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Now That You Mention It
One step forward. Two steps back. The Tufts scholarship that put Nora Stuart on the path to becoming a Boston medical specialist was a step forward. Being hit by a car and then overhearing her boyfriend hit on another doctor when she thought she was dying? Two major steps back.
Injured in more ways than one, Nora feels her carefully built life cracking at the edges. There's only one place to land: home. But the tiny Maine community she left fifteen years ago doesn't necessarily want her. At every turn, someone holds the prodigal daughter of Scupper Island responsible for small-town drama and big-time disappointments.
With a tough islander mother who's always been distant and a wild-child sister in jail, unable to raise her daughter--a withdrawn teen as eager to ditch the island as Nora once was--Nora has her work cut out for her if she's going to take what might be her last chance to mend the family.
But as some relationships crumble around her, others unexpectedly strengthen. Balancing loss and opportunity, a dark event from her past with hope for the future, Nora will discover that tackling old pain makes room for promise...and the chance to begin again.
Injured in more ways than one, Nora feels her carefully built life cracking at the edges. There's only one place to land: home. But the tiny Maine community she left fifteen years ago doesn't necessarily want her. At every turn, someone holds the prodigal daughter of Scupper Island responsible for small-town drama and big-time disappointments.
With a tough islander mother who's always been distant and a wild-child sister in jail, unable to raise her daughter--a withdrawn teen as eager to ditch the island as Nora once was--Nora has her work cut out for her if she's going to take what might be her last chance to mend the family.
But as some relationships crumble around her, others unexpectedly strengthen. Balancing loss and opportunity, a dark event from her past with hope for the future, Nora will discover that tackling old pain makes room for promise...and the chance to begin again.
384 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2017
1964 people are currently reading
17030 people want to read
About the author
Kristan Higgins
67 books13k followersKristan Higgins is the New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than twenty novels, which have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. If you want to receive a free short story and be notified when Kristan releases a new book, sign up at kristanhiggins.com.
Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and complimenting strangers on their children. The mother of two entertaining and wonderful humans, and the grandmother of one perfect child, Kristan lives in Connecticut with her heroic firefighter husband, cuddly dog and indifferent cat.
Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and complimenting strangers on their children. The mother of two entertaining and wonderful humans, and the grandmother of one perfect child, Kristan lives in Connecticut with her heroic firefighter husband, cuddly dog and indifferent cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,953 reviews
September 4, 2017
Just when I thought there was no way Kristan Higgins could steal my heart yet AGAIN—or hold me captive with her snarky humor, smart writing and endearing characters—she goes and does it. I know, what was I thinking? How can I consider myself an optimist at heart when I’m always waiting to be left disappointed?
Through Nora, Kristan Higgins conveys a meaningful message that resonates within the pages of a stellar read, a true standout, an utterly captivating experience. Similar to If You Only Knew and On Second Thought, this is a heartfelt story that will stick with me for months to come.
Right from the start, I could feel this was somehow different from the author’s previous work. As the story unfolded and the darker elements were brought to light—situations and feelings I hadn’t seen or experienced from her writing before—I was enamored. For me, Kristan Higgins proved with Now That You Mention It that she has incredible range. Her distinct voice shines through whether writing an upbeat romance or in this case, a story that falls on the darker spectrum of women’s fiction. I’m not sure if anyone else could pull off this level of humor and self-deprecation in a story riddled with shadows.
First of all, I have to say, I adored Nora from the get-go. Who else could make light of being a gastroenterologist or the functions of the digestive tract? My guess, no one. Not only is Nora incredibly smart and quirky—with a level of self-assurance I’m not sure I could’ve mustered up in her situation—she’s one tough chick. Sure, like most of us, she's harboring a laundry list of fears, but you know what, despite everything, she stands up and finds her voice in the face of it all. With a little determination, Nora uncovers her true self and her heart.
“Does that mean we’re a thing?”
It’s a freak accident that forces Nora to have a come-to-Jesus moment and acknowledge that she’s been living in the gray—not exactly happy, more like just surviving—putting one foot in front of the other for the sake of getting through the day. She packs up her life in Boston and with her “Dog of Dogs” in tow, heads back to her childhood home on Scupper Island. It’s time to face her past—those that dubbed her Troll in high school, those that made her feel guilty for winning that scholarship to an elite university, the mother that’s always been standoffish, the father that abandoned her, the troubled sister that continues to push her away and the niece she doesn’t have a relationship with. Things don’t play out exactly as she planned, but sometimes the best things in life are the most unexpected.
It takes more than a lovable cast, an interesting storyline and intrigue to make for a great story—there has to be a deeper meaning. For me, with this story, the big picture takeaway was, life is what you make it. You can choose to wallow in the gray or pick yourself up, dust yourself off, grow from the dark times and find the vivid color in life—just like Nora did.
So, there are a few things I have to mention because they’re just too great to pass up. Like the fact that Nora rents a houseboat from a minor secondary character from Somebody to Love. Remember Collier Rhodes, the rich techie Parker’s mother was trying to fix her up with? It’s on his gorgeous houseboat that Nora throws a dinner party that ends up being one of the most awkwardly hilarious moments of the entire book. Or wait, what about the ham dinner at her mom’s house?! I'm laughing just thinking about it. Sad to say, the poor little guy kind of had it coming. It's fiction people, so don't fret.
Kristan Higgins has proved, time and time again, to this reader—over the course of 11 books in the last 5 months to be exact—that her signature way of combining hilarious inner-thoughts, witty banter, undeniable chemistry and a lovable cast of characters is untouchable. It’s safe to say, I might be a little obsessed.
*A HUGE thank you to Harlequin/HQN books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Through Nora, Kristan Higgins conveys a meaningful message that resonates within the pages of a stellar read, a true standout, an utterly captivating experience. Similar to If You Only Knew and On Second Thought, this is a heartfelt story that will stick with me for months to come.
Right from the start, I could feel this was somehow different from the author’s previous work. As the story unfolded and the darker elements were brought to light—situations and feelings I hadn’t seen or experienced from her writing before—I was enamored. For me, Kristan Higgins proved with Now That You Mention It that she has incredible range. Her distinct voice shines through whether writing an upbeat romance or in this case, a story that falls on the darker spectrum of women’s fiction. I’m not sure if anyone else could pull off this level of humor and self-deprecation in a story riddled with shadows.
First of all, I have to say, I adored Nora from the get-go. Who else could make light of being a gastroenterologist or the functions of the digestive tract? My guess, no one. Not only is Nora incredibly smart and quirky—with a level of self-assurance I’m not sure I could’ve mustered up in her situation—she’s one tough chick. Sure, like most of us, she's harboring a laundry list of fears, but you know what, despite everything, she stands up and finds her voice in the face of it all. With a little determination, Nora uncovers her true self and her heart.
“Does that mean we’re a thing?”
It’s a freak accident that forces Nora to have a come-to-Jesus moment and acknowledge that she’s been living in the gray—not exactly happy, more like just surviving—putting one foot in front of the other for the sake of getting through the day. She packs up her life in Boston and with her “Dog of Dogs” in tow, heads back to her childhood home on Scupper Island. It’s time to face her past—those that dubbed her Troll in high school, those that made her feel guilty for winning that scholarship to an elite university, the mother that’s always been standoffish, the father that abandoned her, the troubled sister that continues to push her away and the niece she doesn’t have a relationship with. Things don’t play out exactly as she planned, but sometimes the best things in life are the most unexpected.
It takes more than a lovable cast, an interesting storyline and intrigue to make for a great story—there has to be a deeper meaning. For me, with this story, the big picture takeaway was, life is what you make it. You can choose to wallow in the gray or pick yourself up, dust yourself off, grow from the dark times and find the vivid color in life—just like Nora did.
So, there are a few things I have to mention because they’re just too great to pass up. Like the fact that Nora rents a houseboat from a minor secondary character from Somebody to Love. Remember Collier Rhodes, the rich techie Parker’s mother was trying to fix her up with? It’s on his gorgeous houseboat that Nora throws a dinner party that ends up being one of the most awkwardly hilarious moments of the entire book. Or wait, what about the ham dinner at her mom’s house?! I'm laughing just thinking about it. Sad to say, the poor little guy kind of had it coming. It's fiction people, so don't fret.
Kristan Higgins has proved, time and time again, to this reader—over the course of 11 books in the last 5 months to be exact—that her signature way of combining hilarious inner-thoughts, witty banter, undeniable chemistry and a lovable cast of characters is untouchable. It’s safe to say, I might be a little obsessed.
*A HUGE thank you to Harlequin/HQN books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2018
Now That You Mention It is a heartfelt story about a woman’s journey to self-acceptance. This book is filled with humor, emotion, and lots of love.
When Dr. Nora Stuart is hit by a van, she sees her life flash before her eyes. Even though her life looks good on the surface, she realizes that she has been feeling increasingly gray. She decides to take a leave of absence from work and return home to Scupper Island Maine to reconnect with her standoffish mother, make amends with her sister, and investigate her father’s disappearance. She also must face her teenage self, a girl who was mercilessly bullied to the point where she left home and never looked back.
This is the second Kristan Higgins’ book that I have read, and similar to my first reading experience, I was completely captivated by her writing style. Her ability to weave emotional, dark elements combined with humor and heart makes her one of my new favorite authors.
Nora’s character is down-to-earth, witty, and a little dorky. I loved her sense of humor. Her relationship with Boomer, the dog of dogs, was one of my favorites. On the other hand, poor Tweety (you need to read to understand what this means). I also liked seeing the progression of her relationship with her niece Poe. Nora is a strong, intelligent, tenacious protagonist who doesn’t need a man to define her. Don’t get me wrong--Nora isn’t perfect and has her moments, but she learns from them. There is some romance woven in, but it not the main storyline. Female friendship plays a large part, and it is nice to see a book where women support each other versus tearing one another down.
In addition to Nora, there’s some quirky characters, a laugh out loud dinner party from hell, and a beautiful New England setting.
Be Warned: This book is compulsively readable--I had to force myself to put it down. Higgin’s makes it easy to get lost in Nora’s world and this book served as a nice summer escape. I highly recommend!
When Dr. Nora Stuart is hit by a van, she sees her life flash before her eyes. Even though her life looks good on the surface, she realizes that she has been feeling increasingly gray. She decides to take a leave of absence from work and return home to Scupper Island Maine to reconnect with her standoffish mother, make amends with her sister, and investigate her father’s disappearance. She also must face her teenage self, a girl who was mercilessly bullied to the point where she left home and never looked back.
This is the second Kristan Higgins’ book that I have read, and similar to my first reading experience, I was completely captivated by her writing style. Her ability to weave emotional, dark elements combined with humor and heart makes her one of my new favorite authors.
Nora’s character is down-to-earth, witty, and a little dorky. I loved her sense of humor. Her relationship with Boomer, the dog of dogs, was one of my favorites. On the other hand, poor Tweety (you need to read to understand what this means). I also liked seeing the progression of her relationship with her niece Poe. Nora is a strong, intelligent, tenacious protagonist who doesn’t need a man to define her. Don’t get me wrong--Nora isn’t perfect and has her moments, but she learns from them. There is some romance woven in, but it not the main storyline. Female friendship plays a large part, and it is nice to see a book where women support each other versus tearing one another down.
In addition to Nora, there’s some quirky characters, a laugh out loud dinner party from hell, and a beautiful New England setting.
Be Warned: This book is compulsively readable--I had to force myself to put it down. Higgin’s makes it easy to get lost in Nora’s world and this book served as a nice summer escape. I highly recommend!
October 2, 2018
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
4.5 Stars!
“Now That You Mention it” is my second Kristan Higgins novel and I thought it was a fantastic read.
After being hit by a truck, Nora Dr. Nora Stuart, a gastroenterologist at Boston City Hospital is certain she’s heading towards the light… “I’m dying…this time I’m really going to die”.
The evening had started off well for Nora. She’d even saved a life. But then the ER explodes with action as her doctor boyfriend spectacularly saves a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Nora can’t help but be awestruck as she watches his heroics in the ER. Afterward, she hopes they will go home together to talk about their day but instead finds herself offering to get pizza for him and the rest of the staff.
A few minutes later Nora steps off a curb and is hit by a “Bean town bug killers” van.
Nora is certain she’s dead. But what is that beeping noise?
She’s not dead, but right before she opens her eyes she hears a conversation that she was definitely NOT meant to hear.
Now everything hurts….especially her heart.
So she decides to pack up and head to the place she left fifteen years ago….Scupper Island. She rents a houseboat and decides she’s going to see how it feels to live on her own for the first time since before the BBE (The Big Bad Event). She decides she’s NOT going to live in fear any longer.
When she arrives home she realizes that while some things have changed, there are also many things that haven’t changed at all. Some people are happy to see her, but there are quite a few people who aren’t so thrilled that she's back.
Will being back home actually help Nora? Or will it end up making things worse?
I thought this was an excellent novel. I became completely invested in the characters and couldn’t wait to see how things were going to turn out. I may have had to suspend my disbelief a couple of times, although it really didn’t bother me. It was an emotional read at times, but I thought it had a very good mix of humor and drama.
A terrific plot and an excellent cast of characters (both human and animal) made “Now That You Mention It” an awesome read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from Kristan Higgins.
Highly recommended!
4.5 Stars!
“Now That You Mention it” is my second Kristan Higgins novel and I thought it was a fantastic read.
After being hit by a truck, Nora Dr. Nora Stuart, a gastroenterologist at Boston City Hospital is certain she’s heading towards the light… “I’m dying…this time I’m really going to die”.
The evening had started off well for Nora. She’d even saved a life. But then the ER explodes with action as her doctor boyfriend spectacularly saves a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Nora can’t help but be awestruck as she watches his heroics in the ER. Afterward, she hopes they will go home together to talk about their day but instead finds herself offering to get pizza for him and the rest of the staff.
A few minutes later Nora steps off a curb and is hit by a “Bean town bug killers” van.
Nora is certain she’s dead. But what is that beeping noise?
She’s not dead, but right before she opens her eyes she hears a conversation that she was definitely NOT meant to hear.
Now everything hurts….especially her heart.
So she decides to pack up and head to the place she left fifteen years ago….Scupper Island. She rents a houseboat and decides she’s going to see how it feels to live on her own for the first time since before the BBE (The Big Bad Event). She decides she’s NOT going to live in fear any longer.
When she arrives home she realizes that while some things have changed, there are also many things that haven’t changed at all. Some people are happy to see her, but there are quite a few people who aren’t so thrilled that she's back.
Will being back home actually help Nora? Or will it end up making things worse?
I thought this was an excellent novel. I became completely invested in the characters and couldn’t wait to see how things were going to turn out. I may have had to suspend my disbelief a couple of times, although it really didn’t bother me. It was an emotional read at times, but I thought it had a very good mix of humor and drama.
A terrific plot and an excellent cast of characters (both human and animal) made “Now That You Mention It” an awesome read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from Kristan Higgins.
Highly recommended!
September 28, 2017
This was my second novel by Kristin Higgins and I loved it! Kristin Higgins has a definite sharp humor in her novel and the characterization is on point my friends!
I started this book on Sunday and didn't get out of pj's all day! So, I've heard Higgins novels are known for romance but this one I don't think it's really a "romance" per say. This book was honestly a breath of fresh air.. and just what the doctor ordered for Kendall ;)
I adored Nora... what a kick ass character with a strong sense of strength! Wow.. this woman had been through THE mud in this book and nothing could stop her! I definitely admire this woman. Can I just say my favorite quote in this book.... "Oh fuckety fucking McFuckster".... (I now am proudly going to use this quote)... this had me dying laughing in bed.
What I loved most about Nora is her ability to LOVE and find herself despite the continued hardship she endured in her life. Also, the amount of love she had for EVERYONE around her! Oh my gosh... the relationships that were formed with her mother, sister, her niece, Sully. It truly makes the town come alive and honestly will make you fall in love with every character Nora comes into contact with!
The message I took away from this book is LOVE. No matter how gray or dirty you feel your life is at the moment.. don't give up on love. Even if it's the love you have for your huge mountain dog Boomer ;).... or as small as the love you have for your favorite flower.... it will always be there.
I am definitely going to read more from Kristin Higgins! 5 beautiful and loving stars to Kristin Higgins!! :)
Thank you to Netgalley/Edelweiss and the publisher for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I started this book on Sunday and didn't get out of pj's all day! So, I've heard Higgins novels are known for romance but this one I don't think it's really a "romance" per say. This book was honestly a breath of fresh air.. and just what the doctor ordered for Kendall ;)
I adored Nora... what a kick ass character with a strong sense of strength! Wow.. this woman had been through THE mud in this book and nothing could stop her! I definitely admire this woman. Can I just say my favorite quote in this book.... "Oh fuckety fucking McFuckster".... (I now am proudly going to use this quote)... this had me dying laughing in bed.
What I loved most about Nora is her ability to LOVE and find herself despite the continued hardship she endured in her life. Also, the amount of love she had for EVERYONE around her! Oh my gosh... the relationships that were formed with her mother, sister, her niece, Sully. It truly makes the town come alive and honestly will make you fall in love with every character Nora comes into contact with!
The message I took away from this book is LOVE. No matter how gray or dirty you feel your life is at the moment.. don't give up on love. Even if it's the love you have for your huge mountain dog Boomer ;).... or as small as the love you have for your favorite flower.... it will always be there.
I am definitely going to read more from Kristin Higgins! 5 beautiful and loving stars to Kristin Higgins!! :)
Thank you to Netgalley/Edelweiss and the publisher for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2025
Traveling Sisters Group Read by Norma with Brenda, Melisa, Susanne, Diane, and Sarah
4 stars from Norma! This was my very first Kristan Higgins novel and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were a few scenes within this novel that had me laughing so hard that my tummy hurt! Even though some aspects of this novel was heartbreaking to read it was also very touching and heartwarming.
Brenda didn’t share in my enjoyment and thoughts on this one and she packed up her books and hightailed it out of the coulee, leaving me lost in the coulee all by lonesome to write this sister review. I will refrain from expressing too much of my excitement within this review as to not trigger a rant from my normally very positive sister. For me and my sisters (minus Brenda) we mostly all had similar thoughts on NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT and pretty much enjoyed this one all the same.
NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT by KRISTAN HIGGINS is an interesting, entertaining, humorous, and a light-hearted fun read that had some laugh out loud moments mixed in with some heavy themes to lighten the mood. There were a lot of issues going on here as we were following Nora’s journey as she comes to terms with her past, her family, and making peace within her own life.
KRISTAN HIGGINS delivers an intriguing and captivating story here with unique and complex characters that was told in the first person narrative from our main character Nora. She was a very likeable and interesting character that was easy to relate to.
To sum it all up it was an enjoyable, entertaining, and a quick read with a satisfying ending! Would recommend if you love a little grit within your romance novels but there was a little too much grit and serious subjects that was taken a little too lightly here for my dear sister, Brenda.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Kristan Higgins for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review!
4 stars from Norma! This was my very first Kristan Higgins novel and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were a few scenes within this novel that had me laughing so hard that my tummy hurt! Even though some aspects of this novel was heartbreaking to read it was also very touching and heartwarming.
Brenda didn’t share in my enjoyment and thoughts on this one and she packed up her books and hightailed it out of the coulee, leaving me lost in the coulee all by lonesome to write this sister review. I will refrain from expressing too much of my excitement within this review as to not trigger a rant from my normally very positive sister. For me and my sisters (minus Brenda) we mostly all had similar thoughts on NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT and pretty much enjoyed this one all the same.
NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT by KRISTAN HIGGINS is an interesting, entertaining, humorous, and a light-hearted fun read that had some laugh out loud moments mixed in with some heavy themes to lighten the mood. There were a lot of issues going on here as we were following Nora’s journey as she comes to terms with her past, her family, and making peace within her own life.
KRISTAN HIGGINS delivers an intriguing and captivating story here with unique and complex characters that was told in the first person narrative from our main character Nora. She was a very likeable and interesting character that was easy to relate to.
To sum it all up it was an enjoyable, entertaining, and a quick read with a satisfying ending! Would recommend if you love a little grit within your romance novels but there was a little too much grit and serious subjects that was taken a little too lightly here for my dear sister, Brenda.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Kristan Higgins for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review!
December 5, 2017
4 Stars
Dr. Nora Stuart is not having a good day. She feels like she’s been hit by a mack truck – the crazy thing is, she’s actually been hit by a Van (sounds like the craziest thing ever right?!). When she wakes up in the Hospital, she overhears her ER Doctor boyfriend Bobby flirting with another doctor telling her that he was planning to break up with Nora that weekend (no joke!). Talk about a disaster. When she’s finally able to leave the Hospital, Nora has no interest in moving back in with Bobby, for obvious reasons! Thereafter she decides to go back to Scupper Island in Maine. Her hometown. The place she left under bad circumstances. Nora’s mom Sharon still lives there as does her niece Poe, and as becomes evident, neither of them wants her around.
When Nora gets back to the Island with her dog Boomer, it is clear that her return is not a welcome one. Yet Nora is determined. She wants to get to know her niece and figure out why her mother has never wanted Nora in her life. Why, Nora’s sister, Lily, the black sheep has always been the favored one. As for the rest of the community, almost everyone is against Nora. You see, when Nora was in High School, she and another boy, Luke, were in competition for a full scholarship to Tufts and Nora won it and the whole town, including Luke, have hated Nora ever since. The few that have stood by her however, including her old High School friend, Xiaowen, Sully (Luke’s brother), and his daughter Audrey – well, they kind of rock and are quite funny to boot.
The characters of Audrey and Xiaowen were my absolute favorite. Full of heart, love and humor those two! I love that Nora identified so well with Audrey and gave her so much support and above all, hope. One of these days I would like to see a book written by Kristan Higgins about Ms. Audrey. What can I say? She deserve it.
Somehow, on Scupper, Nora finds confidence and peace as she regains the parts of herself she thought she lost forever.
“Now That You Mention It” is not just a romance novel. It is so much more – it is a story of one woman’s triumph over a myriad of tribulations, a story about one family’s struggles and a story about friendship and love. Kristan Higgins pulled it off – at least for me. This is a book filled with different types of emotions. One moment your heart is in your throat and you are so scared for Nora and then next you are just laughing hysterically, tears rolling down your cheeks - and then.. you are smiling, hoping, thinking.. yep, there it is.. Sigh.
So I requested this novel at the recommendation of my GR friend Melissa and I have to say Melissa, you were right. This was the one. “Now That You Mention It” has it all. I will admit to you and YOU only Melissa (LOLOL) that I loved it. Suffice it to say, that I will be on the lookout for Kristan Higgan’s next novel, (guess you made a fan out of me).
This was a Traveling Sister Read. It included: Norma, Brenda, Melisa, Diane S. and Sarah. We had a lot of fun reading it. Thanks sisters!
Thank you to Edelweiss, Harper Collins and Kristan Higgins for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Edelweiss, Goodreads, Twitter and Instagram on 12.5.17.
Dr. Nora Stuart is not having a good day. She feels like she’s been hit by a mack truck – the crazy thing is, she’s actually been hit by a Van (sounds like the craziest thing ever right?!). When she wakes up in the Hospital, she overhears her ER Doctor boyfriend Bobby flirting with another doctor telling her that he was planning to break up with Nora that weekend (no joke!). Talk about a disaster. When she’s finally able to leave the Hospital, Nora has no interest in moving back in with Bobby, for obvious reasons! Thereafter she decides to go back to Scupper Island in Maine. Her hometown. The place she left under bad circumstances. Nora’s mom Sharon still lives there as does her niece Poe, and as becomes evident, neither of them wants her around.
When Nora gets back to the Island with her dog Boomer, it is clear that her return is not a welcome one. Yet Nora is determined. She wants to get to know her niece and figure out why her mother has never wanted Nora in her life. Why, Nora’s sister, Lily, the black sheep has always been the favored one. As for the rest of the community, almost everyone is against Nora. You see, when Nora was in High School, she and another boy, Luke, were in competition for a full scholarship to Tufts and Nora won it and the whole town, including Luke, have hated Nora ever since. The few that have stood by her however, including her old High School friend, Xiaowen, Sully (Luke’s brother), and his daughter Audrey – well, they kind of rock and are quite funny to boot.
The characters of Audrey and Xiaowen were my absolute favorite. Full of heart, love and humor those two! I love that Nora identified so well with Audrey and gave her so much support and above all, hope. One of these days I would like to see a book written by Kristan Higgins about Ms. Audrey. What can I say? She deserve it.
Somehow, on Scupper, Nora finds confidence and peace as she regains the parts of herself she thought she lost forever.
“Now That You Mention It” is not just a romance novel. It is so much more – it is a story of one woman’s triumph over a myriad of tribulations, a story about one family’s struggles and a story about friendship and love. Kristan Higgins pulled it off – at least for me. This is a book filled with different types of emotions. One moment your heart is in your throat and you are so scared for Nora and then next you are just laughing hysterically, tears rolling down your cheeks - and then.. you are smiling, hoping, thinking.. yep, there it is.. Sigh.
So I requested this novel at the recommendation of my GR friend Melissa and I have to say Melissa, you were right. This was the one. “Now That You Mention It” has it all. I will admit to you and YOU only Melissa (LOLOL) that I loved it. Suffice it to say, that I will be on the lookout for Kristan Higgan’s next novel, (guess you made a fan out of me).
This was a Traveling Sister Read. It included: Norma, Brenda, Melisa, Diane S. and Sarah. We had a lot of fun reading it. Thanks sisters!
Thank you to Edelweiss, Harper Collins and Kristan Higgins for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Edelweiss, Goodreads, Twitter and Instagram on 12.5.17.
December 2, 2017
3.5 This is just one of those novels, the ones I occasionally need to read when my life is stressed or as a nice, welcoming break between other heavy or intense books. Not that this doesn't tackle some heavy issues, but all in all it is a book that leaves one feeling hopeful, warm hearted. The setting of Scuppers island in Maine was also a draw, since I have never read anything set here, nor in fact heard of before. It is also the fourth book I have read in a short period of time concerning bullying or mean girls. Seems to be a prevalent factor in fiction lately.
Nora is a very interesting character, trying to make peace with s mother who always seemed to prefer her younger sister. Her niece Poe, a young teenager with a heavy past, with a big chip on her shoulder. Of course, there are many faces from her past, some have changed for the better, some have not. Of course, there is a love interest but these scenes are not heavy handed but seem to fall in place naturally. There is humor, so much humor, several scenes had me in stitches. Would have loved to have been a fly on the wall for those.
In the interest of fairness to myself, I have to admit the first few chapters were a bit iffy. Left me wondering if I would enjoy this, but it was a sister's read so I continued on. At books end was happy I had. Also there are actually too many things going on, this kept the pages turning quickly but also made the novel unrealistic. Despite that, I enjoyed, liked these characters so much that it didn't seem to matter much. This is fun book, with some bite, a nice way to relieve the stress of the holidays.
ARC from Edelweiss.
Nora is a very interesting character, trying to make peace with s mother who always seemed to prefer her younger sister. Her niece Poe, a young teenager with a heavy past, with a big chip on her shoulder. Of course, there are many faces from her past, some have changed for the better, some have not. Of course, there is a love interest but these scenes are not heavy handed but seem to fall in place naturally. There is humor, so much humor, several scenes had me in stitches. Would have loved to have been a fly on the wall for those.
In the interest of fairness to myself, I have to admit the first few chapters were a bit iffy. Left me wondering if I would enjoy this, but it was a sister's read so I continued on. At books end was happy I had. Also there are actually too many things going on, this kept the pages turning quickly but also made the novel unrealistic. Despite that, I enjoyed, liked these characters so much that it didn't seem to matter much. This is fun book, with some bite, a nice way to relieve the stress of the holidays.
ARC from Edelweiss.
January 11, 2018
Nora Stuart grew up on Scupper Island, Maine, a small island three miles from the state’s coast and was shaped by two major events in her life: her father’s departure when she was 12-years old and pretty awful high school years. Her salvation was winning a competitive scholarship only available to islanders that took her away from her hometown for the next 15 years, even though that came at a price. When she’s injured in an accident, Nora returns to Scupper to recuperate, facing a community who’s not necessarily receptive, a seemingly detached mother and her niece whose mother hasn’t wanted a relationship with her since their father left.
There’s so much I loved about this story. On the surface, Nora seems so well put together. She’s a successful doctor, has a loving boyfriend and has a sunny disposition. When a traumatic event robs her of that optimism about life, she’s forced to deal with her past and the people who actually shaped her. At first, I was leery about this character but the more I learned about her, the more I respected her bootstrapping approach to life. She has every reason to be vindictive but it never even occurs to her to take that path. There are some very strong themes that resonate loudly in this story that gave me pause, especially those about family loyalty. Nora certainly hung in there longer than I would have but her payoff for doing so was significant.
Higgins is an auto read author for me and I really am liking her shift to contemporary fiction. There are strong romantic elements here but that’s not the central theme. Nora’s resilience was inspiring and her commitment to the people in her life, even when they gave her every reason to bolt, provided me with teachable moments. Loved this story and couldn’t put it down.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
There’s so much I loved about this story. On the surface, Nora seems so well put together. She’s a successful doctor, has a loving boyfriend and has a sunny disposition. When a traumatic event robs her of that optimism about life, she’s forced to deal with her past and the people who actually shaped her. At first, I was leery about this character but the more I learned about her, the more I respected her bootstrapping approach to life. She has every reason to be vindictive but it never even occurs to her to take that path. There are some very strong themes that resonate loudly in this story that gave me pause, especially those about family loyalty. Nora certainly hung in there longer than I would have but her payoff for doing so was significant.
Higgins is an auto read author for me and I really am liking her shift to contemporary fiction. There are strong romantic elements here but that’s not the central theme. Nora’s resilience was inspiring and her commitment to the people in her life, even when they gave her every reason to bolt, provided me with teachable moments. Loved this story and couldn’t put it down.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
January 5, 2018
“Say a grizzly bear came down from Canada and bit off her arm. Mom would just shoot the bear, sew her arm back on with the thick black thread she used to sew our buttons back on when we were kids, then butcher the bear, make it into chili and use the skin as a rug.”
Doctor Nora Stuart goes home to Scupper Island after being hit by a van. She doesn’t have a warm relationship with her mother or her niece, who is there because her mother is in jail. Nora hopes to get closer to her niece. She’s been estranged from Poe’s mother (Nora's sister)
since high school, not by her own choice.
In addition to healing from the accident, Nora is also getting over her relationship with ER doctor Bobby. She also hopes to find out why her father left Nora and her sister—despite hiring private detectives, she has no idea what happened to him in the last twenty years.
I love Higgins’ work, her characters, and the way she makes me both smile and cry. I definitely recommend this novel.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
Doctor Nora Stuart goes home to Scupper Island after being hit by a van. She doesn’t have a warm relationship with her mother or her niece, who is there because her mother is in jail. Nora hopes to get closer to her niece. She’s been estranged from Poe’s mother (Nora's sister)
since high school, not by her own choice.
In addition to healing from the accident, Nora is also getting over her relationship with ER doctor Bobby. She also hopes to find out why her father left Nora and her sister—despite hiring private detectives, she has no idea what happened to him in the last twenty years.
I love Higgins’ work, her characters, and the way she makes me both smile and cry. I definitely recommend this novel.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
January 11, 2018
5 stars!
It's official. I have my first five-star read of the year. And so well-deserved, too. I don't know how to review this book that would give it justice. It was hopeful, heartwarming and breaking, funny, and oh so beautiful. I'm so happy I got to read the chance to read this. I'll let you in on a secret—I'm tearing up a little as I'm writing this review. Not because this was a total tearjerker or anything, but because Now That You Mention It was a story that touched my heart and soul.
It was a second chance for Nora Stuart to bring back the color in her now gray life. After leaving her small hometown in Maine fifteen years ago on a scholarship to Tufts and eventually becoming an amazing doctor, Nora finds her way back home. A little time to heal and regroup after getting hit by a van and seeing—or more like hearing as she's lying on a hospital bed—her boyfriend flirting with some woman, she says. Maybe it's her chance to reconnect with her mother and the daughter of her estranged sister, Lily.
I was hooked from the first paragraph. It wasn't what I was expecting, but it was so, so good. Just from that, I devoured each page without skipping a word. The writing was fantastic—the humor on point, the pacing just right, Nora's voice loud and clear. We have endearing characters, characters who made me want to throat punch them, and characters who didn't seem to fit in just one box. They're real, and so were the feelings this book brought to me.
I absolutely adore and admire Nora. After going through so much, she's still standing strong and still not jaded by it. That she still came back to a town with people who didn't treat her right, with most people who didn't give her even the barest of respect, and managed to smile at them and not shove in their faces how far she's come shows a lot about her character. She thought about doing it, of course. What human wouldn't? But she didn't, and I admire her so much for it. She has so much compassion, empathy, and consideration for others. And she never gave up; not with her mother, not with her sister, not with Poe.
And her romance with Sullivan, although not the priority of this book, felt so right. The hopeless romantic in me would have loved to see more of them, but you know what, I'm still pretty happy with everything. If there are two people who would just fit one another, it's those two. They're kindred spirits, I swear.
There was the mystery about her father, the Big Bad Event, what turned Nora and Lily's relationship sour that made me keep on reading this. There were also amazing characters that added even more color not just to Nora's life, but to the whole book. We have Nora's mother, her niece Poe, Audrey, Xiaowen, Sullivan, and Nora's adorable dog, Boom, to name a few. But there was also that feeling of rooting for Nora and wanting to see her finally tie all those loose ends keeping her from seeing color. That feeling stayed with me from start to finish.
I recommend this to anyone who needs to laugh, cry, and hope. Because that's exactly what I got when I read Now That You Mention It.
Tropes: Small Town
POV: First Person, Female POV
Standalone: Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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Sometimes it takes a few years before you understand what you're worth. And who's worth your time."
It's official. I have my first five-star read of the year. And so well-deserved, too. I don't know how to review this book that would give it justice. It was hopeful, heartwarming and breaking, funny, and oh so beautiful. I'm so happy I got to read the chance to read this. I'll let you in on a secret—I'm tearing up a little as I'm writing this review. Not because this was a total tearjerker or anything, but because Now That You Mention It was a story that touched my heart and soul.
It was a second chance for Nora Stuart to bring back the color in her now gray life. After leaving her small hometown in Maine fifteen years ago on a scholarship to Tufts and eventually becoming an amazing doctor, Nora finds her way back home. A little time to heal and regroup after getting hit by a van and seeing—or more like hearing as she's lying on a hospital bed—her boyfriend flirting with some woman, she says. Maybe it's her chance to reconnect with her mother and the daughter of her estranged sister, Lily.
I was hooked from the first paragraph. It wasn't what I was expecting, but it was so, so good. Just from that, I devoured each page without skipping a word. The writing was fantastic—the humor on point, the pacing just right, Nora's voice loud and clear. We have endearing characters, characters who made me want to throat punch them, and characters who didn't seem to fit in just one box. They're real, and so were the feelings this book brought to me.
I absolutely adore and admire Nora. After going through so much, she's still standing strong and still not jaded by it. That she still came back to a town with people who didn't treat her right, with most people who didn't give her even the barest of respect, and managed to smile at them and not shove in their faces how far she's come shows a lot about her character. She thought about doing it, of course. What human wouldn't? But she didn't, and I admire her so much for it. She has so much compassion, empathy, and consideration for others. And she never gave up; not with her mother, not with her sister, not with Poe.
And her romance with Sullivan, although not the priority of this book, felt so right. The hopeless romantic in me would have loved to see more of them, but you know what, I'm still pretty happy with everything. If there are two people who would just fit one another, it's those two. They're kindred spirits, I swear.
There was the mystery about her father, the Big Bad Event, what turned Nora and Lily's relationship sour that made me keep on reading this. There were also amazing characters that added even more color not just to Nora's life, but to the whole book. We have Nora's mother, her niece Poe, Audrey, Xiaowen, Sullivan, and Nora's adorable dog, Boom, to name a few. But there was also that feeling of rooting for Nora and wanting to see her finally tie all those loose ends keeping her from seeing color. That feeling stayed with me from start to finish.
I recommend this to anyone who needs to laugh, cry, and hope. Because that's exactly what I got when I read Now That You Mention It.
Tropes: Small Town
POV: First Person, Female POV
Standalone: Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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July 10, 2018
With every new release I read from Kristan Higgins, I am more and more amazed at the complexity and palpable emotion she brings to her characters. In Now That You Mention It, she has written a heroine that I fell absolutely in love with. Readers get to follow her from present to past and forward again and witness first hand some very stressful events that show how very human and resilient she is. Higgins also brought attention to underappreciated medical professionals and important awareness to a variety of emotional and physical medical conditions. Multiple relationships are featured that were both incredibly sad and fun to follow, and the subtle romance was oh so easy to cheer on. As with most all of Higgins' work, this is another highly recommended piece of women's fiction. Check it out!
My favorite quote:
"When you're feeling sorry for yourself, my mother used to say, do something nice for someone else."
1/24/18:
I adore Kristan Higgins, and her newer books are the absolute best ❤️
My favorite quote:
"When you're feeling sorry for yourself, my mother used to say, do something nice for someone else."
1/24/18:
I adore Kristan Higgins, and her newer books are the absolute best ❤️
December 3, 2017
This is my first time reading Kristan Higgins and wanted to read this book due to the glowing review from my pal Melissa.
This book definitely lives in a world of its own- there is a LOT going on here to the point where I wouldn’t know how to classify it as a genre - some romance, some darkness touched upon, with a healthy dose of other heavy themes. However, there were more than several instances where I found myself laughing out loud and for this reason alone, I will DEFINITELY be back for more from this author!
There were quite a few characters here, and I have to say I can walk away from this book feeling like a know them all well. Higgins has done an excellent job of developing some well rounded and fleshed out characters. Some of my fellow reading buddies even want to move to this town in Maine! My all time favorite character was Nora’s friend from high school who had me cracking up every time she had dialogue.
Another fun Traveling Sisters read, thank you for your thoughts friends! And thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and Kristan Higgins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
This book definitely lives in a world of its own- there is a LOT going on here to the point where I wouldn’t know how to classify it as a genre - some romance, some darkness touched upon, with a healthy dose of other heavy themes. However, there were more than several instances where I found myself laughing out loud and for this reason alone, I will DEFINITELY be back for more from this author!
There were quite a few characters here, and I have to say I can walk away from this book feeling like a know them all well. Higgins has done an excellent job of developing some well rounded and fleshed out characters. Some of my fellow reading buddies even want to move to this town in Maine! My all time favorite character was Nora’s friend from high school who had me cracking up every time she had dialogue.
Another fun Traveling Sisters read, thank you for your thoughts friends! And thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and Kristan Higgins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
January 3, 2018
If you're in the mood to sink into a cute and slightly quirky read that is mostly lighthearted fun, this is the book for you. I'm generally NOT a fan of romance, and while the book certainly has romantic moments, they're not overdone or even the backbone of the story itself. Yes, there's some romance. There's also a lot more. Family issues, dealing with your past, guilt, secrets, grief, and new beginnings. While most of it is very light, there is one part somewhere in the middle that involves a very dark look into the past of the main character. It's quite jarring, and something you might want to be prepared for. It is a necessary part of the story, helping us understand Nora.
At first glance, Nora has an enviable life. She's a respected doctor, financially secure, has a handsome boyfriend, and a loving dog. That's the surface Nora. If you really know her well, you know she's still shaken from what happened to her one night, only referred to as a "Big Bad Event" for part of the book. Her life hasn't been the same since. When she's hit by a van and overhears her "perfect" doctor boyfriend hitting on a beautiful woman right next to her bruised and broken body, she knows it's time for a major change. She's filled with the desire to go home... back to the island she grew up on.
They're not exactly rolling out the welcome wagon for Nora and Boomer, her boisterous pooch. Her mom is as stoic and closed off as ever. The niece she hasn't seen in years is surly and uninterested in forming a relationship. Nora's little sister is in jail and doesn't want to speak to her. A lot of people in town still hold Nora responsible for something that happened when she was in high school, blaming her for stealing an opportunity from the town's golden boy. If she wants to change a thing, she has her work cut out for her, and she'll need more cooperation than it looks like she's going to get.
Getting hit by that van certainly changed her life... but will it be for the better, or simply dredge up old pain?
This is a satisfying read, in the way that hot cocoa and cookies are satisfying. It's a comfort to get lost in another world for awhile. It might veer into predictability on occasion and there's nothing mind blowing, but it's so enjoyable that you don't mind a bit. It did strike me that the character kind of seemed younger than she was, but it wasn't a deal breaker.
Does anyone want to move to an island with me? Lets go.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Harlequin, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
At first glance, Nora has an enviable life. She's a respected doctor, financially secure, has a handsome boyfriend, and a loving dog. That's the surface Nora. If you really know her well, you know she's still shaken from what happened to her one night, only referred to as a "Big Bad Event" for part of the book. Her life hasn't been the same since. When she's hit by a van and overhears her "perfect" doctor boyfriend hitting on a beautiful woman right next to her bruised and broken body, she knows it's time for a major change. She's filled with the desire to go home... back to the island she grew up on.
They're not exactly rolling out the welcome wagon for Nora and Boomer, her boisterous pooch. Her mom is as stoic and closed off as ever. The niece she hasn't seen in years is surly and uninterested in forming a relationship. Nora's little sister is in jail and doesn't want to speak to her. A lot of people in town still hold Nora responsible for something that happened when she was in high school, blaming her for stealing an opportunity from the town's golden boy. If she wants to change a thing, she has her work cut out for her, and she'll need more cooperation than it looks like she's going to get.
Getting hit by that van certainly changed her life... but will it be for the better, or simply dredge up old pain?
This is a satisfying read, in the way that hot cocoa and cookies are satisfying. It's a comfort to get lost in another world for awhile. It might veer into predictability on occasion and there's nothing mind blowing, but it's so enjoyable that you don't mind a bit. It did strike me that the character kind of seemed younger than she was, but it wasn't a deal breaker.
Does anyone want to move to an island with me? Lets go.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Harlequin, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
July 26, 2018
Now That You Mention It is a story about Nora Stuart, a gastroenterologist in her mid 30s working at a Boston hospital and dating Bobby, an ER doctor. Nora gets hurt in an accident - She then breaks up with Bobby and decides to go back home to Scupper Island, Maine to recover. Nora hasn’t been back to Maine in several years, and has a lot of feelings to address, many of which are painful. She loves her Mom but they aren’t as close as Nora would like, and her 15 year old niece, Poe, isn’t that warm toward her either. Nora encounters a lot of people and memories from past during her time back in Maine.
This story is enjoyable and realistic, as it seems some people remain bitter, trapped in past events, while others move on, grow up and change. It was interesting to read the dynamic between various characters during the present and during past references. The story also shows how much the “unknown” in any situation can weigh on you over time - cause and effect. People often blame themselves for things that are totally out of their control, especially an action or inaction by another person. This book did a good job of demonstrating this reality. Nora, her mom and her niece were all likable, as were some of the local Scupper Island characters.
Now That You Mention It is the first book I’ve read by Kristan Higgins. The story is a bit predictable but this did not negatively impact my enjoyment level.
This story is enjoyable and realistic, as it seems some people remain bitter, trapped in past events, while others move on, grow up and change. It was interesting to read the dynamic between various characters during the present and during past references. The story also shows how much the “unknown” in any situation can weigh on you over time - cause and effect. People often blame themselves for things that are totally out of their control, especially an action or inaction by another person. This book did a good job of demonstrating this reality. Nora, her mom and her niece were all likable, as were some of the local Scupper Island characters.
Now That You Mention It is the first book I’ve read by Kristan Higgins. The story is a bit predictable but this did not negatively impact my enjoyment level.
June 18, 2019
A feelgood story that sees Nora, a doctor, return to her childhood home after a series of traumatic events, including a breakup from her boyfriend. But not everyone is pleased to see her. As she tries to reconnect with her mother and niece, other people are not so tolerant of her being there. Nora, however, is determined to get her life back on track, and with the help of her wonderful dog Boomer, she finds ways to get over the hurts of her past. A lovely story, well told, that you can get lost in. I loved the setting of the island off the coast of Maine and Kristan Higgins really brought to life the coast, woods and caves, as well as the small town setting and it's people. A delight to read.
December 16, 2017
3.5 stars. This is my third KH book, and while it wasn't my favorite, it was still very enjoyable.
This was a Traveling Sister read. You can find this and other reviews in their blog at:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
What I liked:
-The characters. I even liked the teens, and I rarely like teens in novels
- I liked that the romance was a minor part of the book, it wasn't insta-love, and it didn't have too many eye-rolling moments.
-I liked that some serious issues were dealt with in a "lighter" manner, making it more accessible to people who wouldn't ordinarily pick up an issue book. But they could be triggers for some people
- Boomer the dog. I love animals and I especially loved him.
-I enjoyed the descriptions of the setting and life on Scupper Island. It made me want to go for a visit.
- the female friendships were endearing and they made me laugh.
- I loved Nora's big heart - she was just an all-around lovely person.
What I didn't like:
- I didn't like the part about the bird and I don't even like birds. I realize this was meant for comic relief but I found nothing amusing about it and it actually horrified me that this was considered a subject for amusement.
- mentioning "girl parts" when she was attracted to a man. Also, referring to something traumatic as The Big Bad Event, perpetrated by "Voldemort" was childish. The part of a highly educated woman in her 30s was written as if she were much younger and immature.
- while I liked that some more serious issues were brought up, I think perhaps it was just a few too many for one book
- I missed the snarky humor that I enjoyed in the previous books
-The author downplayed the gastroenterologist's role and made her all wide-eyed during the ER scene. You see it all, and more, during your training. But, I didn't pick up any other glaring errors so hats off to the author for having good medical consultants.
*Many thanks to edelweiss and the publisher for a copy of the e-book for review
This was a Traveling Sister read. You can find this and other reviews in their blog at:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
What I liked:
-The characters. I even liked the teens, and I rarely like teens in novels
- I liked that the romance was a minor part of the book, it wasn't insta-love, and it didn't have too many eye-rolling moments.
-I liked that some serious issues were dealt with in a "lighter" manner, making it more accessible to people who wouldn't ordinarily pick up an issue book. But they could be triggers for some people
- Boomer the dog. I love animals and I especially loved him.
-I enjoyed the descriptions of the setting and life on Scupper Island. It made me want to go for a visit.
- the female friendships were endearing and they made me laugh.
- I loved Nora's big heart - she was just an all-around lovely person.
What I didn't like:
- I didn't like the part about the bird and I don't even like birds. I realize this was meant for comic relief but I found nothing amusing about it and it actually horrified me that this was considered a subject for amusement.
- mentioning "girl parts" when she was attracted to a man. Also, referring to something traumatic as The Big Bad Event, perpetrated by "Voldemort" was childish. The part of a highly educated woman in her 30s was written as if she were much younger and immature.
- while I liked that some more serious issues were brought up, I think perhaps it was just a few too many for one book
- I missed the snarky humor that I enjoyed in the previous books
-The author downplayed the gastroenterologist's role and made her all wide-eyed during the ER scene. You see it all, and more, during your training. But, I didn't pick up any other glaring errors so hats off to the author for having good medical consultants.
*Many thanks to edelweiss and the publisher for a copy of the e-book for review
October 12, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
What’s going on with me, you ask? Oh, you know, the same old same old . . . .
Fifteen years ago Nora Stuart left Scupper Island behind and pretty much never looked back. Winner of a scholarship fairytales are made of, Nora was able to drop the “Troll” moniker that had followed her through high school, graduate from Tufts Medical School and become a successful gastroenterologist in Boston. All that changed, however, when she had a (literal) run-in with the Beantown Bug Killers. Broken, bruised, and unfortunately waking up to overhear a conversation she should have never had to experience even if she was in perfect health, Nora decides to nurse her wounds back in the place she never thought she’d return to.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, Now That You Mention it is a “maybe you can go home again” type of story. My reading experience was pretty much the equivalent of this . . . .
I realize that this is not what most people would think of as my norm (and yes, Mitchell is giving me the silent treatment), but . . . . .
Don’t like me getting super chicky? The delete button has been conveniently placed right at the top of my profile page for you : )
I just couldn’t help but fall in love with this dang thing. Let’s just start by acknowledging my dream house would be situated on Mackinac Island so I was automatically into this quaint little island town. And it was impossible not to become invested in all of the characters. From Nora herself whose first thoughts while being ran over by a truck were “how will my dog cope with this?” along with the realization she’d never get to meet Daniel Radcliffe via way of stalking the theater backdoor on Broadway, to her (soooooo realistic) teenage niece Poe, to her “supahMainah” of a mother (complete with one word “ayuh” responses to nearly everything), to her former classmate Xiowen (and her filthy mouth), to (of course) the boy next door. This whole book was like channeling my inner What About Bob and taking a vacation from my problems resulting in a Bookstagram pic of a unicorn sitting on a rainbow. I never wanted it to end. Many thanks to Deanna’s Review which is how this ended up at the top of my TBR stack so soon after finishing my first Higgins book (that I read simply because it was controversial like my usual jackass self).
(4.5 Stars rather than the whole monty because I don’t like seeing a dead horse get beaten and am heartless enough that I grew tired of hearing about Nora’s deadbeat daddy as well as hints about her superbadawful that could have been explained earlier on rather than driving me batty hinting about.)
What’s going on with me, you ask? Oh, you know, the same old same old . . . .
Fifteen years ago Nora Stuart left Scupper Island behind and pretty much never looked back. Winner of a scholarship fairytales are made of, Nora was able to drop the “Troll” moniker that had followed her through high school, graduate from Tufts Medical School and become a successful gastroenterologist in Boston. All that changed, however, when she had a (literal) run-in with the Beantown Bug Killers. Broken, bruised, and unfortunately waking up to overhear a conversation she should have never had to experience even if she was in perfect health, Nora decides to nurse her wounds back in the place she never thought she’d return to.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, Now That You Mention it is a “maybe you can go home again” type of story. My reading experience was pretty much the equivalent of this . . . .
I realize that this is not what most people would think of as my norm (and yes, Mitchell is giving me the silent treatment), but . . . . .
Don’t like me getting super chicky? The delete button has been conveniently placed right at the top of my profile page for you : )
I just couldn’t help but fall in love with this dang thing. Let’s just start by acknowledging my dream house would be situated on Mackinac Island so I was automatically into this quaint little island town. And it was impossible not to become invested in all of the characters. From Nora herself whose first thoughts while being ran over by a truck were “how will my dog cope with this?” along with the realization she’d never get to meet Daniel Radcliffe via way of stalking the theater backdoor on Broadway, to her (soooooo realistic) teenage niece Poe, to her “supahMainah” of a mother (complete with one word “ayuh” responses to nearly everything), to her former classmate Xiowen (and her filthy mouth), to (of course) the boy next door. This whole book was like channeling my inner What About Bob and taking a vacation from my problems resulting in a Bookstagram pic of a unicorn sitting on a rainbow. I never wanted it to end. Many thanks to Deanna’s Review which is how this ended up at the top of my TBR stack so soon after finishing my first Higgins book (that I read simply because it was controversial like my usual jackass self).
(4.5 Stars rather than the whole monty because I don’t like seeing a dead horse get beaten and am heartless enough that I grew tired of hearing about Nora’s deadbeat daddy as well as hints about her superbadawful that could have been explained earlier on rather than driving me batty hinting about.)
January 3, 2018
3.75 - 4 Stars
"sometimes it takes a few years before you understand what you're worth. And who's worth your time."
"sometimes it takes a few years before you understand what you're worth. And who's worth your time."
January 5, 2023
From the blurb:
First thing I noticed after downloading it was the cover design. No high heels, or a He-man six pack on the cover. A very good sign, since Nora did mention it was a romance....but with a twist, it seemed. A laugh and a cry. I liked the cover. I don't like chick lit. But I wanted to be brave. Curiosity might kill the cat. Whatever. I'm in. Need the laughs, remember?
Have you ever indulged in Quality Street chocolates while you reading? Me neither. It's so not good. I know, I know! But....I have cold! TLC!
Nora Stuart. She opted for home when calamity struck.( I grabbed the chocolates. Sigh). But the Maine community which she left fifteen years ago did not necessarily want her back. Scupper Island's prodigal daughter was held responsible for the small-town's drama and big-time disappointments. Mom was a tough islander, her wild-child sister was in jail, her teenage niece desperately wanted to ditch the island as Nora once did.
And so, as the teenagers around here say: Nora's mix was on...particularly when the Beantown Bug Killers van appeared out of nowhere....
But okay, first things first:
My goodness, what a melodramatic opening to the story: Meet death with demands: " how will my dog cope with this?; Can I still go with an open casket?; I have nothing to wear to my funeral; I will never meet Daniel Ratcliff now; Did Bobby just break up with me?
I sat back. Smiled. A good beginning. And I loved it right to the end. The laughs came with the dinner parties. Funny as hell. I wish I was there. I could envision an incident which might have jerked Brenda's chain. A sensitive issue for sure. You will have to read the book to know...;-)
I loved most of the book. The humor, the traumatic experiences bringing depth and strength to all the characters. But MY chain got jerked when men were called pigs. Done with the self confidence of someone relying heavily on Identity Politics and feminist readers. I'm not one of those. There goes the stars. I'm offended. Since I am a serious advocate for Equal Rights, and openly and passionately against dehumanizing of men, I did not appreciate the underlying message in the book.
However, the humorous tone of the book was excellent. It was a truly relaxing read otherwise. I really enjoyed the laughs. My kind of humor.
Chick-lit it is. But digestible. Tasteful. A good read.
New York Times bestselling author Kristan Higgins welcomes you home in a funny, emotionally charged must-read novel about the complications of life, love and family.It's an almost winter day out there, the wind is lashing about, the sun smiles warm and soothing on my snotty nose and thick headed self. I needed some laughs and normality back into my heavily-invested-in-political reading right now. When you have a cold, politics will certainly not cure it. As luck would have it, I accidentally clicked on Nora's review of this book for the second time. That's a sign, if I ever saw one! What captured my attention was Brenda throwing her toys out of the cooley group-read cot! And I thought by myself, mmmm....go see what happened there. Read the book.
First thing I noticed after downloading it was the cover design. No high heels, or a He-man six pack on the cover. A very good sign, since Nora did mention it was a romance....but with a twist, it seemed. A laugh and a cry. I liked the cover. I don't like chick lit. But I wanted to be brave. Curiosity might kill the cat. Whatever. I'm in. Need the laughs, remember?
Have you ever indulged in Quality Street chocolates while you reading? Me neither. It's so not good. I know, I know! But....I have cold! TLC!
Nora Stuart. She opted for home when calamity struck.( I grabbed the chocolates. Sigh). But the Maine community which she left fifteen years ago did not necessarily want her back. Scupper Island's prodigal daughter was held responsible for the small-town's drama and big-time disappointments. Mom was a tough islander, her wild-child sister was in jail, her teenage niece desperately wanted to ditch the island as Nora once did.
And so, as the teenagers around here say: Nora's mix was on...particularly when the Beantown Bug Killers van appeared out of nowhere....
But okay, first things first:
My goodness, what a melodramatic opening to the story: Meet death with demands: " how will my dog cope with this?; Can I still go with an open casket?; I have nothing to wear to my funeral; I will never meet Daniel Ratcliff now; Did Bobby just break up with me?
I sat back. Smiled. A good beginning. And I loved it right to the end. The laughs came with the dinner parties. Funny as hell. I wish I was there. I could envision an incident which might have jerked Brenda's chain. A sensitive issue for sure. You will have to read the book to know...;-)
I loved most of the book. The humor, the traumatic experiences bringing depth and strength to all the characters. But MY chain got jerked when men were called pigs. Done with the self confidence of someone relying heavily on Identity Politics and feminist readers. I'm not one of those. There goes the stars. I'm offended. Since I am a serious advocate for Equal Rights, and openly and passionately against dehumanizing of men, I did not appreciate the underlying message in the book.
However, the humorous tone of the book was excellent. It was a truly relaxing read otherwise. I really enjoyed the laughs. My kind of humor.
Chick-lit it is. But digestible. Tasteful. A good read.
June 8, 2018
Mesmerizing, heartwarming, and brilliantly crafted!
Now That You Mention It is a touching story that immerses you in a tale about confronting the past, embracing the future, and discovering one's true self.
The prose is well turned and fluid. The characters are unique, flawed, genuine, and lovable. And the story is an exceptionally absorbing tale about life, love, forgiveness, familial drama, friendship, courage, community, and happiness.
Now That You Mention It is the perfect mix of hope, heart, grit, and humour and undoubtedly Higgins at her best. It is so much more than expected. It makes you laugh, makes you cry, and leaves you with a smile, and I absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Now That You Mention It is a touching story that immerses you in a tale about confronting the past, embracing the future, and discovering one's true self.
The prose is well turned and fluid. The characters are unique, flawed, genuine, and lovable. And the story is an exceptionally absorbing tale about life, love, forgiveness, familial drama, friendship, courage, community, and happiness.
Now That You Mention It is the perfect mix of hope, heart, grit, and humour and undoubtedly Higgins at her best. It is so much more than expected. It makes you laugh, makes you cry, and leaves you with a smile, and I absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
October 12, 2017
4.5 Stars
I loved Nora! I was completely sucked into her story; unraveling the past, and hoping for a satisfying future for her! I felt bad for all that she went through. God, high school can be so hard! The kids were awful to her, yet Nora rose above it and became an accomplished woman. Leaving Scupper Island, where she grew to become a doctor in Boston, she hasn’t returned for fifteen years, and who could blame her? After an accident leaves Nora banged up and without a boyfriend (good riddance, Bobby!) she returns home determined to get closer to her mother and her fifteen-year-old niece, Poe.
There was a lot going on, but it wasn’t confusing, and I couldn’t put the story down. At first Nora seems like a woman full of confidence, just dating a complete douchbag. I couldn’t stand Bobby! What kind of boyfriend starts picking up on another woman while you lay unconscious in a hospital bed? (Not a spoiler, it’s in the book description) I do have to say there was a moment where I thought he might change, but, yeah, no. I loved Sully, Nora’s high school-mate now all grown-up with a daughter of his own. Nora and Sully had a bit of a rough start, but I completely swooned over this man!
When she returns home, we discover Nora wasn’t always the strong confident woman portrayed at first. She’s dealing with so much! Nora’s relationship with her mother and sister, Lily, are strained and we start to find out why. I was riveted! Even though Lily’s not present really, except for flashbacks, I honestly couldn’t stand her. Yes, she was in pain and had issues, but so did Nora! Yet, Nora was nothing but loving towards her, hopeful they would draw closer and lend support to each other. I like that when Nora realized it was time to accept there’s no changing some people, she got support and love from others to make up for it.
Nora’s journey sorting out the past, mending fences, and making peace with her life was at times heartbreaking, but also heartwarming, and I loved every minute! Out of the three Kristan Higgins novels I’ve read, Now That You Mention It is my favorite to date.
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
I loved Nora! I was completely sucked into her story; unraveling the past, and hoping for a satisfying future for her! I felt bad for all that she went through. God, high school can be so hard! The kids were awful to her, yet Nora rose above it and became an accomplished woman. Leaving Scupper Island, where she grew to become a doctor in Boston, she hasn’t returned for fifteen years, and who could blame her? After an accident leaves Nora banged up and without a boyfriend (good riddance, Bobby!) she returns home determined to get closer to her mother and her fifteen-year-old niece, Poe.
There was a lot going on, but it wasn’t confusing, and I couldn’t put the story down. At first Nora seems like a woman full of confidence, just dating a complete douchbag. I couldn’t stand Bobby! What kind of boyfriend starts picking up on another woman while you lay unconscious in a hospital bed? (Not a spoiler, it’s in the book description) I do have to say there was a moment where I thought he might change, but, yeah, no. I loved Sully, Nora’s high school-mate now all grown-up with a daughter of his own. Nora and Sully had a bit of a rough start, but I completely swooned over this man!
When she returns home, we discover Nora wasn’t always the strong confident woman portrayed at first. She’s dealing with so much! Nora’s relationship with her mother and sister, Lily, are strained and we start to find out why. I was riveted! Even though Lily’s not present really, except for flashbacks, I honestly couldn’t stand her. Yes, she was in pain and had issues, but so did Nora! Yet, Nora was nothing but loving towards her, hopeful they would draw closer and lend support to each other. I like that when Nora realized it was time to accept there’s no changing some people, she got support and love from others to make up for it.
Nora’s journey sorting out the past, mending fences, and making peace with her life was at times heartbreaking, but also heartwarming, and I loved every minute! Out of the three Kristan Higgins novels I’ve read, Now That You Mention It is my favorite to date.
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
September 3, 2017
This book deserves all the stars. It's rare that I come across a book that is so good that I literally can't put it down. I started it yesterday, stayed up late, got up early to read more, read while I worked out - I didn't want to stop! It was absolutely fantastic - one of KH's best yet. Loved loved loved every minute!!
November 15, 2017
I'm a huge, HUGE Kristan Higgins fan, and I think she does that middle ground between women's fiction and romance like no other. Now That You Mention It was another wonderful, nuanced, lovely book in that style, and a great offering for long-time Higgins devotees and newcomers alike.
I connected with Now That You Mention It immediately. First of all, it gives MAJOR props to my alma mater, Tufts University (what, what!) and takes place in a little island off the coast of Maine, where I spent all of my childhood summers. Also, the MC in the book is a doctor, and although I'm a dentist and not a physician, the hospital setting and the medical terminology made me feel right at home.
The book was exactly what I'd expect from this author: we get unique, complex family dynamics, which change and grow over time; and we also get a slow-burning, low-key romance that is important to the story but not the main focus.
Like all Higgins MCs, the main character here was easy to relate to. I adored her and her complexity, even though I thought she was too forgiving and lenient with her family.
My only issue with the story was that it was a little more depressing than I was expecting. Especially in the first half, I had to push myself to keep reading at times because people kept treating our MC like crap, and I wanted her to extricate herself from her messed up situation. There was more pain more quickly than I was expecting, and that took me awhile to work through. However, once things starting coming alone, I found myself completely enthralled.
If you love Higgins' style, don't hesitate to pick this book up. It isn't all sunshine and roses, but it is a very satisfying story that shows the complexity of family dynamics and how you can, sometimes, go home again.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I connected with Now That You Mention It immediately. First of all, it gives MAJOR props to my alma mater, Tufts University (what, what!) and takes place in a little island off the coast of Maine, where I spent all of my childhood summers. Also, the MC in the book is a doctor, and although I'm a dentist and not a physician, the hospital setting and the medical terminology made me feel right at home.
The book was exactly what I'd expect from this author: we get unique, complex family dynamics, which change and grow over time; and we also get a slow-burning, low-key romance that is important to the story but not the main focus.
Like all Higgins MCs, the main character here was easy to relate to. I adored her and her complexity, even though I thought she was too forgiving and lenient with her family.
My only issue with the story was that it was a little more depressing than I was expecting. Especially in the first half, I had to push myself to keep reading at times because people kept treating our MC like crap, and I wanted her to extricate herself from her messed up situation. There was more pain more quickly than I was expecting, and that took me awhile to work through. However, once things starting coming alone, I found myself completely enthralled.
If you love Higgins' style, don't hesitate to pick this book up. It isn't all sunshine and roses, but it is a very satisfying story that shows the complexity of family dynamics and how you can, sometimes, go home again.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
February 19, 2019
Another really solid, enjoyable read by the author. Kristan Higgins is very skilled at writing characters that you might not necessarily have much in common with, but yet you feel fully invested in them and root for them on their journey to finding whatever it is that will bring them happiness. That might sound like a simple thing, but I have read so many books lately in which I just felt zero connection to the characters and their storylines. So this one was a pleasant surprise.
Fifteen years ago Nora left the tiny Maine island town she grew up in and studied her butt off in college and medical school. She's working as a doctor in Boston when she's injured in a car accident. She decides to spend a few months recuperating in Maine even though her mother and the town aren't exactly going to roll out the welcome mat for her. But maybe with a little effort on her part, Nora will be able to repair long fractured relationships and build a few new ones as well.
This isn't an overly complicated story but that doesn't mean that there isn't some depth here either. Nora's backstory and the events of her life that shaped her as a person were interesting to read and were what really drove the story. I loved the interactions between her and the romantic lead in the story as well as her female friendships. So many good relationship dynamics in play here. When I first started reading, I wasn't expecting for this to turn into an emotional read but there were quite a few touching moments throughout.
Definitely recommend not just as a good romance read but also if you like books that feature strong female characters.
Fifteen years ago Nora left the tiny Maine island town she grew up in and studied her butt off in college and medical school. She's working as a doctor in Boston when she's injured in a car accident. She decides to spend a few months recuperating in Maine even though her mother and the town aren't exactly going to roll out the welcome mat for her. But maybe with a little effort on her part, Nora will be able to repair long fractured relationships and build a few new ones as well.
This isn't an overly complicated story but that doesn't mean that there isn't some depth here either. Nora's backstory and the events of her life that shaped her as a person were interesting to read and were what really drove the story. I loved the interactions between her and the romantic lead in the story as well as her female friendships. So many good relationship dynamics in play here. When I first started reading, I wasn't expecting for this to turn into an emotional read but there were quite a few touching moments throughout.
Definitely recommend not just as a good romance read but also if you like books that feature strong female characters.
October 8, 2017
4.6 STARS
Honestly, I don't know how she does it, but Kristan Higgins always puts together such wonderful stories. I was on the fence at the ending of this one... I felt a little cut off at the knees... I was just not ready for it to be over yet. I would have liked to have a better resolution there at the end. There were too many stones left un-turned. I can't go into detail, but in short, I think this book could have been a hundred pages longer. (And I don't say that often.)
All in all, another wonderful book. Definitely add it to your TBR.
Honestly, I don't know how she does it, but Kristan Higgins always puts together such wonderful stories. I was on the fence at the ending of this one... I felt a little cut off at the knees... I was just not ready for it to be over yet. I would have liked to have a better resolution there at the end. There were too many stones left un-turned. I can't go into detail, but in short, I think this book could have been a hundred pages longer. (And I don't say that often.)
All in all, another wonderful book. Definitely add it to your TBR.
June 3, 2018
Nora Stuart has overcome a lot. After a combination of relentless bullying and being overlooked and ignored in high school (even by her sister, Lily), she earned a scholarship to Tufts on her way to becoming a gastroenterologist. She thought the worst was behind her as she found happiness with her medical practice and her boyfriend, but then boom it all changed in a second--literally--when she stepped off a curb and was hit by a car. So she does the only thing she can think of: go home. For the first time in fifteen years, Nora finds herself back in Maine on Scupper Island, living with her Mom and sharing a room with her teenage niece, Poe. The townspeople still think of her as "Sharon's other daughter," and being home doesn't exactly bring back good memories. But Nora's banged up (inside and out); her younger sister is in jail; and Poe clearly could use some stability. Maybe, just maybe, coming home will be a much-needed chance to start over.
This is the type of book where you probably know how things will turn out (disgraced woman returns to her former home, which just happens to be an island). Still, in a way, I think they are the hardest to write, because, for me, they require such well-written plot with an excellent cast to pull it off. To get past it all, you need a really strong protagonist and a truly "lovable" love interest. You get all that in spades here. I'd never read a Kristan Higgins novel before, but had heard such good things about this book (especially from my Goodreads friend, Melissa) that I couldn't resist picking it up. I'm so glad I did. This novel was such a delight and such a good choice to read during my beach vacation with my daughters.
I really enjoyed Nora from the beginning: she felt real, and her love for her dog and her family was palatable. She made her job and her situation (which wasn't always easy) a pleasure to read. The supporting cast was also wonderful. Nora's mom is a total trip--I could just picture her reticent Maine self. Add in her niece, Poe, whom Higgins managed to keep from being a cliche, and another teenager, Audrey, who was a delight--I loved them. Even better, all the characters added to some hilarious moments, even among some of the serious parts of the book. There were some downright laugh out loud scenes in this book, particularly a dinner party on Nora's boat--featuring some great moments with her fellow Scupper Island residents--and a ham dinner at her Mom's. I couldn't believe how into the story I was or how funny and real all these people felt. Nora's love of Harry Potter was rather endearing as well.
The novel also dealt with its serious moments deftly as well. Nora has to overcome so much (almost an overload it felt), and the book handled the serious parts appropriately, with both gravitas and humor. She was a strong character, and I found myself very touched by some sweet pieces in the novel. There's a lot more to this one than meets the eye with its sunny cover.
Overall, this was a lovely book--fun yet serious--with a great protagonist and a wonderful supporting cast. It was downright laugh out loud funny at parts and just a refreshing, enjoyable read. I'm kicking myself for not requesting Higgins' latest ARC but will certainly be reading a lot more of her books in the future. 4+ stars.
I received my copy of this book through one of my favorite websites, Paperbackswap.com, where you can swap copies of all your favorite books (hardcover, paperback, and more).
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This is the type of book where you probably know how things will turn out (disgraced woman returns to her former home, which just happens to be an island). Still, in a way, I think they are the hardest to write, because, for me, they require such well-written plot with an excellent cast to pull it off. To get past it all, you need a really strong protagonist and a truly "lovable" love interest. You get all that in spades here. I'd never read a Kristan Higgins novel before, but had heard such good things about this book (especially from my Goodreads friend, Melissa) that I couldn't resist picking it up. I'm so glad I did. This novel was such a delight and such a good choice to read during my beach vacation with my daughters.
I really enjoyed Nora from the beginning: she felt real, and her love for her dog and her family was palatable. She made her job and her situation (which wasn't always easy) a pleasure to read. The supporting cast was also wonderful. Nora's mom is a total trip--I could just picture her reticent Maine self. Add in her niece, Poe, whom Higgins managed to keep from being a cliche, and another teenager, Audrey, who was a delight--I loved them. Even better, all the characters added to some hilarious moments, even among some of the serious parts of the book. There were some downright laugh out loud scenes in this book, particularly a dinner party on Nora's boat--featuring some great moments with her fellow Scupper Island residents--and a ham dinner at her Mom's. I couldn't believe how into the story I was or how funny and real all these people felt. Nora's love of Harry Potter was rather endearing as well.
The novel also dealt with its serious moments deftly as well. Nora has to overcome so much (almost an overload it felt), and the book handled the serious parts appropriately, with both gravitas and humor. She was a strong character, and I found myself very touched by some sweet pieces in the novel. There's a lot more to this one than meets the eye with its sunny cover.
Overall, this was a lovely book--fun yet serious--with a great protagonist and a wonderful supporting cast. It was downright laugh out loud funny at parts and just a refreshing, enjoyable read. I'm kicking myself for not requesting Higgins' latest ARC but will certainly be reading a lot more of her books in the future. 4+ stars.
I received my copy of this book through one of my favorite websites, Paperbackswap.com, where you can swap copies of all your favorite books (hardcover, paperback, and more).
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Google+ ~ Instagram
January 31, 2018
“I was hit by a car, and according to the Hallmark Channel, I’m supposed to come home.”
The opening for this story grabbed a hold of me and then didn’t let go. Kristan Higgins is great at delivering an underdog heroine, but I wasn’t quite prepared for what she had in store for me with Nora Stuart.
Nora, after experiencing a “life flashing before your eyes” accident, decided it was time to go back to her childhood home, Scupper Island, to face her past and repair the relationships in her life. I almost always bond with the main character in Kristan Higgins books. This was no exception. While I LOVED (and I do mean L-O-V-E-D) this story I found myself irrationally angry throughout a good chunk of this book at almost every other character, aside from Nora. I could not get over how badly Nora was treated, both in stories from high school to stories about her relationship with her mother and her sister, Lily. It was almost too much.
I can honestly say that if I had been treated the way Nora had by her family and the community of Scupper Island, I would have written them off and never looked back, with a BIG F*%CK YOU!
No exaggeration. Lily… Nora’s mom… Nora’s dad… Poe… Her need to “mend” relationships made me so incredibly angry because it totally spoke to how damaged she was.
“You wonder how much abuse you can take and still love someone. You wonder how long they can treat you like nothing but still want them back. ”
Despite my protective feelings for Nora, this story got me in all the feels. This is why Kristan Higgins is a favourite author of mine. Instead of having the story “told” to me, her writing has a way of immersing me and, as a result, I feel so much. I laugh, I cry, I get angry and I love.
Bobby, the slime ball ex-boyfriend, was the perfect villain I loved to hate, but holy-hell, the “Big Bad Event” was one of the darker storylines I’ve read by this author. A fairly common trope in romance novels, it was very effectively used in this story. During the book, when mentioned I would think to myself, “yeah, I get it, something bad happened. I’ve read this before, seen it a hundred times.” Yet when the “telling” happened, I wasn’t quite prepared for how much of a sucker punch it would deliver.
“Are you matchmaking, Nora Louise?”
Ruh-roh. The middle name.”
I was really starting think there wouldn’t be any of the Kristan Higgins style laugh out loud humour, since this book was definitely more on the serious side. But Nora’s dinner party, with the odd guest list was hilarious!
“Where’s Jake?” I asked. Could’ve sworn he’d just been here.
He answered by opening the bathroom door. “Got any Febreze?” he asked.”
Eventually Nora’s mom, Sharon, won me over, but I’m not sure if it was her so much as Nora’s unrelenting efforts that made me come around. Same goes went for Poe, Nora’s stoic niece.
“She’d given me up a long time ago.”
Did learning about why Lily was the way she was make me soften my feelings towards her? Nope, still HATED HER. I don’t know, maybe that makes me a cold hearted bitch, but I don’t think you can pawn off blame for 100% of her behaviour. Some people are just NOT good people.
There were so many great characters in this book, despite me kind of hating Scupper Island for it’s unfair judgement of Nora.
“Are we still talking about that fucking scholarship?”
Sully laughed out loud.”
All in all, I feel pretty emotionally wrung out right now after this great read!
October 12, 2020
2.75 Scupper Stars!
I think I have loved most of the books I read by Ms Higgins. This one was a bit of a bore, to be honest. Didn't really connect with any of the characters and when that happens, I don't really care what the outcome is. I found the story to be a bit too heavy on the "fat-shaming" (sorry about the pun). Plus, how many shitty things can happen to one person i.e. Nora! Touted under the "romance" genre here on Goodreads ... not really very romantic I thought. I didn't feel any connection at all between her and Sully and what in God's name was Luke's character supposed to bring to the book ... (insert eye rolling). And Lily - there was no closure there. And I just felt the father's storyline was thrown in for good (bad) measure! Jeez, I am cranky. I think I need a holiday and it looks like that ain't happening any time soon ... ignore me. My next read will be much better (I hope).
Usually I find Higgins quite funny and do get some laughs from her books. I think I might have "LOL'd" once while reading it. I don't know, maybe it was my mood ... it can determine my opinion of a book. I will still read her future books but won't be re-reading this one.
... I don't even know if Nora had blonde hair in the book!
Poe ...
I think I have loved most of the books I read by Ms Higgins. This one was a bit of a bore, to be honest. Didn't really connect with any of the characters and when that happens, I don't really care what the outcome is. I found the story to be a bit too heavy on the "fat-shaming" (sorry about the pun). Plus, how many shitty things can happen to one person i.e. Nora! Touted under the "romance" genre here on Goodreads ... not really very romantic I thought. I didn't feel any connection at all between her and Sully and what in God's name was Luke's character supposed to bring to the book ... (insert eye rolling). And Lily - there was no closure there. And I just felt the father's storyline was thrown in for good (bad) measure! Jeez, I am cranky. I think I need a holiday and it looks like that ain't happening any time soon ... ignore me. My next read will be much better (I hope).
Usually I find Higgins quite funny and do get some laughs from her books. I think I might have "LOL'd" once while reading it. I don't know, maybe it was my mood ... it can determine my opinion of a book. I will still read her future books but won't be re-reading this one.
... I don't even know if Nora had blonde hair in the book!
Poe ...
January 6, 2023
A solid first read of 2023! Nora Stuart is a truly likeable heroine. Growing up on tiny Scupper Island off the coast of Maine, she was a chubby, unpopular teenager tormented by mean girls including her once beloved younger sister. Then she wins a highly coveted scholarship offered each year by a local-man-made-good: a free ride to Tufts University. Nora escapes the island, becomes a doctor and grows into an attractive, confident woman.
But the story really takes off after a series of tragic events cause Nora to alter her decision never to return to Scupper. There are so many relatable themes here. Facing your past, coming to terms with your family dynamics, re-evaluating what you want out of life, forging new relationships. Besides Nora there were other well-drawn, complex characters with interesting stories of their own. There were some moments that made me laugh out loud (looking at you, Tweety); and an awesome dog. I loved every minute of this story and highly recommend it.
But the story really takes off after a series of tragic events cause Nora to alter her decision never to return to Scupper. There are so many relatable themes here. Facing your past, coming to terms with your family dynamics, re-evaluating what you want out of life, forging new relationships. Besides Nora there were other well-drawn, complex characters with interesting stories of their own. There were some moments that made me laugh out loud (looking at you, Tweety); and an awesome dog. I loved every minute of this story and highly recommend it.
January 15, 2018
Now That You Mention It
Kristan Higgins
Received from Edelweiss
Nora Stuart's father left the small island of Scupper, Maine when she was twelve years old. Her high school years were horrible and her only saving grace was earning a full scholarship to Tuffts University. She leaves the island becomes a doctor, but always wonders why her dad left all those years ago. When he left Nora and her younger sister Lily were never close like they were when her dad was around. Nora misses her sister terribly but Lily is fighting her own demons and Nora doesn't know how to get through to her. NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning and never let go.
While running an errand from the hospital, Nora is hit while crossing the street. Once released from the hospital she finds herself on a ferry heading back to Scupper Island. NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT is filled with many secrets as well as lots of mystery. I also found myself giggling out loud at many of the situations Nora finds herself in. Nora is a very kick ass woman and I was cheering her on from the get go. Her boyfriend/ex boyfriend, Bobby is a jerk and I really wanted to reach in to the story and slap him! As questions get answered and mysteries solved, I loved how Nora kept pushing forward. She never gave up, even with her sister's teenage daughter, Poe, who is a typical teenager and quite mean. Nora keeps pushing on as she knows Poe is hurting too.
While reading NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT I became emotionally invested in all of the characters. They are all flawed, real and lovable! Once I started reading, I was instantly hooked. I devoured every page and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. Between Bobby and Luke, I wasn't sure who I wanted to punch in the throat more! Haha
Do yourself a favor, grab this wonderful book, your favorite drink, and get on your couch and read it. It's the perfect way to spend the day!
Kristan Higgins
Received from Edelweiss
Nora Stuart's father left the small island of Scupper, Maine when she was twelve years old. Her high school years were horrible and her only saving grace was earning a full scholarship to Tuffts University. She leaves the island becomes a doctor, but always wonders why her dad left all those years ago. When he left Nora and her younger sister Lily were never close like they were when her dad was around. Nora misses her sister terribly but Lily is fighting her own demons and Nora doesn't know how to get through to her. NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT pulled at my heartstrings from the very beginning and never let go.
While running an errand from the hospital, Nora is hit while crossing the street. Once released from the hospital she finds herself on a ferry heading back to Scupper Island. NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT is filled with many secrets as well as lots of mystery. I also found myself giggling out loud at many of the situations Nora finds herself in. Nora is a very kick ass woman and I was cheering her on from the get go. Her boyfriend/ex boyfriend, Bobby is a jerk and I really wanted to reach in to the story and slap him! As questions get answered and mysteries solved, I loved how Nora kept pushing forward. She never gave up, even with her sister's teenage daughter, Poe, who is a typical teenager and quite mean. Nora keeps pushing on as she knows Poe is hurting too.
While reading NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT I became emotionally invested in all of the characters. They are all flawed, real and lovable! Once I started reading, I was instantly hooked. I devoured every page and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. Between Bobby and Luke, I wasn't sure who I wanted to punch in the throat more! Haha
Do yourself a favor, grab this wonderful book, your favorite drink, and get on your couch and read it. It's the perfect way to spend the day!
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