Counting Miracles - Nicholas Sparks

Counting Miracles is the new book from Nicholas Sparks. And it's a really great one!

Tanner Hughes is a retired Army Ranger. He's searching for a family member in Asheboro, North Carolina before he heads out on the road again. His path crosses that of Kaitlyn - a doctor - and her two kids. And there's one more player in this triangle.... 

I was immediately caught up by the first few pages. I settled in for the afternoon. 

Sparks' characters are always so wonderfully drawn. They're someone you'd like to know. And that's what Tanner and Kaitlyn  feel as well. Their interactions are respectful and mindful and I had high hopes for their future.

But the road to happiness is not always smooth sailing. There are some truly antagonists that are awful. I didn't even want to read their chapters, but I did.

And that third person...their life is visited and recounted. (Have a tissue or two ready)

How these lives interact with each other is at times a miracle. Sparks' plot does reference faith.

A satisfying read on so many levels. See for yourself - read an excerpt of Counting Miracles. 

The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife - Anna Johnston

The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is Anna Johnston's wonderful debut novel.  

Fred is eighty two now and he’s lonely, broke, and has just been informed that he will be evicted. And then.....oh I loved this 'then'. Fred has landed in the last place he could have expected. He tries to explain things but no one really listens. So, he decides to stay.

Fred is a wonderful lead character. He's kind, thoughtful and loves people. He's found a place for himself and he is welcomed by all he meets. But someone questions his story and that's the start of the ending. Or is it?

I've been a little obtuse as I don't want to spoil this book for you. 

I've really been enjoying tales with 'seniors' in the lead roles lately. I think those characters have so much to offer an author - wisdom, experience and a voice. Fred's voice is one we should listen to. 

Johnston deftly tugs on our heart strings as she explores loss, redemption, forgiveness, friendship, family and more. (With a side of humor!) You'll want a tissue or two.

A joy to read. See for yourself - read an excerpt of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife.