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Jelly Jars
A girl in the one place she never wanted to be.
Meeting the one person she never expected.
But what Peggy Nieman doesn't realize is that her life is about to change, as two broken souls fatefully collide. The only question is: will they heal one another ... or destroy one another?
Because one thing is certain ... they can't quit one another.
Meeting the one person she never expected.
But what Peggy Nieman doesn't realize is that her life is about to change, as two broken souls fatefully collide. The only question is: will they heal one another ... or destroy one another?
Because one thing is certain ... they can't quit one another.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2020
About the author
S.J. Varengo
27 books40 followersScott James (S.J.) Varengo was born in 1960, in a city called New York. Two years later he formed a band called The Beatles [citation needed].
He returned to New York City to attend Fordham University (having been told it was a basketball powerhouse) before transferring to the State University of New York at Potsdam (having been told it was located in the tropics), from which he earned a bachelor’s degree in Art History.
Varengo loves to read (favorite authors include Craig A. Hart, Kurt Vonnegut, J.R.R. Tolkien and an up-and-comer named Ernie Heming-something-or-other), listen to music (when he writes, it's usually jazz - the rest of the time it's Tasmanian flute concertos), and walk along forested trails with his wife Kim and their dog Tanner. He lives in Baldwinsville, NY, a suburb of Syracuse, known for its picturesque setting and its friendly people. He has two adult children of whom he is obnoxiously proud.
His published works include a volume of short fiction, two fantasy novels, and an ever-growing list of spy/espionage novellas, which he co-writes with Craig A. Hart.
He returned to New York City to attend Fordham University (having been told it was a basketball powerhouse) before transferring to the State University of New York at Potsdam (having been told it was located in the tropics), from which he earned a bachelor’s degree in Art History.
Varengo loves to read (favorite authors include Craig A. Hart, Kurt Vonnegut, J.R.R. Tolkien and an up-and-comer named Ernie Heming-something-or-other), listen to music (when he writes, it's usually jazz - the rest of the time it's Tasmanian flute concertos), and walk along forested trails with his wife Kim and their dog Tanner. He lives in Baldwinsville, NY, a suburb of Syracuse, known for its picturesque setting and its friendly people. He has two adult children of whom he is obnoxiously proud.
His published works include a volume of short fiction, two fantasy novels, and an ever-growing list of spy/espionage novellas, which he co-writes with Craig A. Hart.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 11, 2020
Drinking expensive champagne out of jelly jars with a stranger in a dive bar. Sounds like an interesting story, doesn’t it? Well, it certainly was. It was also delightful and heartwarming and, at times, it got emotional.
Never a dull moment for Peggy and Bradley, their entertaining journey was full of fun, laughs, and love. It gave me plenty of smiles and even brought some tears to my eyes.
Their connection was immediate and it was strong. From the moment their eyes met, they knew.
They clicked on so many levels.
They got each other.
They wanted each other.
And little did they know, they needed each other.
Their relationship was adorable and the way they interacted came so natural. The author did a great job showing how they fit perfectly in each other’s lives. With each step of their journey, another puzzle piece was put in place.
The wit and wisecracks throughout the story were clever and humorous and added quite a bit of charm. Yet the serious parts made this an emotionally touching story that often pulled at the heartstrings.
This unique story had a little bit of everything to make this a very enjoyable read for me.
Age gap: Older man, younger woman (a mature 21)
Sexy times: Fade to black
Insta-love/lust: yes
Sweet & romantic: yes!
Never a dull moment for Peggy and Bradley, their entertaining journey was full of fun, laughs, and love. It gave me plenty of smiles and even brought some tears to my eyes.
Their connection was immediate and it was strong. From the moment their eyes met, they knew.
They clicked on so many levels.
They got each other.
They wanted each other.
And little did they know, they needed each other.
Their relationship was adorable and the way they interacted came so natural. The author did a great job showing how they fit perfectly in each other’s lives. With each step of their journey, another puzzle piece was put in place.
The wit and wisecracks throughout the story were clever and humorous and added quite a bit of charm. Yet the serious parts made this an emotionally touching story that often pulled at the heartstrings.
This unique story had a little bit of everything to make this a very enjoyable read for me.
Age gap: Older man, younger woman (a mature 21)
Sexy times: Fade to black
Insta-love/lust: yes
Sweet & romantic: yes!
December 2, 2020
The daily newsletter for a prominent east coast newspaper just requested nominations for its 2020 book list. They want only happy, life-affirming books that made you laugh and no tears and tragedy along the way, so I had to forego nominating this one, but in spite of a couple of the most heartrending backstories you could ever want to read, Jelly Jars is one of the happiest, most life affirming stories I have read in a very long time.
In its simplest form, this is a love story - college girl meets rich man, whirl-wind romance, happily ever after, but it's so much more than that. It's about loneliness and family and searching for a forever home. It's also about America. From Berkley to Baltimore the story literally spans the continental United States.
It also runs the gamut of emotions. There were moments when I ugly cried along with the characters but, like I said, it's one of the most life affirming stories I've seen in quite a while. I chuckled at the silliness and sometimes I laughed out loud. I fell in love with jazz music and Middle Eastern food in New Orleans and I celebrated redemption and life and hope for a brighter future with characters we all wish we could meet.
I loved Jelly Jars, and I think you will too.
In its simplest form, this is a love story - college girl meets rich man, whirl-wind romance, happily ever after, but it's so much more than that. It's about loneliness and family and searching for a forever home. It's also about America. From Berkley to Baltimore the story literally spans the continental United States.
It also runs the gamut of emotions. There were moments when I ugly cried along with the characters but, like I said, it's one of the most life affirming stories I've seen in quite a while. I chuckled at the silliness and sometimes I laughed out loud. I fell in love with jazz music and Middle Eastern food in New Orleans and I celebrated redemption and life and hope for a brighter future with characters we all wish we could meet.
I loved Jelly Jars, and I think you will too.
November 25, 2020
Jelly Jars - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Peggy and Bradley meet in a 'cowboy' bar in Texas over expensive champagne, drunk from his newly-purchased, upcycled, eponymous jelly (aka jam), jars.
What follows is a wonderful romance between two damaged, lonely people, with a rediscovered relationship for one and a lifetime of happiness for both, (after a little turbulence and a visit from 'Elvis').
Absolutely unputdownable, riveting, engaging, innovative emotions and personalities, set among an interesting variety of scenarios, Scott Varengo's Jelly Jars is the most heart-warming and endearing romance you'll read all year... satisfaction guaranteed. Get it now!
Peggy and Bradley meet in a 'cowboy' bar in Texas over expensive champagne, drunk from his newly-purchased, upcycled, eponymous jelly (aka jam), jars.
What follows is a wonderful romance between two damaged, lonely people, with a rediscovered relationship for one and a lifetime of happiness for both, (after a little turbulence and a visit from 'Elvis').
Absolutely unputdownable, riveting, engaging, innovative emotions and personalities, set among an interesting variety of scenarios, Scott Varengo's Jelly Jars is the most heart-warming and endearing romance you'll read all year... satisfaction guaranteed. Get it now!
December 2, 2020
Jelly Jars is the newest outing by the talented S.J. Varengo, and I was immersed into his world within the first few pages. The story is a heart-warming tale of Peggy and Bradley, set against a backdrop of witty repartee and colorful locations, where each new page brings a new surprise. You won’t want to miss this one!
November 24, 2020
Beautiful feel good read. Now I'm not one for romance books I'm more a thrillers girl but have read virtually all of Mr V's book so gave this one a go. I was extremally surprised right from the start the story had me hooked. It's not your usual boy meets girl & they all live happily ever after kind of book though. You are treated to some brilliant scene description, strong believable characters & a story that flows really well. The internal monologue of Peggy constantly thinking what could go wrong this can't be true will rings a cord with all women readers & it adds depth to the story. Don't let the title put you off once you've started reading it will make sense. This isn't a soft mushy romance but a slightly gritty, no nonsense exciting romance. I highly recommend this book it ain't just for the romance lovers but those that like a nice feel good story.
November 27, 2020
Not my usual genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed this story, no blood and guts, just a story of two people who fall in love, and yet it’s not a romance story either, I think it’s more of a story of true love. Have your tissues ready, I shed a few tears whilst reading it.
November 26, 2020
A feel good, humorous romp with great characters that will both tug at your heart strings and tickle your funny bone. Highly recommended. Grab some good vibes.
November 25, 2020
Thank you for the free Arc
Delightful story
I loved it
Delightful story
I loved it
December 5, 2020
This is the first book I have read by S.J. Varengo and I wasn’t at all sure what to expect. I wasn’t even sure of the genre of the book, but with a title like Jelly Jars, I knew it sounded interesting. Even when I got through the first few chapters, I wasn’t totally sure it was a romance because it was so different from the typical romance books I’ve read.
I truly enjoyed Mr. Varengo’s writing style – his use of words and the dialogue between the two main characters was enticing. Throughout the day, I found myself looking for excuses to read the book because I found the story line intriguing. I liked the way Varengo used the theme of the jelly jars throughout the book to parallel the lives of Bradley and Peggy. I also enjoyed the way they both grew through their relationship with each other.
I’m looking forward to reading more books by Mr. Varengo. If they are as good as this one, I can’t go wrong.
I truly enjoyed Mr. Varengo’s writing style – his use of words and the dialogue between the two main characters was enticing. Throughout the day, I found myself looking for excuses to read the book because I found the story line intriguing. I liked the way Varengo used the theme of the jelly jars throughout the book to parallel the lives of Bradley and Peggy. I also enjoyed the way they both grew through their relationship with each other.
I’m looking forward to reading more books by Mr. Varengo. If they are as good as this one, I can’t go wrong.
March 28, 2021
Beautiful love story!💜
This is my first book by S.J. Varengo but it definitely will not be my last. This story was written with so much heart and soul and it shows in every word. Heartbreaking yet romantic, fun and witty. Bradley is quirky and charming if a little juvenile, and I absolutely adore him. Although Peggy seems a bit lost, she’s actually a very strong woman. Aven Shore totally nailed the narration. I wonder if this book was written with her in mind because her performance for each character was amazing and such a good fit for her voice acting skills. Fantastic, well done everyone!
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
This is my first book by S.J. Varengo but it definitely will not be my last. This story was written with so much heart and soul and it shows in every word. Heartbreaking yet romantic, fun and witty. Bradley is quirky and charming if a little juvenile, and I absolutely adore him. Although Peggy seems a bit lost, she’s actually a very strong woman. Aven Shore totally nailed the narration. I wonder if this book was written with her in mind because her performance for each character was amazing and such a good fit for her voice acting skills. Fantastic, well done everyone!
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
November 30, 2020
I just finished this fabulous book by S.J. Varengo, Jelly Jars! I simply loved it! I noticed there is a giveaway for it on Goodreads. Obviously I already have it, so was just curious. Could not believe that only 345 people had entered to win one of the 100 books! What a deal. With 1/3 odds, it's almost a sure thing! I'm thinking of giving hard copies to all my family and friends. Also, I forgive the author for giving me a heart attack with the engine thing! This book is so different from others Varengo has written. Totally loved it!
November 30, 2020
Ok....my tears are still falling
What a beautiful piece of work! This story... These characters.... The witty reparte'...The amazing telling of this tale... was felt is so many ways. I loved feeling their pain as they relived their life's most horrific events and feeling their joy as they healed. Fabulous! Thank you for this journey. It was fun!
What a beautiful piece of work! This story... These characters.... The witty reparte'...The amazing telling of this tale... was felt is so many ways. I loved feeling their pain as they relived their life's most horrific events and feeling their joy as they healed. Fabulous! Thank you for this journey. It was fun!
November 28, 2020
I loved the love between Peggy and Bradley! Had me hooked from the beginning! Loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2021
Bradley and Peggy
This is a great story. Not your typical romance because it doesn’t become about the sex like most romance does. This is about two lost souls who need each other and meet by chance. These two just get each other from the start, from the juvenile antics of a grown man to the life experience of a college girl. I laughed and cried and gasped all while just enjoying this story. The narration was on point and wonderfully done! I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💞
This is a great story. Not your typical romance because it doesn’t become about the sex like most romance does. This is about two lost souls who need each other and meet by chance. These two just get each other from the start, from the juvenile antics of a grown man to the life experience of a college girl. I laughed and cried and gasped all while just enjoying this story. The narration was on point and wonderfully done! I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💞
March 20, 2021
Easily one of my favorite love stories. S.J. Varengo is excellent at his craft. He has written a masterpiece that creates an image in your mind and will leave you with a lasting feeling of warm fuzzies. I can’t recommend this book enough!!
February 28, 2021
I won this Kindle edition book in a Goodreads
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
A blend of comedy and romance. Great
characters.
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
A blend of comedy and romance. Great
characters.
January 10, 2021
Peggy and Bradley meet in a bar and drink champagne out of Jelly Jars. They start a journey of healing and love. Great read!
December 27, 2020
Jelly Jars is an unusual book. It is a fairy tale, sweet and imaginative, punctuated with grave matters, witty reasoning, and precise morale.
Peggy and Bradley are smart, free-minded individuals looking for a deeper meaning in their lives. Their path to new and more self-assured personalities goes through self-discovery, absolute honesty, and mutual support. Their dialogues are witty, unpredictable, the overall tone always remaining light, despite the circumstances emerging in the storyline.
The plot offers diverse cameo scenes, some sad, others moving, often hilarious, and frequently unexpected. The characters' ingenuity, sharp mind, and selfless and generous disposition make them stand out and earn them the reader's sympathy.
Finally, Jelly Jars is a perfect book for the Holidays. The message of hope and the light spirit of the narration are an amiable companion for a relaxed and delightful reading experience.
Peggy and Bradley are smart, free-minded individuals looking for a deeper meaning in their lives. Their path to new and more self-assured personalities goes through self-discovery, absolute honesty, and mutual support. Their dialogues are witty, unpredictable, the overall tone always remaining light, despite the circumstances emerging in the storyline.
The plot offers diverse cameo scenes, some sad, others moving, often hilarious, and frequently unexpected. The characters' ingenuity, sharp mind, and selfless and generous disposition make them stand out and earn them the reader's sympathy.
Finally, Jelly Jars is a perfect book for the Holidays. The message of hope and the light spirit of the narration are an amiable companion for a relaxed and delightful reading experience.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews