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The Carousel
An emotional journey of four women connected by blood, love, loss and time.
Pruett Fontaine is at a crossroads. Divorced, she’s lost herself and is struggling to find her place. When her estranged mother dies unexpectedly, she’s drawn back to Louisiana, to a family and town she left behind twenty years ago.
With no choice but to deal with her mother’s estate, a father she doesn’t know anymore, and the woman her mother left them for, she brings her teenage daughter to Sweetwater and collides with a past she’s been running from since she was eighteen.
Her mother’s journals open her eyes to a woman she barely knew, and she can’t outrun the sins of the past. Secrets are exposed, tragedies are revealed, and temptation rears its head over the course of one long, hot Louisiana summer.
Pruett Fontaine is at a crossroads. Divorced, she’s lost herself and is struggling to find her place. When her estranged mother dies unexpectedly, she’s drawn back to Louisiana, to a family and town she left behind twenty years ago.
With no choice but to deal with her mother’s estate, a father she doesn’t know anymore, and the woman her mother left them for, she brings her teenage daughter to Sweetwater and collides with a past she’s been running from since she was eighteen.
Her mother’s journals open her eyes to a woman she barely knew, and she can’t outrun the sins of the past. Secrets are exposed, tragedies are revealed, and temptation rears its head over the course of one long, hot Louisiana summer.
- GenresWomens Fiction
316 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2020
12 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 19, 2020
The Carousel was one pleasant surprise. I love finding a new-to-me author and J.A. Stone gave me all the feels with this well-written and extremely angsty book. With Pruett Fontaine at the core of this story, all the secrets she has yet to uncover may just be her saving grace. And yet, at the same time, she's hesitant to discover just who her mother Lila truly was. Her pain bled through each and every page and I held my breath when the old and worn puzzle pieces started to fall back in place.
I love the way the author gives us four different voices, telling tales that although are separated by many years, have that same feeling of indecision and uncertainty no matter the age. Four women who have their own private thoughts and worry. All beautifully interwoven as Prue finally gets to the bottom of why she had an absent mother and finally accepting just who she was and how that has affected her own decisions. Particularly with her own daughter, Daisy and those she left behind all those years ago.
I found myself more and more curious as to the reasons of why Lila couldn't be what her daughter Prue needed as a recent discovery started the eventual road to a surprising semblance of peace. Not only for Prue but for Bev, Carol and Daisy. And with the damp, humid but very fragrant background of Sweetwater, Louisiana, this story found it's rhythm and I became one of the cheerleaders.
With a bittersweet nature that is surrounded by the sights and sounds of a small hometown, the newfound lightness that comes with a new start in old surroundings, I was enraptured by all the moving parts that is The Carousel. It is a beautiful story that takes a profound amount of sadness and regret and turns it around into something hopeful and determined. The characters are wonderful and the story is truly engaging in that slow and easy way only the likes of a Louisiana can offer.
5 stars all the way!
I love the way the author gives us four different voices, telling tales that although are separated by many years, have that same feeling of indecision and uncertainty no matter the age. Four women who have their own private thoughts and worry. All beautifully interwoven as Prue finally gets to the bottom of why she had an absent mother and finally accepting just who she was and how that has affected her own decisions. Particularly with her own daughter, Daisy and those she left behind all those years ago.
I found myself more and more curious as to the reasons of why Lila couldn't be what her daughter Prue needed as a recent discovery started the eventual road to a surprising semblance of peace. Not only for Prue but for Bev, Carol and Daisy. And with the damp, humid but very fragrant background of Sweetwater, Louisiana, this story found it's rhythm and I became one of the cheerleaders.
With a bittersweet nature that is surrounded by the sights and sounds of a small hometown, the newfound lightness that comes with a new start in old surroundings, I was enraptured by all the moving parts that is The Carousel. It is a beautiful story that takes a profound amount of sadness and regret and turns it around into something hopeful and determined. The characters are wonderful and the story is truly engaging in that slow and easy way only the likes of a Louisiana can offer.
5 stars all the way!
January 28, 2020
I read this book in one day. Once I began reading, the story refused to let go. The characters drew me in, engaging both my interest and my emotions from beginning to end and the mystery of Lila kept me guessing right up to the reveal. It's the kind of story I'd love to see played out on screen. In fact, the experience of reading this book was so immersive that at times I felt like I was watching a movie. I hope that Stone will venture into this type of storytelling again. She has a clear talent for it.
*Full review at theromancedish.com
*Full review at theromancedish.com
January 12, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It starts off with a melancholy tone to the writing which can make a person want to put a book down but not this one. It is done so well it draws you in and makes you believe there is a deeper mystery here and there is. Pruett Fontaine escaped from the south, her family and her past long ago. Now that her mother has died and she was named in the will, she has no choice but to go back and confront it all. We are slowly fed little tidbits about the mystery as Prue finally decides she wants to know the truth herself.
I loved the characters in this story, even ones Prue dreads and doesn't want to confront. I also loved the theme of southern manners and attitudes about race that permeate the story. This book was hard to put down as it pulls you down the rabbit hole into Prue's world. The tone of writing changes as Prue's mood changes which only draws you in deeper. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the characters in this story, even ones Prue dreads and doesn't want to confront. I also loved the theme of southern manners and attitudes about race that permeate the story. This book was hard to put down as it pulls you down the rabbit hole into Prue's world. The tone of writing changes as Prue's mood changes which only draws you in deeper. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2020
ARC for honest review with no compensation received from BookSprout
The Carousel by J. A. Stone is a standalone about 4 women and how they intersect in an emotional journey spanning 20 years. There are secrets, journals, tragedies, twists, turns and some heart pounding moments. This book will keep you enthralled and reading to find out where the story goes...
The Carousel by J. A. Stone is a standalone about 4 women and how they intersect in an emotional journey spanning 20 years. There are secrets, journals, tragedies, twists, turns and some heart pounding moments. This book will keep you enthralled and reading to find out where the story goes...
January 16, 2020
The Carousel is an emotional journey of four women connected by blood, love, loss and time.
I loved this book and its descriptions of the southern areas and attitudes. The storyline is well written and kept me turning the pages as Prue dealt with her mother's will. There are secrets from the past, friends, family issues to be resolved, intrigue, and more.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book and its descriptions of the southern areas and attitudes. The storyline is well written and kept me turning the pages as Prue dealt with her mother's will. There are secrets from the past, friends, family issues to be resolved, intrigue, and more.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2020
4.5 stars--
About the book: Release Date January 28, 2020
An emotional journey of four women connected by blood, love, loss and time.
Pruett Fontaine is at a crossroads. Divorced, she’s lost herself and is struggling to find her place. When her estranged mother dies unexpectedly, she’s drawn back to Louisiana, to a family and town she left behind twenty years ago.
With no choice but to deal with her mother’s estate, a father she doesn’t know anymore, and the woman her mother left them for, she brings her teenage daughter to Sweetwater and collides with a past she’s been running from since she was eighteen.
Her mother’s journals open her eyes to a woman she barely knew, and she can’t outrun the sins of the past. Secrets are exposed, tragedies are revealed, and temptation rears its head over the course of one long, hot Louisiana summer.
•••••••
REVIEW: 4.5 stars-- THE CAROUSEL by J. A. Stone (Juliana Stone) is a contemporary, adult, stand alone story of women’s fiction focusing on four women (Pruett, Daisy, Carol and Lila) from Sweetwater, Louisiana.
Told from several first person perspectives (Pruett Fontaine, Daisy, Charlotte), third person (Carol Seaton) and journal entries (Lila) THE CAROUSEL follows four women connected by blood and love. Divorced mother Pruett Fontaine is called home to Sweetwater, Louisiana after the death of her mother Lila, a woman she hasn’t seen or to whom she has spoken in close to twenty years. With her fifteen- year old daughter Daisy, in tow, Pruett returns to a place that holds too many memories of a time long ago-of a lost love, a dysfunctional family, and a mother who was emotionally absent all of her life. As Pruett attempts to move on from the past, the past isn’t willing to let go, especially when secrets are about to be revealed.
Pruett Fontaine left Sweetwater twenty years earlier, the night her life imploded when a face to face with her mother ended their relationship. Things said in anger pushed Pruett out of town, and away from the boy she would always love. Marriage, family and eventually divorce would force Pruett to analyse her life but more so her return to Sweetwater where the sins of the past come looking for a second chance. But not all is well in Sweetwater, Louisiana as long buried secrets are about to resurface forcing the small town to revisit a dark and dangerous past.
We are introduced to Lila’s best friend and partner Carol, who worked and operated the local B&B: Aunt Charlotte, Lila’s sister; Pruett’s daughter Daisy; and an assortment of Sweetwater lifers, who never expected Pruett’s return. A best friend from childhood, along with Pruett’s first love are never far from Pruett’s mind but a series of journals left to her by her mother Lila, will pull Pruett into the past, a past that will begin to reveal the truth about what happened and why.
THE CAROUSEL is a story about a dysfunctional family where the truth will reveal a past mired in betrayal and heart break; an emotional journey for one woman as she comes to terms with the woman she once called mother, and the family owned secrets that destroyed too many lives. From her heart-broken father (Beverly) who lost the love of his life the same night twenty years earlier, to a woman who struggles to move forward without her friend by her side, THE CAROUSEL spans but a few weeks, yet close to forty years as we are witness to the events leading up to Pruett’s acceptance of a past that controlled her entire life. The premise is captivating and intriguing; the characters are colorful, broken, struggling and strong; the world building is detailed and introspective.
Copy supplied by Booksprout
www.thereadingcafe.com
About the book: Release Date January 28, 2020
An emotional journey of four women connected by blood, love, loss and time.
Pruett Fontaine is at a crossroads. Divorced, she’s lost herself and is struggling to find her place. When her estranged mother dies unexpectedly, she’s drawn back to Louisiana, to a family and town she left behind twenty years ago.
With no choice but to deal with her mother’s estate, a father she doesn’t know anymore, and the woman her mother left them for, she brings her teenage daughter to Sweetwater and collides with a past she’s been running from since she was eighteen.
Her mother’s journals open her eyes to a woman she barely knew, and she can’t outrun the sins of the past. Secrets are exposed, tragedies are revealed, and temptation rears its head over the course of one long, hot Louisiana summer.
•••••••
REVIEW: 4.5 stars-- THE CAROUSEL by J. A. Stone (Juliana Stone) is a contemporary, adult, stand alone story of women’s fiction focusing on four women (Pruett, Daisy, Carol and Lila) from Sweetwater, Louisiana.
Told from several first person perspectives (Pruett Fontaine, Daisy, Charlotte), third person (Carol Seaton) and journal entries (Lila) THE CAROUSEL follows four women connected by blood and love. Divorced mother Pruett Fontaine is called home to Sweetwater, Louisiana after the death of her mother Lila, a woman she hasn’t seen or to whom she has spoken in close to twenty years. With her fifteen- year old daughter Daisy, in tow, Pruett returns to a place that holds too many memories of a time long ago-of a lost love, a dysfunctional family, and a mother who was emotionally absent all of her life. As Pruett attempts to move on from the past, the past isn’t willing to let go, especially when secrets are about to be revealed.
Pruett Fontaine left Sweetwater twenty years earlier, the night her life imploded when a face to face with her mother ended their relationship. Things said in anger pushed Pruett out of town, and away from the boy she would always love. Marriage, family and eventually divorce would force Pruett to analyse her life but more so her return to Sweetwater where the sins of the past come looking for a second chance. But not all is well in Sweetwater, Louisiana as long buried secrets are about to resurface forcing the small town to revisit a dark and dangerous past.
We are introduced to Lila’s best friend and partner Carol, who worked and operated the local B&B: Aunt Charlotte, Lila’s sister; Pruett’s daughter Daisy; and an assortment of Sweetwater lifers, who never expected Pruett’s return. A best friend from childhood, along with Pruett’s first love are never far from Pruett’s mind but a series of journals left to her by her mother Lila, will pull Pruett into the past, a past that will begin to reveal the truth about what happened and why.
THE CAROUSEL is a story about a dysfunctional family where the truth will reveal a past mired in betrayal and heart break; an emotional journey for one woman as she comes to terms with the woman she once called mother, and the family owned secrets that destroyed too many lives. From her heart-broken father (Beverly) who lost the love of his life the same night twenty years earlier, to a woman who struggles to move forward without her friend by her side, THE CAROUSEL spans but a few weeks, yet close to forty years as we are witness to the events leading up to Pruett’s acceptance of a past that controlled her entire life. The premise is captivating and intriguing; the characters are colorful, broken, struggling and strong; the world building is detailed and introspective.
Copy supplied by Booksprout
www.thereadingcafe.com
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March 29, 2023Unexpected story but really good. I can tell I am getting tired of the typical romance novels with countless mundane sex scenes to fill the pages. Granted not all authors aspire to writing in this manner but this book was totally different.
Wow, unfortunately for Pruitt she wasn't born into the best of circumstances and sort of became a product of circumstance. The story begins with Pruitt's aunt informing her that her mother has passed. Since Pru left her small town in Louisiana to attend school and now lives in Boston, she is torn in having to return to a small town she hasn't been back to in 20 years. Eventually she returns to settle her estranged mother's affairs. That's where the story begins.
Pruitt is so very unhappy after her divorce and ends up a single mother in Boston so returning to her home in Louisiana and reuniting with old friends and learning to appreciate the smells, weather, food, and sounds of her home brings about a welcomed charge of happiness back into her life. Not only her life but the difficult and distant relationship with her daughter. Ultimately, her return turns out to be exactly what both Pru and her daughter needed in their lives.
Then starts the good part. Pruitt, angry with her mother and her lover wants nothing to do with her mother's living lover but has to endure because she has the answers that Pruitt needs to understand why her mother chose to become estranged to her. That's when the story really gets good. The evolution of emerging secrets, some Pruitt found in her mother's journals, others with her mother's lover, and also with her father. Just when you think all the secrets have been discovered, secrets continue to emerge to the end. I don't want to go into any more detail but there is much more happening between the lines. I laughed, cried, and was shocked throughout the book.
A page turner for sure but if you are expecting a sexy romance this is not the book for you. This is a difference kind of romance that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
Wow, unfortunately for Pruitt she wasn't born into the best of circumstances and sort of became a product of circumstance. The story begins with Pruitt's aunt informing her that her mother has passed. Since Pru left her small town in Louisiana to attend school and now lives in Boston, she is torn in having to return to a small town she hasn't been back to in 20 years. Eventually she returns to settle her estranged mother's affairs. That's where the story begins.
Pruitt is so very unhappy after her divorce and ends up a single mother in Boston so returning to her home in Louisiana and reuniting with old friends and learning to appreciate the smells, weather, food, and sounds of her home brings about a welcomed charge of happiness back into her life. Not only her life but the difficult and distant relationship with her daughter. Ultimately, her return turns out to be exactly what both Pru and her daughter needed in their lives.
Then starts the good part. Pruitt, angry with her mother and her lover wants nothing to do with her mother's living lover but has to endure because she has the answers that Pruitt needs to understand why her mother chose to become estranged to her. That's when the story really gets good. The evolution of emerging secrets, some Pruitt found in her mother's journals, others with her mother's lover, and also with her father. Just when you think all the secrets have been discovered, secrets continue to emerge to the end. I don't want to go into any more detail but there is much more happening between the lines. I laughed, cried, and was shocked throughout the book.
A page turner for sure but if you are expecting a sexy romance this is not the book for you. This is a difference kind of romance that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
January 20, 2020
A second chance at life, history repeating itself, and the sacrifices made for ones you love. Prue goes through a lot, has been through a lot in life. Going home shows her she did once have hope, a plan, and unconditional love. As she discovers herself again, the changes in her life that have shaped her, and the love that has always surrounded her, she is breathtaking in her discoveries. Her daughter Daisy, so much like her in every way. Her father, a steadfast, stalwart, loving presence in her life. Carol, the woman she blamed for ruining her life. Prue discovers all is not as it seemed, and the truth opens old wounds, but heals more than it hurts. Getting to know her mother only confuses her, and opens the doors, lifts the blinds, and makes her see what was always right there.
Punishing yourself for you sins, trying to make up for bad life choices, and showing your love the only way you know how. The adults in Prue’s life loved her more than she ever realized, and when she accepts that love, she sees where she wants and needs her life to go, and sets her chart. The paths that take her there aren’t without pitfalls, and she made a few, but learns to accept that as well. And even when it all seems so settled, that last chapter, oh that last chapter, solidified that Prue was so loved and protected, even those who thought they knew it all, didn’t know
The story telling weighs heavy in the air, like the Louisiana heat it describes. The ominousness is always right there, you know there is something hidden. Bit by bit the fog clears, and the tears I cried while reading it a deluge of rain that cleared it away. It left me broken and whole, overwhelmed by emotions, and it left me with a new best friend, Prue.
Punishing yourself for you sins, trying to make up for bad life choices, and showing your love the only way you know how. The adults in Prue’s life loved her more than she ever realized, and when she accepts that love, she sees where she wants and needs her life to go, and sets her chart. The paths that take her there aren’t without pitfalls, and she made a few, but learns to accept that as well. And even when it all seems so settled, that last chapter, oh that last chapter, solidified that Prue was so loved and protected, even those who thought they knew it all, didn’t know
The story telling weighs heavy in the air, like the Louisiana heat it describes. The ominousness is always right there, you know there is something hidden. Bit by bit the fog clears, and the tears I cried while reading it a deluge of rain that cleared it away. It left me broken and whole, overwhelmed by emotions, and it left me with a new best friend, Prue.
January 28, 2020
The Carousel - This is my first read by this author and I liked and disliked the story. It is well written with multiple storylines, which are so interesting it is difficult to put the book down. The characters run the gamut from generous and loving to hate-filled evil. They are real with realistic dialog and emotions. The emotions run the gamut over the course of the main character's life. Heartwarming and heartbreaking, this is a finely woven tapestry of Southern living from events that happened in 1970 to the effects still felt in the present.
Horrible things happened to several people as well as wonderful blessings. The secrets kept by all come out for many people but with none of the usual pity party mentality that is favored nowadays. The drama is faced, analyzed and mistakes made, but there are corrections and truths that touch so many. Out of the darkness comes light, but for some it is too late. There is no explicit sex and the vulgar language was kept to infrequent but appropriate usage.
What I disliked is the lack of understanding the difference between south and the South; southern and Southern; possessive vs. plural; and how to apply this knowledge. Where the book should have flowed smoothly at the good pace the author set, my reading was constantly interrupted by the continuous misuse of south and Southern. There were other distractions including: It is Maine coon and bundt; God and Country and the States; Southern pine and the Sunshine State; Mom, Dad and Grandpappy (and great-grandparent); God fearing and the Old South.
For the readers who do not understand my comments, you will find this book a perfect five-star read. For the rest of us, the disappointment of a good heartbreaking story ruined by bad editing/lack of knowledge will be felt on every page. I found this book on Booksprout. 3*
Horrible things happened to several people as well as wonderful blessings. The secrets kept by all come out for many people but with none of the usual pity party mentality that is favored nowadays. The drama is faced, analyzed and mistakes made, but there are corrections and truths that touch so many. Out of the darkness comes light, but for some it is too late. There is no explicit sex and the vulgar language was kept to infrequent but appropriate usage.
What I disliked is the lack of understanding the difference between south and the South; southern and Southern; possessive vs. plural; and how to apply this knowledge. Where the book should have flowed smoothly at the good pace the author set, my reading was constantly interrupted by the continuous misuse of south and Southern. There were other distractions including: It is Maine coon and bundt; God and Country and the States; Southern pine and the Sunshine State; Mom, Dad and Grandpappy (and great-grandparent); God fearing and the Old South.
For the readers who do not understand my comments, you will find this book a perfect five-star read. For the rest of us, the disappointment of a good heartbreaking story ruined by bad editing/lack of knowledge will be felt on every page. I found this book on Booksprout. 3*
January 30, 2020
4.5 Stars!
Such a shift from the contemporary romance works this author is known for. This book brings us history and intrigue and crazy family dynamics and angst and healing. I read this in one sitting. I was so drawn to the characters and the story as it unfolded--I needed to know the secrets.
Pruett and her daughter head to her home town to take care of her estranged mother's business and home. She reconnects with best friends. She re-opens communication with her father. And most important, spends the summer reading her mother's journals. Pru begins to understand the life and events that led her mother to be the person she was. She may finally be able to heal her heart once she reads them all.
Every character has a meaningful place in this story. There are some twists and turns that made the story come to life. I hadn't figured out the final twist until just about the end f the book.
So happy to have read this. Great job!
*Complimentary copy provided via Book Funnel for an honest review.
Such a shift from the contemporary romance works this author is known for. This book brings us history and intrigue and crazy family dynamics and angst and healing. I read this in one sitting. I was so drawn to the characters and the story as it unfolded--I needed to know the secrets.
Pruett and her daughter head to her home town to take care of her estranged mother's business and home. She reconnects with best friends. She re-opens communication with her father. And most important, spends the summer reading her mother's journals. Pru begins to understand the life and events that led her mother to be the person she was. She may finally be able to heal her heart once she reads them all.
Every character has a meaningful place in this story. There are some twists and turns that made the story come to life. I hadn't figured out the final twist until just about the end f the book.
So happy to have read this. Great job!
*Complimentary copy provided via Book Funnel for an honest review.
February 1, 2020
J.A Stone has really outshone here with The Carousel. This is one Women's Fiction novel that has a nice touch of mystery combined. The writing is so engaging, as well as the setting. Prue is a character you can get behind as we follow her back home as she tries to figure out why her recently deceased mother, who she was estranged from, never showed much emotion and left her father for another woman, and opened a bed and breakfast. The mystery plot involved three people- Prue's father and mother, and her mother's girlfriend, who has her own secrets. The setting is very rich here, and the abundance of characters round out the tale.
You will be hooked until the very last page, and when everything comes together and you have that aha moment, you will was to applaud because J.A. has excelled in writing a truly engaging novel. The last chapter will make you cheer, as well as give you some chills all do to the last line, which is near perfection.
A fabulous read that makes me want more of the same from J.A. in her future releases. The Carousel is a must read.
You will be hooked until the very last page, and when everything comes together and you have that aha moment, you will was to applaud because J.A. has excelled in writing a truly engaging novel. The last chapter will make you cheer, as well as give you some chills all do to the last line, which is near perfection.
A fabulous read that makes me want more of the same from J.A. in her future releases. The Carousel is a must read.
January 19, 2020
**3.5 Stars**
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am familiar with Juliana Stone from her romances so I was interested in this release as it is different from her other books. This is more about coming to terms with your past and the complexity of familial relationships. It did take me awhile to get into the story and I actually prefer the latter half of the book to the first half. There is a lot of set-up and the pacing is a bit slower in the beginning, but as the book progresses you start to learn more about the secrets, events and people that were alluded to in the first half of the book and I liked the payoff. I wasn't really a fan of Prue's daughter Daisy, but I liked the other main characters, especially Prue's dad. He's a secondary character, but he just hit me in the heart.
All in all, while I wish the story was a little bit tighter (and less wordy), this was a good read for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am familiar with Juliana Stone from her romances so I was interested in this release as it is different from her other books. This is more about coming to terms with your past and the complexity of familial relationships. It did take me awhile to get into the story and I actually prefer the latter half of the book to the first half. There is a lot of set-up and the pacing is a bit slower in the beginning, but as the book progresses you start to learn more about the secrets, events and people that were alluded to in the first half of the book and I liked the payoff. I wasn't really a fan of Prue's daughter Daisy, but I liked the other main characters, especially Prue's dad. He's a secondary character, but he just hit me in the heart.
All in all, while I wish the story was a little bit tighter (and less wordy), this was a good read for me.
January 19, 2020
Prue and her daughter Daisy went back to her hometown after her mother died and left her a B&B in her will. The mother to whom she has not spoken in twenty years, not since she left Prue and her father for another love, Carol. Her mother also left her a bunch of diaries, which will introduce her to another woman than the one she knew since birth. But she also learns more about her dad and Carol, the woman she hated for taking her mother away from them. This is a story of forgiveness, self discovery. Of a grown daughter learning things about a mother she thought never loved her. Also about her relationship with her own teenage daughter and rediscovering herself and what is important for herself. An excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2020
A Tour de Force!
As spellbinding as it is astounding. This story has it all. Prue. Carol. Daisy. Bev. Charlotte. All real, identifiable characters, set in the Deep South, major conflict, an excellent plot, a highly satisfactory conclusion and best of all, a doozy of a plot.
Like an intricate patchwork quilt sewn together seamlessly with great care, the pattern mesmerizing the reader, unravelling with each turn of a page. From acrimonious, to understanding, graceful absolution and then happiness.
I was hooked from page one and ran the gamut of emotions until the end. And as always, Ms Stone does not disappoint with her exquisite writing style. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As spellbinding as it is astounding. This story has it all. Prue. Carol. Daisy. Bev. Charlotte. All real, identifiable characters, set in the Deep South, major conflict, an excellent plot, a highly satisfactory conclusion and best of all, a doozy of a plot.
Like an intricate patchwork quilt sewn together seamlessly with great care, the pattern mesmerizing the reader, unravelling with each turn of a page. From acrimonious, to understanding, graceful absolution and then happiness.
I was hooked from page one and ran the gamut of emotions until the end. And as always, Ms Stone does not disappoint with her exquisite writing style. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
This book was unexpected...in a fantastically good way!
I have been used to light sexy romances from Juliana Stone. Here, writing as J.A. Stone, she spun a tale of love, family, honor, and prejudices in the South. Spanning multiple generations, a heartbreaking and hopeful story of love, loss, and life yet to be experienced draws you deeper and deeper into the world of Prue, her daughter, and her extended family.
I simply could not put this book down once I started reading it. I laughed, I cried, I gasped in shock and amazement. I am so hoping there will be a sequel to this book. I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I have been used to light sexy romances from Juliana Stone. Here, writing as J.A. Stone, she spun a tale of love, family, honor, and prejudices in the South. Spanning multiple generations, a heartbreaking and hopeful story of love, loss, and life yet to be experienced draws you deeper and deeper into the world of Prue, her daughter, and her extended family.
I simply could not put this book down once I started reading it. I laughed, I cried, I gasped in shock and amazement. I am so hoping there will be a sequel to this book. I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 19, 2020
I devoured The Carousel in only two days. I simply had to find out how the story evolved, if my assumptions were correct and what happens after family history is revealed. The Carousel definitely keeps you thinking and reading for more.
A few tears were shed at the losses experienced by various characters and smiled when wrongs were righted and history explained. Lots of feels in this book, I thought it was very well written and had a fabulous flow. Loved the Southern setting and all that entails.
I was privileged to read an advance copy of the book whilst awaiting my preorder.
January 21, 2020
This book was nothing I expected and everything I want from a good book.
Pruette is going home after her mother's death. Acplace she has avoided and people who have hurt her deeply.
This story is voiced by four women - Pru, Daisy, Carol and Bev. This story intertwined their individual stories and how they are all connected.
This book will grab your attention and keep it throughout. Each woman must comes to grips with the choices they have made and how they have effected their lives, and those around them.
I highly recommend this book.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review
Pruette is going home after her mother's death. Acplace she has avoided and people who have hurt her deeply.
This story is voiced by four women - Pru, Daisy, Carol and Bev. This story intertwined their individual stories and how they are all connected.
This book will grab your attention and keep it throughout. Each woman must comes to grips with the choices they have made and how they have effected their lives, and those around them.
I highly recommend this book.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review
January 24, 2020
What an interesting page turning read. I love the way this story unfolded as it was never hurried. The reader got each piece of story just as it was needed. For me the read was like a flower unfolding and I have savored it! I have loved Juliana Stone’s romance books, but her journey into Women’s fiction showed a depth of writing not seen in those books. I cannot even pick out which character I found more interesting as they were all unique. Love this book and will be spreading the word!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2019
Loved it from the first chapter
by Jennifer V
I loved this new book!! I’ve read all her other books as Juliana stone and they were awesome of course but this was totally different. I really put u in the storyline with each person’s perspective and point of view. I can’t wait to see why else she has in store for us
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by Jennifer V
I loved this new book!! I’ve read all her other books as Juliana stone and they were awesome of course but this was totally different. I really put u in the storyline with each person’s perspective and point of view. I can’t wait to see why else she has in store for us
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2020
I have to admit that this is not my normal type of book. I couldn’t stop reading this one though … I became so involved in these characters lives that I didn’t want the book to end. I want to know what happens to everyone. It was so well written, that I felt like I was in the book with them during the happy times and the sad times. I felt for all of these people. I LOVED Beverly! I wanted to hug him … many times. Definitely give this one a whirl ….
January 20, 2020
This was an interesting story That had a great storyline. It kept you guessing as to the ending. So many players in play with hints as to the ending. But you don’t actually find out until right at the end.
My only find for me was I am not a reader that likes too much information. For me it slowed the book down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2020
After receiving this book and starting to read it, I realized that this is a very intriguing book full of surprises! If you don't like mystery in a book, this is not a book for you. Even after reading it, it made me question some of the story line. Family dynamics made this book very enjoyable and easy to read. Deep rooted friendships and dedication to humanity made it. Liked everything about it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2020
This book wrapped me up and was one of those I didn't want to put down. Ms. Stone has delivered a book of intrigue wrapped up with romance.
Lost friends reunited, family discord resolved and secrets revealed. You won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lost friends reunited, family discord resolved and secrets revealed. You won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2020
A woman who doesn't know her own strength trying to find her home and her heart again in a town slow-simmering with secrets...The Carousel has a depth of Southern flavor that had me devouring this story about the grace of reconnection and discovery. I was left feeling hopeful about the power of family and love in overcoming a troubled past.
January 20, 2020
I have read stories from this author before and was not expecting this one. The book tells the story of a girls life with flash backs from the past. Riveting story THat keeps you second guessing everything that is happening. Kept me turning the page to see what happens! Would love to see these characters and this town in more stories!
January 20, 2020
Loved the depth of characters! I thoroughly enjoyed being taken on the journey through their lives. I hated to put it down and was sad when it was over. Even though I read this awhile ago I still find myself wondering what’s going on with Prue and Daisy. Can’t wait to read Ms. Stone’s next adventure!
January 26, 2020
Pruett returns to her hometown following her estranged mothers death. What follows is a journey of discovery as she unravels her family losses, history and secrets whilst discovering more about herself, her daughter and her mother's lover. Nicely crafted drama
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
Full Circle
This is a story from Juliana Stone. This story is written as J.A.Stone. Either way, this author wrote an amazing story. Incorporating the last with the present and hopefully the future ! The mother/daughter/grandaughter/father/girlfriends,past and present come full circle.
Very well wtitten, very interesting,easy to follow and keep your interest!
This is a story from Juliana Stone. This story is written as J.A.Stone. Either way, this author wrote an amazing story. Incorporating the last with the present and hopefully the future ! The mother/daughter/grandaughter/father/girlfriends,past and present come full circle.
Very well wtitten, very interesting,easy to follow and keep your interest!
October 6, 2020
I just finished this book. I loved this. It is a brilliant and moving story of family. The characters are so richly drawn, the story is so compelling I read it through in one sitting. It broke my heart and healed it by the end. I have read many of Juliana Stone books and this is a departure for this author. It should not be missed. I will definitely read this again and again!!
February 13, 2024
Family and secrets
Lots of secrets that a mother has hidden from her daughter. A mother who left her husband and daughter to live with a woman but had no further contact with her daughter. Years later she comes back to visit her father with her own daughter and visits her mother's female lover
Lots of secrets that a mother has hidden from her daughter. A mother who left her husband and daughter to live with a woman but had no further contact with her daughter. Years later she comes back to visit her father with her own daughter and visits her mother's female lover
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