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Daily, Texas #3
Never Say Never
Kai Miller floats through life like driftwood tossed by waves. She's never put down roots in any one place--and she doesn't plan to. But when a chaotic hurricane evacuation lands her in Daily, Texas, she begins to think twice about her wayfaring existence. And when she meets hometown-boy Kemp Eldridge, she can almost picture settling down in Daily--until she discovers he may be promised to someone else. Daily has always been a place of refuge for those the wind blows in, but for Kai, it looks like it will be just another place to leave behind. Then again, Daily always has a few surprises in store--especially when Aunt Donetta has cooked up a scheme.
350 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2010
953 people are currently reading
1570 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Wingate
51 books13.2k followersLisa Wingate is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Before We Were Yours, which remained on the bestseller list for over two years. Her award-winning works have been selected for state and community One Book reads, have been published in over forty languages, and have appeared on bestseller lists worldwide. The group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa and six others as recipients of the National Civics Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. She lives in Texas and Colorado with her family and her deceptively cute little teddy bear of a dog, Huckleberry. Find her at www.lisawingate.com, on Facebook at LisaWingateAuthorPage, or on Instagram @author_lisa_wingate
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
July 26, 2013
I very rarely will read books that have a religious bent to them, especially
if I fear the author is going to pound the pulpit and riffle her Bible in my
face. So I've no idea what possessed me to read this book. What's really
even more surprising to me is that I enjoyed it. This book is squeaky clean
for those of you who take that into consideration when deciding what you
will read.
You are immediately introduced to three charming older women. They're all
going to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Donetta Bradford,
the colorful and delightful main character, has a husband who hasn't said a
loving word or engaged in a loving act in years. His fishing, his TV, and
his recliner are pretty much all that matter, and she's crushed by that in
some ways, but determined to take the cruise. Her friends, Imagene and
Lucy, are somewhat less developed characters, but they are equally
delightful in their own right.
Donetta bought a fancy new computer, found the cruise line's web page, and
just let the machine sit there for days connected to that page. It showed
the weather and the time the ship was to leave port.
But a storm is coming, and eventually there's no denying that. Kai Miller,
a cruise ship employee who yearns for stability and love, is slated to be on
the same ship as the three aging friends. The three would-be cruisers know
nothing of Kai, but the hurricane and evacuation adventures are all about to
change that.
Donetta's nephew, Kemp, is a minor league baseball player who, because of
injuries, has come home to the small town of Daily, Texas to coach baseball
at the local high school and pray he heals enough to get back into the real
game.
The storm ultimately brings Kai and the three women together, and they all
return to Daily, complete with some harrowing adventures. That's where Kai
meets Kemp, and things get fun and exciting from there.
Here's the thing: This book does get a little aggressively preachy in parts
for me, at least. And yet, you can't help but fall in love with Kai Miller
immediately upon her introduction, and you simply are drawn in if only to
find out how she ultimately turns out.
There is some delightful humor here, too; Kai is left in charge of her
landlord's dogs, and they cause more than their share of laugh-out-loud
moments. This is a gentle read whose theme is love, second chances, and
redemption. The most unreligious among us will find this one relatively
easy to take, and those who enjoy a bit of Christianity tossed into their
book recipe to season it a bit will be delighted with this.
Wingate is a master of dialogue. Donetta Bradford's speech patterns are wonderful. It's
Dan Rather at his most Texas magnified several times over.
if I fear the author is going to pound the pulpit and riffle her Bible in my
face. So I've no idea what possessed me to read this book. What's really
even more surprising to me is that I enjoyed it. This book is squeaky clean
for those of you who take that into consideration when deciding what you
will read.
You are immediately introduced to three charming older women. They're all
going to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Donetta Bradford,
the colorful and delightful main character, has a husband who hasn't said a
loving word or engaged in a loving act in years. His fishing, his TV, and
his recliner are pretty much all that matter, and she's crushed by that in
some ways, but determined to take the cruise. Her friends, Imagene and
Lucy, are somewhat less developed characters, but they are equally
delightful in their own right.
Donetta bought a fancy new computer, found the cruise line's web page, and
just let the machine sit there for days connected to that page. It showed
the weather and the time the ship was to leave port.
But a storm is coming, and eventually there's no denying that. Kai Miller,
a cruise ship employee who yearns for stability and love, is slated to be on
the same ship as the three aging friends. The three would-be cruisers know
nothing of Kai, but the hurricane and evacuation adventures are all about to
change that.
Donetta's nephew, Kemp, is a minor league baseball player who, because of
injuries, has come home to the small town of Daily, Texas to coach baseball
at the local high school and pray he heals enough to get back into the real
game.
The storm ultimately brings Kai and the three women together, and they all
return to Daily, complete with some harrowing adventures. That's where Kai
meets Kemp, and things get fun and exciting from there.
Here's the thing: This book does get a little aggressively preachy in parts
for me, at least. And yet, you can't help but fall in love with Kai Miller
immediately upon her introduction, and you simply are drawn in if only to
find out how she ultimately turns out.
There is some delightful humor here, too; Kai is left in charge of her
landlord's dogs, and they cause more than their share of laugh-out-loud
moments. This is a gentle read whose theme is love, second chances, and
redemption. The most unreligious among us will find this one relatively
easy to take, and those who enjoy a bit of Christianity tossed into their
book recipe to season it a bit will be delighted with this.
Wingate is a master of dialogue. Donetta Bradford's speech patterns are wonderful. It's
Dan Rather at his most Texas magnified several times over.
June 11, 2014
I really liked the story idea, but the problem was the ending. There is a pattern in this series that the beginning and middle of the story is full of fluff and many details. Then the story abruptly ends with very little splash. The endings do not match the style of writing with leaves the reader a little disappointed and wanting more details.
March 17, 2025
Super cute book that made me smile with all the funny characters of the book. The setting was in the small towns of Texas.
May 8, 2010
According to the back of the book: "Kai Miller floats through life like driftwood tossed by waves. She's never put down roots in any one place--and she doesn't plan to. But when a chaotic hurricane evacuation lands her in Daily, Texas, she begins to think twice about her wayfaring existence. And when she meets hometown-boy Kemp Eldridge, she can almost picture settling down in Daily--until she discovers he may be promised to someone else. Daily has always been a place of refuge for those the wind blows in, but for Kai, it looks like it will be just another place to leave behind. Then again, Daily always has a few surprises in store--especially when Aunt Donetta has cooked up a scheme."
(Quoted so as not to spoil anything.)
Donetta and Kai narrate alternating chapters and Donetta talks in dialect which was a little annoying, especially at first. But they're both incredibly likable characters (and I'm guessing Donetta appears in the other Daily, Texas books so that's good).
Recommended for people who like fluffy love stories (not a slam; this book was incredibly fun to read) and/or Christian fiction.
(Quoted so as not to spoil anything.)
Donetta and Kai narrate alternating chapters and Donetta talks in dialect which was a little annoying, especially at first. But they're both incredibly likable characters (and I'm guessing Donetta appears in the other Daily, Texas books so that's good).
Recommended for people who like fluffy love stories (not a slam; this book was incredibly fun to read) and/or Christian fiction.
January 22, 2016
This book started out good...but, after a while, it lost me.
March 18, 2010
I received a copy of this book for review from Bethany House Publishers.
"Never Say Never" was so much more than what I expected! I thought it would be fluffy chick lit, but it was a meaningful, heartfelt story of two women flung together during a natural disaster.
The story is told in alternating chapters, told by twenty-something Kai Miller and 70 year old Donetta Bradford. Kai floats through life with no roots and has no connections to her family, which fell apart when her younger brother passed away at age 11. She lives on the coast in Texas, working contracts on a cruise ship. Donetta has lived most of her life sitting out instead of dancing with her husband Ronald. Donetta and her two best friends decide to take a cruise to finally live a little. Then hurricane Glorietta blows into Texas and Kai and Donetta find unexpected friendship as they struggle through the hurricane together. Things really get complicated when Donetta insists on Kai staying with her in Daily, TX and Kai meets Donetta's nephew, Kemp. Donetta decides to play matchmaker but will she be able to give the young couple the push they both need?
The description of the hurricane is really well done, you can tell the author did her research. I really felt for all the characters during this part. However, the story was told with a lot of courage and hope, so it never seemed sad. It was more about overcoming obstacles.
Donetta's chapters were told with the same southern accent and phrases that Donetta herself would use. I usually don't like it when an author uses a southern accent because it comes across as forced or trying to hard for comedy. But Donetta's voice was spot on and so authentic that I loved the way her chapters were told!
I was caught up in the romance between Kai and Kemp and actually would have liked to have read more about them! I could really feel the sparks flying between them! This wasn't the only love story in the book, the story of Donetta and Ronald was just as romantic, and Donetta's grandmother's story was heart-stopping.
Kai and Donetta were both realistic characters and the type of person that you would want to be friends with. I think anyone who reads this would want to pop over to Daily and have a cup of coffee with the colorful cast of characters who live there.
I loved this inspiring and hopeful story! Even though the book deals with tough subjects, it's done with hope and humor and never feels melancholy or sad. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys women's fiction and I'll definitely read more from this author!
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
"Never Say Never" was so much more than what I expected! I thought it would be fluffy chick lit, but it was a meaningful, heartfelt story of two women flung together during a natural disaster.
The story is told in alternating chapters, told by twenty-something Kai Miller and 70 year old Donetta Bradford. Kai floats through life with no roots and has no connections to her family, which fell apart when her younger brother passed away at age 11. She lives on the coast in Texas, working contracts on a cruise ship. Donetta has lived most of her life sitting out instead of dancing with her husband Ronald. Donetta and her two best friends decide to take a cruise to finally live a little. Then hurricane Glorietta blows into Texas and Kai and Donetta find unexpected friendship as they struggle through the hurricane together. Things really get complicated when Donetta insists on Kai staying with her in Daily, TX and Kai meets Donetta's nephew, Kemp. Donetta decides to play matchmaker but will she be able to give the young couple the push they both need?
The description of the hurricane is really well done, you can tell the author did her research. I really felt for all the characters during this part. However, the story was told with a lot of courage and hope, so it never seemed sad. It was more about overcoming obstacles.
Donetta's chapters were told with the same southern accent and phrases that Donetta herself would use. I usually don't like it when an author uses a southern accent because it comes across as forced or trying to hard for comedy. But Donetta's voice was spot on and so authentic that I loved the way her chapters were told!
I was caught up in the romance between Kai and Kemp and actually would have liked to have read more about them! I could really feel the sparks flying between them! This wasn't the only love story in the book, the story of Donetta and Ronald was just as romantic, and Donetta's grandmother's story was heart-stopping.
Kai and Donetta were both realistic characters and the type of person that you would want to be friends with. I think anyone who reads this would want to pop over to Daily and have a cup of coffee with the colorful cast of characters who live there.
I loved this inspiring and hopeful story! Even though the book deals with tough subjects, it's done with hope and humor and never feels melancholy or sad. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys women's fiction and I'll definitely read more from this author!
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
May 24, 2010
It was a cute story. Nothing super compelling about it. I wish there were more moments between Kai and Kemp. I really enjoyed reading the times when they were together. For example when Kemp couldn't stop laughing about Miss Peach's citizens arrest comment. That whole scene made me actually laugh out loud. It was so well described, I could see him doubling over in a fit of laughter. There were actually a lot of scenes that really made me laugh. Lisa Wingate can really paint a good picture of what is happening. I could visualize facial expressions and actions so clearly as I read.
One thing I wasn't really happy with was the ending, despite the fact that it was a happy ending. I like endings where everything between the two characters is completely hashed out, nothing left to the imagination. This was a good ending since everything worked out, but the last page was mostly reflective. I don't really care as much about that as I do about Kemp understanding why she left! And how it was all because of that stupid Jen, Jenny, Jennifer! I want it all out in the open. I want to know what they both were thinking and feeling, I don't want to imagine it. I want everything that needs to be said between them said before the last sentence of the book.
Favorite Quotes:
Lucy's voice surprised Hawkeye. He scrambled backward and bumped into Imagene's legs, and she jerked upright, hollering, "The eggs are burning'!" Catching her breath, she added, "Oh lands, I was dreamin' I was at the cafe and Bob'd forgot about the fry grill again."
-71 year old Imagene
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I'm'ma say, I thought that dog, he's gonna eat me up." His voice rumbled in the air like thunder does when it's far away. "I was tryin' to figure out who's over here, and to figure out who's over here, and that dog come-a-run out of that brush, and my ol' hound dog,he lookin' for a place to get on up out there, and next minute, gal-ee, we all in a tangle."
"You all right?" I asked again
He nodded but didn't stand up straight. "I jus' gotta catch my breath. I los' my feet, and that dog, he get me down a minute, there in the woods. All I was thinkin' was, Lawd, don't let me get kilt by some dog. One minute, I was goin' though them woods to fetch some water, and the next I'm'ma get ate up."
-Ernest and Donetta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"And who do you think you are, Kempner Rollins, riding up there on that auger-Rambo Balboa?"
-Donetta
One thing I wasn't really happy with was the ending, despite the fact that it was a happy ending. I like endings where everything between the two characters is completely hashed out, nothing left to the imagination. This was a good ending since everything worked out, but the last page was mostly reflective. I don't really care as much about that as I do about Kemp understanding why she left! And how it was all because of that stupid Jen, Jenny, Jennifer! I want it all out in the open. I want to know what they both were thinking and feeling, I don't want to imagine it. I want everything that needs to be said between them said before the last sentence of the book.
Favorite Quotes:
Lucy's voice surprised Hawkeye. He scrambled backward and bumped into Imagene's legs, and she jerked upright, hollering, "The eggs are burning'!" Catching her breath, she added, "Oh lands, I was dreamin' I was at the cafe and Bob'd forgot about the fry grill again."
-71 year old Imagene
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I'm'ma say, I thought that dog, he's gonna eat me up." His voice rumbled in the air like thunder does when it's far away. "I was tryin' to figure out who's over here, and to figure out who's over here, and that dog come-a-run out of that brush, and my ol' hound dog,he lookin' for a place to get on up out there, and next minute, gal-ee, we all in a tangle."
"You all right?" I asked again
He nodded but didn't stand up straight. "I jus' gotta catch my breath. I los' my feet, and that dog, he get me down a minute, there in the woods. All I was thinkin' was, Lawd, don't let me get kilt by some dog. One minute, I was goin' though them woods to fetch some water, and the next I'm'ma get ate up."
-Ernest and Donetta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"And who do you think you are, Kempner Rollins, riding up there on that auger-Rambo Balboa?"
-Donetta
May 27, 2010
Caught in the chaos of evacuating a small coastal town directly in the path of a ferocious hurricane, two women’s lives intersect. Kai Miller, a young woman with a past even stormier than hurricane Glorietta, comes across 70-yr-old Donetta Bradford stranded in a minivan, out of gas and miles from safety. Donetta is accustomed to having her own way, but this time her headstrong determination has nearly gotten her and her friends killed. They pile into Kai’s VW van and flee, but the only thing moving faster than that storm is Donetta’s mouth. A friendship develops, and even before they’re completely out of harm’s way, Donetta is making plans – this time for Kai.
This is the first book I’ve read by Lisa Wingate, but it won’t be the last. She spins a good story, and she does so with a beautiful style and wit that swept me into the story world as surely as if I’d been caught in that hurricane with Kai and Donetta. The book feels almost like two separate stories, the first involving the building tension of the hurricane, and the second full of the charm and small-town appeal of Daily, Texas. Both Kai and Donetta have compelling conflicts – Kai is struggling to overcome loss and a difficult childhood, while likable busybody Donetta battles the feeling that she is unimportant by her husband. The two mesh together in a touching, immensely satisfying resolution that brought tears to my eyes more than once.
This is the first book I’ve read by Lisa Wingate, but it won’t be the last. She spins a good story, and she does so with a beautiful style and wit that swept me into the story world as surely as if I’d been caught in that hurricane with Kai and Donetta. The book feels almost like two separate stories, the first involving the building tension of the hurricane, and the second full of the charm and small-town appeal of Daily, Texas. Both Kai and Donetta have compelling conflicts – Kai is struggling to overcome loss and a difficult childhood, while likable busybody Donetta battles the feeling that she is unimportant by her husband. The two mesh together in a touching, immensely satisfying resolution that brought tears to my eyes more than once.
October 1, 2012
There were things that I enjoyed about this book, and things that I didn’t. I liked the idea of writing a novel that takes places before, during, and after a hurricane. I haven’t read anything with that as a background so I was intrigued.
What I loved about the book were the many secondary characters that we are introduced to and how, despite the amount, they only add to the story and don’t overwhelm the story or the main characters. I liked that they added to the overall story, the main characters and their development, and to the theme of helping others. While the blurb of the book led me to believe that the story was going to be about Kai, the book seems to be more about Donetta. Donetta was a much stronger character than Kai.
The narrative format was interesting; switching only between two female characters by chapters. I liked the simplicity of it and the focus being on the two characters and that their POV was in large chucks. However, there were moments that I felt could have made more impact if the sections were shorter and switched more often.
I liked Kemp but there was so little development of him and Kai that the budding relationship didn’t entice or grab me into being interested. If there had been more development of his character and/or the relationship, I would have enjoyed the story more.
What I loved about the book were the many secondary characters that we are introduced to and how, despite the amount, they only add to the story and don’t overwhelm the story or the main characters. I liked that they added to the overall story, the main characters and their development, and to the theme of helping others. While the blurb of the book led me to believe that the story was going to be about Kai, the book seems to be more about Donetta. Donetta was a much stronger character than Kai.
The narrative format was interesting; switching only between two female characters by chapters. I liked the simplicity of it and the focus being on the two characters and that their POV was in large chucks. However, there were moments that I felt could have made more impact if the sections were shorter and switched more often.
I liked Kemp but there was so little development of him and Kai that the budding relationship didn’t entice or grab me into being interested. If there had been more development of his character and/or the relationship, I would have enjoyed the story more.
February 3, 2010
Kai Miller works for a cruise ship. While out on a cruise, a hurricane blows through causing the cruise ship to set port for safety in Daily, Texas. Kai can’t wait for the hurricane to pass, so she can get moving again. Kai is not one to stick around in one place too long. Kai may have a change of heart when she meets good looking Kemp Eldridge. In addition to what plans Aunt Donetta has cooked up for Kai.
This book sounded good but for me, I never really became fully immersed in the book or the characters. Though, I thought Kai seemed nice. I could see why Kai felt an attraction to Kemp. He is handsome and the kind of guy you know you could he safe with. The people of Daily, Texas are friendly and down to earth. If only Daily, Texas was real. Each chapter alternates between Kai and Donetta. I wish I could say I liked this book as it seemed that other readers did. One thing I can say is that I will Never Say Never about giving Mrs. Wingate a second chance.
This book sounded good but for me, I never really became fully immersed in the book or the characters. Though, I thought Kai seemed nice. I could see why Kai felt an attraction to Kemp. He is handsome and the kind of guy you know you could he safe with. The people of Daily, Texas are friendly and down to earth. If only Daily, Texas was real. Each chapter alternates between Kai and Donetta. I wish I could say I liked this book as it seemed that other readers did. One thing I can say is that I will Never Say Never about giving Mrs. Wingate a second chance.
April 27, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. The hurricane evacuation scenes seemed to be very accurate of how desperate the situation would be. The two main characters, a young woman and an older woman, played against each other perfectly. This was my first novel written by Lisa Wingate and I most definitely will be reading her again.
May 10, 2021
3.6 rounded up
Story starts with three friends ~ women who are about to celebrate their 70th birthday and decide to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Doretta is the main character among these three.
As they are getting ready for the cruise, a terrible storm is approaching and in this area it is not unusual for the storm to turn into a hurricane.
Kai Miller is a cruise ship employee and yes will be on the same ship as the friends.
The morning the ship is scheduled to sail, the reports warn that the storm is scheduled to turn into a hurricane by morning and the ship leaves port in the middle of the night.
Kai and the friends miss the ship and are now in full evacuation.
Doretta’s nephew Kemp is an injured professional baseball player and while healing has taken the position of the baseball coach at the local high school. When the storm hits, Kemp steps up immediately to help his aunt and friends and meets Kai. Awww
This is an enjoyable story ~ such great characters! I am not a romance novel fan but this had me with a lump in my throat and then a smile on my face.
Book #3 in the Daily, Texas series ~ I am sure I’ll read another.
Story starts with three friends ~ women who are about to celebrate their 70th birthday and decide to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Doretta is the main character among these three.
As they are getting ready for the cruise, a terrible storm is approaching and in this area it is not unusual for the storm to turn into a hurricane.
Kai Miller is a cruise ship employee and yes will be on the same ship as the friends.
The morning the ship is scheduled to sail, the reports warn that the storm is scheduled to turn into a hurricane by morning and the ship leaves port in the middle of the night.
Kai and the friends miss the ship and are now in full evacuation.
Doretta’s nephew Kemp is an injured professional baseball player and while healing has taken the position of the baseball coach at the local high school. When the storm hits, Kemp steps up immediately to help his aunt and friends and meets Kai. Awww
This is an enjoyable story ~ such great characters! I am not a romance novel fan but this had me with a lump in my throat and then a smile on my face.
Book #3 in the Daily, Texas series ~ I am sure I’ll read another.
April 4, 2022
Talk about an adventure!
Whew! The first quarter to half of this book could almost be considered suspense. Three older women friends, Donetta, Imagene, and Lucy plan a cruise together (much to Donetta's husband Ronald's displeasure)...only to find out there is a hurricane coming. They continue with their plans, however, because they believe the storm isn't headed their direction. Well, the storm had other plans.
Kai Miller lives in Texas in the path of said hurricane and must evacuate. It is a mad house getting out of there with troubles a-plenty. But she does makes some friends in the midst of the chaos that will eventually change her life.
I definitely enjoyed the second half of the book best. Where it felt as if I was a part of Donetta Bradford's life in Daily, Texas. The bits of humor sprinkled through the book kept me chuckling. And I really appreciated how the author didn't shy away from mentioning God and church. The sayings used throughout had me smiling too. The dialogue was certainly Texan and made it feel very authentic.
The ending for Donetta and her, for most of the time, missing husband is precious. I do wish there would have been a longer ending for Kai, however. But I did really enjoy the book and look forward to trying more from this author as this was a first. Her style and humor are so fun!
Whew! The first quarter to half of this book could almost be considered suspense. Three older women friends, Donetta, Imagene, and Lucy plan a cruise together (much to Donetta's husband Ronald's displeasure)...only to find out there is a hurricane coming. They continue with their plans, however, because they believe the storm isn't headed their direction. Well, the storm had other plans.
Kai Miller lives in Texas in the path of said hurricane and must evacuate. It is a mad house getting out of there with troubles a-plenty. But she does makes some friends in the midst of the chaos that will eventually change her life.
I definitely enjoyed the second half of the book best. Where it felt as if I was a part of Donetta Bradford's life in Daily, Texas. The bits of humor sprinkled through the book kept me chuckling. And I really appreciated how the author didn't shy away from mentioning God and church. The sayings used throughout had me smiling too. The dialogue was certainly Texan and made it feel very authentic.
The ending for Donetta and her, for most of the time, missing husband is precious. I do wish there would have been a longer ending for Kai, however. But I did really enjoy the book and look forward to trying more from this author as this was a first. Her style and humor are so fun!
July 3, 2019
I have come to love the little town of Daily, Texas. I particularly liked this story about finding a good "place" in life despite unhappy circumstances early on.
April 7, 2017
Another great book! I hate to see that series end. I'll definitely be reading more of her books!
June 15, 2010
I received this book from Bethany House, and this is just the kind of feel good book to read when you’re had a trying day. It reminds you that people are still basically good, and willing to help each other when life throws a curveball. Told from alternating viewpoints of Donetta and Kai, the two main characters.
Hailing from the tiny town of Daily, Texas, 69 year old Donetta is the driving force behind a planned cruise for her friends and herself. However, after they leave for their trip and unbeknowst to them, a massive hurricane, Glorietta, changes its path and heads straight towards their port in Perdida, Texas. Once they get to Perdida, they learn the ship has already sailed to avoid Glorietta, so they have no choice but to go back home. They’re immediately caught in a massive and chaotic evacuation that seems to have them going nowhere. Things start looking really bad when they run out of gas.
27 year old Kai Miller is a free spirit that has never put roots down anywhere she’s lived. An orphan, she really hasn’t known how to call anyplace home. She works on cruise ships, and has a small business called “Gifts from the Sea”, where she creates beautiful crafts from items she’s found while beachcombing. When she’s not working, she rents a small apartment above a surf shop in Perdida, Texas. Because the ship sailed early, Kai is also stranded in Perdida, and joins the exodus.
There are dangers on the road from both man and nature for Kai and the ladies. The hurricane also is close to making landfall, with the skies darkening and the wind rising. When Donetta’s van runs out of gas, Kai offers the ladies a ride. When Kai’s van finally also runs out of gas, they are picked up by the Holy Ghost Church group that leads them to shelter in a rickety building until the hurricane blows over. By morning, the hurricane has moved on and they discover the roads are impassable, covered by fallen trees and debris.
Church member Ernest volunteers to walk up the road to find help. Donetta gives him the number of the Daily Café, and instructions to have someone come to assist them. And help does arrive, men in pickup trucks with chain saws, pole diggers and the tools needed to clear the roads. And the first vehicle to arrive is a post digger with a man holding a chain saw. This is the first time Kai meets Kempner Rollins Eldredge, Donetta’s nephew.
Donetta has come to know Kai during the time they spent together on the road and in the shelter, and realizes she’s just the kind of person she’d like to see her nephew with. So, as soon as they get back to Daily, she asks Kemp to get Kai settled in at her place while she’s feeding the members of the church group.
Kai and Kemp get along famously, and a bond grows between them as they work to house and help the Holy Ghost church group and play baseball with Kemp’s charges as coach. The friendship blossoms quickly into romance until Jenny, Kemp’s old girlfriend, moves back to Daily.
Jenny wants to reconnect with Kemp and convinces Kai that she’d only be a sideline in Kemp’s life because baseball is more important to Kemp that anything else. This convinces Kai to leave Daily and Kemp behind before her heart gets broken.
Night before Kai leaves, she and Donetta are listenting to “Voices from the Storm” a radio program when a man comes on to dedicate a song to his wife, and tells the story of how he never said how much he loved her when he had a chance, that he had gone after her when he found out about the storm, ended up rescuing people in Perdita, and was worried about her." Ronald is on Good Morning America (GMA) the next day and Donetta becomes an instant celebrity; which helps in her fight against Betty Prine, who wants to close down her business.
Kai had left by this time and is back on the cruise ship, but sees Ronald on GMA. GMA makes secret plans with Ronald, who enlists Kai's help, to have him and Donetta remarried on the beach and then go on a cruise. Because Kai is instrumental in the the remarriage ceremony, she attends the wedding. Ronald intentionally forgot their passports so he could have Kemp bring them to the beach, and Kai and Kemp are reunited. Kemp has gone to see her grandmother, a trip Kai and Kemp were supposed to take, and he has a letter from her to give to Kai. And, at the end, so very sweetly, he asks Kai to come home with him.
Hailing from the tiny town of Daily, Texas, 69 year old Donetta is the driving force behind a planned cruise for her friends and herself. However, after they leave for their trip and unbeknowst to them, a massive hurricane, Glorietta, changes its path and heads straight towards their port in Perdida, Texas. Once they get to Perdida, they learn the ship has already sailed to avoid Glorietta, so they have no choice but to go back home. They’re immediately caught in a massive and chaotic evacuation that seems to have them going nowhere. Things start looking really bad when they run out of gas.
27 year old Kai Miller is a free spirit that has never put roots down anywhere she’s lived. An orphan, she really hasn’t known how to call anyplace home. She works on cruise ships, and has a small business called “Gifts from the Sea”, where she creates beautiful crafts from items she’s found while beachcombing. When she’s not working, she rents a small apartment above a surf shop in Perdida, Texas. Because the ship sailed early, Kai is also stranded in Perdida, and joins the exodus.
There are dangers on the road from both man and nature for Kai and the ladies. The hurricane also is close to making landfall, with the skies darkening and the wind rising. When Donetta’s van runs out of gas, Kai offers the ladies a ride. When Kai’s van finally also runs out of gas, they are picked up by the Holy Ghost Church group that leads them to shelter in a rickety building until the hurricane blows over. By morning, the hurricane has moved on and they discover the roads are impassable, covered by fallen trees and debris.
Church member Ernest volunteers to walk up the road to find help. Donetta gives him the number of the Daily Café, and instructions to have someone come to assist them. And help does arrive, men in pickup trucks with chain saws, pole diggers and the tools needed to clear the roads. And the first vehicle to arrive is a post digger with a man holding a chain saw. This is the first time Kai meets Kempner Rollins Eldredge, Donetta’s nephew.
Donetta has come to know Kai during the time they spent together on the road and in the shelter, and realizes she’s just the kind of person she’d like to see her nephew with. So, as soon as they get back to Daily, she asks Kemp to get Kai settled in at her place while she’s feeding the members of the church group.
Kai and Kemp get along famously, and a bond grows between them as they work to house and help the Holy Ghost church group and play baseball with Kemp’s charges as coach. The friendship blossoms quickly into romance until Jenny, Kemp’s old girlfriend, moves back to Daily.
Jenny wants to reconnect with Kemp and convinces Kai that she’d only be a sideline in Kemp’s life because baseball is more important to Kemp that anything else. This convinces Kai to leave Daily and Kemp behind before her heart gets broken.
Night before Kai leaves, she and Donetta are listenting to “Voices from the Storm” a radio program when a man comes on to dedicate a song to his wife, and tells the story of how he never said how much he loved her when he had a chance, that he had gone after her when he found out about the storm, ended up rescuing people in Perdita, and was worried about her." Ronald is on Good Morning America (GMA) the next day and Donetta becomes an instant celebrity; which helps in her fight against Betty Prine, who wants to close down her business.
Kai had left by this time and is back on the cruise ship, but sees Ronald on GMA. GMA makes secret plans with Ronald, who enlists Kai's help, to have him and Donetta remarried on the beach and then go on a cruise. Because Kai is instrumental in the the remarriage ceremony, she attends the wedding. Ronald intentionally forgot their passports so he could have Kemp bring them to the beach, and Kai and Kemp are reunited. Kemp has gone to see her grandmother, a trip Kai and Kemp were supposed to take, and he has a letter from her to give to Kai. And, at the end, so very sweetly, he asks Kai to come home with him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2023
3.75, a charming story!
February 27, 2014
A hurricane is headed toward Perdida, Texas, but 69 year old Donetta isn't worried. She has had her new laptop set on the webpage of the cruise line and every time she checks, all is well and departure is still a go at the regular time. In spite of their worries, friends Imagene and Lucy set off with Donetta, making the long drive from their small town of Daily to Perdida to board the ship and at long last, put a little adventure into their lives.
When the three get closer to Perdida they notice quite a lot of traffic actually leaving the area. It takes a while, but the ladies finally get the message that the hurricane is coming, the boat departed the previous day, and the adventure they were expecting has now become "how to survive a hurricane".
The three women, with the help of Kai, (who was supposed to work on the cruise the ladies were taking but who is now leaving the area for higher ground), do survive the storm and make more new friends who will need their help if they ever make it to Daily.
While I have never been in a hurricane or in any kind of emergency evacuation, Wingate gave a detailed description of what it must be like. I felt as if I was right there in the middle of it all. And I was just as relieved as the ladies were, when help finally arrived. Of course, when you get three strong "senior" southern women together, there are bound to be some humorous moments, and that kept the ordeal from becoming too heavy.
What fascinated me was the Wingate portrayed her characters so well through their accents, dialects, and speech patterns. You cannot mistake the fact that most of the characters are southern. You can hear the twang as you read the dialogue; then there is Lucy who is actually Japanese, has lived in the south for years, but still has her own mixture of southern dialect and phrases. There was also a well-meaning and excitable character who tends to struggle to get his words out when he is fired up.
At times the story dragged once the motley hurricane survivors made their way back to Daily and I grew impatient as unresolved events and issues seemed to stall. I thought that much of the "back and forth" feuding and deceiving could have been dispensed with or at least shortened.
All in all, I enjoyed the read and will probably return to Daily, Texas from time to see how the folks are doing and what they are getting into next.
When the three get closer to Perdida they notice quite a lot of traffic actually leaving the area. It takes a while, but the ladies finally get the message that the hurricane is coming, the boat departed the previous day, and the adventure they were expecting has now become "how to survive a hurricane".
The three women, with the help of Kai, (who was supposed to work on the cruise the ladies were taking but who is now leaving the area for higher ground), do survive the storm and make more new friends who will need their help if they ever make it to Daily.
While I have never been in a hurricane or in any kind of emergency evacuation, Wingate gave a detailed description of what it must be like. I felt as if I was right there in the middle of it all. And I was just as relieved as the ladies were, when help finally arrived. Of course, when you get three strong "senior" southern women together, there are bound to be some humorous moments, and that kept the ordeal from becoming too heavy.
What fascinated me was the Wingate portrayed her characters so well through their accents, dialects, and speech patterns. You cannot mistake the fact that most of the characters are southern. You can hear the twang as you read the dialogue; then there is Lucy who is actually Japanese, has lived in the south for years, but still has her own mixture of southern dialect and phrases. There was also a well-meaning and excitable character who tends to struggle to get his words out when he is fired up.
At times the story dragged once the motley hurricane survivors made their way back to Daily and I grew impatient as unresolved events and issues seemed to stall. I thought that much of the "back and forth" feuding and deceiving could have been dispensed with or at least shortened.
All in all, I enjoyed the read and will probably return to Daily, Texas from time to see how the folks are doing and what they are getting into next.
June 20, 2025
This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
***
A hurricane is headed toward Perdida, Texas, but 69 year old Donetta isn't worried. She has had her new laptop set on the webpage of the cruise line and every time she checks, all is well and departure is still a go at the regular time. In spite of their worries, friends Imagene and Lucy set off with Donetta, making the long drive from their small town of Daily to Perdida to board the ship and at long last, put a little adventure into their lives.
When the three get closer to Perdida they notice quite a lot of traffic actually leaving the area. It takes a while, but the ladies finally get the message that the hurricane is coming, the boat departed the previous day, and the adventure they were expecting has now become "how to survive a hurricane".
The three women, with the help of Kai, (who was supposed to work on the cruise the ladies were taking but who is now leaving the area for higher ground), do survive the storm and make more new friends who will need their help if they ever make it to Daily.
While I have never been in a hurricane or in any kind of emergency evacuation, Wingate gave a detailed description of what it must be like. I felt as if I was right there in the middle of it all. And I was just as relieved as the ladies were, when help finally arrived. Of course, when you get three strong "senior" southern women together, there are bound to be some humorous moments, and that kept the ordeal from becoming too heavy.
What fascinated me was the Wingate portrayed her characters so well through their accents, dialects, and speech patterns. You cannot mistake the fact that most of the characters are southern. You can hear the twang as you read the dialogue; then there is Lucy who is actually Japanese, has lived in the south for years, but still has her own mixture of southern dialect and phrases. There was also a well-meaning and excitable character who tends to struggle to get his words out when he is fired up.
At times the story dragged once the motley hurricane survivors made their way back to Daily and I grew impatient as unresolved events and issues seemed to stall. I thought that much of the "back and forth" feuding and deceiving could have been dispensed with or at least shortened.
***
The story is told in alternating chapters, told by twenty-something Kai Miller and 70 year old Donetta Bradford. Kai floats through life with no roots and has no connections to her family, which fell apart when her younger brother passed away at age 11. She lives on the coast in Texas, working contracts on a cruise ship. Donetta has lived most of her life sitting out instead of dancing with her husband Ronald. Donetta and her two best friends decide to take a cruise to finally live a little. Then hurricane Glorietta blows into Texas and Kai and Donetta find unexpected friendship as they struggle through the hurricane together. Things really get complicated when Donetta insists on Kai staying with her in Daily, TX and Kai meets Donetta's nephew, Kemp. Donetta decides to play matchmaker but will she be able to give the young couple the push they both need?
The description of the hurricane is really well done, you can tell the author did her research. I really felt for all the characters during this part. However, the story was told with a lot of courage and hope, so it never seemed sad. It was more about overcoming obstacles.
Donetta's chapters were told with the same southern accent and phrases that Donetta herself would use. I usually don't like it when an author uses a southern accent because it comes across as forced or trying to hard for comedy. But Donetta's voice was spot on and so authentic that I loved the way her chapters were told!
I was caught up in the romance between Kai and Kemp and actually would have liked to have read more about them! I could really feel the sparks flying between them! This wasn't the only love story in the book, the story of Donetta and Ronald was just as romantic, and Donetta's grandmother's story was heart-stopping.
Kai and Donetta were both realistic characters and the type of person that you would want to be friends with. I think anyone who reads this would want to pop over to Daily and have a cup of coffee with the colorful cast of characters who live there.
I loved this inspiring and hopeful story! Even though the book deals with tough subjects, it's done with hope and humor and never feels melancholy or sad. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys women's fiction and I'll definitely read more from this author!
**
One review...
You are immediately introduced to three charming older women. They're all
going to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Donetta Bradford,
the colorful and delightful main character, has a husband who hasn't said a
loving word or engaged in a loving act in years. His fishing, his TV, and
his recliner are pretty much all that matter, and she's crushed by that in
some ways, but determined to take the cruise. Her friends, Imagene and
Lucy, are somewhat less developed characters, but they are equally
delightful in their own right.
Donetta bought a fancy new computer, found the cruise line's web page, and
just let the machine sit there for days connected to that page. It showed
the weather and the time the ship was to leave port.
But a storm is coming, and eventually there's no denying that. Kai Miller,
a cruise ship employee who yearns for stability and love, is slated to be on
the same ship as the three aging friends. The three would-be cruisers know
nothing of Kai, but the hurricane and evacuation adventures are all about to
change that.
Donetta's nephew, Kemp, is a minor league baseball player who, because of
injuries, has come home to the small town of Daily, Texas to coach baseball
at the local high school and pray he heals enough to get back into the real
game.
The storm ultimately brings Kai and the three women together, and they all
return to Daily, complete with some harrowing adventures. That's where Kai
meets Kemp, and things get fun and exciting from there.
Here's the thing: This book does get a little aggressively preachy in parts
for me, at least. And yet, you can't help but fall in love with Kai Miller
immediately upon her introduction, and you simply are drawn in if only to
find out how she ultimately turns out.
There is some delightful humor here, too; Kai is left in charge of her
landlord's dogs, and they cause more than their share of laugh-out-loud
moments. This is a gentle read whose theme is love, second chances, and
redemption. The most unreligious among us will find this one relatively
easy to take, and those who enjoy a bit of Christianity tossed into their
book recipe to season it a bit will be delighted with this.
Wingate is a master of dialogue. Donetta Bradford's speech patterns are wonderful. It's
Dan Rather at his most Texas magnified several times over.
***
A hurricane is headed toward Perdida, Texas, but 69 year old Donetta isn't worried. She has had her new laptop set on the webpage of the cruise line and every time she checks, all is well and departure is still a go at the regular time. In spite of their worries, friends Imagene and Lucy set off with Donetta, making the long drive from their small town of Daily to Perdida to board the ship and at long last, put a little adventure into their lives.
When the three get closer to Perdida they notice quite a lot of traffic actually leaving the area. It takes a while, but the ladies finally get the message that the hurricane is coming, the boat departed the previous day, and the adventure they were expecting has now become "how to survive a hurricane".
The three women, with the help of Kai, (who was supposed to work on the cruise the ladies were taking but who is now leaving the area for higher ground), do survive the storm and make more new friends who will need their help if they ever make it to Daily.
While I have never been in a hurricane or in any kind of emergency evacuation, Wingate gave a detailed description of what it must be like. I felt as if I was right there in the middle of it all. And I was just as relieved as the ladies were, when help finally arrived. Of course, when you get three strong "senior" southern women together, there are bound to be some humorous moments, and that kept the ordeal from becoming too heavy.
What fascinated me was the Wingate portrayed her characters so well through their accents, dialects, and speech patterns. You cannot mistake the fact that most of the characters are southern. You can hear the twang as you read the dialogue; then there is Lucy who is actually Japanese, has lived in the south for years, but still has her own mixture of southern dialect and phrases. There was also a well-meaning and excitable character who tends to struggle to get his words out when he is fired up.
At times the story dragged once the motley hurricane survivors made their way back to Daily and I grew impatient as unresolved events and issues seemed to stall. I thought that much of the "back and forth" feuding and deceiving could have been dispensed with or at least shortened.
***
The story is told in alternating chapters, told by twenty-something Kai Miller and 70 year old Donetta Bradford. Kai floats through life with no roots and has no connections to her family, which fell apart when her younger brother passed away at age 11. She lives on the coast in Texas, working contracts on a cruise ship. Donetta has lived most of her life sitting out instead of dancing with her husband Ronald. Donetta and her two best friends decide to take a cruise to finally live a little. Then hurricane Glorietta blows into Texas and Kai and Donetta find unexpected friendship as they struggle through the hurricane together. Things really get complicated when Donetta insists on Kai staying with her in Daily, TX and Kai meets Donetta's nephew, Kemp. Donetta decides to play matchmaker but will she be able to give the young couple the push they both need?
The description of the hurricane is really well done, you can tell the author did her research. I really felt for all the characters during this part. However, the story was told with a lot of courage and hope, so it never seemed sad. It was more about overcoming obstacles.
Donetta's chapters were told with the same southern accent and phrases that Donetta herself would use. I usually don't like it when an author uses a southern accent because it comes across as forced or trying to hard for comedy. But Donetta's voice was spot on and so authentic that I loved the way her chapters were told!
I was caught up in the romance between Kai and Kemp and actually would have liked to have read more about them! I could really feel the sparks flying between them! This wasn't the only love story in the book, the story of Donetta and Ronald was just as romantic, and Donetta's grandmother's story was heart-stopping.
Kai and Donetta were both realistic characters and the type of person that you would want to be friends with. I think anyone who reads this would want to pop over to Daily and have a cup of coffee with the colorful cast of characters who live there.
I loved this inspiring and hopeful story! Even though the book deals with tough subjects, it's done with hope and humor and never feels melancholy or sad. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys women's fiction and I'll definitely read more from this author!
**
One review...
You are immediately introduced to three charming older women. They're all
going to take a cruise for the first time in their lives. Donetta Bradford,
the colorful and delightful main character, has a husband who hasn't said a
loving word or engaged in a loving act in years. His fishing, his TV, and
his recliner are pretty much all that matter, and she's crushed by that in
some ways, but determined to take the cruise. Her friends, Imagene and
Lucy, are somewhat less developed characters, but they are equally
delightful in their own right.
Donetta bought a fancy new computer, found the cruise line's web page, and
just let the machine sit there for days connected to that page. It showed
the weather and the time the ship was to leave port.
But a storm is coming, and eventually there's no denying that. Kai Miller,
a cruise ship employee who yearns for stability and love, is slated to be on
the same ship as the three aging friends. The three would-be cruisers know
nothing of Kai, but the hurricane and evacuation adventures are all about to
change that.
Donetta's nephew, Kemp, is a minor league baseball player who, because of
injuries, has come home to the small town of Daily, Texas to coach baseball
at the local high school and pray he heals enough to get back into the real
game.
The storm ultimately brings Kai and the three women together, and they all
return to Daily, complete with some harrowing adventures. That's where Kai
meets Kemp, and things get fun and exciting from there.
Here's the thing: This book does get a little aggressively preachy in parts
for me, at least. And yet, you can't help but fall in love with Kai Miller
immediately upon her introduction, and you simply are drawn in if only to
find out how she ultimately turns out.
There is some delightful humor here, too; Kai is left in charge of her
landlord's dogs, and they cause more than their share of laugh-out-loud
moments. This is a gentle read whose theme is love, second chances, and
redemption. The most unreligious among us will find this one relatively
easy to take, and those who enjoy a bit of Christianity tossed into their
book recipe to season it a bit will be delighted with this.
Wingate is a master of dialogue. Donetta Bradford's speech patterns are wonderful. It's
Dan Rather at his most Texas magnified several times over.
April 28, 2010
When it comes to Christian fiction I am usually pretty wary of what I might find between the covers. Mainly because most Christian fiction books are romance novels set in another time period 200 years, or earlier, in the past. So, what made me pick this book for review? Why did I give Christian fiction another chance?
1. Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate is set in modern day.
2. While there is some romance to the plot, it is not the all consuming topic.
3. I like try things again because, you "can't judge a book by it's cover!" har har ;)
I read it, and I liked it, but I didn't LOVE it. I think the reason I didn't love it is based on the expectation I had of the plot.
{Possible SPOILER ALERT!}
Let me back up a bit and start with what I did like about this book...
Lisa Wingate is actually a good writer! I also liked how she dealt with some real issues in the content. The main character, Kai, came from a not so great home life, and Wingate clearly showed the affect it had on Kai's life and her inability/unwillingness to truly connect with people.
There was romance, but she wrote in such a way that did not stir emotions or fantasies or unrealistic ideals. Unfortunately, most Christian romance novels I have read are almost as bad as the secular romance novels. You know what I mean...a harlequin romance just minus the explicit scenes.
The story had a good moral about taking care of those in need.
Alright, now on to the items where I felt a bit let down...
While the characters in the book clearly went to church, and were religious, I didn't get anything about their relationship with Jesus.
Kai questions her beliefs through the memories of her little brother, but at the end of the book there was not a resolution about where she stood about her faith.
I would have liked more of the story to focus on her love interest, Kemp.
So, on the scale of Bad, Eh, Good, and Excellent...I give it a "Good".
This book was provided for free by Bethany House Publishing for review and it can be purchased at any online book retailer. :)
1. Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate is set in modern day.
2. While there is some romance to the plot, it is not the all consuming topic.
3. I like try things again because, you "can't judge a book by it's cover!" har har ;)
I read it, and I liked it, but I didn't LOVE it. I think the reason I didn't love it is based on the expectation I had of the plot.
{Possible SPOILER ALERT!}
Let me back up a bit and start with what I did like about this book...
Lisa Wingate is actually a good writer! I also liked how she dealt with some real issues in the content. The main character, Kai, came from a not so great home life, and Wingate clearly showed the affect it had on Kai's life and her inability/unwillingness to truly connect with people.
There was romance, but she wrote in such a way that did not stir emotions or fantasies or unrealistic ideals. Unfortunately, most Christian romance novels I have read are almost as bad as the secular romance novels. You know what I mean...a harlequin romance just minus the explicit scenes.
The story had a good moral about taking care of those in need.
Alright, now on to the items where I felt a bit let down...
While the characters in the book clearly went to church, and were religious, I didn't get anything about their relationship with Jesus.
Kai questions her beliefs through the memories of her little brother, but at the end of the book there was not a resolution about where she stood about her faith.
I would have liked more of the story to focus on her love interest, Kemp.
So, on the scale of Bad, Eh, Good, and Excellent...I give it a "Good".
This book was provided for free by Bethany House Publishing for review and it can be purchased at any online book retailer. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2011
Daily Hair and Body is hoppin’ like a sale barn on sheep and goat day, in the words of Donetta Bradford.
Donetta is back to narrate half of Never Say Never, the third in Lisa Wingate’s delightful Daily, Texas, series. I’d been waiting to read this final book and Lisa kindly shared a copy for me to review. Just like a slice of Imagene’s pecan pie, you can’t wait to dig in, then want to savor every last bite.
The story kicks off as Donetta, Imagene and Lucy head off to take a cruise. Except Hurricane Glorietta interferes and on the evacuation route, they meet up with Kai, as well as a bus loaded with members of the Holy Ghost Church. Naturally, Donettta hustles them all back to Daily and showers them with hospitality. And pie.
Kai, who has been something of a refugee her whole life, narrates the other half of the story. She honestly shares stories of her ragtag past and makes us cheer as she finds herself attracted to the rascally Kemp Eldgridge, Donetta’s nephew and coach of the high school baseball team. Kai is also drawn to the faith and love that Donetta generously shares.
Donetta does her best to make love blossom between Kai and Kemp, even while her heart breaks at inattention from her husband, a man whom she admits has the romance of a sack of beans. It’s an unexpected and powerful subplot. As Donetta admits, “Even though I didn’t want to, even though I was hard in my heart about it, and I had been for a long time, my eyes welled up and right there in the carport I broke down and started to cry.”
With such insightful writing, the characters in Never Say Never take breath and come to life. It has a few weak points, such as the portrayal of Donetta’s arch enemy Betty Prine and it is unclear where Kai is in her relationship with God, but the last of this series was my favorite. The romance is well developed and realistic since Kemp gives Kai plenty of mixed signals. In the end, he emerges as the hero carrying a chain saw and leaves no doubt that love — and pie — will always be found in Daily, Texas.
There’s even a little romance in the air for Imagene.
Donetta is back to narrate half of Never Say Never, the third in Lisa Wingate’s delightful Daily, Texas, series. I’d been waiting to read this final book and Lisa kindly shared a copy for me to review. Just like a slice of Imagene’s pecan pie, you can’t wait to dig in, then want to savor every last bite.
The story kicks off as Donetta, Imagene and Lucy head off to take a cruise. Except Hurricane Glorietta interferes and on the evacuation route, they meet up with Kai, as well as a bus loaded with members of the Holy Ghost Church. Naturally, Donettta hustles them all back to Daily and showers them with hospitality. And pie.
Kai, who has been something of a refugee her whole life, narrates the other half of the story. She honestly shares stories of her ragtag past and makes us cheer as she finds herself attracted to the rascally Kemp Eldgridge, Donetta’s nephew and coach of the high school baseball team. Kai is also drawn to the faith and love that Donetta generously shares.
Donetta does her best to make love blossom between Kai and Kemp, even while her heart breaks at inattention from her husband, a man whom she admits has the romance of a sack of beans. It’s an unexpected and powerful subplot. As Donetta admits, “Even though I didn’t want to, even though I was hard in my heart about it, and I had been for a long time, my eyes welled up and right there in the carport I broke down and started to cry.”
With such insightful writing, the characters in Never Say Never take breath and come to life. It has a few weak points, such as the portrayal of Donetta’s arch enemy Betty Prine and it is unclear where Kai is in her relationship with God, but the last of this series was my favorite. The romance is well developed and realistic since Kemp gives Kai plenty of mixed signals. In the end, he emerges as the hero carrying a chain saw and leaves no doubt that love — and pie — will always be found in Daily, Texas.
There’s even a little romance in the air for Imagene.
March 29, 2010
Filled with romance, troubled pasts and lots of blue hair, Never Say Never is my first encounter with author, Lisa Wingate. Never Say Never is the story of 2 woman, different in almost every way but, one, The Liberation ocean liner and dead-beat fathers (okay, I guess that's actually two). 27 yr. old Kai Miller, has been all over with her gypsy family, and finally has a somewhat steady job working for a cruise line and an apartment to call "home". Donetta Bradford, 70 yrs. old and feeling every bite like it, finally gets the nerve to plan a cruise with her 2 best friends. Then along comes hurricane Gloretta, tearing apart Texas her residence, apart.
Although this is the third book in the Daily Texas series, I didn't feel like I missing anything by not reading the two preceding books, and I think that NSN can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. The relationship between Kia and Kemp was interesting but, towards the end, I found Donetta and Ronald's so sweet and romantic, I got a little misty eyed. I think the only reason, Kia and Kemp weren't a real dazzling couple (and also the reason I gave this book only 3 1/2 stars) was due to the story switching from Donetta's POV to Kai's, and visa-versa. So, when it came to some romantic outings with Kai and Kemp, you only got to read it from Donetta's point of view, which made for a unromantic affect for me. But, overall, I found the first person POV, refreshing and well written, making the story flow nicely. Never Say Never and was even very funny at points but, a biblical message of trust and taking leaps of faith, is laced throughout it. Which definitely add depth and emotion, to the story. All-in-all, I liked it, and if your looking for a great beach read (well.........maybe not), then Never Say Never should be packed right along side the beach ball!:)
Although this is the third book in the Daily Texas series, I didn't feel like I missing anything by not reading the two preceding books, and I think that NSN can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. The relationship between Kia and Kemp was interesting but, towards the end, I found Donetta and Ronald's so sweet and romantic, I got a little misty eyed. I think the only reason, Kia and Kemp weren't a real dazzling couple (and also the reason I gave this book only 3 1/2 stars) was due to the story switching from Donetta's POV to Kai's, and visa-versa. So, when it came to some romantic outings with Kai and Kemp, you only got to read it from Donetta's point of view, which made for a unromantic affect for me. But, overall, I found the first person POV, refreshing and well written, making the story flow nicely. Never Say Never and was even very funny at points but, a biblical message of trust and taking leaps of faith, is laced throughout it. Which definitely add depth and emotion, to the story. All-in-all, I liked it, and if your looking for a great beach read (well.........maybe not), then Never Say Never should be packed right along side the beach ball!:)
January 26, 2010
This is a story about two women from different generations who meet during an evacuation of a hurricane. They are thrown together in a difficult situation but before long they strike up a bond. Aunt Donetta is a character that has appeared in the other books of Lisa's. She is from the small town of Daily, Texas. I really like Donetta's character, she is a strong woman with a wonderful sense of humor. She will keep you laughing throughout the book even during times of trouble.
The other main character is a young woman who has had a troubled background. Her name is Kai Miller and she works for a cruise line that has left port early because of the hurricane. She casts to evacuate and along the way she spots three women on the side of the road who are in trouble. She stops to pick them up and they both continue on a journey of ups and downs before they reached safety and are able to go back to Donetta's hometown of Daily, Texas where Kai meets Donetta's nephew Kemp and a bond is formed between them. Of course, like any good romance story the relationship has a few bumps along the way before it is smooth sailing.
One thing I have noticed about Christian fiction, especially suspense, is that it is told from the viewpoint of two different characters. It usually goes back and forth between a female and male character. However, in this book each chapter goes back and forth between the two main characters Donetta and Kai. This kind of writing takes a little bit of getting used to, but it is worth it because story is shown from two different views. If you are in the mood for a little bit of laughter that this is the book you want to pick up and read.
The other main character is a young woman who has had a troubled background. Her name is Kai Miller and she works for a cruise line that has left port early because of the hurricane. She casts to evacuate and along the way she spots three women on the side of the road who are in trouble. She stops to pick them up and they both continue on a journey of ups and downs before they reached safety and are able to go back to Donetta's hometown of Daily, Texas where Kai meets Donetta's nephew Kemp and a bond is formed between them. Of course, like any good romance story the relationship has a few bumps along the way before it is smooth sailing.
One thing I have noticed about Christian fiction, especially suspense, is that it is told from the viewpoint of two different characters. It usually goes back and forth between a female and male character. However, in this book each chapter goes back and forth between the two main characters Donetta and Kai. This kind of writing takes a little bit of getting used to, but it is worth it because story is shown from two different views. If you are in the mood for a little bit of laughter that this is the book you want to pick up and read.
February 27, 2011
After reading this book, I found it is apart of a series called the Daily Texas Series. I also want to note that this is a Christian book, but for those who don't like very 'preachy' books, this one is for you. Lisa Wingate incorporates her faith in a very light way, but you are still able to see her strong faith.
The whole idea of a hurricane was very new to me. I've never read another book about one. It was interesting to see the chaos that ensues during evacuation. I liked that Lisa also included a couple of kind-hearted characters, it shows you that there are a few good people in the world. It make me step back and see how I can be better. I also loved Daily, Texas. The setting of a small town was something new to me too. There can definitely be a lot of drama within one. Lisa Wingate's writing was fresh and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This book is written in alternating points of view: Donetta and Kai. I loved reading Donetta because she was such a strong and witty character. I also loved her little quirky words, such as "intra-net". Kai was a wonderful character to read about too. She struck me as younger than twenty-seven though, more like twenty-twoish. Even so, it was nice to see her grow as a character and overcome her past. There was also a very swoon-worthy guy...
Overall this was a wonderful book and I can't wait to read more about Daily, Texas and Lisa Wingate's other books.
The whole idea of a hurricane was very new to me. I've never read another book about one. It was interesting to see the chaos that ensues during evacuation. I liked that Lisa also included a couple of kind-hearted characters, it shows you that there are a few good people in the world. It make me step back and see how I can be better. I also loved Daily, Texas. The setting of a small town was something new to me too. There can definitely be a lot of drama within one. Lisa Wingate's writing was fresh and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This book is written in alternating points of view: Donetta and Kai. I loved reading Donetta because she was such a strong and witty character. I also loved her little quirky words, such as "intra-net". Kai was a wonderful character to read about too. She struck me as younger than twenty-seven though, more like twenty-twoish. Even so, it was nice to see her grow as a character and overcome her past. There was also a very swoon-worthy guy...
Overall this was a wonderful book and I can't wait to read more about Daily, Texas and Lisa Wingate's other books.
February 10, 2010
Sometimes in life it is hard to understand that the storms we must face can actually turn out to be tremendous blessings. Sometimes it can take something like a hurricane to literally force us out of a rut and into a blessing from God. I really enjoyed the blessings that Kai experienced from this situation that seemed so bad in every way. A large portion of the beginning half of this book simply revolves around the hurricane evacuation. At first it looks like everything will be ok, but the situation rapidly deteriorates as the storm comes closer. Just when I was ready to move on from the hurricane, the sun came back out and Kai found herself in the wonderful town of Daily, Texas and that is where her life really started to change.
I really liked the analogy that Lisa Wingate used in this story about life’s storms bringing us tremendous blessings. That is certainly the truth and readers will see in this story. I also liked the fact that the book took on an entirely different feel after Kai arrived in Daily. The sunshine and warmth of Daily came through on each page, which made this book so enjoyable. There is a lot of humor in Daily because of the quirky, yet charming characters which kept this book very entertaining. I found Never Say Never to be a wonderful story with a lot of substance and a lot of heart.
I really liked the analogy that Lisa Wingate used in this story about life’s storms bringing us tremendous blessings. That is certainly the truth and readers will see in this story. I also liked the fact that the book took on an entirely different feel after Kai arrived in Daily. The sunshine and warmth of Daily came through on each page, which made this book so enjoyable. There is a lot of humor in Daily because of the quirky, yet charming characters which kept this book very entertaining. I found Never Say Never to be a wonderful story with a lot of substance and a lot of heart.
March 17, 2010
If I was allowed to sum this book up in two words, I'd say this:
COMPLETELY DELIGHTFUL!!!
I started this book (Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate) assuming it would be an easy read, but a fairly simplistic, predictable, and possibly even cheesy love story. Instead I found a heartwarming, light-hearted read that dug a little deeper. The story line was not completely centered in a romance, although that did play a bit of a part (allow me my guilty pleasure, people!!)
I found myself immersed in the characters, and yes, I fell in love with some of them! From Donetta and her adorable and funny metaphors to the touching story of Kai developing a stronger sense of self, I found myself enjoying each and every person in the little town of Daily.
There is, as I mentioned, a love interest in the story. I have to comment on it specifically, because it was SO refreshingly done! I was able to read this book in it's entirety without fear of being bombarded by sex or inappropriate "love scenes" as the story developed. This book proves that good, enjoyable, and FUN entertainment REALLY can be clean!!
This book was an all-around good read, especially if you're looking for something light hearted and fun. I'm telling you all now: GO CHECK THIS BOOK OUT!!!
COMPLETELY DELIGHTFUL!!!
I started this book (Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate) assuming it would be an easy read, but a fairly simplistic, predictable, and possibly even cheesy love story. Instead I found a heartwarming, light-hearted read that dug a little deeper. The story line was not completely centered in a romance, although that did play a bit of a part (allow me my guilty pleasure, people!!)
I found myself immersed in the characters, and yes, I fell in love with some of them! From Donetta and her adorable and funny metaphors to the touching story of Kai developing a stronger sense of self, I found myself enjoying each and every person in the little town of Daily.
There is, as I mentioned, a love interest in the story. I have to comment on it specifically, because it was SO refreshingly done! I was able to read this book in it's entirety without fear of being bombarded by sex or inappropriate "love scenes" as the story developed. This book proves that good, enjoyable, and FUN entertainment REALLY can be clean!!
This book was an all-around good read, especially if you're looking for something light hearted and fun. I'm telling you all now: GO CHECK THIS BOOK OUT!!!
October 27, 2013
When senior citizen Donetta's cruise is threatened by a sudden shift in a hurricane's course, she is thrown together with twenty-something Kai, who is also trying to escape the storm's arrival. What happens next is two women's journey from survival to healing.
I love Lisa Wingate's books, especially the small town flair and character. Being a Texan, some of the dialect seems a bit exaggerated, but that's what makes it fun. Never Say Never reunites readers with the characters they already know and love in Daily, Texas. Wingate does such a great job creating characters who are real---flaws included. I also love that the story is told from two women's point of view. Their differences in age and experience didn't matter as much as their similar desire to belong and to be loved.
It took me a little bit to get into the plot although I liked the characters from the beginning, but after the backstory was finished, the storm was enough to carry the novel to a fantastic finish.
Fans of Lisa Wingate will enjoy this book, and those who like Christian fiction with strong characters will want to pick up this series too.
I love Lisa Wingate's books, especially the small town flair and character. Being a Texan, some of the dialect seems a bit exaggerated, but that's what makes it fun. Never Say Never reunites readers with the characters they already know and love in Daily, Texas. Wingate does such a great job creating characters who are real---flaws included. I also love that the story is told from two women's point of view. Their differences in age and experience didn't matter as much as their similar desire to belong and to be loved.
It took me a little bit to get into the plot although I liked the characters from the beginning, but after the backstory was finished, the storm was enough to carry the novel to a fantastic finish.
Fans of Lisa Wingate will enjoy this book, and those who like Christian fiction with strong characters will want to pick up this series too.
January 29, 2010
"Never Say Never" by Lisa Wingate is an exciting and stimulating book! It sweeps the reader through the evacuation and dangers of a category 4 hurricane to Radar's (one of the dogs) trying to get sticky rat trap boxes off his face and feet!
One of the rescuers, Kemp riding up top of the post drill with a chain saw in his hand will be long remembered. The reader once again gets to enjoy the goings on in Daily, Texas with Donetta, Imagene, and Lucy whom we met in another of Lisa Wingate's books "Talk of the Town".
Donetta, Imagene and Lucy are on their way to join the cruise ship when the hurricane changes course causing them and others to get caught in evacuation traffic along the coast.
Kai Miller works on the cruise ship but the hurricane causes her to get caught in the evacuation traffic also and she ends up in Daily, Texas where she meets and enjoys the friendship of Kemp Eldridge.
Two beautiful love stories holds the reader's interest long into the night.
I highly recommend this book!
Ed
One of the rescuers, Kemp riding up top of the post drill with a chain saw in his hand will be long remembered. The reader once again gets to enjoy the goings on in Daily, Texas with Donetta, Imagene, and Lucy whom we met in another of Lisa Wingate's books "Talk of the Town".
Donetta, Imagene and Lucy are on their way to join the cruise ship when the hurricane changes course causing them and others to get caught in evacuation traffic along the coast.
Kai Miller works on the cruise ship but the hurricane causes her to get caught in the evacuation traffic also and she ends up in Daily, Texas where she meets and enjoys the friendship of Kemp Eldridge.
Two beautiful love stories holds the reader's interest long into the night.
I highly recommend this book!
Ed
March 9, 2010
Combine three women headed for a cruise, a hurricane, two separate love interests and a quirky town and NEVER SAY NEVER makes for an interesting novel.
The characters were fun and I enjoyed them. They were quirky and unique. Donetta and her Southern hospitality was such fun. The ending was fun and mysterious, making for my favorite part. There were light hearted moments of laughter and fun and the town of Daily, Texas was its own character with a memorable setting and residents.
But in my opinion there were a few issues with the story. The back cover claims Kai is roamer, but I never really got that impression. The love interest between Kemp and Kai, moved a bit too fast, there was no growing and discoveries made between the two that could prove they could make a life together.
But altogether, the characters brought the story to life and I enjoyed finishing the book because of their uniqueness.
I want to thank Jim at Bethany House Publishers for my copy of this book to review.
The characters were fun and I enjoyed them. They were quirky and unique. Donetta and her Southern hospitality was such fun. The ending was fun and mysterious, making for my favorite part. There were light hearted moments of laughter and fun and the town of Daily, Texas was its own character with a memorable setting and residents.
But in my opinion there were a few issues with the story. The back cover claims Kai is roamer, but I never really got that impression. The love interest between Kemp and Kai, moved a bit too fast, there was no growing and discoveries made between the two that could prove they could make a life together.
But altogether, the characters brought the story to life and I enjoyed finishing the book because of their uniqueness.
I want to thank Jim at Bethany House Publishers for my copy of this book to review.
April 2, 2010
"Never Say Never" was a really fun read. It's a cozy type of story that has suspense, drama, and some romance mixed in. The story comes from two points of view - Kai's and Donetta. Kai is a young and sensible woman who works for a cruise line and didn't have much of a family life. Donetta is an all around Southern hairdresser who uses her Southern charm to manipulate and get what she wants - but in a charming and hard to refuse kind of way. These two very different woman end up crossing paths, and that's when the fun begins. They are both very lovable and will have you laughing - especially Donetta!
I really enjoyed this heartwarming read. I found myself terrified with the description of the hurricane. It felt very believable and made me thank heavens that I live in a hurricane-free area. The scenario felt quite realistic and I could just imagine the panic and terror that those people felt.
Although somewhat predictable, this is one of those stories that you want to curl up with and read on a yucky day. It is a great escape and makes you feel good at the end.
I really enjoyed this heartwarming read. I found myself terrified with the description of the hurricane. It felt very believable and made me thank heavens that I live in a hurricane-free area. The scenario felt quite realistic and I could just imagine the panic and terror that those people felt.
Although somewhat predictable, this is one of those stories that you want to curl up with and read on a yucky day. It is a great escape and makes you feel good at the end.
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