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Serendipity #2
Previously Loved Treasures
FROM A USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR comes a heartwarming mystery that is rich with imagination and magic. In
Previously Loved Treasures
, Book Two of The Serendipity Series, recently widowed Ida Sweetwater and her granddaughter come together in a heartwarming mystery that is rich with imagination and magic.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
This is a story that resonates with Crosby’s heartwarming albeit quirky characters and the joy of a pay-it-forward philosophy.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
This is a story that resonates with Crosby’s heartwarming albeit quirky characters and the joy of a pay-it-forward philosophy.
280 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2014
332 people are currently reading
954 people want to read
About the author
Bette Lee Crosby
42 books2,187 followersUSA Today Bestselling and Award-winning novelist Bette Lee Crosby's books are "Well-crafted storytelling populated by memorable characters caught up in equally memorable circumstances." - Midwest Book Review
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
The Seattle Post Intelligencer says Crosby's writing is, "A quirky mix of Southern flair, serious thoughts about important things in life and madcap adventures."
Samantha from Reader's Favorite raves, "Crosby writes the type of book you can’t stop thinking about long after you put it down."
"Storytelling is in my blood," Crosby laughingly admits, "My mom was not a writer, but she was a captivating storyteller, so I find myself using bits and pieces of her voice in most everything I write."
It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win twenty awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, Reader's Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer's Choice Award.
Crosby's published works to date are: Blueberry Hill (2014), Previously Loved Treasures (2014), Jubilee's Journey (2013), What Matters Most (2013), The Twelfth Child (2012), Life in the Land of IS (2012), Cracks in the Sidewalk (2011), Spare Change (2011). A Cupid inspired romance, Wishing for Wonderful, is scheduled for release in November 2014 and Book Three of The Wyattsville Series, Passing through Perfect, will be be available in January 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
April 27, 2018
Four and a half stars.
After her husband’s death, Ida Sweetwater is struggling financially. She tries several ideas before deciding to open a boarding house. As she searches for used furniture for the rooms, she comes across Previously Loved Treasures and the mysterious Peter Pennington. Oddly he seems to know more about what Ida needs than she does herself. Ida Sweetwater mourns the loss of her son James who disappeared from his home when he was 19. He has never been heard from since. Ida decides to try and locate him with the aid of a private detective. Instead she finds Caroline, the granddaughter she never knew existed.
The story concerns these characters and the other residents of the boarding house which becomes like a family. Well, most of them do. Like any good story there are the less savoury characters that appear and, while they are not likeable, they do add to the plot. Yes, you will have to suspend disbelief to accept some things in the book, particularly concerning Peter Pennington and Previously Loved Treasures. But Bette Lee Crosby is such a skilful writer she soon draws you into accepting the otherworldly aspects and becoming involved in the story. That characters are so well drawn. As well as Ida and Caroline, I loved Wilbur and Rowena, who has some issues of her own to deal with to protect herself and her young daughter.
This comment from Wilbur stuck home with me. ’The irony of life is that we’re quick to tell people what we don’t like about them, but we hold back on saying how special or wonderful they are.’ Sadly too often true. However I have to disagree with him later when he says, ’Love is blind. It doesn’t see faults.’ Not sure I accept this. I’m inclined to think a person rather than being blind to faults, a person loves someone in spite of their faults, and sometimes maybe even because of them.’ That aside I thoroughly enjoyed this book which had me travelling the gamut of emotions as I turned the pages. A charming story but not without showing the darker side of some characters. If you want an involving, feel good read this one will fit the bill.
After her husband’s death, Ida Sweetwater is struggling financially. She tries several ideas before deciding to open a boarding house. As she searches for used furniture for the rooms, she comes across Previously Loved Treasures and the mysterious Peter Pennington. Oddly he seems to know more about what Ida needs than she does herself. Ida Sweetwater mourns the loss of her son James who disappeared from his home when he was 19. He has never been heard from since. Ida decides to try and locate him with the aid of a private detective. Instead she finds Caroline, the granddaughter she never knew existed.
The story concerns these characters and the other residents of the boarding house which becomes like a family. Well, most of them do. Like any good story there are the less savoury characters that appear and, while they are not likeable, they do add to the plot. Yes, you will have to suspend disbelief to accept some things in the book, particularly concerning Peter Pennington and Previously Loved Treasures. But Bette Lee Crosby is such a skilful writer she soon draws you into accepting the otherworldly aspects and becoming involved in the story. That characters are so well drawn. As well as Ida and Caroline, I loved Wilbur and Rowena, who has some issues of her own to deal with to protect herself and her young daughter.
This comment from Wilbur stuck home with me. ’The irony of life is that we’re quick to tell people what we don’t like about them, but we hold back on saying how special or wonderful they are.’ Sadly too often true. However I have to disagree with him later when he says, ’Love is blind. It doesn’t see faults.’ Not sure I accept this. I’m inclined to think a person rather than being blind to faults, a person loves someone in spite of their faults, and sometimes maybe even because of them.’ That aside I thoroughly enjoyed this book which had me travelling the gamut of emotions as I turned the pages. A charming story but not without showing the darker side of some characters. If you want an involving, feel good read this one will fit the bill.
March 22, 2014
I had the pleasure of doing the manuscript evaluation on this wonderful new release by Bette Lee Crosby. In doing my evaluations, I have to rip a book apart, evaluate, break it down and then reevaluate. I know a book is an absolute winner when I can read, re-read, and re-read again and never get tired of the story. That was Previously Loved Treasures.
February 26, 2015
4.5★s
Ida Sweetwater missed Big Jim so much – their marriage had been happy with a closeness that made the loneliness she felt after his death much more extreme. The only blip in their long marriage had been when their nineteen year old son James had had harsh words with Big Jim; the result being that he had walked out and Ida had never seen him again. Now that her husband had passed on, she determined that a private investigator was needed to find James – she was sure she would be reunited with him at last…
With the struggle to pay the PI causing Ida heartache, she decided to rent out some of the rooms in their beautiful old home. And so her boarding house was formed – the people who rented the rooms were varied, but the income from the rent paid for Ida’s PI. But instead of James, the investigation located a granddaughter Ida didn’t know she had. And when Ida managed to contact her granddaughter, Caroline was shocked; she had had no idea she had a grandmother – at a crossroads in her own life, it looked like a new door was opening for her, as it was for Ida.
While Ida was searching for furniture for Caroline’s room, she came across a store which she hadn’t noticed before – Previously Loved Treasures was its name and her delight at the contents were heightened when she met the proprietor, Mr Peter Pennington. A mysterious little man, he seemed to know what she wanted, and always had what she needed. Strange indeed…
As the new residents of Ida’s boarding house came to know one another, they became one big happy family. The laughter was back in Ida’s home. But then Peter Pennington warned Caroline of danger – what could he mean? Caroline always saw the best in people; nothing would happen, would it?
I loved this sweet and touching tale which is the second in the Serendipity series; filled with fun, quirky characters, it touches the reader in a delightful way. Bette Lee Crosby is a talented storyteller and has an amazing way with words, leaving the reader completely invested in the characters. Her books are emotional and heartfelt, and this one was no different. I’m definitely ready to read more of Bette’s work. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Ida Sweetwater missed Big Jim so much – their marriage had been happy with a closeness that made the loneliness she felt after his death much more extreme. The only blip in their long marriage had been when their nineteen year old son James had had harsh words with Big Jim; the result being that he had walked out and Ida had never seen him again. Now that her husband had passed on, she determined that a private investigator was needed to find James – she was sure she would be reunited with him at last…
With the struggle to pay the PI causing Ida heartache, she decided to rent out some of the rooms in their beautiful old home. And so her boarding house was formed – the people who rented the rooms were varied, but the income from the rent paid for Ida’s PI. But instead of James, the investigation located a granddaughter Ida didn’t know she had. And when Ida managed to contact her granddaughter, Caroline was shocked; she had had no idea she had a grandmother – at a crossroads in her own life, it looked like a new door was opening for her, as it was for Ida.
While Ida was searching for furniture for Caroline’s room, she came across a store which she hadn’t noticed before – Previously Loved Treasures was its name and her delight at the contents were heightened when she met the proprietor, Mr Peter Pennington. A mysterious little man, he seemed to know what she wanted, and always had what she needed. Strange indeed…
As the new residents of Ida’s boarding house came to know one another, they became one big happy family. The laughter was back in Ida’s home. But then Peter Pennington warned Caroline of danger – what could he mean? Caroline always saw the best in people; nothing would happen, would it?
I loved this sweet and touching tale which is the second in the Serendipity series; filled with fun, quirky characters, it touches the reader in a delightful way. Bette Lee Crosby is a talented storyteller and has an amazing way with words, leaving the reader completely invested in the characters. Her books are emotional and heartfelt, and this one was no different. I’m definitely ready to read more of Bette’s work. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
August 24, 2014
Previously Loved Treasures is the second book in Bette Lee Crosby's Serendipity Series. It is the story of Ida Sweetwater, whose husband and life long love, Big Jim Sweetwater, has recently died. Ida is left alone in their large empty house, which begins to weigh on her. Also weighing on her is her need for an income. At this point, Ida makes two decisions that kick off the book and set this heart-warming story in motion. It is also the story of her granddaughter, Caroline Sweetwater, and her need to find a family and a place to belong.
The first important decision that Ida makes is to open up her home to boarders. This brings to the story a whole host of characters that not only enrich the story of her and Caroline, but also are interesting in their own right. This story would be nothing without this ragtag bunch of misfits and their interesting individual stories. In fact, you could actually say that each of these characters are previously "unloved" treasures that somehow find a home and a reason to be with the help of Ida and Caroline. I especially enjoyed the way that Bette allowed many of them a chapter told in their own words, interspersed among the regular chapters. Along with filling in details of the main story, these chapters really helped me get inside the minds of these characters. This lead to a greater understanding of their motives and thinking, and therefore, to a more enjoyable read.
The second important decision is Ida's search for her long lost son, James, which ultimately brings her in contact with her granddaughter, Caroline. It is quickly apparent that Caroline is going to become the catalyst for the story that Previously Loved Treasures is trying to tell. It is Ida and Caroline's basic kindness that draw the characters in the story to them, and ultimately,allow those characters to repay them many times over with their love.
And of course the story would be nothing without the Previously Loved Treasures second hand store and its charming proprietor, Peter Pennington. Peter is a bit of a mystery as a character, as is his ability to always know exactly what someone is looking for.
As for this being the second book in a "series", the connection between it, and the first book The Twelfth Child, although important to the outcome of the story, is not so ingrained in this story as to make it impossible to read one without the other. In fact, both stories stand on their own perfectly, and I felt this one was far and away the best of the two. I was so engrossed in the story from the beginning, that I was basically able to read this book in one sitting,
Although I would recommend any and all of Bette Lee Crosby's work to everyone, this book would be close to the top of the list. Bette has a charming way of telling a story that both delights and engages. I am anxiously looking forward to reading the last book of hers that is sitting on my shelf, and to seeing what her next endeavor is.
A large thank you to Bette Lee Crosby and Bent Pine Publishing for making this book available to me in exchange for my review.
The first important decision that Ida makes is to open up her home to boarders. This brings to the story a whole host of characters that not only enrich the story of her and Caroline, but also are interesting in their own right. This story would be nothing without this ragtag bunch of misfits and their interesting individual stories. In fact, you could actually say that each of these characters are previously "unloved" treasures that somehow find a home and a reason to be with the help of Ida and Caroline. I especially enjoyed the way that Bette allowed many of them a chapter told in their own words, interspersed among the regular chapters. Along with filling in details of the main story, these chapters really helped me get inside the minds of these characters. This lead to a greater understanding of their motives and thinking, and therefore, to a more enjoyable read.
The second important decision is Ida's search for her long lost son, James, which ultimately brings her in contact with her granddaughter, Caroline. It is quickly apparent that Caroline is going to become the catalyst for the story that Previously Loved Treasures is trying to tell. It is Ida and Caroline's basic kindness that draw the characters in the story to them, and ultimately,allow those characters to repay them many times over with their love.
And of course the story would be nothing without the Previously Loved Treasures second hand store and its charming proprietor, Peter Pennington. Peter is a bit of a mystery as a character, as is his ability to always know exactly what someone is looking for.
As for this being the second book in a "series", the connection between it, and the first book The Twelfth Child, although important to the outcome of the story, is not so ingrained in this story as to make it impossible to read one without the other. In fact, both stories stand on their own perfectly, and I felt this one was far and away the best of the two. I was so engrossed in the story from the beginning, that I was basically able to read this book in one sitting,
Although I would recommend any and all of Bette Lee Crosby's work to everyone, this book would be close to the top of the list. Bette has a charming way of telling a story that both delights and engages. I am anxiously looking forward to reading the last book of hers that is sitting on my shelf, and to seeing what her next endeavor is.
A large thank you to Bette Lee Crosby and Bent Pine Publishing for making this book available to me in exchange for my review.
April 30, 2014
PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES is the second book in the Serendipity series but it can easily be enjoyed as a stand-alone book. The story opens just after the death of Ida Sweetwater’s husband Jim and she is all alone in a big house. There is a son but she hasn’t seen him for years as he and Jim had a huge falling out and the son walked out. Ivy decides to hire a detective to find her son, and sets in motion a huge change in her life. The first change is that in order to pay the private detective she turns her huge empty house into a B&B boarding house, and the second change is that while her son still can’t be located – there is a granddaughter. Caroline Sweetwater is a young woman who has experienced a lot of hardship in her short life. Her father abandoned her and her mother; her mother has recently died leaving her alone in the world; and her boyfriend is using her. All she wants is a fresh start. As soon as Ivy learns that Caroline exists she asks Caroline to move in with her so they can be family. So Ivy goes from being alone to having a granddaughter and an array of residents to keep her company – now let the story begin.
As is usual with Bette Lee Crosby’s work once you start you can’t put it down as you follow the twists and turns of the plot. There is something for everyone in PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES a female in crisis, faith, drama, deceit, laughs, tears, danger, romance, mystery and just a little touch of magic. The characters reach out and touch you making you feel like you have known them for years and you can just pop in and have a cuppa with them. They are not all perfect either, but there is growth in them as they all start to bond with each other and become like a family. Some characters don’t grow for the better though and there are two nasty pasty’s who are so selfish, mean and greedy that their actions eventual escalate until an event that will leave you breathless at their wickedness. Then there is Peter Pennington, owner of PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES who always seems to have just the right pre-loved item to suit a situation, in fact sometimes he has it before the situation has occurred.
I first met Bette Lee when I read her Christmas Story Cupid’s Christmas, this was quickly followed by my reading two more of her books Spare Change and Jubilee’s Daughter, and, along with PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES, not one of them has let me down. When I pick up one of her books I expect a story that will touch my heart and emotions deeply and what is really good is that I have more of her books on my TBR shelf so will be enjoying Bette’s work for some time to come.
Rating: B – Great. I really enjoyed reading it and it is a book I will be recommending to all my friends who like this genre.
As is usual with Bette Lee Crosby’s work once you start you can’t put it down as you follow the twists and turns of the plot. There is something for everyone in PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES a female in crisis, faith, drama, deceit, laughs, tears, danger, romance, mystery and just a little touch of magic. The characters reach out and touch you making you feel like you have known them for years and you can just pop in and have a cuppa with them. They are not all perfect either, but there is growth in them as they all start to bond with each other and become like a family. Some characters don’t grow for the better though and there are two nasty pasty’s who are so selfish, mean and greedy that their actions eventual escalate until an event that will leave you breathless at their wickedness. Then there is Peter Pennington, owner of PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES who always seems to have just the right pre-loved item to suit a situation, in fact sometimes he has it before the situation has occurred.
I first met Bette Lee when I read her Christmas Story Cupid’s Christmas, this was quickly followed by my reading two more of her books Spare Change and Jubilee’s Daughter, and, along with PREVIOUSLY LOVED TREASURES, not one of them has let me down. When I pick up one of her books I expect a story that will touch my heart and emotions deeply and what is really good is that I have more of her books on my TBR shelf so will be enjoying Bette’s work for some time to come.
Rating: B – Great. I really enjoyed reading it and it is a book I will be recommending to all my friends who like this genre.
April 9, 2014
I was given the opportunity to preview Previously Loved Treasures and then I did a re-read of the final version. I have yet to find a book by Bette Lee Crosby that doesn't pull at my heartstrings.
When you sit down to read a book by Bette Lee Crosby it is like someone asked you to come and have a seat on their porch and hang out in a rocking chair to relax. Her characters have so much dimension, her writing style is tinged with southern charm and her story is one that you will remember because you become so invested in the characters.
This story starts with Ida who has just lost her husband and buried him and goes in search of a son that walked out 30 years earlier. What Ida finds is a granddaughter who she loves unconditionally and who loves her back.
During Ida's search for her son, she has to come up with money for the private investigator and through raw grit and determination she finally finds a way to do that. Ida turns her house into a boarding house and the boarders become family. After Ida dies, she leaves the house to her granddaughter, Caroline who steps in and finds the family she never had.
An emotional, heartfelt book that will make you want to keep reading even after the story is finished.
5 stars.
When you sit down to read a book by Bette Lee Crosby it is like someone asked you to come and have a seat on their porch and hang out in a rocking chair to relax. Her characters have so much dimension, her writing style is tinged with southern charm and her story is one that you will remember because you become so invested in the characters.
This story starts with Ida who has just lost her husband and buried him and goes in search of a son that walked out 30 years earlier. What Ida finds is a granddaughter who she loves unconditionally and who loves her back.
During Ida's search for her son, she has to come up with money for the private investigator and through raw grit and determination she finally finds a way to do that. Ida turns her house into a boarding house and the boarders become family. After Ida dies, she leaves the house to her granddaughter, Caroline who steps in and finds the family she never had.
An emotional, heartfelt book that will make you want to keep reading even after the story is finished.
5 stars.
April 17, 2014
I got this book in e book form free from the author. This is my honest review.
Betty Lee Crosby has given us another emotional story on life, love and relationships. Ida Sweetwater searches for her long gone son after her wonderful husband has died . Longing for her son has caused Ida to use all her funds for a detective, so she rents out rooms in her lovely old house. Soon most of the residence become like family, and she's also found a grown granddaughter that she didn't even know existed.
There is also a mysterious little man, Peter Pennington, who runs a shop full of unusual items. Strangely enough, he always seems ready with everything his customers need--whether they think they need it or not. When Ida decides to leave her home and all it's positions to her granddaughter, trouble brews within the house. Who is family really? Those who love us and want the best for us, or simply those in the "legal" family?
Crosby has written a lovely story that touches the heart and emotions deeply. Some of her characters begin to feel like good friends, while others become " kick um to the curb" creeps. Her thoughts on love and life are valuable for pondering in everyone's life. This is the second book in this series. Another great read by Crosby!
Betty Lee Crosby has given us another emotional story on life, love and relationships. Ida Sweetwater searches for her long gone son after her wonderful husband has died . Longing for her son has caused Ida to use all her funds for a detective, so she rents out rooms in her lovely old house. Soon most of the residence become like family, and she's also found a grown granddaughter that she didn't even know existed.
There is also a mysterious little man, Peter Pennington, who runs a shop full of unusual items. Strangely enough, he always seems ready with everything his customers need--whether they think they need it or not. When Ida decides to leave her home and all it's positions to her granddaughter, trouble brews within the house. Who is family really? Those who love us and want the best for us, or simply those in the "legal" family?
Crosby has written a lovely story that touches the heart and emotions deeply. Some of her characters begin to feel like good friends, while others become " kick um to the curb" creeps. Her thoughts on love and life are valuable for pondering in everyone's life. This is the second book in this series. Another great read by Crosby!
August 30, 2016
I happily received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In today's world it seems we face brutal reality every waking moment. Many of us choose reading as a form of escapism, and if you want a refreshing escape from brutal reality, you can't go wrong with a book by Bette Lee Crosby. I believe she excels at writing fairy tales for grownups -- and why not? Why should children be the only ones who can be delighted by magical situations?
Yet, these are adult situations. Here we deal with abusive relationships and how they can destroy lives. But we also see people who are able to rise above the past and move on. There is hope! And sometimes it may take a bit of magic to find it.
Of course, we all know that love IS magic!
This is a story of a most unusual family. Most of them aren't united by blood, but by the magic of love.
This book made me think, it touched my heart and it made me smile. It didn't take long to read it -- the length was just about perfect for this type of story. It actually left me wanting a bit more, and I'd love to see some of these characters in a future book.
This was a good use of my reading time.
In today's world it seems we face brutal reality every waking moment. Many of us choose reading as a form of escapism, and if you want a refreshing escape from brutal reality, you can't go wrong with a book by Bette Lee Crosby. I believe she excels at writing fairy tales for grownups -- and why not? Why should children be the only ones who can be delighted by magical situations?
Yet, these are adult situations. Here we deal with abusive relationships and how they can destroy lives. But we also see people who are able to rise above the past and move on. There is hope! And sometimes it may take a bit of magic to find it.
Of course, we all know that love IS magic!
This is a story of a most unusual family. Most of them aren't united by blood, but by the magic of love.
This book made me think, it touched my heart and it made me smile. It didn't take long to read it -- the length was just about perfect for this type of story. It actually left me wanting a bit more, and I'd love to see some of these characters in a future book.
This was a good use of my reading time.
May 18, 2014
If you are someone who is skeptical, kind of a cynic, you might find this book, and the one previous to this (The Twelfth Child) not to your liking. But if you're someone who is open to the possibilities of the unknown, if you believe in miracles, if you believe in the order of things, that nothing happens by chance, then dive into this book; though I strongly suggest you read The Twelfth Child first. There was just one object (not even a character) from The Twelfth Child that continued on to this book, but for me, where that object came from was significant.
Like the first book in the series, this one here is a book with a hopeful message: amidst life's turmoils, there is always something good waiting for those who hold on, who keeps the faith.
I haven't searched yet, so I don't know if there is more to this series. I would very much like to know what happened to James Sweetwater.
Like the first book in the series, this one here is a book with a hopeful message: amidst life's turmoils, there is always something good waiting for those who hold on, who keeps the faith.
I haven't searched yet, so I don't know if there is more to this series. I would very much like to know what happened to James Sweetwater.
June 28, 2017
Previously Loved Treasures
Crosby's stories always tug at my heart. There's a touch of magic in each one. I want to get something out of the reading experience and Bette's southern fiction is good for my soul. Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors and never disappoints.
A woman alone seeks family and ends up with so much more. Four and a half stars. Because it's Bette, I'm rounding up to five. 😬
Crosby's stories always tug at my heart. There's a touch of magic in each one. I want to get something out of the reading experience and Bette's southern fiction is good for my soul. Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors and never disappoints.
A woman alone seeks family and ends up with so much more. Four and a half stars. Because it's Bette, I'm rounding up to five. 😬
February 11, 2015
This is book 2 in this series. I had been anxiously awaiting this one and was so excited when I got my copy in advance to read before it even left to be printed. I just love, adore, and am so eager for each book this author writes. I have a thirst in me for her books that will never be quenched.
This book starts where the last one left off. Ida is now all alone in her house.Jim her husband is now dead. She is now rattling around in this huge house, and she is in need of some income. So she decided to open it as a boarding house. This is where the excitement begins.
It was fantastic getting to know her boarders individually, and we see them develop along the way with their own
idiocracies.
Whilst doing up the rooms for the boarders she decorates and builds the rooms up with Previously loved treasures. They are more than 'second hand goods' they each have a story.
James is Ida's son, we know how he this story went and why James was no longer part of his parents life. But that was when the father was still alive, now its different, so Ida wants to go look for him.
This is a really touching part in this read, I found a tear escaping now and again down my cheek.
Peter Pennington is the owner of Previously Loved Treasures. As soon as anyone steps inside, he knows exactly what they are looking for as if by magic.
I cannot go on and on telling more and more of the story, as its so indepth and besides, I would spoil it for you. So I am going to leave it at that.
Its simply one of the best of this authors work. But then, I always say that with each book she writes!!
I would like to thank Bette Lee Crosby for providing me with a copy of this book way before it was released. That is why I am late in writing this review, I have been waiting for it to be released and missed the release date.
Did you purchase it? Well, go ahead, you won't be disappointed, read book one first.
This book starts where the last one left off. Ida is now all alone in her house.Jim her husband is now dead. She is now rattling around in this huge house, and she is in need of some income. So she decided to open it as a boarding house. This is where the excitement begins.
It was fantastic getting to know her boarders individually, and we see them develop along the way with their own
idiocracies.
Whilst doing up the rooms for the boarders she decorates and builds the rooms up with Previously loved treasures. They are more than 'second hand goods' they each have a story.
James is Ida's son, we know how he this story went and why James was no longer part of his parents life. But that was when the father was still alive, now its different, so Ida wants to go look for him.
This is a really touching part in this read, I found a tear escaping now and again down my cheek.
Peter Pennington is the owner of Previously Loved Treasures. As soon as anyone steps inside, he knows exactly what they are looking for as if by magic.
I cannot go on and on telling more and more of the story, as its so indepth and besides, I would spoil it for you. So I am going to leave it at that.
Its simply one of the best of this authors work. But then, I always say that with each book she writes!!
I would like to thank Bette Lee Crosby for providing me with a copy of this book way before it was released. That is why I am late in writing this review, I have been waiting for it to be released and missed the release date.
Did you purchase it? Well, go ahead, you won't be disappointed, read book one first.
August 24, 2014
For a more in depth review, please visit my blog, Chorley Chronicals!
I have found that anytime I need comfort, that Bette Lee Crosby is the author to fall back on and I must say that with Previously Loved Treasures, there was no exception. I am only disappointed that I allowed myself to go so long between reading Crosby novels. This woman sure knows how to tug at all of your heart strings and captivate her reader! Bette Lee Crosby's books only get better with time! I always find it difficult to surpass the last, but someone each new book does just that!
I always know that when I pick up a book written by Bette Lee Crosby that I am going to find myself going through a roller coaster of emotions, which every now and again is a good thing! Only Bette could make you feel like you've hit rock bottom right alongside one of her characters to, only moments later, be overwhelmed with joy, then finding yourself filled with fury, immediately followed by great passion! Crosby is the only author that I know of that can make her readers feel just as much part of her books as every single one of her characters. I was devastated to find that the story was over!
I had quite the love/hate relationship with the characters. I had much love for half the characters and much despise for others, which I think is exactly what Bette was trying to do.
Overall, this story was thought-provoking and heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable! I always have a wonderful time reading Bette's books, and this book was no different. As usual, after reading Previously Loved Treasures, it's left me yearning for more by Bette!
I have found that anytime I need comfort, that Bette Lee Crosby is the author to fall back on and I must say that with Previously Loved Treasures, there was no exception. I am only disappointed that I allowed myself to go so long between reading Crosby novels. This woman sure knows how to tug at all of your heart strings and captivate her reader! Bette Lee Crosby's books only get better with time! I always find it difficult to surpass the last, but someone each new book does just that!
I always know that when I pick up a book written by Bette Lee Crosby that I am going to find myself going through a roller coaster of emotions, which every now and again is a good thing! Only Bette could make you feel like you've hit rock bottom right alongside one of her characters to, only moments later, be overwhelmed with joy, then finding yourself filled with fury, immediately followed by great passion! Crosby is the only author that I know of that can make her readers feel just as much part of her books as every single one of her characters. I was devastated to find that the story was over!
I had quite the love/hate relationship with the characters. I had much love for half the characters and much despise for others, which I think is exactly what Bette was trying to do.
Overall, this story was thought-provoking and heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable! I always have a wonderful time reading Bette's books, and this book was no different. As usual, after reading Previously Loved Treasures, it's left me yearning for more by Bette!
April 7, 2014
What makes a family? That is one of the questions answered by Bette Lee Crosby in her latest offering.
Ida Sweetwater has had a lot of love and heartache in her long life. And Caroline, Ida's just found granddaughter, has had more than her share of heartache and loss.It is Ida's plan to replace that loss with love.
Caroline comes to live in Ida's home turned boarding house. There she meets quite a different set of boarders.The boarders quickly accept Caroline into their midst. Life is good. But even the best circumstances can go seriously awry without warning.
Oh, and let us not forget Mt Peter Pennigton, mysterious thrift store owner. He always seems to know just what is need just as it is needed.And the price is always right.
Bette Lee's stories are always filled with quirky characters and more than a hint of magic. A gentle life lesson is always involved softened with humor and grace. This one is no exception.
The only reason this one gets 4 instead of 5 stars is that Clarence the dog is given quite short shrift toward the end. An integral part of Caroline's story, he just disappears from the plot.A small thing but noticeable.
Ida Sweetwater has had a lot of love and heartache in her long life. And Caroline, Ida's just found granddaughter, has had more than her share of heartache and loss.It is Ida's plan to replace that loss with love.
Caroline comes to live in Ida's home turned boarding house. There she meets quite a different set of boarders.The boarders quickly accept Caroline into their midst. Life is good. But even the best circumstances can go seriously awry without warning.
Oh, and let us not forget Mt Peter Pennigton, mysterious thrift store owner. He always seems to know just what is need just as it is needed.And the price is always right.
Bette Lee's stories are always filled with quirky characters and more than a hint of magic. A gentle life lesson is always involved softened with humor and grace. This one is no exception.
The only reason this one gets 4 instead of 5 stars is that Clarence the dog is given quite short shrift toward the end. An integral part of Caroline's story, he just disappears from the plot.A small thing but noticeable.
April 19, 2015
I do believe in miracles.....I do believe in miracles.....Bette Lee Crosby is amazing. Loved this book but then again I love all her books. If you never read another book again, you must read this one. From page one through to the end it will amaze you. Each character takes a piece of your heart, from Caroline who struggles through life and finally finds her grandma...then loses her but finds a "family" in Wilbur, Rowena, even Max and all the others.....the trials and tribulations of one person....the sweetness and love....to the great ending.....just loved it....especially Mr. Pennington.....I do believe in miracles....
March 21, 2014
I was blessed to have received an ARC copy of this book to read. I loved this book. The characters are so well developed that I felt like I knew them. It was magical. There are few characters that I didn't love,but they can't all be wonderful, just like in real life. The story is amazing and the book hard to put down. What a wonderful storyteller Bette is.Absolutely magical! I loved it! This is a must read for all! Don't miss out on this one! A MUST READ! Thank you Bette Lee Crosby!
February 24, 2016
Bette Lee Crosby writes the most beautiful stories I've ever read -bar none. Previously Loved Treasures left me feeling so happy and a little sad to be leaving her wonderful characters. This book is magical in all the right places, has just the right amount of love versus evil. The story is well-plotted and, if you listen, you can hear the character's voices in your head.
I love Bette's stories and characters. I hope to read many more novels by this lady for years to come.
I love Bette's stories and characters. I hope to read many more novels by this lady for years to come.
September 13, 2014
I was one of the fortunate people allowed to read an ARC copy of this wonderful book Previously Loved Treasures.
I really enjoyed this story of making do and making friends. Finding family and overcoming adversity together. The little tie in to the wonderful story The Twelfth Child was a special surprise which I loved. It has a sprinkle of magic and of giving the bad guys what they deserve.
Mrs Crosby has done it again what a talented author!
I really enjoyed this story of making do and making friends. Finding family and overcoming adversity together. The little tie in to the wonderful story The Twelfth Child was a special surprise which I loved. It has a sprinkle of magic and of giving the bad guys what they deserve.
Mrs Crosby has done it again what a talented author!
April 30, 2014
Previously Loved TreasuresBook: Previously Loved Treasures
Author: Bette Lee Crosby
Point of View: 3rd person, with a touch of 1st person.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
This novel is book two in the Serendipity series. I reviewed the first book here.
"In Previously Loved Treasures recently widowed Ida Sweetwater and her granddaughter come together in a heartwarming mystery rich with imagination and magic.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
This is a story that resonates with Crosby’s heartwarming albeit quirky characters and the joy of a pay-it-forward philosophy."
This book is full of so many lessons and truths that are such a big part of my life at the moment, I related to the characters and I just adore Bette Lee Crosby's writing style. She has a certain way of developing characters that makes them seem absolutely full of life and so realistic. The main characters of this novel are Ida and Carol Sweetwater. It is a heart warming tell about a woman who laid her husband to rest and lost contact with her son. In order to get in touch with him she hire a detective and opens her home up to strangers in order to raised funds for her search. It is also about a woman who's father walked out on her long ago. She is a write who finds family in the most unexpected places. Although this was book two of the Serendipity series, both novels are stand alone novels and can be read in any order. Both in the series have wonderful lessons involved though this one related to me on a more personal level. There are three quotes in this book that stood out to me, and will stay with me for years to come.
"Breaking free is never easy. There are no baby steps in walking away. There is only one gigantic leap. You take it or your remain forever rooted to a life of unhappiness."
In my own life, I have just learned this and implemented it in my life. I have broken free of the negative people who were bringing me down and preventing me to be the happiest, best version of me. This may not be the type of breaking free the character was experiencing, but if there are negative people who only bring you down I think you should consider getting away from them. Life is too short to be surrounded by negativity. Smile more, worry less [<-- I am working on this myself. I worry about everything].
"No matter where you go or how worthless you are to other people, the dog still loves you."
I am a huge animal lover and I tend to get down and depressed really easily. I don't really hang out with a lot of people unless forced to (family functions, work, school, the store and that about sums it up). I'm a introvert of sorts, a master at avoiding social situations (I am working on being more social though). My dog is the one thing in my life right now that is 100% happy with who I am and where I am. I love her to death for that. She seems me and no matter what she is happy to see me and she loves me even when I have to kennel her up for an 8 hour work day. If someone locked me up for that long more than once a week, I would more than likely have a strong dislike for them. My fiancee tries to accept me, he really does, he does support me through everything. It's not the same as accepting me 100%, but I understand that he doesn't like it when I am sad /depressed or having an anxiety / panic attack over something that I should not even be worrying about.
"...the bad things hang on forever and the good things are gone in the blink of an eye."
It's true, no matter how old you are, you know it. Lately I've been wondering if there is a way to change it. To retrain your brain to forget the bad and cling to the good. When I was a kid, maybe six or seven years old, I burnt my hand on my dad's cigarette while we were in the six flags parking lot. I can recall that with great clarity, but don't ask me what I rode that day or what my favorite ride may have been.
Anyways, before I get too off topic... lets get back to talking about this amazing story. This is a heart warming, tear jerking story about life, love, loss, moving on and breaking free. If you go to the goodreads site, it has links to places you can buy it. It is worth every penny! I am extremely happy to have it in my collection and in my favorites!
Author: Bette Lee Crosby
Point of View: 3rd person, with a touch of 1st person.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
This novel is book two in the Serendipity series. I reviewed the first book here.
"In Previously Loved Treasures recently widowed Ida Sweetwater and her granddaughter come together in a heartwarming mystery rich with imagination and magic.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
This is a story that resonates with Crosby’s heartwarming albeit quirky characters and the joy of a pay-it-forward philosophy."
This book is full of so many lessons and truths that are such a big part of my life at the moment, I related to the characters and I just adore Bette Lee Crosby's writing style. She has a certain way of developing characters that makes them seem absolutely full of life and so realistic. The main characters of this novel are Ida and Carol Sweetwater. It is a heart warming tell about a woman who laid her husband to rest and lost contact with her son. In order to get in touch with him she hire a detective and opens her home up to strangers in order to raised funds for her search. It is also about a woman who's father walked out on her long ago. She is a write who finds family in the most unexpected places. Although this was book two of the Serendipity series, both novels are stand alone novels and can be read in any order. Both in the series have wonderful lessons involved though this one related to me on a more personal level. There are three quotes in this book that stood out to me, and will stay with me for years to come.
"Breaking free is never easy. There are no baby steps in walking away. There is only one gigantic leap. You take it or your remain forever rooted to a life of unhappiness."
In my own life, I have just learned this and implemented it in my life. I have broken free of the negative people who were bringing me down and preventing me to be the happiest, best version of me. This may not be the type of breaking free the character was experiencing, but if there are negative people who only bring you down I think you should consider getting away from them. Life is too short to be surrounded by negativity. Smile more, worry less [<-- I am working on this myself. I worry about everything].
"No matter where you go or how worthless you are to other people, the dog still loves you."
I am a huge animal lover and I tend to get down and depressed really easily. I don't really hang out with a lot of people unless forced to (family functions, work, school, the store and that about sums it up). I'm a introvert of sorts, a master at avoiding social situations (I am working on being more social though). My dog is the one thing in my life right now that is 100% happy with who I am and where I am. I love her to death for that. She seems me and no matter what she is happy to see me and she loves me even when I have to kennel her up for an 8 hour work day. If someone locked me up for that long more than once a week, I would more than likely have a strong dislike for them. My fiancee tries to accept me, he really does, he does support me through everything. It's not the same as accepting me 100%, but I understand that he doesn't like it when I am sad /depressed or having an anxiety / panic attack over something that I should not even be worrying about.
"...the bad things hang on forever and the good things are gone in the blink of an eye."
It's true, no matter how old you are, you know it. Lately I've been wondering if there is a way to change it. To retrain your brain to forget the bad and cling to the good. When I was a kid, maybe six or seven years old, I burnt my hand on my dad's cigarette while we were in the six flags parking lot. I can recall that with great clarity, but don't ask me what I rode that day or what my favorite ride may have been.
Anyways, before I get too off topic... lets get back to talking about this amazing story. This is a heart warming, tear jerking story about life, love, loss, moving on and breaking free. If you go to the goodreads site, it has links to places you can buy it. It is worth every penny! I am extremely happy to have it in my collection and in my favorites!
March 29, 2014
What a nice story. Previously Loved Treasures was a delightful look into the life of a character who desperately needed a family and found exactly what she was looking for, in a sort of round about way.
Synopsis:
In Previously Loved Treasures recently widowed Ida Sweetwater and her granddaughter come together in a heartwarming mystery rich with imagination and magic.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
My Review:
This was just one of those books that leaves you feeling really good. Not to say that it didn't have its share of heartache and drama but when I closed the book, I felt satisfied that all of the characters were going to be ok. At least, all the characters I cared about.
Ida is delightful, a grandmother and friend that anyone would be honored to have. She was looking for her son and instead found a granddaughter. This granddaughter, Caroline, was also looking for something, and Ida came at just the right time in her life when she needed her the most. In fact, I think what I loved most about this book is that almost all of the characters accepted each other and grew to love each other, filling in the empty spaces in their hearts.
The character of Peter was fascinating. Was he real or was he a guardian angel? I tend to lean toward guardian angel. He was definitely sent to give these women what they needed but also to guide them toward the right path and the right choices. I like to think we all have that little something or someone helping us make the right decisions, but to really have that guidance be a tangible person with a store full of just what you need added that perfect little bit of magic to the story. It was enough to give a bit of fun when wondering what each item's purpose would be.
Are there some "not so nice" people in this book trying to ruin things for our main characters? Absolutely, and they are mean and nasty and I felt angry when they acted so terribly. There were times when I wanted certain characters to meet an untimely end. I won't say more because I don't want to spoil the story. I think it is important for everyone to pick up this book and meet Peter, Ida, Caroline, and all of the other characters for themselves. I can only hope to have kind people like this in my life when I need them.
I can almost guarantee that you will finish this story and have the same feeling of satisfaction that I did. I just love a happy ending.
Synopsis:
In Previously Loved Treasures recently widowed Ida Sweetwater and her granddaughter come together in a heartwarming mystery rich with imagination and magic.
Struggling to make ends meet, Ida turns her home into a boarding house and goes in search of used furniture. This quest leads to the Previously Loved Treasures shop and Peter Pennington, a delightfully strange proprietor who anticipates people’s needs. In addition to bargains, Peter hands out sage advice. When a pocket watch belonging to one of the residents goes missing for a second time he warns of danger—but will Ida’s granddaughter listen and will she heed his advice?
My Review:
This was just one of those books that leaves you feeling really good. Not to say that it didn't have its share of heartache and drama but when I closed the book, I felt satisfied that all of the characters were going to be ok. At least, all the characters I cared about.
Ida is delightful, a grandmother and friend that anyone would be honored to have. She was looking for her son and instead found a granddaughter. This granddaughter, Caroline, was also looking for something, and Ida came at just the right time in her life when she needed her the most. In fact, I think what I loved most about this book is that almost all of the characters accepted each other and grew to love each other, filling in the empty spaces in their hearts.
The character of Peter was fascinating. Was he real or was he a guardian angel? I tend to lean toward guardian angel. He was definitely sent to give these women what they needed but also to guide them toward the right path and the right choices. I like to think we all have that little something or someone helping us make the right decisions, but to really have that guidance be a tangible person with a store full of just what you need added that perfect little bit of magic to the story. It was enough to give a bit of fun when wondering what each item's purpose would be.
Are there some "not so nice" people in this book trying to ruin things for our main characters? Absolutely, and they are mean and nasty and I felt angry when they acted so terribly. There were times when I wanted certain characters to meet an untimely end. I won't say more because I don't want to spoil the story. I think it is important for everyone to pick up this book and meet Peter, Ida, Caroline, and all of the other characters for themselves. I can only hope to have kind people like this in my life when I need them.
I can almost guarantee that you will finish this story and have the same feeling of satisfaction that I did. I just love a happy ending.
April 26, 2014
I bought this as a kindle title on Amazon.com.
I am a fan of everything Bette Lee Crosby. She is a truly gifted author that writes the most fascinating stories about love, loss and how you can find family in the most unusual places.
Ida Sweetwaters husband dies after a long terminal illness and she is left with trying to find a way to keep the home she loves. She hires a detective to try to find her only child, a son who left home many years ago after an argument with his dad. She hasn't seem or heard from him since. While waiting to find out about her son she advertises for borders to take in to help support her and the expense of the detective she hired.
Ida ends up with a mixed lot of interesting and different people she takes in as boarders. One of which is the nephew to her husband that she just can't stand.
Instead of finding the son she lost many years ago, Ida discovers she has a granddaughter named Caroline Sweetwater. Caroline is stuck in a dead end job and a relationship that is just as dead. When Ida reaches out to her Caroline decides to take a chance and goes to Georgia to meet the grandmother she never knew she had.
Max, the nephew becomes incensed at the intrusion of Caroline into what he considers his inheritance. Max becomes vengeful and starts stealing things from the tenants and the house, pawning them for money and generally behaving badly.
Caroline and Ida quickly find a love and closeness they both want and need. Ida dies unexpectedly leaving the question of the house ownership up in the air until the will Ida had drawn up just before her death is found.
Peter Pennington the shop keeper of the antique store called "Previously Loved Treasures" always seems to be around when either Ida or Caroline need something. He keeps trying to get Ida to take a picture which she continues to refuse. After Ida passes Peter Pennington convinces Caroline that the picture is for her now that Ida is gone. Caroline accepts the picture and promises to put it up over her desk, which she does not do for quite some time.
The story ends with the house fire, Max being arrested for stealing and Caroline discovering bearer bonds in the back of the broken picture Peter Pennington gave to her.
Caroline attempts to find Peter but the store is gone with the look of years of abandonment and none of the other shop keepers in knowledge of that store ever being there.
Caroline with some of the money from the bonds reopens the store and provides just the right item for the people that walk into her store in need.
I just can't wait for the 3rd book in this series too see where Bette Lee Crosby takes us next.
I am a fan of everything Bette Lee Crosby. She is a truly gifted author that writes the most fascinating stories about love, loss and how you can find family in the most unusual places.
Ida Sweetwaters husband dies after a long terminal illness and she is left with trying to find a way to keep the home she loves. She hires a detective to try to find her only child, a son who left home many years ago after an argument with his dad. She hasn't seem or heard from him since. While waiting to find out about her son she advertises for borders to take in to help support her and the expense of the detective she hired.
Ida ends up with a mixed lot of interesting and different people she takes in as boarders. One of which is the nephew to her husband that she just can't stand.
Instead of finding the son she lost many years ago, Ida discovers she has a granddaughter named Caroline Sweetwater. Caroline is stuck in a dead end job and a relationship that is just as dead. When Ida reaches out to her Caroline decides to take a chance and goes to Georgia to meet the grandmother she never knew she had.
Max, the nephew becomes incensed at the intrusion of Caroline into what he considers his inheritance. Max becomes vengeful and starts stealing things from the tenants and the house, pawning them for money and generally behaving badly.
Caroline and Ida quickly find a love and closeness they both want and need. Ida dies unexpectedly leaving the question of the house ownership up in the air until the will Ida had drawn up just before her death is found.
Peter Pennington the shop keeper of the antique store called "Previously Loved Treasures" always seems to be around when either Ida or Caroline need something. He keeps trying to get Ida to take a picture which she continues to refuse. After Ida passes Peter Pennington convinces Caroline that the picture is for her now that Ida is gone. Caroline accepts the picture and promises to put it up over her desk, which she does not do for quite some time.
The story ends with the house fire, Max being arrested for stealing and Caroline discovering bearer bonds in the back of the broken picture Peter Pennington gave to her.
Caroline attempts to find Peter but the store is gone with the look of years of abandonment and none of the other shop keepers in knowledge of that store ever being there.
Caroline with some of the money from the bonds reopens the store and provides just the right item for the people that walk into her store in need.
I just can't wait for the 3rd book in this series too see where Bette Lee Crosby takes us next.
April 17, 2014
When I received an email inquiring whether I would be interested in reading and reviewing this book, I happily accepted, because while I do adore fantasy, there are times I need a break from it. This book was absolutely lovely, and I am honored to have been given a chance to read it before publication. Thank you so much!
The book begins shortly after the death of Ida Sweetwater’s husband. While Ida is coming to terms with her status as a recent widow, she begins reminiscing about her life, and her thoughts stray to her son, who walked out on her and her husband years ago, and who she hasn’t seen or heard from since. When Ida decides to hire a detective to find her son, she can’t possibly imagine how her life will end up changing.
Caroline Sweetwater is a young adult who has already experienced plenty of hardship in her life. Her father walked out on her and her mother, leaving her mother distant for the remainder of her years. Her boyfriend uses her to get ahead with his work, and thinks that she is wasting her time trying to write the novel she wants so badly to finish. When she learns that she has a grandmother who wants nothing more than to have Caroline move in with her, she decides to leave her past in the past and gains the family she has always wanted.
I devoured this book in only a couple days, and I believe I would have finished it sooner had I not wanted to make it last and slowed myself down when I neared the end. This is the only Bette Crosby novel I have ever read, but it will certainly not be the last! She just has such a beautiful way with words; I found myself truly walking the halls of Ida’s home, buying items from the Previously Loved Treasures shop, and seeing each of the characters and all of their separate personalities. I had genuine emotions for the people in this story, as if I knew them, and I was so invested in the story. I laughed, I cried, and I smiled a great deal throughout.
This is definitely a novel that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys emotional reads that leave you with a warm feeling in your heart afterwards. It was so beautiful, and I am still thinking about Ida and Caroline a week after finishing it, so you know it’s a worthwhile book.
My full review, with favorite quotes included, is posted over at my blog , along with a giveaway. Be sure to check it out!
The book begins shortly after the death of Ida Sweetwater’s husband. While Ida is coming to terms with her status as a recent widow, she begins reminiscing about her life, and her thoughts stray to her son, who walked out on her and her husband years ago, and who she hasn’t seen or heard from since. When Ida decides to hire a detective to find her son, she can’t possibly imagine how her life will end up changing.
Caroline Sweetwater is a young adult who has already experienced plenty of hardship in her life. Her father walked out on her and her mother, leaving her mother distant for the remainder of her years. Her boyfriend uses her to get ahead with his work, and thinks that she is wasting her time trying to write the novel she wants so badly to finish. When she learns that she has a grandmother who wants nothing more than to have Caroline move in with her, she decides to leave her past in the past and gains the family she has always wanted.
I devoured this book in only a couple days, and I believe I would have finished it sooner had I not wanted to make it last and slowed myself down when I neared the end. This is the only Bette Crosby novel I have ever read, but it will certainly not be the last! She just has such a beautiful way with words; I found myself truly walking the halls of Ida’s home, buying items from the Previously Loved Treasures shop, and seeing each of the characters and all of their separate personalities. I had genuine emotions for the people in this story, as if I knew them, and I was so invested in the story. I laughed, I cried, and I smiled a great deal throughout.
This is definitely a novel that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys emotional reads that leave you with a warm feeling in your heart afterwards. It was so beautiful, and I am still thinking about Ida and Caroline a week after finishing it, so you know it’s a worthwhile book.
My full review, with favorite quotes included, is posted over at my blog , along with a giveaway. Be sure to check it out!
August 3, 2016
4.5 stars
Bette Lee Crosby is a new, to me, author but I’m so glad I was offered an ARC in return for a review. I enjoyed the book very much. Ms Crosby has woven an emotive tale with an interesting and diverse mix of characters which gives a good depth to the story.
Recently widowed and lonely, Ida Sweetwater is desperately searching for her long-lost son, renting out rooms to make enough money to pay the private detective, and finding instead something equally as precious.
The unconventional group of people now living at Ida’s house are forming a kind of family unit, not blood kin but all needing, in one way or another, company and comfort from each other. I love that each of them (apart from one) accepts the others for who they are and are willing to give whatever support, advice or help is needed. As Ida brings more people into her life and home they all have something to add to the dynamics of the story and, with a couple of exceptions, the characters are pleasant and engaging.
“Love turns strangers into family”
Her granddaughter finds in Ida the reciprocal love she’s been looking for and lacking all her life and Ida pours all the love she’s been storing up for her son into Caroline.
I particularly like the unusual Peter Pennington and his wonderful shop. Who is Peter really? How does he know just what Ida and Caroline need almost before they do themselves? A touch of magic to add to a heartening story. Not that it’s all sweetness and light. There’s much more to it, heartbreak and sorrow, drama and a touch of mystery.
There’s always one bad apple in the barrel and Max’s actions put a chain of events into motion that affect everyone to a certain degree. Out of adversity comes blessings though and after a shocking incident everyone pulls together to get things back on track. I like the little twist at the end, it rounds everything off nicely.
Bette Lee Crosby is a new, to me, author but I’m so glad I was offered an ARC in return for a review. I enjoyed the book very much. Ms Crosby has woven an emotive tale with an interesting and diverse mix of characters which gives a good depth to the story.
Recently widowed and lonely, Ida Sweetwater is desperately searching for her long-lost son, renting out rooms to make enough money to pay the private detective, and finding instead something equally as precious.
The unconventional group of people now living at Ida’s house are forming a kind of family unit, not blood kin but all needing, in one way or another, company and comfort from each other. I love that each of them (apart from one) accepts the others for who they are and are willing to give whatever support, advice or help is needed. As Ida brings more people into her life and home they all have something to add to the dynamics of the story and, with a couple of exceptions, the characters are pleasant and engaging.
“Love turns strangers into family”
Her granddaughter finds in Ida the reciprocal love she’s been looking for and lacking all her life and Ida pours all the love she’s been storing up for her son into Caroline.
I particularly like the unusual Peter Pennington and his wonderful shop. Who is Peter really? How does he know just what Ida and Caroline need almost before they do themselves? A touch of magic to add to a heartening story. Not that it’s all sweetness and light. There’s much more to it, heartbreak and sorrow, drama and a touch of mystery.
There’s always one bad apple in the barrel and Max’s actions put a chain of events into motion that affect everyone to a certain degree. Out of adversity comes blessings though and after a shocking incident everyone pulls together to get things back on track. I like the little twist at the end, it rounds everything off nicely.
March 27, 2014
I was thrilled and excited when I was offered a free advanced readers copy of this book. The first book in the series is The Twelfth Child, which I had previously read, but decided to re-read before reading Previously Loved Treasures.
This book has so many quirky characters to fall in love with and a couple of characters that I could live without. That's what makes this book so interesting and down to earth. There is even one character that seems magical!
Ida finds out that she has a granddaughter that she never realized she had after her husband dies. Her granddaughter Caroline is at a point in her life that she needs a change and decides to travel and meet her grandmother. Ida has started turning her home into a boarding house and invites Caroline to move in with her. The tenants very quickly become more like family and watch out for each other.
There is a funny little man named Peter Pennington who owns Previously Loved Treasures and seems to know what Ida and Caroline need, almost before they do. There is even a very special gift from him that he tries to give to Ida, but eventually gives to Caroline which is a crossover from The Twelfth Child.
I would highly recommend this book to friends, family and book clubs. There is so much to talk about and discuss. I would only give my honest opinion on this or any book, whether I bought it or got it for free.
You did it again Bette Lee Crosby, I loved this book and the characters within, perhaps even a little more than The Twelfth Child. I will be looking forward to any of your new books in the future.
This book has so many quirky characters to fall in love with and a couple of characters that I could live without. That's what makes this book so interesting and down to earth. There is even one character that seems magical!
Ida finds out that she has a granddaughter that she never realized she had after her husband dies. Her granddaughter Caroline is at a point in her life that she needs a change and decides to travel and meet her grandmother. Ida has started turning her home into a boarding house and invites Caroline to move in with her. The tenants very quickly become more like family and watch out for each other.
There is a funny little man named Peter Pennington who owns Previously Loved Treasures and seems to know what Ida and Caroline need, almost before they do. There is even a very special gift from him that he tries to give to Ida, but eventually gives to Caroline which is a crossover from The Twelfth Child.
I would highly recommend this book to friends, family and book clubs. There is so much to talk about and discuss. I would only give my honest opinion on this or any book, whether I bought it or got it for free.
You did it again Bette Lee Crosby, I loved this book and the characters within, perhaps even a little more than The Twelfth Child. I will be looking forward to any of your new books in the future.
April 14, 2014
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When I pick up a Bette Lee Crosby book, I expect a heartwarming story filled with southern wit and wisdom. That is definitely what I got with this book. I also expect to experience a myriad of emotions in the process of reading. Again, I was not disappointed. Leave it to Bette to break my heart then proceed to lift my spirits, to spur me to anger then restore my faith in the goodness of people.
This is the second book in the Serendipity series. Although it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone book, there are things that make more sense if you read The Twelfth Child before this one. The connection between the books is not evident immediately but I was able to catch the subtle clue well before the end of the story, where it is revealed. I really appreciated the element of magic that was such an important aspect to this story.
Ms. Crosby is a master at creating characters that are richly dimensional. Some are easy to love and some are easy to hate. I love the way she threads their private thoughts into the story. It really adds a depth to the story as a whole and helps the reader become more invested.
I highly recommend reading this book. Ms. Crosby is not only a talented writer but a fabulous storyteller. I am so grateful to have been introduced to her as an author and really enjoy her style. I have read and recommended nearly all the books she has written and intend to keep doing so.
When I pick up a Bette Lee Crosby book, I expect a heartwarming story filled with southern wit and wisdom. That is definitely what I got with this book. I also expect to experience a myriad of emotions in the process of reading. Again, I was not disappointed. Leave it to Bette to break my heart then proceed to lift my spirits, to spur me to anger then restore my faith in the goodness of people.
This is the second book in the Serendipity series. Although it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone book, there are things that make more sense if you read The Twelfth Child before this one. The connection between the books is not evident immediately but I was able to catch the subtle clue well before the end of the story, where it is revealed. I really appreciated the element of magic that was such an important aspect to this story.
Ms. Crosby is a master at creating characters that are richly dimensional. Some are easy to love and some are easy to hate. I love the way she threads their private thoughts into the story. It really adds a depth to the story as a whole and helps the reader become more invested.
I highly recommend reading this book. Ms. Crosby is not only a talented writer but a fabulous storyteller. I am so grateful to have been introduced to her as an author and really enjoy her style. I have read and recommended nearly all the books she has written and intend to keep doing so.
March 24, 2014
Book Review – Previously Loved Treasures by Bette Lee Crosby
Review by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto
Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors. She writes books you’ll want to share with friends and each book is filled with characters that fill your heart and leave you wanting more. Bette has a new book set for release in April 2014 and you’ll want to add it to your TBR (to be read) pile as soon as possible. There is no question Previously Loved Treasures is a five star story!
The twists and turns in Previously Loved Treasures ensure you won’t want to put it down. There’s a little something for everyone in this particular story. There’s drama, longing, romance, mystery, deceit, and a little bit of magic! Each character is written in true Crosby style. You feel you’ve known them your entire life and they stay with you long after you’ve closed the cover and placed the book back on the shelf.
Crosby has a way of engaging readers from cover to cover. There has never been a point I have thought ‘get to the point already’ and I find the time passing quickly as I am unable to put the book down. Previously Loved Treasures is no exception. My only complaint is I finished the book too quickly and can only hope there will be a sequel so I can continue my journey of friendship with the delightful characters I have grown to love.
Review by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto
Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors. She writes books you’ll want to share with friends and each book is filled with characters that fill your heart and leave you wanting more. Bette has a new book set for release in April 2014 and you’ll want to add it to your TBR (to be read) pile as soon as possible. There is no question Previously Loved Treasures is a five star story!
The twists and turns in Previously Loved Treasures ensure you won’t want to put it down. There’s a little something for everyone in this particular story. There’s drama, longing, romance, mystery, deceit, and a little bit of magic! Each character is written in true Crosby style. You feel you’ve known them your entire life and they stay with you long after you’ve closed the cover and placed the book back on the shelf.
Crosby has a way of engaging readers from cover to cover. There has never been a point I have thought ‘get to the point already’ and I find the time passing quickly as I am unable to put the book down. Previously Loved Treasures is no exception. My only complaint is I finished the book too quickly and can only hope there will be a sequel so I can continue my journey of friendship with the delightful characters I have grown to love.
March 24, 2014
Book Review – Previously Loved Treasures by Bette Lee Crosby
Review by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto
Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors. She writes books you’ll want to share with friends and each book is filled with characters that fill your heart and leave you wanting more. Bette has a new book set for release in April 2014 and you’ll want to add it to your TBR (to be read) pile as soon as possible. There is no question Previously Loved Treasures is a five star story!
The twists and turns in Previously Loved Treasures ensure you won’t want to put it down. There’s a little something for everyone in this particular story. There’s drama, longing, romance, mystery, deceit, and a little bit of magic! Each character is written in true Crosby style. You feel you’ve known them your entire life and they stay with you long after you’ve closed the cover and placed the book back on the shelf.
Crosby has a way of engaging readers from cover to cover. There has never been a point I have thought ‘get to the point already’ and I find the time passing quickly as I am unable to put the book down. Previously Loved Treasures is no exception. My only complaint is I finished the book too quickly and can only hope there will be a sequel so I can continue my journey of friendship with the delightful characters I have grown to love.
Review by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto
Bette Lee Crosby is one of my favorite authors. She writes books you’ll want to share with friends and each book is filled with characters that fill your heart and leave you wanting more. Bette has a new book set for release in April 2014 and you’ll want to add it to your TBR (to be read) pile as soon as possible. There is no question Previously Loved Treasures is a five star story!
The twists and turns in Previously Loved Treasures ensure you won’t want to put it down. There’s a little something for everyone in this particular story. There’s drama, longing, romance, mystery, deceit, and a little bit of magic! Each character is written in true Crosby style. You feel you’ve known them your entire life and they stay with you long after you’ve closed the cover and placed the book back on the shelf.
Crosby has a way of engaging readers from cover to cover. There has never been a point I have thought ‘get to the point already’ and I find the time passing quickly as I am unable to put the book down. Previously Loved Treasures is no exception. My only complaint is I finished the book too quickly and can only hope there will be a sequel so I can continue my journey of friendship with the delightful characters I have grown to love.
April 9, 2014
Caroline Sweetwater is troubled woman. Stuck in a dead end job and a relationship that is going nowhere. She has no family to turn to and is too broke to change her situation. When she get a mysterious phone call, from a woman claiming to be her Grandmother, she decides to bundle up what few items she owns and takes off to start a new life. Her leap of faith takes her to her Grandmothers boarding house and she begins to understand how wonderful it can be to have the love and support of her Grandmother, but when tragedy strike Caroline is once again faced with an uncertain future. Previously Loved Treasures is a well written, thought provoking, feel good tale of Carolines struggles to get her life in order at the same time learning that friendships can be stronger then blood. Bette Lee Crosbys wonderful cast of characters, which includes a very strange little man and his mysterious thrift store, that always has just what your looking for and even some things that you need, but didn't know you needed, will have you glued to this book. I received this book to do a last minute proofread before it's release and found myself transformed into Carolines life. Bette is a writer that has the ability take you to other times and places, and to feel the wide range of emotions that her characters go through.
May 3, 2014
I was enchanted by this story. It is a very sweet tale of love, family and is tinged with a bit of magic.
Caroline Sweetwater had thought herself to be in love, but it came to her after years of living with Greg, that he was indeed a scoundrel, far from deserving her love and forgiveness. When her grandmother contacted her, she decided it was time for a fresh start, so she packed her meager belongings and headed for home, her real home---her grandmother's boarding house.
Filled with elderly personalities, Caroline found herself learning how to cook and also how to truly love. The characters in this book were strong and carried their weight through out the story, each of them contributing to the storyline and plot. Grandma Ida was the glue holding them all together, whether she was with them or not.
A couple of the characters were up to no good and they were portrayed realistically. One character, Peter Pennington was just quirky enough to be adorable and magical. Are there angels among us?
This story was heartwarming, thoughtful, and definitely a tale, I shall treasure for many years to come.
I can not praise Bette Lee Crosby's creativity enough! Thank you Bette Lee!!
Caroline Sweetwater had thought herself to be in love, but it came to her after years of living with Greg, that he was indeed a scoundrel, far from deserving her love and forgiveness. When her grandmother contacted her, she decided it was time for a fresh start, so she packed her meager belongings and headed for home, her real home---her grandmother's boarding house.
Filled with elderly personalities, Caroline found herself learning how to cook and also how to truly love. The characters in this book were strong and carried their weight through out the story, each of them contributing to the storyline and plot. Grandma Ida was the glue holding them all together, whether she was with them or not.
A couple of the characters were up to no good and they were portrayed realistically. One character, Peter Pennington was just quirky enough to be adorable and magical. Are there angels among us?
This story was heartwarming, thoughtful, and definitely a tale, I shall treasure for many years to come.
I can not praise Bette Lee Crosby's creativity enough! Thank you Bette Lee!!
March 31, 2014
I absolutely loved this story. It had so many instances of relationships, both good and bad. The relationship between a young lady and her grandmother is special and those good friends we have who become like family are also very special. Sometimes, even our pets become like family to us because no matter what happens, we know that they will always love us. Then we have a few examples of relationships that just are not healthy. There is also a very lovely mystery involved her and of course, at the end, I want to know more. Actually, I think I'd love to have my very own Calvin around to help me out so I'm curious to know if he and Caroline will have an extension to their story. Of course there's usually a character who I detest and in this book there were actually two. While I don't have any respect for Joe, I find it even more difficult to have respect for a character who is just to lazy to work for what he wants in life, but instead tries to find ways to take from others and then blame them for all of their grief. The characters were well-fleshed out and I feel like I actually knew them and really enjoyed taking this journey along with them.
April 5, 2014
What a great story to make you smile and give you hope for what you can and cannot see. Again in the 2nd book in this series Bette Crosby makes you smile when she paints her characters, the house, the town, everything you can imagine its all there her imagination is coming to life in your home!!!! Sweet Ida and Caroline and Wilbur to the mysterious Mr. Pennington and the shop for everything you need down to the nasty Joe and Max the low of the low! You love the sweet ones and despise the crumbs of the earth. I love the writing style and the tone in this book b/c when life is sometimes depressing and everything is going wrong in various directions isn't it refreshing to pick up a book and laugh and want to spit on some of nasty characters but to be able to think there is good in life! There are good people that make a difference and want to help the greater good! This book was 5+* as I couldn't put it down and read it in one day! OMG! that is a first for me really, I am usually a book a week gal. I was given an ARC of this book and the opinions above are my own. Keep them coming Bette!!!
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