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Ava and Claire #2
Coming Closer: A Novel of 1930s Philadelphia
It’s hard to leave the past behind.
Recently widowed Ava has moved to Philadelphia, determined to start over. With her children and blossoming career as a dressmaker taking up all her time, she’s not ready for charming, persistent Max Byrne, even if he is a family friend and her daughter’s doctor. But he shows up at every turn, making it impossible for Ava to ignore him – and worse yet, she’s not sure she wants to.
Claire is torn between pride in her sister’s self-reliance and finding a way to pay back the debt she owes her. When an unexpected meeting in Washington DC gives Claire the chance to make change on an even larger scale, she jumps at the opportunity - abandoning her family duties in pursuit of good works.
The sisters find themselves on opposite while Claire neglects her family for greater causes, Ava considers sacrificing everything for hers. As they confront their pasts and take on new challenges, will they be able to overcome their differences and remember that family always comes first?
Don’t miss out on this captivating sequel as Ava and Claire navigate love, sacrifice, and the intricate dance of family bonds. Step back in time and immerse yourself in a narrative where the echoes of the past are still heard and a single choice can resonate through generations. A poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond of family awaits. Are you ready for the journey?
Editorial Reviews
“From page one, I was hooked. I had to know what was coming, how these two women, brave and flawed, would move through their world. A wonderful novel of family, society, challenge and strength.” – Lelita Baldock, author of Where the Gulls Fall Silent
“A compelling and realistic portrayal of the era and the complexities women faced (and still face) in balancing the needs and expectations of families, the men in their lives, and their own work and dreams.” – Marian L Thorpe, author of Empire’s Legacy
“It beautifully illustrates the bonds of sisterhood and family, and the true strength behind women. It’s a powerful exploration of love, loss, grief, and renewal.” – Kathleen Foxx, Badass Writers Podcast
“This story asks questions that strike close to the heart. How do we begin life over again, and what grief do we carry with us? A story of complex and loving sisterhood, Heenan brings Ava and Claire wonderfully to life in this second installment.” – Katie Crabb, author of Sailing by Orion’s Star
Claire is torn between pride in her sister’s self-reliance and finding a way to pay back the debt she owes her. When an unexpected meeting in Washington DC gives Claire the chance to make change on an even larger scale, she jumps at the opportunity - abandoning her family duties in pursuit of good works.
The sisters find themselves on opposite while Claire neglects her family for greater causes, Ava considers sacrificing everything for hers. As they confront their pasts and take on new challenges, will they be able to overcome their differences and remember that family always comes first?
Don’t miss out on this captivating sequel as Ava and Claire navigate love, sacrifice, and the intricate dance of family bonds. Step back in time and immerse yourself in a narrative where the echoes of the past are still heard and a single choice can resonate through generations. A poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond of family awaits. Are you ready for the journey?
Editorial Reviews
“From page one, I was hooked. I had to know what was coming, how these two women, brave and flawed, would move through their world. A wonderful novel of family, society, challenge and strength.” – Lelita Baldock, author of Where the Gulls Fall Silent
“A compelling and realistic portrayal of the era and the complexities women faced (and still face) in balancing the needs and expectations of families, the men in their lives, and their own work and dreams.” – Marian L Thorpe, author of Empire’s Legacy
“It beautifully illustrates the bonds of sisterhood and family, and the true strength behind women. It’s a powerful exploration of love, loss, grief, and renewal.” – Kathleen Foxx, Badass Writers Podcast
“This story asks questions that strike close to the heart. How do we begin life over again, and what grief do we carry with us? A story of complex and loving sisterhood, Heenan brings Ava and Claire wonderfully to life in this second installment.” – Katie Crabb, author of Sailing by Orion’s Star
- GenresHistorical Fiction
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2023
253 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Karen Heenan
22 books90 followersAs an only child, Karen Heenan learned young that boredom was the ultimate enemy. Shortly after, she discovered perpetual motion and has rarely been seen holding still since.
Since discovering books, she is never without one in her hand and several more in her head. Her first series, The Tudor Court, stemmed from a lifelong interest in British history, but she's now turned her gaze closer to home and is writing stories set in her hometown of Philadelphia.
Karen lives in Lansdowne, PA, just outside Philadelphia, where she grows much of her own food and makes her own clothes. She is accompanied on her quest for self-sufficiency by a very patient husband and an ever-changing number of cats.
One constant: she is always writing her next book.
Since discovering books, she is never without one in her hand and several more in her head. Her first series, The Tudor Court, stemmed from a lifelong interest in British history, but she's now turned her gaze closer to home and is writing stories set in her hometown of Philadelphia.
Karen lives in Lansdowne, PA, just outside Philadelphia, where she grows much of her own food and makes her own clothes. She is accompanied on her quest for self-sufficiency by a very patient husband and an ever-changing number of cats.
One constant: she is always writing her next book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 23, 2023
The ubiquitous 5 star rating. I wonder about giving them out because who will believe me. But believe me you must. If you have not started Karen Heenan's stories about two sisters from a coal mining family and their transformation over the years, you are missing out. I read Coming Closer in an ARC and it was every bit as good as I expected. I'm a fan of Heenan's writing, her A Wider World remains in my top ten books I've read of all time (yes, you read that right). I was not surprised that Coming Closer delivers. Ava and Claire's story continues in this sequel to Coming Apart. The sisters are now living in the same city, Ava is set up with her own business making dresses, the kids are settling in, what could go wrong? Could it be love? What could possibly come between Claire and her husband? Is it her ambition to feel like more than adornment? And Ava, prickly as usual, will Max ever be able to get her to understand she deserves love? At the bottom of it all is Ava and Claire's difficult but always abiding love for each other.
February 14, 2025
Book 2 of a series. Book 1 was good, but this one was mostly a rehash of the first book; and then in the last couple of pages, when it looked as though we were going to tie up all the loose ends, the author must have decided that another book would be a good idea. Everything fell apart.
April 27, 2023
An Amazing Journey with The Sisters !
Great 2nd.book in the Trilogy.
Book two with Ava,Claire & families is even better,than the 1st.if that's possible?
The third book in the Trilogy is on it's way,so don't forget to order it.
You will enjoy these books immensely !
Great 2nd.book in the Trilogy.
Book two with Ava,Claire & families is even better,than the 1st.if that's possible?
The third book in the Trilogy is on it's way,so don't forget to order it.
You will enjoy these books immensely !
April 21, 2023
What is a good book? A book which you can't wait to get back to after a long day of work. Something which takes precedence over your 1000 hobbies for sure!
I am never not doing something. I have many interests and I am very particular with whom and what I spend my time with. Whenever I have a moment to myself, I am making, creating, learning. Gagan jokes, "Are we human beings or human doings?"
With "Coming Closer", I felt like a human being. There was never a question in my mind what I'd be doing any evening when I was home. Reading the book of course. I finished it just two days ago, but I am already missing my time with Claire and Ava. And that, my friends is what a GOOD book is. When you feel so connected to the characters that you find yourself looking forward to getting to know them more and missing them when the book is finished.
As a sequel to Coming Apart, I enjoyed how Ava and Claire's story continued and how their characters evolved. Ava's search for purpose - her ikigai is something we have all struggled with, at one point or another in our lives. But what is commendable is her commitment and perseverance to see it through when she knew what she wanted. So, yes I am still #teamclaire. Ms. Heenan promised more sewing and she delivered. All through the book, I enjoyed the vivid description of the dresses Eva sewed for the high-society ladies and smiled when she finally made an outfit for herself! I know for a fact that Ms. Heenan is a sewist herself and it was evident in her writing. A character I absolutely adored in this book is Harry. What a great guy! Being a feminist of sorts, I tend to favor strong female characters in books and movies but I also notice kindness in all humans. My two favorite characters, in this book are Harry and Max! What can I say? There is something sexy about a man who is not afraid of a strong and confident woman and even empowers her! My favorite line from the book - "My sister says I'm hard headed" - Eva. "And so you are. How would you have survived any other way?" - Max.
Not going to lie, Ava made me a little mad sometimes, but then I had to repeat Max's line in my head to understand her and her life. Ok, now I am truly turning into that weirdo who lives in the books she reads. I tend to write my reviews without giving away any of the story because I don't believe in doing your work for you :) I do recommend that you read Coming Apart before reading this. It will give you a lot of context and help you get to know the sisters a little bit better.
Ms. Heenan, you have done it again! My other favorite line from the book is the author's note where she hinted at the 3rd book in this series for which I can't wait. If you have made it this far, Congratulations. You have read the longest book review of your life and you learned absolutely nothing about the story and yet you desperately want to read it! I should get an award for this. Wait, is there an award for the best reviewer? Someone wants to nominate me? Please?
I am never not doing something. I have many interests and I am very particular with whom and what I spend my time with. Whenever I have a moment to myself, I am making, creating, learning. Gagan jokes, "Are we human beings or human doings?"
With "Coming Closer", I felt like a human being. There was never a question in my mind what I'd be doing any evening when I was home. Reading the book of course. I finished it just two days ago, but I am already missing my time with Claire and Ava. And that, my friends is what a GOOD book is. When you feel so connected to the characters that you find yourself looking forward to getting to know them more and missing them when the book is finished.
As a sequel to Coming Apart, I enjoyed how Ava and Claire's story continued and how their characters evolved. Ava's search for purpose - her ikigai is something we have all struggled with, at one point or another in our lives. But what is commendable is her commitment and perseverance to see it through when she knew what she wanted. So, yes I am still #teamclaire. Ms. Heenan promised more sewing and she delivered. All through the book, I enjoyed the vivid description of the dresses Eva sewed for the high-society ladies and smiled when she finally made an outfit for herself! I know for a fact that Ms. Heenan is a sewist herself and it was evident in her writing. A character I absolutely adored in this book is Harry. What a great guy! Being a feminist of sorts, I tend to favor strong female characters in books and movies but I also notice kindness in all humans. My two favorite characters, in this book are Harry and Max! What can I say? There is something sexy about a man who is not afraid of a strong and confident woman and even empowers her! My favorite line from the book - "My sister says I'm hard headed" - Eva. "And so you are. How would you have survived any other way?" - Max.
Not going to lie, Ava made me a little mad sometimes, but then I had to repeat Max's line in my head to understand her and her life. Ok, now I am truly turning into that weirdo who lives in the books she reads. I tend to write my reviews without giving away any of the story because I don't believe in doing your work for you :) I do recommend that you read Coming Apart before reading this. It will give you a lot of context and help you get to know the sisters a little bit better.
Ms. Heenan, you have done it again! My other favorite line from the book is the author's note where she hinted at the 3rd book in this series for which I can't wait. If you have made it this far, Congratulations. You have read the longest book review of your life and you learned absolutely nothing about the story and yet you desperately want to read it! I should get an award for this. Wait, is there an award for the best reviewer? Someone wants to nominate me? Please?
October 23, 2023
This novel continues the story of the two sisters, Ava and Claire. The book seamlessly switches between the two protagonists as they navigate life in the Depression-era 1930s. Despite Ava's grief, she has found some contentment in independence. However, when she continues to meet Dr Max Byrne, she considers sacrificing this for the sake of her family.
Claire does the opposite - although she loves her family, she longs for a purpose outside the home. When she finds a worthy cause, she devotes her heart and soul to it, at the cost of her family. Can Claire fulfil her vision and calling while still prioritising those she loves?
Like the first book in the series, this is an exceptionally well written, immersive story. Right from the first line, I'm transported to 1930s Philadelphia. The pacing moves brilliantly as both sisters must overcome obstacles and there are plenty of twists and turns.
One of the strongest points of the novel is following the conflict of Ava's friendship with Max while still grieving her first husband and the pull he still has on her heart. Ultimately the novel is about the sisters coming closer to each other, but also about accepting who they are and the feelings they have. Without spoiling anything, I particularly loved the ending for this.
Highly recommended for historical fiction lovers but also any reader looking for a well-written novel focusing on family and self-acceptance. Will definitely be getting Heenan's next book in the series, just recently published. (I also recommend her equally brilliant Tudor era series!)
Claire does the opposite - although she loves her family, she longs for a purpose outside the home. When she finds a worthy cause, she devotes her heart and soul to it, at the cost of her family. Can Claire fulfil her vision and calling while still prioritising those she loves?
Like the first book in the series, this is an exceptionally well written, immersive story. Right from the first line, I'm transported to 1930s Philadelphia. The pacing moves brilliantly as both sisters must overcome obstacles and there are plenty of twists and turns.
One of the strongest points of the novel is following the conflict of Ava's friendship with Max while still grieving her first husband and the pull he still has on her heart. Ultimately the novel is about the sisters coming closer to each other, but also about accepting who they are and the feelings they have. Without spoiling anything, I particularly loved the ending for this.
Highly recommended for historical fiction lovers but also any reader looking for a well-written novel focusing on family and self-acceptance. Will definitely be getting Heenan's next book in the series, just recently published. (I also recommend her equally brilliant Tudor era series!)
April 17, 2023
Continuing the story of sisters Ava and Claire in depression-era Philadelphia, Coming Closer sees both sisters in changing circumstances: Ava, still grieving her husband, is supporting herself and her children as a dressmaker to society women; Claire, her desire for motherhood fulfilled, finds herself still searching for purpose in her life.
Both women’s desire for independence reflects the increasing influence and power of women in American politics (and elsewhere) in the 1930s. Led by Eleanor Roosevelt’s social conscience and practical philanthropy, women were encouraged – perhaps exhorted – to turn their energies to improving the life of those worst hit by the Depression. When Claire meets the First Lady at the Presidential Inauguration, she accepts the challenge—but what is most needed? And will her husband support her plans?
Ava’s life, in contrast, is still concerned with making ends meet, and ensuring her growing children have what they need. There’s no time in her life for doctor Max’s increasing interest—is there? But she can’t deny the attraction.
With the historic background and descriptions of Philadelphia in the 30s masterfully woven into the story, Coming Closer is as compelling and immersive as the first book in the series, Coming Apart. Ava and Claire are characters to care about, their personalities fully realized. Heenan’s prose is tight but evocative, and the story flows naturally. Highly recommended.
Both women’s desire for independence reflects the increasing influence and power of women in American politics (and elsewhere) in the 1930s. Led by Eleanor Roosevelt’s social conscience and practical philanthropy, women were encouraged – perhaps exhorted – to turn their energies to improving the life of those worst hit by the Depression. When Claire meets the First Lady at the Presidential Inauguration, she accepts the challenge—but what is most needed? And will her husband support her plans?
Ava’s life, in contrast, is still concerned with making ends meet, and ensuring her growing children have what they need. There’s no time in her life for doctor Max’s increasing interest—is there? But she can’t deny the attraction.
With the historic background and descriptions of Philadelphia in the 30s masterfully woven into the story, Coming Closer is as compelling and immersive as the first book in the series, Coming Apart. Ava and Claire are characters to care about, their personalities fully realized. Heenan’s prose is tight but evocative, and the story flows naturally. Highly recommended.
June 26, 2023
The Ava and Claire story continues
Loved this second book in the series.
Ava left the death and coal behind and moved in with Claire and her family until Harry negotiates a below-market rate for a row house in the middle of a construction zone. Her dress-making business is on the first floor, and it is a busy place.
