patsy resemble scenes from a sit-com. While the women are busy sprucing up their town in order to attract more tourists, the two best friends are also falling into misadventures as they try to reprogram their fading marriages. I loved the moment at the local spa when Claire tip-toes down the hall in order to eavesdrop and leaves a trail of clay behind her. Repeatedly, Mulligans drops Claire into awkward situations generated by her tendency to leap and then look at the consequences while her friend, Patsy has to cover up the damage created by Claire.
While humor dominates this well-crafted novel, thoughts about faith flow as an under-current and influence the decisions of the characters. Because the best friends share a gallery and shine as artists, Claire as a potter and Pasty as a painter, readers can also contemplate how creativity can enhance a person’s live and a friendship. And mothers will sympathize with the friends’ joy and agony of watching children leave the nest and how the changes can alters a marriage. While the resolution of Claire’s marital problems seemed to happen a mite suddenly, this reader found the situation plausible and satisfying because of Claire’s approach to life. Through Patsy’s problems, the author inserts a topic that will help readers who might have the same situation in their lives.
I have already recommended this novel to friends and plan to send a copy to one of my best friends who is a potter.
While humor dominates this well-crafted novel, thoughts about faith flow as an under-current and influence the decisions of the characters. Because the best friends share a gallery and shine as artists, Claire as a potter and Pasty as a painter, readers can also contemplate how creativity can enhance a person’s live and a friendship. And mothers will sympathize with the friends’ joy and agony of watching children leave the nest and how the changes can alters a marriage. While the resolution of Claire’s marital problems seemed to happen a mite suddenly, this reader found the situation plausible and satisfying because of Claire’s approach to life. Through Patsy’s problems, the author inserts a topic that will help readers who might have the same situation in their lives.
I have already recommended this novel to friends and plan to send a copy to one of my best friends who is a potter.
July 8, 2015
This book has been a labor of love for author Ane Mulligan. I was thrilled to be able to go to her book launch. It was a blast to experience. I received a review copy of her debut novel signed by the author. This novel reminded me of the I Love Lucy T.V. series. Claire and Patsy had a relationship similar to Ethel and Lucille Ball. Here’s a peek at their conversation. “You’re Terrible.” Patsy waved her away, but Claire caught the twitch at the corner of her mouth.”
“Uh-Huh. And you love me.”
“Patsy whirled and hugged her. “I do, and it’s my life’s mission, keeping you out of trouble.”
Looking for a fun get away? Want to laugh? You’ll enjoy this light-hearted, entertaining and funny read. Just like the I Love Lucy Show you can expect the unexpected. The town is being revived and restored. As the ladies start fixing up the town they decide they all might need a makeover to revive their marriages and friendships. There are serious matters wrapped in fun and miscommunication. It’s a sweet and funny start to kick off the series at Chapel Springs. You’ll want to catch the next book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
“Uh-Huh. And you love me.”
“Patsy whirled and hugged her. “I do, and it’s my life’s mission, keeping you out of trouble.”
Looking for a fun get away? Want to laugh? You’ll enjoy this light-hearted, entertaining and funny read. Just like the I Love Lucy Show you can expect the unexpected. The town is being revived and restored. As the ladies start fixing up the town they decide they all might need a makeover to revive their marriages and friendships. There are serious matters wrapped in fun and miscommunication. It’s a sweet and funny start to kick off the series at Chapel Springs. You’ll want to catch the next book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
May 3, 2016
Chapel Springs Revival is the debut book by author Ane Mulligan. Ms. Mulligan created a wonderful setting in Chapel Springs, Georgia. I fell in love with this delightful community and its residents. There was laughter throughout the book with the escapades of best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski.
Claire and Patsy determine their little community needed to be spruced up to draw more tourists to Chapel Springs. After all, they both were entrepreneurs along with their other friends in Chapel Springs that depend upon tourists for their income. Claire and Patsy are quit a pair that will look out for each other no matter the situation.
As the novel progress readers will discover that Claire and Patsy's marriages were in need of reviving just like Chapel Springs. Between the two of them will they find the faith, determination and overcome obstacles to bring romance back into their lives with their spouses? There are so escapades that are hilarious along with serious ones that caused me to feel the pain Claire and Patsy were experiencing during their adventure in Chapel Springs Revival.
Readers who enjoy a good novel that will stir emotions and bring some heart felt love and laughter into their lives--I highly recommend reading Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan. Readers will fall in long with Chapel Springs and will want to travel there as a tourist. I could imagine the beauty of this tourist community as I was reading. Order your copy of Chapel Springs Revival today.
I rated this book 5 stars and am looking forward to reading book two, Chapel Springs Survival.
Claire and Patsy determine their little community needed to be spruced up to draw more tourists to Chapel Springs. After all, they both were entrepreneurs along with their other friends in Chapel Springs that depend upon tourists for their income. Claire and Patsy are quit a pair that will look out for each other no matter the situation.
As the novel progress readers will discover that Claire and Patsy's marriages were in need of reviving just like Chapel Springs. Between the two of them will they find the faith, determination and overcome obstacles to bring romance back into their lives with their spouses? There are so escapades that are hilarious along with serious ones that caused me to feel the pain Claire and Patsy were experiencing during their adventure in Chapel Springs Revival.
Readers who enjoy a good novel that will stir emotions and bring some heart felt love and laughter into their lives--I highly recommend reading Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan. Readers will fall in long with Chapel Springs and will want to travel there as a tourist. I could imagine the beauty of this tourist community as I was reading. Order your copy of Chapel Springs Revival today.
I rated this book 5 stars and am looking forward to reading book two, Chapel Springs Survival.
October 18, 2014
Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan
Christian, Humorous
ISBN: 9781941103418
Quote “With fiends like Claire, you need a gurney, a mop, and a guardian angel.”
Best friends Claire Bennett and Pasty Kowalski live in Chapel Springs, Georgia. With the help of entrepreneurs in the community they try to revive their tired little town and restore their marriages. As they make changes to improve their town and marriages they stumble from one hilarious situation to another. I found the antics of Claire to be quite funny. I especially laughed when she fell in an open grave and had to be rescued. It seems that life around Claire was anything but boring. She was always in need of rescuing and often it was her buddy Pasty giving her a helping hand. If there was one thing to take away from this fascinating story it would be communication is everything. I give this comical story 4 stars and highly recommend it. The author Ane Mulligan did a great job of filling her characters with animation, joy and laughter. I can only wonder how much come from real life, because you really can not make some of this up. This was my first book I read by her but I can not wait to find another.
I want to give a high-five to the author Ane Mulligan and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolines for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and bring laughter to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity.
Christian, Humorous
ISBN: 9781941103418
Quote “With fiends like Claire, you need a gurney, a mop, and a guardian angel.”
Best friends Claire Bennett and Pasty Kowalski live in Chapel Springs, Georgia. With the help of entrepreneurs in the community they try to revive their tired little town and restore their marriages. As they make changes to improve their town and marriages they stumble from one hilarious situation to another. I found the antics of Claire to be quite funny. I especially laughed when she fell in an open grave and had to be rescued. It seems that life around Claire was anything but boring. She was always in need of rescuing and often it was her buddy Pasty giving her a helping hand. If there was one thing to take away from this fascinating story it would be communication is everything. I give this comical story 4 stars and highly recommend it. The author Ane Mulligan did a great job of filling her characters with animation, joy and laughter. I can only wonder how much come from real life, because you really can not make some of this up. This was my first book I read by her but I can not wait to find another.
I want to give a high-five to the author Ane Mulligan and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolines for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and bring laughter to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity.
August 1, 2017
A fun read! I feel like I've just been on vacation to Chapel Springs and met lots of quirky new friends. The characters are well-written, realistic, and relatable - even though I'm nowhere near their age or in the same point in life. Best friends Claire and Patsy have moved into a permanent place in my heart.
The story moved along quickly, with both real-life problems and side-splitting "adventures" that I could picture so easily. Claire reminds me of a cross between Lucille Ball and Anne of Green Gables, always finding herself in some sort of "scrape." But even when her pride took a hit, she had the love of her family and her loyal best friend by her side to see her through it.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series to see what happens next in Chapel Springs.
The story moved along quickly, with both real-life problems and side-splitting "adventures" that I could picture so easily. Claire reminds me of a cross between Lucille Ball and Anne of Green Gables, always finding herself in some sort of "scrape." But even when her pride took a hit, she had the love of her family and her loyal best friend by her side to see her through it.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series to see what happens next in Chapel Springs.
May 5, 2019
Never have I read a book about nothing until this.
The book had no plot, just a big bunch of boring nothing. It took me a week to read this hoping it would get better. I couldn't read much more than a chapter at a time, nothing to keep you interested.
The book had no plot, just a big bunch of boring nothing. It took me a week to read this hoping it would get better. I couldn't read much more than a chapter at a time, nothing to keep you interested.
September 4, 2016
Loved this story.... awesome characters, wonderful community. Lots of fun!
April 7, 2019
I hate it when I can't give a really good review, but I can't on this one. That really surprised me as I enjoyed another book in this series that I read last July. I remembered reading it and went to check my review when I was ready to give up reading this one. When I saw I'd enjoyed the other, I decided to finish this one. The main character in this book is shown to be a real klutz, and constantly puts her foot in her mouth. In this book it happens constantly which is really tiring. I just can't believe anyone is really that stupid. She's supposed to be a Christian, but it really doesn't show. She gets a stupid idea that maybe her husband isn't the man God wanted her to marry, assuming God would therefore want her to dump him and marry the right one. I'm sorry, but again, the way it's presented, even my 10 year old granddaughter would know that wouldn't be God's will! She's apparently also very superstitious, and believes in luck, which isn't Christian at all. I don't know, but her whole character just wasn't believable, and I can't believe anyone could be quite that stupid. Stuff that would have been funny, stopped being so because it was so constant. Now I want to go read the other one again to see if I'll still like it. Honestly, if I'd read this one first, I'd never have gotten another one. But, maybe it's just me.... after I re-read the other one I'll give my final opinion.
Edited to add: I just finished reading Home To Chapel Springs, the other book in this series that I'd read before and thought was so good. I see why I did - it's a fantastic book! Claire, the character that acts like a super klutz, and constantly has her foot in her mouth, and seems just plain stupid in Chapel Springs Revival, is actually a nice, normal human being in this book. She's intelligent too. Oh, she puts her foot in her mouth occasionally, but it's never with malice or a big deal. This book has a great plot and story. The whole plot of Revival seemed to be to make Claire look like an idiot. I'm keeping Home and will be deleting Revival. At least I know I didn't lose my marbles, because these two books are nothing alike.
Edited to add: I just finished reading Home To Chapel Springs, the other book in this series that I'd read before and thought was so good. I see why I did - it's a fantastic book! Claire, the character that acts like a super klutz, and constantly has her foot in her mouth, and seems just plain stupid in Chapel Springs Revival, is actually a nice, normal human being in this book. She's intelligent too. Oh, she puts her foot in her mouth occasionally, but it's never with malice or a big deal. This book has a great plot and story. The whole plot of Revival seemed to be to make Claire look like an idiot. I'm keeping Home and will be deleting Revival. At least I know I didn't lose my marbles, because these two books are nothing alike.
January 4, 2020
Ugh, I got halfway, but just couldn't finish it. I disliked the main characters so much. They were terribly immature for grown women. Just ugh...
October 8, 2014
It is impossible to read “Chapel Springs Revival” without laughing. Best friends Claire and Patsy determine their small town of Chapel Springs needs a face lift. So they join forces with a couple more friends to get the store owners of Chapel Springs on board with their plan. But the town does not need a revival as much as their marriages.
Claire Bennett is impulsive and acts without thinking. Trouble seems to follow her and despite her best efforts, she seems destined to cause chaos wherever she goes. Her antics had me laughing out loud. And yet, as the store progresses, we begin to understand her as a woman who is getting tired of being the laugh of the town. It becomes easy to feel sorry for Claire.
Claire is a new Christian who is trying to live her life devoted to God. But her husband does not share her faith. Their marriage does not have the same spark and they don’t communicate as well as she would like. As her discontent increases, she begins to wonder if her marriage was a mistake.
Patsy Kowalski is Claire’s best friend who seems to make it her purpose to keep Claire out of trouble. But Patsy has problems of her own. All signs point to the notion that her husband is having an affair. She must decide how to deal with the situation. She struggles with how to confront her husband with her suspicions. Fortunately Patsy has best friend Claire who is willing to use her detective skills to figure out if there is any validity to Patsy’s concerns.
I had anticipated a light hearted book with little substance. But I was pleasantly surprised. “Chapel Hills Spring Revival” was funny and yet contained some really serious moments too. It was a very thought provoking book. It is going to have a great appeal to those enjoyed the Mitford series. The only thing negative about the book is that it ended too soon. I will be anxiously waiting for the continuation of this story. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Claire Bennett is impulsive and acts without thinking. Trouble seems to follow her and despite her best efforts, she seems destined to cause chaos wherever she goes. Her antics had me laughing out loud. And yet, as the store progresses, we begin to understand her as a woman who is getting tired of being the laugh of the town. It becomes easy to feel sorry for Claire.
Claire is a new Christian who is trying to live her life devoted to God. But her husband does not share her faith. Their marriage does not have the same spark and they don’t communicate as well as she would like. As her discontent increases, she begins to wonder if her marriage was a mistake.
Patsy Kowalski is Claire’s best friend who seems to make it her purpose to keep Claire out of trouble. But Patsy has problems of her own. All signs point to the notion that her husband is having an affair. She must decide how to deal with the situation. She struggles with how to confront her husband with her suspicions. Fortunately Patsy has best friend Claire who is willing to use her detective skills to figure out if there is any validity to Patsy’s concerns.
I had anticipated a light hearted book with little substance. But I was pleasantly surprised. “Chapel Hills Spring Revival” was funny and yet contained some really serious moments too. It was a very thought provoking book. It is going to have a great appeal to those enjoyed the Mitford series. The only thing negative about the book is that it ended too soon. I will be anxiously waiting for the continuation of this story. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 11, 2014
What an enjoyable and lighthearted book filled with laughter, some tears and real life issues. I love the setting of the story and how a small town in Chapel Springs, Georgia that had fallen onto hard times pulled together to revive their town in order to bring back the tourist trade.
Claire and her best friend Patsy decide that the town needs an uplift. They need to paint and plant flowers among other things to beautify the town. They manage to convince the the merchants to join in to help. Claire is a disaster waiting to happen. She puts her foot in her mouth and acts on things without thinking them out. She also is inept in domestic qualities like cooking. She is so funny in the antics she gets into. Patsy her life long best friend thinks her husband is having an affair. She tries to keep Claire reigned in but often joins her. Claire is a Christian but her husband is not. She wonders if he was the right choice. There is also a problem with the upcoming marriage of her son and questions regarding her mother. While trying to revitalize the town they also conclude that their marriages also need to be revitalized. Loved the dog. This was a fast read read for me as I could not wait to see what happened.
For a debut book this was great. Ane also included some tantalizing recipes at the end of the story.
I recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review.
Claire and her best friend Patsy decide that the town needs an uplift. They need to paint and plant flowers among other things to beautify the town. They manage to convince the the merchants to join in to help. Claire is a disaster waiting to happen. She puts her foot in her mouth and acts on things without thinking them out. She also is inept in domestic qualities like cooking. She is so funny in the antics she gets into. Patsy her life long best friend thinks her husband is having an affair. She tries to keep Claire reigned in but often joins her. Claire is a Christian but her husband is not. She wonders if he was the right choice. There is also a problem with the upcoming marriage of her son and questions regarding her mother. While trying to revitalize the town they also conclude that their marriages also need to be revitalized. Loved the dog. This was a fast read read for me as I could not wait to see what happened.
For a debut book this was great. Ane also included some tantalizing recipes at the end of the story.
I recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review.
November 3, 2014
Chapel Springs Revival
By Ane Mulligan
Publi: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas c.2014
Chapel Springs Revival is a wonderful romp through a small Southern town. It is full of the quirky characters, rivalries, nosiness, love and compassion that abound in these towns.
Chapel Springs, GA, is home to its fair share of characters from Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowlaski who own The Painted Loon Gallery to Felix Riley the mayor and owner of Flavors Ice Cream Shop. You have shop owners, fishermen, sons and daughters all leaving their mark on the town. As you get to know the townspeople you find folks dealing with the things common to many lives: stressed marriages, aging parents, children’s weddings, and local politics.
Chapel Springs buildings need a facelift so Claire, Patsy and their usual morning coffee group spearhead the campaign to make it happen. As personalities clash and mishaps occur progress is made. As usual the unexpected surprises everyone. In the end the buioldings are revived and the livews of the citizens of Chapel Springs move on.
I encourage you to read this wonderful book. It will have you laughing and crying in turn and feeling like you are leaving friends when you are done.
This book was provided through The Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
By Ane Mulligan
Publi: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas c.2014
Chapel Springs Revival is a wonderful romp through a small Southern town. It is full of the quirky characters, rivalries, nosiness, love and compassion that abound in these towns.
Chapel Springs, GA, is home to its fair share of characters from Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowlaski who own The Painted Loon Gallery to Felix Riley the mayor and owner of Flavors Ice Cream Shop. You have shop owners, fishermen, sons and daughters all leaving their mark on the town. As you get to know the townspeople you find folks dealing with the things common to many lives: stressed marriages, aging parents, children’s weddings, and local politics.
Chapel Springs buildings need a facelift so Claire, Patsy and their usual morning coffee group spearhead the campaign to make it happen. As personalities clash and mishaps occur progress is made. As usual the unexpected surprises everyone. In the end the buioldings are revived and the livews of the citizens of Chapel Springs move on.
I encourage you to read this wonderful book. It will have you laughing and crying in turn and feeling like you are leaving friends when you are done.
This book was provided through The Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
October 29, 2014
"Chapel Springs Revival" is a light-hearted story about two ladies and what they each desire for their empty nest lives. They have been best friends and have lived in the same town since childhood. They have remained married to their high school sweethearts, raised their children, and...now what?
Claire seems to always be getting into trouble, either with her mouth or her (whole) body. Patsy is her responsible friend, that is always trying to get Claire out of trouble. While each of these ladies has her own private struggles they turn to each other and to God for support. I was saddened as Patsy's mom was struggling with her memory and her dad was trying to "not see" it happening. Claire just struggles with life, questioning every decision she has ever made, over and over again, yet she always stands by her friends. Some of the issues are laugh out loud funny. Others are breathtakingly serious. Claire and Patsy are knee deep in reviving their town, themselves, and their marriages.
While "Chapel Springs Revival" deals with some serious adult issues such as their sexual relationships (erectile dysfunction), it does stay clean and "G" rated. I enjoyed the refreshing honesty, humor and love that are quite prevalent in the book.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
Claire seems to always be getting into trouble, either with her mouth or her (whole) body. Patsy is her responsible friend, that is always trying to get Claire out of trouble. While each of these ladies has her own private struggles they turn to each other and to God for support. I was saddened as Patsy's mom was struggling with her memory and her dad was trying to "not see" it happening. Claire just struggles with life, questioning every decision she has ever made, over and over again, yet she always stands by her friends. Some of the issues are laugh out loud funny. Others are breathtakingly serious. Claire and Patsy are knee deep in reviving their town, themselves, and their marriages.
While "Chapel Springs Revival" deals with some serious adult issues such as their sexual relationships (erectile dysfunction), it does stay clean and "G" rated. I enjoyed the refreshing honesty, humor and love that are quite prevalent in the book.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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