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Lorna & Tristan Series #2
Rocks and Flowers in a Box
The wedding bells for Lorna and Tristan Blake toll doom right as the honeymoon begins with an unexpected turn in Tristan’s health. While World War II winds down, Lorna receives a letter from the War Department informing her that the brother she thought killed in action is still alive. She is overjoyed, but his return will dredge up a devastating secret about their parents’ tragic death –a secret that could destroy her new marriage and threaten her husband’s physical and mental well-being. What unfolds is balancing act of keeping the faith and shattering the pieces of the life she’s worked so hard to put back together.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
401 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2019
27 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Hilston
25 books264 followersBestselling author of the Lorna & Tristan Series, Cynthia Hilston is a stay-at-home mom of three young kids, happily married, and lives in the Cleveland, Ohio, area. Writing has always been like another child to her. After twenty years of waltzing in the world of fan fiction, she stepped away to do her debut dance with original works of fiction, although she still dabbles in fan fiction.
In her spare time – what spare time? – she devours books, shamelessly watches Hallmark movies and When Calls the Heart, pets her orange and black kitties, looks at the stars, drinks wine or coffee with good friends, and dreams of what other stories she wishes to tell.
x x x
My Reader's Favorite review page: https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/cynthiahilston
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiahilst...
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In her spare time – what spare time? – she devours books, shamelessly watches Hallmark movies and When Calls the Heart, pets her orange and black kitties, looks at the stars, drinks wine or coffee with good friends, and dreams of what other stories she wishes to tell.
x x x
My Reader's Favorite review page: https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...
My Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Cynthia...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cynthiahilston
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiahilst...
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 1, 2020
3.5 stars.
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. It is book 2 in the Lorna & Tristan series but can be read as a stand-alone since the author recaps the most pertinent events from the first book to paint the backdrop for Lorna and Tristan’s relationship. This book starts out with Lorna and Tristan as newlyweds, learning to accommodate each other’s eccentricities, during the tail end of WWII.
Lorna and Tristan seem to have gone through an emotional wringer separately before getting married. Though they love each other, Tristan’s moody aloofness and emotional turmoil weigh heavily on Lorna’s soul and Lorna’s persistence in recovering Tristan’s family ties drives him crazy. A surprising twist in the plot challenges their love and threatens Lorna’s sense of peace and contentment. The bondage of addiction, as well as a different kind of bondage from holding too tightly to past guilt and sin, is vividly portrayed. The faith journey of the characters is natural and inspiring. The author’s focus on forgiveness, grace, and reconciliation is noteworthy in this character-driven novel.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. It is book 2 in the Lorna & Tristan series but can be read as a stand-alone since the author recaps the most pertinent events from the first book to paint the backdrop for Lorna and Tristan’s relationship. This book starts out with Lorna and Tristan as newlyweds, learning to accommodate each other’s eccentricities, during the tail end of WWII.
Lorna and Tristan seem to have gone through an emotional wringer separately before getting married. Though they love each other, Tristan’s moody aloofness and emotional turmoil weigh heavily on Lorna’s soul and Lorna’s persistence in recovering Tristan’s family ties drives him crazy. A surprising twist in the plot challenges their love and threatens Lorna’s sense of peace and contentment. The bondage of addiction, as well as a different kind of bondage from holding too tightly to past guilt and sin, is vividly portrayed. The faith journey of the characters is natural and inspiring. The author’s focus on forgiveness, grace, and reconciliation is noteworthy in this character-driven novel.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
January 26, 2020
3.5
Yes, this is book two in a series and yes, book two is a continuation of book one, yet Cynthia Hilson does an excellent job of sketching the details of book one into this next installment. Still, if you’re looking for the full-color picture, I suggest reading the series in order (which, full disclosure, I did not do).
Rocks and Flowers in a Box tackles the challenges and joys of marriage. Getting used to each other’s personalities, dealing with the strains and stress of life, and enjoying the blessed and beautiful moments. Tristan and Lorna have overcome some huge hurdles to reach the point where they’re at now. At times, the past continues to cast shadows over their happily ever after.
A few of the things I enjoyed about this story was the time period (right at the end of WWII when soldiers are returning home), a realistic look at marriage, and the abundant thread of the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. Hilson delivers an emotional story filled with conflict and moments of happiness for Lorna.
Disclosure statement:
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
Yes, this is book two in a series and yes, book two is a continuation of book one, yet Cynthia Hilson does an excellent job of sketching the details of book one into this next installment. Still, if you’re looking for the full-color picture, I suggest reading the series in order (which, full disclosure, I did not do).
Rocks and Flowers in a Box tackles the challenges and joys of marriage. Getting used to each other’s personalities, dealing with the strains and stress of life, and enjoying the blessed and beautiful moments. Tristan and Lorna have overcome some huge hurdles to reach the point where they’re at now. At times, the past continues to cast shadows over their happily ever after.
A few of the things I enjoyed about this story was the time period (right at the end of WWII when soldiers are returning home), a realistic look at marriage, and the abundant thread of the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. Hilson delivers an emotional story filled with conflict and moments of happiness for Lorna.
Disclosure statement:
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
January 21, 2020
I don't usually start my reviews with something I don't like about a book, but I think this is really important. The cover of this book does not do this story justice, in fact, if I had not recently read the first book in this series and really enjoyed it, I probably would not have read this book at all based on the cover. Please do not judge this book by the cover because once I opened this one up and read it, I really enjoyed it. You do not have to read the first book about Lorna & Tristan to enjoy this one or to follow the story, but I do recommend you read both of these books as it is a well-written family saga. I am not exactly sure how I would classify this book, it is historical, a family drama and literary fiction all rolled together.
I am not going to regurgitate the synopsis of this book but I will tell you what I loved about this book. The characters were wonderful and so realistic. I cannot imagine what Chuck was dealing with after returning from WWII. Not only did he spend time in a POW camp, but was living with survivor guilt that his friend had died while he was still alive. He also came home to find out that his sister had destroyed everything that would remind him of his parents, who had been killed by a drunk driver six years earlier, including selling their childhood home and burning all the pictures. Lorna/Laura grew so much as a character throughout both of the books. She changed from a surly, angry, solitary person to a loving, forgiving, friend. Tristan as well, changed drastically. He was somewhat self-absorbed, closed, not very talkative, angry and having a tough time forgiving himself, but with Lorna's love, he blossomed. The story was very well-written and shared so much about the 40s. I enjoyed learning about some of the rationing, which I was not sure had occurred in North America. My emotions were all over the place while I read this story. It dealt with so much, alcoholism, PTSD, forgiveness, veterans finding their way in life, moving beyond hatred, giving others a chance, and families. I definitely recommend that you give Cynthia Hilston a chance. I will be watching for more books from this author. I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I am not going to regurgitate the synopsis of this book but I will tell you what I loved about this book. The characters were wonderful and so realistic. I cannot imagine what Chuck was dealing with after returning from WWII. Not only did he spend time in a POW camp, but was living with survivor guilt that his friend had died while he was still alive. He also came home to find out that his sister had destroyed everything that would remind him of his parents, who had been killed by a drunk driver six years earlier, including selling their childhood home and burning all the pictures. Lorna/Laura grew so much as a character throughout both of the books. She changed from a surly, angry, solitary person to a loving, forgiving, friend. Tristan as well, changed drastically. He was somewhat self-absorbed, closed, not very talkative, angry and having a tough time forgiving himself, but with Lorna's love, he blossomed. The story was very well-written and shared so much about the 40s. I enjoyed learning about some of the rationing, which I was not sure had occurred in North America. My emotions were all over the place while I read this story. It dealt with so much, alcoholism, PTSD, forgiveness, veterans finding their way in life, moving beyond hatred, giving others a chance, and families. I definitely recommend that you give Cynthia Hilston a chance. I will be watching for more books from this author. I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
February 1, 2020
My Thoughts on Rocks and Flowers in a Box:
First, the title. I hated it. It didn't make any sense to me and I didn't have any idea really about what the book would be like. I read the blurb about it and thought I'd give it a go because I love history and WWII is one of my favorite time periods.
Second, the cover. Guys this cover could have been so much better. The book is amazing and I don't think the cover does it justice. Please disregard the cover, read the book blurb, and dive in!
Thirdly, this is an amazing book! It's the second in a series but can be read as a stand-alone. Yes, if you read the first book you're going to get a fuller and bigger picture of what is going on and what has gone on, but it is not necessary. Personally, I always advocate that you read the whole series and that you read that series in order, but that might just be my OCD showing.
I loved meeting these characters and following their journey. They each have a path to walk to become whole again and come to terms with who they are now. It was great to be able to walk that path with them.
This was the first novel I've read by this author but I have to say she has me hooked. I really enjoyed this book and am definitely going to be following her in the future to see what else she comes up with.
The history in the book was spot on and I loved it! I'd love to see some of the history portrayed in a new cover down the road. Give me all the 1940s fashion!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
First, the title. I hated it. It didn't make any sense to me and I didn't have any idea really about what the book would be like. I read the blurb about it and thought I'd give it a go because I love history and WWII is one of my favorite time periods.
Second, the cover. Guys this cover could have been so much better. The book is amazing and I don't think the cover does it justice. Please disregard the cover, read the book blurb, and dive in!
Thirdly, this is an amazing book! It's the second in a series but can be read as a stand-alone. Yes, if you read the first book you're going to get a fuller and bigger picture of what is going on and what has gone on, but it is not necessary. Personally, I always advocate that you read the whole series and that you read that series in order, but that might just be my OCD showing.
I loved meeting these characters and following their journey. They each have a path to walk to become whole again and come to terms with who they are now. It was great to be able to walk that path with them.
This was the first novel I've read by this author but I have to say she has me hooked. I really enjoyed this book and am definitely going to be following her in the future to see what else she comes up with.
The history in the book was spot on and I loved it! I'd love to see some of the history portrayed in a new cover down the road. Give me all the 1940s fashion!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
February 3, 2020
So much is riding on her ability to love unconditionally; forgive completely; restore unequivocally, and be courageous without hesitation.
In Cynthia Hilston’s Rocks and Flowers in a Box, the second in her Lorna & Tristan series, newlyweds Lorna and Tristan go about the business of combining their homes into one. Things are not all sunshine and roses; there is a history, both personal and interpersonal, that the two lovebirds must work through to create a good marriage relationship.
When Tristan experiences a heart attack while in the midst of moving his household belongings to Lorna’s home, both are forced to begin contemplating things that could have negative implications for both of them if either chooses to ignore them.
Tristan is not in touch with his family, a fact he refuses to discuss, even with his new bride. Lorna, puzzled by her husbands reluctance, is still grieving the loss of her parents in a tragic accident, along with the loss of her only brother in the war.
Thinking herself without any family, Tristan has become the beginnings of her new family; until the day she receives mail from the war department. Her brother is not dead as she had first been informed, he’s a prisoner of war, held at Stalag, Germany. Elated, she begins writing to Chuck. And continues to contemplate if she should risk contacting her husbands family, despite his insistence that he did not want to see any of them.
She wonders how angry he will become when he realizes she pulled his address book from the trash; will he have another heart attack? Begin drinking again? Or maybe worse, try to take his own life again in the depths of dark despair.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
In Cynthia Hilston’s Rocks and Flowers in a Box, the second in her Lorna & Tristan series, newlyweds Lorna and Tristan go about the business of combining their homes into one. Things are not all sunshine and roses; there is a history, both personal and interpersonal, that the two lovebirds must work through to create a good marriage relationship.
When Tristan experiences a heart attack while in the midst of moving his household belongings to Lorna’s home, both are forced to begin contemplating things that could have negative implications for both of them if either chooses to ignore them.
Tristan is not in touch with his family, a fact he refuses to discuss, even with his new bride. Lorna, puzzled by her husbands reluctance, is still grieving the loss of her parents in a tragic accident, along with the loss of her only brother in the war.
Thinking herself without any family, Tristan has become the beginnings of her new family; until the day she receives mail from the war department. Her brother is not dead as she had first been informed, he’s a prisoner of war, held at Stalag, Germany. Elated, she begins writing to Chuck. And continues to contemplate if she should risk contacting her husbands family, despite his insistence that he did not want to see any of them.
She wonders how angry he will become when he realizes she pulled his address book from the trash; will he have another heart attack? Begin drinking again? Or maybe worse, try to take his own life again in the depths of dark despair.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Just Read Tours and am not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
April 3, 2020
Second book in the series. It starts off a little slow but picks up once Lorna's brother, Chuck, comes home from the war. A lot of the drama is internal agonizing as secrets are kept and inner demons dealt with. Once the secrets surface, it moves a bit faster. Like all of her books, the author celebrates themes of forgiveness and redemption. My favorite part is that all of her books (at least the four I've read) take place in the same world and there's at least one character who has popped up in all four books. It's always fun to see him.
January 28, 2020
3.5 stars
It's takes a lot of grace to love the man who killed your parents and learn to forgive him.
These post war story was a different kind of read for me. It was a little hard fore to get into the story.
Both Lorna and Tristan face different challenges especially as newly weds. I love how the author brought together the trials of newly married couples learning to live together the joys, the sorrows, the worries, the triumphs. Lorna wants to know more about Tristan's family but he remains tight lipped about it even with his health challenges and when challenges come up and their faith is tested, it is nice to see how they worked through their challenges.
The themes of forgiveness and reconstructive is a present one and I like how the author dealt with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustReads. All opinions expressed are solely mine
It's takes a lot of grace to love the man who killed your parents and learn to forgive him.
These post war story was a different kind of read for me. It was a little hard fore to get into the story.
Both Lorna and Tristan face different challenges especially as newly weds. I love how the author brought together the trials of newly married couples learning to live together the joys, the sorrows, the worries, the triumphs. Lorna wants to know more about Tristan's family but he remains tight lipped about it even with his health challenges and when challenges come up and their faith is tested, it is nice to see how they worked through their challenges.
The themes of forgiveness and reconstructive is a present one and I like how the author dealt with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via JustReads. All opinions expressed are solely mine
November 26, 2019
“Rocks and Flowers in a Box” is a beautifully-written historical/literary novel, which, despite technically being a continuation of “Laura vs Lorna,” stands perfectly on its own. I’ve read all of Cynthia Hilston’s books and let me tell you, no one can write family sagas as she does. Her characters are real and multi-dimensional, who invariably evoke the most profound emotions in the reader as they struggle with their daily hardships. Such important and relevant social issues as alcoholism, self-identification crisis, finding one’s way in life, condemnation, and forgiveness, love and hatred are all masterfully presented through the eyes of the main characters.
Lorna is at the beginning of a new life with her new husband, Tristan, when he suffers from a sudden heart attack. Less than anything, in addition to this, Lorna expects to find out that there was a mix-up in her brother Chucky’s papers, and that her young brother could possibly still be alive in one of the German POW camps. But, if it’s indeed true, how will Chuck take the news of her new marriage to the man, who stole their childhood from them both?
I loved how real and conflicted all of the characters were. Each struggled with their own demons and tried their best to work things out not only for the sake of the family but to rebuild their own identity as well. The prose was beautiful and flowed naturally and the historical setting of WW2 and the post-WW2 United States was well-researched and brilliantly presented. If you enjoy historical sagas rich in detail and with vivid, unforgettable characters, this one is definitely for you. Highly recommended!
Lorna is at the beginning of a new life with her new husband, Tristan, when he suffers from a sudden heart attack. Less than anything, in addition to this, Lorna expects to find out that there was a mix-up in her brother Chucky’s papers, and that her young brother could possibly still be alive in one of the German POW camps. But, if it’s indeed true, how will Chuck take the news of her new marriage to the man, who stole their childhood from them both?
I loved how real and conflicted all of the characters were. Each struggled with their own demons and tried their best to work things out not only for the sake of the family but to rebuild their own identity as well. The prose was beautiful and flowed naturally and the historical setting of WW2 and the post-WW2 United States was well-researched and brilliantly presented. If you enjoy historical sagas rich in detail and with vivid, unforgettable characters, this one is definitely for you. Highly recommended!
January 25, 2020
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway for Rocks and Flowers in a Box by Cynthia Hilston, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Rocks and Flowers in a Box by Cynthia HilstonTitle: Rocks and Flowers in a Box
Author: Cynthia Hilston
Series: Lorna & Tristan #2
Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: December 21, 2019
The wedding bells for Lorna and Tristan Blake toll doom right as the honeymoon begins with an unexpected turn in Tristan’s health. While World War II winds down, Lorna receives a letter from the War Department informing her that the brother she thought killed in action is still alive. She is overjoyed, but his return will dredge up a devastating secret about their parents’ tragic death –a secret that could destroy her new marriage and threaten her husband’s physical and mental well-being. What unfolds is balancing act of keeping the faith and shattering the pieces of the life she’s worked so hard to put back together.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookDepository
My review:
This is #2 in the series and it took me a few chapters to get up to speed, but I quickly understood the characters and basically what transpired in the first book. This story picks up during the first weeks following Tristan and Lorna’s wedding. They are working to combine their households when Tristan suffers a heart attack. Thankfully, he recovers and is able to gain strength and write again. Lorna is surprised when she is notified that her brother was not killed in the war, but had been captured and would return home.
This story continues with the characters learning the truth about Tristan’s earlier years, and how his poor choices impacted Lorna and Chuck’s lives. But truth and forgiveness win out, in the end.
I enjoyed the book and will look forward to reading #3 in the series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cynthia Hilston
Cynthia Hilston is a stay-at-home mom of three young kids, happily married, and lives in the Cleveland, Ohio, area. Writing has always been like another child to her. After twenty years of waltzing in the world of fan fiction, she stepped away to do her debut dance with original works of fiction. Visit her website for more information.
In her spare time – what spare time? – she devours books, watches Supernatural and Outlander, pets her orange kitty, looks at the stars, drinks wine or coffee with good friends, and dreams of what other stories she wishes to tell.
CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!
Rocks and Flowers in a Box JustRead Giveaway
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight January 24, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on January 31, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Rocks and Flowers in a Box by Cynthia HilstonTitle: Rocks and Flowers in a Box
Author: Cynthia Hilston
Series: Lorna & Tristan #2
Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: December 21, 2019
The wedding bells for Lorna and Tristan Blake toll doom right as the honeymoon begins with an unexpected turn in Tristan’s health. While World War II winds down, Lorna receives a letter from the War Department informing her that the brother she thought killed in action is still alive. She is overjoyed, but his return will dredge up a devastating secret about their parents’ tragic death –a secret that could destroy her new marriage and threaten her husband’s physical and mental well-being. What unfolds is balancing act of keeping the faith and shattering the pieces of the life she’s worked so hard to put back together.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookDepository
My review:
This is #2 in the series and it took me a few chapters to get up to speed, but I quickly understood the characters and basically what transpired in the first book. This story picks up during the first weeks following Tristan and Lorna’s wedding. They are working to combine their households when Tristan suffers a heart attack. Thankfully, he recovers and is able to gain strength and write again. Lorna is surprised when she is notified that her brother was not killed in the war, but had been captured and would return home.
This story continues with the characters learning the truth about Tristan’s earlier years, and how his poor choices impacted Lorna and Chuck’s lives. But truth and forgiveness win out, in the end.
I enjoyed the book and will look forward to reading #3 in the series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cynthia Hilston
Cynthia Hilston is a stay-at-home mom of three young kids, happily married, and lives in the Cleveland, Ohio, area. Writing has always been like another child to her. After twenty years of waltzing in the world of fan fiction, she stepped away to do her debut dance with original works of fiction. Visit her website for more information.
In her spare time – what spare time? – she devours books, watches Supernatural and Outlander, pets her orange kitty, looks at the stars, drinks wine or coffee with good friends, and dreams of what other stories she wishes to tell.
CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card!
Rocks and Flowers in a Box JustRead Giveaway
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight January 24, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on January 31, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
cropped-justread-logo.png
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
January 21, 2020
As well as being a book geek I am also a history nerd, with a particular fondness for stories set during the Second World War. So I hope you can see why the synopsis of 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' was talking to me encouraging me to read the book. I couldn't wait to start reading so I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down to read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' but more about that in a bit.
When I was invited to take part in the blog tour for 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box', I hadn't realised that it was actually the second book in the 'Lorna & Tristan' series. That didn't put me off reading the book though. As I enjoyed reading this book so much, I will definitely be reading the first book in the series, which is called 'Lorna Versus Laura', as soon as I can.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first couple of chapters, I knew that once I picked this book up I would find nigh on impossible to put to one side for any length of time. I just felt so in tune with the characters that I cared what happened to them and of course I had to keep reading to see what fate had in store for them. The pages kept turning at a reasonably quick pace. At one point the pages turned that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. This wasn't a book that I could read in one burst but I binge read it over the course of a couple of days. I soon reached the end of the story which I was disappointed about. I was enjoying the author's writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I wished the book had been longer. I soon cheered myself up when I realised that I had the first book in the series to read.
'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' is well written. Cynthia has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. She draws you into the story from the first word onwards and you are soon swept along by the story of Lorna & Tristan. Like every relationship, theirs goes through ups and downs and is tested on more than one occasion. I felt so convinced by Cynthia's writing that I found myself going through every single emotion that the characters were going through. I also loved the fact that Cynthia has described the post Second World War world so well. I didn't know my grandparents so I can only guess at the conditions that they had to live under following the cessation of hostilities. So by reading books such as this I have a new found appreciation of what they went through and how they had to live.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Cynthia's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
When I was invited to take part in the blog tour for 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box', I hadn't realised that it was actually the second book in the 'Lorna & Tristan' series. That didn't put me off reading the book though. As I enjoyed reading this book so much, I will definitely be reading the first book in the series, which is called 'Lorna Versus Laura', as soon as I can.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first couple of chapters, I knew that once I picked this book up I would find nigh on impossible to put to one side for any length of time. I just felt so in tune with the characters that I cared what happened to them and of course I had to keep reading to see what fate had in store for them. The pages kept turning at a reasonably quick pace. At one point the pages turned that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. This wasn't a book that I could read in one burst but I binge read it over the course of a couple of days. I soon reached the end of the story which I was disappointed about. I was enjoying the author's writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I wished the book had been longer. I soon cheered myself up when I realised that I had the first book in the series to read.
'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' is well written. Cynthia has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. She draws you into the story from the first word onwards and you are soon swept along by the story of Lorna & Tristan. Like every relationship, theirs goes through ups and downs and is tested on more than one occasion. I felt so convinced by Cynthia's writing that I found myself going through every single emotion that the characters were going through. I also loved the fact that Cynthia has described the post Second World War world so well. I didn't know my grandparents so I can only guess at the conditions that they had to live under following the cessation of hostilities. So by reading books such as this I have a new found appreciation of what they went through and how they had to live.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Rocks & Flowers In A Box' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Cynthia's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
January 21, 2020
Rocks and Flowers in a Box is the second book in the Lorna & Tristan series by author Cynthia Hilston. Set in Cleveland, Ohio in the 1940s towards the end of WWII, this story takes up where the previous book left off. Although this book could definitely stand on its own, I highly recommend reading both together to appreciate Lorna and Tristan’s story!
For those of us who read the previous book, we are now rejoining Lorna and Tristan after their marriage, and as they start to build their life together. If you’re starting with this story and have not read the previous one, no worries, as Ms. Hilston gives a recap of the previous book to summarize what you missed. But if you have the chance and the time, I highly recommend you pick up the previous book to read the beginning of Lorna and Tristan’s story!
Lorna and Tristan have not had an easy road to get to the point they are now. Hoping that their marriage is the starting point to a happy life together, they start to take steps to move forward from the past. But life still has some unexpected twists and turns on their path to their HEA. Shortly after their marriage, Tristan’s health deteriorates and Lorna’s brother Chuck, who everyone thought was killed in the war, is discovered alive. His imminent return is a happy occasion but also brings past secrets to the forefront that can destroy Tristan and Lorna’s newfound happiness.
Ms. Hilston really pulled on my heartstrings with this one! With Tristan’s health issue and Chuck’s return, I truly despaired that Lorna and Tristan would ever find peace to finally get their HEA. The return of Chuck from the war and watching him struggle with life and the secrets of the past was difficult to watch, but I understood how devastated he was feeling. In this story, we watch as Tristan, Lorna, and Chuck learn to navigate their lives around the past and try once again to move forward. Ms. Hilston did an excellent job with the writing and I really liked all the characters in this book. The secondary characters were fabulous and truly added a spark to the story! This was such a beautifully written story about faith, forgiveness, hope, and love, with an absolutely perfect ending! Highly recommend!
For those of us who read the previous book, we are now rejoining Lorna and Tristan after their marriage, and as they start to build their life together. If you’re starting with this story and have not read the previous one, no worries, as Ms. Hilston gives a recap of the previous book to summarize what you missed. But if you have the chance and the time, I highly recommend you pick up the previous book to read the beginning of Lorna and Tristan’s story!
Lorna and Tristan have not had an easy road to get to the point they are now. Hoping that their marriage is the starting point to a happy life together, they start to take steps to move forward from the past. But life still has some unexpected twists and turns on their path to their HEA. Shortly after their marriage, Tristan’s health deteriorates and Lorna’s brother Chuck, who everyone thought was killed in the war, is discovered alive. His imminent return is a happy occasion but also brings past secrets to the forefront that can destroy Tristan and Lorna’s newfound happiness.
Ms. Hilston really pulled on my heartstrings with this one! With Tristan’s health issue and Chuck’s return, I truly despaired that Lorna and Tristan would ever find peace to finally get their HEA. The return of Chuck from the war and watching him struggle with life and the secrets of the past was difficult to watch, but I understood how devastated he was feeling. In this story, we watch as Tristan, Lorna, and Chuck learn to navigate their lives around the past and try once again to move forward. Ms. Hilston did an excellent job with the writing and I really liked all the characters in this book. The secondary characters were fabulous and truly added a spark to the story! This was such a beautifully written story about faith, forgiveness, hope, and love, with an absolutely perfect ending! Highly recommend!
January 20, 2020
It is perfectly possible to read this as a standalone although I am sure that you would have greater insight into the characters if you were to sample the first book. I would say that the characterisation in this novel is a strength. It is an emotional read at times and delves into social issues of alcoholism, and alienation within a family. There are some raw edges to all the characters and they have to come to terms with letting go of the past and forgiveness.
Set in the US post Second World War, you get to see how returning soldiers come to deal with the life back home. It is a fascinating period of history and you totally see the characters set within a specific time period. It forms them. As secrets from the past threaten the new order, you find yourself hooked into the lives of Lorna and Tristan and the others.
In short: Post War life is dominated by secrets in the past.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
Set in the US post Second World War, you get to see how returning soldiers come to deal with the life back home. It is a fascinating period of history and you totally see the characters set within a specific time period. It forms them. As secrets from the past threaten the new order, you find yourself hooked into the lives of Lorna and Tristan and the others.
In short: Post War life is dominated by secrets in the past.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
January 28, 2020
There are certain books that you want to love but they just fall flat for you. One of those books for me is Rocks and Flowers in a Box. My heart immediately went out to Lorna, her ache for a family, and the situation that she has found herself in, but the real disconnect for me was with Tristan's character. You don't find out too many details about Tristan's back story, just the important things to note, which I'm sure the majority of his story is in the first book in the series, but all I saw from this character was selfishness, whininess, and negativism. Granted, he was sweet to Lorna, and I could feel the conflict, but I never felt truly close to him, and many of his tendencies were grating to me.
I won't spoil any part of the book, but there is one part that repeats a large part of the story over again, but gives certain thoughts that come from another character's perspective, and I thought this drew out the story, though I can understand the author's reason behind going in this direction.
The story itself is decent, if not on the depressing side, but it does have a sweet, satisfying happy ending and the writing is decent, but like I said before, I really wanted to love this novel, but sadly it's not a favorite.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
I won't spoil any part of the book, but there is one part that repeats a large part of the story over again, but gives certain thoughts that come from another character's perspective, and I thought this drew out the story, though I can understand the author's reason behind going in this direction.
The story itself is decent, if not on the depressing side, but it does have a sweet, satisfying happy ending and the writing is decent, but like I said before, I really wanted to love this novel, but sadly it's not a favorite.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
January 20, 2020
This is my first introduction to the work of Cynthia Hilston and as Rocks and Flowers in a Box is book two in a series I did feel like I'd missed out on a huge amount of history between the characters. However, the author with her words soon warmed me to these two characters; Lorna and Tristan, who have suffered greatly in the past. Their own individual lives have endured much emotional and mental turmoil but somehow there was a light at the end of the tunnel. That light was love, acceptance and forgiveness. The newly weds are rebuilding their lives but when news brings forth joy it also leads to anxiety for fear of the past breaking up what they have built.
Cynthia Hilston has created a moving heart-rendering story set in America at the end of WWII, were a young couple are trying to rebuild their lives. Through Lorna's faith and spiritual beliefs her love shines through healing old and new wounds.
Cynthia Hilston has created a moving heart-rendering story set in America at the end of WWII, were a young couple are trying to rebuild their lives. Through Lorna's faith and spiritual beliefs her love shines through healing old and new wounds.
January 20, 2020
Lovely and inspiring
Lovely story about how love helps us heal. Tristan and Lorna continue their journey after life knocked them flat but gave them each other. This book resolves many of the questions in the first book, including what happened to Lornas younger brother. It’s a hope-filled tale that makes for inspirational reading. The writing is solid and the characters really pop from the page.
Lovely story about how love helps us heal. Tristan and Lorna continue their journey after life knocked them flat but gave them each other. This book resolves many of the questions in the first book, including what happened to Lornas younger brother. It’s a hope-filled tale that makes for inspirational reading. The writing is solid and the characters really pop from the page.
February 3, 2020
This is a new to me author and while I really can't connect with the characters I still enjoyed this book. I stayed up all night just because it was so good!
I loved the Post WW2 setting for this story.
I can't imagine what the war was like or how the soldiers felt or dealt with life after they came home. This book has given me some idea of that. (My grandfather fought in Germany).
I felt the author has done her research well and has covered everything that was discussed in the this book.
She has made me an instant fan of her books.
I love the way she has made the character's feelings come out of the book and what I really liked was learning about POW camps in Germany.
I loved Lorna from the beginning. She's my favorite character.
I think it's because of her perfect example of her strong faith in God.
I understand the meaning of rock bottom( I've felt that way many times). Because sometimes when things don't go right or when we dread things our stomach tends to hit a rock so to speak. Lorna feels this way when her brother Chucky shows up at her door.
Tristan is dealing with matters of his own. I do love him for trying. But will his secret end up destroying everything they've worked so hard for or will forgiveness com into play?
Y'all will just have to pick up this story to find out. I believe y'all will be pleasantly surprised!
I highly recommend.
My thanks to Just Reads Tours for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a review for this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved the Post WW2 setting for this story.
I can't imagine what the war was like or how the soldiers felt or dealt with life after they came home. This book has given me some idea of that. (My grandfather fought in Germany).
I felt the author has done her research well and has covered everything that was discussed in the this book.
She has made me an instant fan of her books.
I love the way she has made the character's feelings come out of the book and what I really liked was learning about POW camps in Germany.
I loved Lorna from the beginning. She's my favorite character.
I think it's because of her perfect example of her strong faith in God.
I understand the meaning of rock bottom( I've felt that way many times). Because sometimes when things don't go right or when we dread things our stomach tends to hit a rock so to speak. Lorna feels this way when her brother Chucky shows up at her door.
Tristan is dealing with matters of his own. I do love him for trying. But will his secret end up destroying everything they've worked so hard for or will forgiveness com into play?
Y'all will just have to pick up this story to find out. I believe y'all will be pleasantly surprised!
I highly recommend.
My thanks to Just Reads Tours for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a review for this book. All opinions are my own.
December 9, 2019
Cynthia does it again! Book 2 does not disappoint as we laugh and cry with Lorna and Tristan. Through secrets, joys, and sorrows, Cynthia has a gift of understanding relationships and emotions and draws the reader into the book.
November 23, 2019
Lorna and Tristan's relationship is tested and tested again! This book explores how what lengths we'll go to for those we love, how we err for them, smother them, speak roughly to them. To watch Lorna and Tristan navigate their new lives together (and the lie that follows them into it) is a delight.
February 4, 2020
Forgiveness is a great gift if you can give it!
Lorna and Tristan are enjoying their just found happiness together. But too soon their happiness comes to an end when Tristan’s suddenly goes for the worse. Luckily for them, a ray of light appears when Lorna receives the news that her brother is still alive, as earlier he was assumed to be killed during the war. Lorna is obviously over the moon with this news, but how will Chucky react when he finds out who Lorna married?
This story somehow hit me emotionally on a level that is indescribable... Both Lorna and Tristan have been through so much in their lives, separately and together, I just hoped they could find their happily ever after quickly. For those who have read the first part of this series, know that forgiveness is an amazing gift, what Lorna gave Tristan. But what about Chucky when he finds out the truth? In the past happened so many things that effected their lives, and not everybody has been able to grieve like it should.
The whole time I was reading, I almost felt the ache in my heart… the sad parts were so heart-gripping I felt sad and depressed myself hours after put the book away… And when there were happy moments, my spirits were lifted! All the emotions in the story had an effect on my own emotions!
An amazing book that will touch your heart and will be in your mind long after you reached the end!
Lorna and Tristan are enjoying their just found happiness together. But too soon their happiness comes to an end when Tristan’s suddenly goes for the worse. Luckily for them, a ray of light appears when Lorna receives the news that her brother is still alive, as earlier he was assumed to be killed during the war. Lorna is obviously over the moon with this news, but how will Chucky react when he finds out who Lorna married?
This story somehow hit me emotionally on a level that is indescribable... Both Lorna and Tristan have been through so much in their lives, separately and together, I just hoped they could find their happily ever after quickly. For those who have read the first part of this series, know that forgiveness is an amazing gift, what Lorna gave Tristan. But what about Chucky when he finds out the truth? In the past happened so many things that effected their lives, and not everybody has been able to grieve like it should.
The whole time I was reading, I almost felt the ache in my heart… the sad parts were so heart-gripping I felt sad and depressed myself hours after put the book away… And when there were happy moments, my spirits were lifted! All the emotions in the story had an effect on my own emotions!
An amazing book that will touch your heart and will be in your mind long after you reached the end!
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