Claire is busy too—hobnobbing with Eleanor Roosevelt and attending FDR’s first inauguration. At loose ends, she searches for a new purpose and finds a valuable way to give back.
Ava grieves the loss of her husband, but welcomes the birth of her new baby and the changes it will bring to their already crowded life.
Ms. Heenan has a deft touch with her characters, which come alive on the page as they grow and change over the course of the book. All have flaws but they have truly endearing traits, as well. (Except for Harry’s mother—she’s a harridan)
Write faster, Ms. Heenan, I can’t wait for the third book!
Loved this second book in the series.
Ava left the death and coal behind and moved in with Claire and her family until Harry negotiates a below-market rate for a row house in the middle of a construction zone. Her dress-making business is on the first floor, and it is a busy place.
Claire is busy too—hobnobbing with Eleanor Roosevelt and attending FDR’s first inauguration. At loose ends, she searches for a new purpose and finds a valuable way to give back.
Ava grieves the loss of her husband, but welcomes the birth of her new baby and the changes it will bring to their already crowded life.
Ms. Heenan has a deft touch with her characters, which come alive on the page as they grow and change over the course of the book. All have flaws but they have truly endearing traits, as well. (Except for Harry’s mother—she’s a harridan)
Write faster, Ms. Heenan, I can’t wait for the third book!
April 13, 2023
Coming Closer is an engaging story, well written, and you just cannot put it down. I was fascinated by the inserts of the historical background of the Inauguration of President Roosevelt to which Claire and her husband were invited, and the visions of the the remnants of the Great Depression’s impact on the city. I’m familiar with Philadelphia so I enjoyed the author’s references to certain landmarks and streets. As the sisters attempt to establish themselves in the community, they have to deal with the pressures of family, relationships and their shared past.
I’m looking forward to part three, "Coming Together”, which will be available in October 2023. This book is a must read! You will feel like you know the characters and are a part of their most intimate lives. Brava to Karen Heenan!
I’m looking forward to part three, "Coming Together”, which will be available in October 2023. This book is a must read! You will feel like you know the characters and are a part of their most intimate lives. Brava to Karen Heenan!
May 5, 2023
Having loved the first of this series, I was extremely excited to read the second one - and it was everything I wanted it to be - and more!
Recently widowed Ava is now settled in Philadelphia; despite constant offers of financial help from her sister and her husband, it is important to her to provide for her growing family herself. Her dressmaking business keeps her busy all hours, but it is paying the bills and her children are flourishing in their new environment. Following her success into charitable works, sister Claire is looking for something to get her teeth into and when she finds it everything else is sidelined. While Claire abandons her family, Ava puts hers first and foremost to the detriment of her own happiness. Can the sisters ever get together and work towards the same thing?
Oh, how I loved the first book of this series and I have to say that, if anything, this second one is even better. Karen Heenan is a gifted writer, getting right into the minds of her character and their personalities lifted off the page for me. It's wonderful being part of the children growing up, and I love that we get Pearl's take on everything too. There are a few unexpected moments in this one and I admit to reaching the final page with a gasp - roll on book three! If, like me, you love a good family saga then you will find this is one of the best. Highly recommended and easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
Recently widowed Ava is now settled in Philadelphia; despite constant offers of financial help from her sister and her husband, it is important to her to provide for her growing family herself. Her dressmaking business keeps her busy all hours, but it is paying the bills and her children are flourishing in their new environment. Following her success into charitable works, sister Claire is looking for something to get her teeth into and when she finds it everything else is sidelined. While Claire abandons her family, Ava puts hers first and foremost to the detriment of her own happiness. Can the sisters ever get together and work towards the same thing?
Oh, how I loved the first book of this series and I have to say that, if anything, this second one is even better. Karen Heenan is a gifted writer, getting right into the minds of her character and their personalities lifted off the page for me. It's wonderful being part of the children growing up, and I love that we get Pearl's take on everything too. There are a few unexpected moments in this one and I admit to reaching the final page with a gasp - roll on book three! If, like me, you love a good family saga then you will find this is one of the best. Highly recommended and easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
October 30, 2024
Sequels...
It's always a gamble. Sometimes book 2 and beyond is 50% recounting previous book, 45% solid new storyline, and 5% clues to following book storyline.
Thankfully this wasn't that. I would say 35% recounting book 1. It was overall bearable. Then about 35% new storyline. It was frustrating. 28% of Ava being unbearably petty, rude, mean, and negative. 2% clues to book 3 storyline. How does a person insistent on wearing worn out rags get the nerve to make fun of someone else dressed out of style? Claire isn't perfect, a bit shallow, self centered, but that's who she is. And even though she is she still goes above and beyond to help her sisters family. It took me three days to read a book that could be read in an afternoon. But I kept taking breaks due to the negativity. But I'm holding out hope for Pearl. So I'm moving on to book 3.
It's always a gamble. Sometimes book 2 and beyond is 50% recounting previous book, 45% solid new storyline, and 5% clues to following book storyline.
Thankfully this wasn't that. I would say 35% recounting book 1. It was overall bearable. Then about 35% new storyline. It was frustrating. 28% of Ava being unbearably petty, rude, mean, and negative. 2% clues to book 3 storyline. How does a person insistent on wearing worn out rags get the nerve to make fun of someone else dressed out of style? Claire isn't perfect, a bit shallow, self centered, but that's who she is. And even though she is she still goes above and beyond to help her sisters family. It took me three days to read a book that could be read in an afternoon. But I kept taking breaks due to the negativity. But I'm holding out hope for Pearl. So I'm moving on to book 3.
March 25, 2024
Life moves on, or does it?
Ava and her children start a new life in Philadelphia with the help of her wealthy sister and brother in law. Yet memories linger of her newly deceased husband, his death in a coal mine and the difficult life they led in an impoverished mining town. Ava holds her emotions tightly closed as she struggles to make a life for herself and the children. That is until she meets Max, a warm, caring doctor who falls for Ava. A touching story about the ability to survive and the ability to live and love again.
Ava and her children start a new life in Philadelphia with the help of her wealthy sister and brother in law. Yet memories linger of her newly deceased husband, his death in a coal mine and the difficult life they led in an impoverished mining town. Ava holds her emotions tightly closed as she struggles to make a life for herself and the children. That is until she meets Max, a warm, caring doctor who falls for Ava. A touching story about the ability to survive and the ability to live and love again.
October 21, 2024
Book 2
I read the 1st and now the 2nd book in this series. I love all the characters that I can't even say who I enjoyed the most. This book is so realistic about moving forward with your life after tragic lossses. Family drama evil family members and hurt and happiness. Book 3 will continue the family drama with many different outcomes. I'm looking forward to it. Well written.
I read the 1st and now the 2nd book in this series. I love all the characters that I can't even say who I enjoyed the most. This book is so realistic about moving forward with your life after tragic lossses. Family drama evil family members and hurt and happiness. Book 3 will continue the family drama with many different outcomes. I'm looking forward to it. Well written.
September 1, 2025
Love this continueing story of Claire & Ava and their lives in the 30's & 40's. I was so glad to have the 3rd book ready to read when I read the last pages of Ciming Closer! It's such a great look at the times
during the Great Depression and now the beginning of trouble before WWII from two perseptions, the wealthy and the not so wealthy, I won't say poor because Ava is rich with Max and her children.
I'm so happy I stumbled onto Karen Heenan and her wonderful writtings.
during the Great Depression and now the beginning of trouble before WWII from two perseptions, the wealthy and the not so wealthy, I won't say poor because Ava is rich with Max and her children.
I'm so happy I stumbled onto Karen Heenan and her wonderful writtings.
August 9, 2025
Coming Closer is a story of a family living in the coal country of Pennsylvania in the depression era 1930s. It tells of a poor family dealing with being unemployed. The women loses her mother and must deal with keeping her family together. The story is well done and does a good job of explaining the hard life they had. An excellent book that was well done.
December 20, 2023
Love comes when it comes.
I enjoyed this bit of history and the love of a mother and wife. Doubts and promises abound in this heavy emotional book that you simply must read. Book #1 did not deter from the excitement that was felt at reading book #2.
I enjoyed this bit of history and the love of a mother and wife. Doubts and promises abound in this heavy emotional book that you simply must read. Book #1 did not deter from the excitement that was felt at reading book #2.
Read
April 17, 2025Despite the overly large size of third book, I read it in 4 days! The characters are so well written and so different than one another. Hearing how each one thinks is fabulous. Love the series, already bought the next book in the series. Highly recommended to any reader.
September 8, 2025
Not the ending I was expecting.
Well I've really loved the 2 books so far, but I was really hoping that Ava and Max would get married. I hope there is a book 3 and that they will get married.
Well I've really loved the 2 books so far, but I was really hoping that Ava and Max would get married. I hope there is a book 3 and that they will get married.
October 8, 2025
This is the first series book I have ever read where the author didn't spend a good portion of the book explaining the previous book to the reader. Thank you, Ms Heenan! Loved the characters, their growth, and the continued story line. Quick paced, warm, funny, tears and truths.
August 31, 2023
Book 2 of a great series!
January 21, 2024
Dynamics
I enjoy the dynamics of the characters. I can feel their changes and emotions and understand their reasoning. They are enjoyable characters.
I enjoy the dynamics of the characters. I can feel their changes and emotions and understand their reasoning. They are enjoyable characters.
October 24, 2024
Loooooooved it!
I loved this second book in the Ava & Claire series. Karen Heenan is a brilliant, clever writer and is excited to continue reading her works!
I loved this second book in the Ava & Claire series. Karen Heenan is a brilliant, clever writer and is excited to continue reading her works!
April 18, 2025
Lovely book
Can wait to read the next home!.I love the book .love love love love love love book is wonderful .max and ava are a good couple.
Can wait to read the next home!.I love the book .love love love love love love book is wonderful .max and ava are a good couple.
July 22, 2025
Very enjoyable. I enjoy the author
Good. Author brings the character's to life. Will be reading the next chapter.
Hope the series continues with more information of family.
Good. Author brings the character's to life. Will be reading the next chapter.
Hope the series continues with more information of family.
August 18, 2025
Coming Closer
What a great book about the 1930s in Philadelphia. Thus is a great series and I would recommend it to everyone.
What a great book about the 1930s in Philadelphia. Thus is a great series and I would recommend it to everyone.
August 23, 2025
Really enjoyed book one and book two was engaging until the last quarter when Ava’s character of pity and indecisiveness became drudgery. Enough Ava, pull up your boot straps and get on with it.
September 2, 2025
09/02/2025
December 14, 2025
Wonderful!
Love this time period (great depression era) and have read many books, both fiction and non fictions, on this era.
This series is by far the best I've read.
Love this time period (great depression era) and have read many books, both fiction and non fictions, on this era.
This series is by far the best I've read.
December 15, 2025
Life Continues
I was so excited to find this series of stories.
The characters are very well described so it is not hard to follow.
I do want to see Ava happily married
I was so excited to find this series of stories.
The characters are very well described so it is not hard to follow.
I do want to see Ava happily married
February 25, 2025
Very good but a little slower than book 1 in the series.
December 2, 2023
I enjoyed this story of Ava as she moves her family to start over in Philadelphia. I was brought right alongside Ava as she provides for her family; and Claire as she comes out of herself and finds her strengths. I especially applauded Pearl and Dandy as the supporting characters.
I hope to read book 3 soon!
I hope to read book 3 soon!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews