(*Previously titled Finding Narragansett)
Release Date: December 30th 2013
Publisher: TSW Books
Purchase: Amazon
Goodreads Summary:
For years, Julian has kept her emotional struggle a secret from her mother. Now at twenty-one, she’s still unsure whether she should once and for all learn about the family that didn’t accept her, or continue living her life with the emptiness in her heart.
Jules finally makes the decision to return to Narragansett, Rhode Island after 10 years, upon hearing the news of her father’s death. It’s supposed to be an ‘in and out’ trip—make peace with her heart, then return to Manhattan immediately. Only, she has no idea just what her deceased father has in store for her.
Several obstacles continue to prolong her stay, and over time, Jules finds herself starting to trust the family that had denied her in the past.
But just as she discovers the other side that was missing, Julian gets entangled in a web of lies and unexpectedly finds romance amidst it all.
~Reviews~
Stormy, Blue Eyed Book Nerd: 5 stars
Shane Morgan is an author to look out for!
This book was addicting.
I really couldn’t pry myself away from it.
It’s one of those WHO DUNNIT?? murder mysteries where your mind gets played with from beginning to end. You get it wrong possibly every time, until things start coming together and then it’s like, AHA! *face palm*
Julian is a tough, smart girl. She’s really likable and a great protagonist. She works her ass off to get to the bottom of everything and stands up for herself and her mother against the not-so-nice Vandersons.
Seven. I like this name. It’s unique and cool. The guy? He’s great, too. Very nice and very sweet. I just wish we got more of him and Julian, actually together. And what exactly her father said to him.
Finding Narragansett is an enjoyable read. I had so much fun trying to put things together and making predictions. Well written, fantastic plot, and a wonderful voice.
I do recommend, friends!
***
This was such a wonderful surprise to read, I absolutely enjoyed it!! I can’t really go into too much detail in this review because there is a certain aspect of this book that I don’t want to ruin for the rest of you, but rest assured that it will keep you engaged.
After reading through the blurb, I was unsure of what exactly to expect from this novel, so when I had the chance to beta-read for this author I couldn’t refuse. Because Julian is the product of her father’s “mistress”, she is shunned by his family but has always wanted that connection to her father. So when she learns of his death, she decides to return to Narragansett simply to make peace with herself and then return to Manhattan and her mother. However, the longer she finds herself there, the more she begins to find herself entangled in Vanderson business and begins to develop a relationship with her half-sister and comes to accept herself as a Vanderson.
Julian was a very realistic character. Even though I had trouble connecting with her at times, I could understand her motives for acting the way she did. I enjoyed reading about her constant struggle between wanting to please her mother (who believes her father rejected Julian as his daughter) and wanting to learn more about and connect with her deceased father and half-sister. Seven, her father’s protege whom he made swear to look after Julian, was a sweetheart, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching him slowly lower his guard. I’m also glad Mackenzie (her half-sister) and Julian’s relationship worked out the way it did.
I don’t really wanna say much more for fear of ruining it for you guys. Overall, however, I would definitely recommend giving this book a read. It’s filled with romance, mystery, suspense, and loveliness that just blends together so well. Definitely a two-thumbs-up.
***
Jaime, Curious Kindle Reader: 4 stars
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Julian is on a quest for information. After her father dies suddenly, she’s thrust into a world of wealth – and a family that doesn’t want to be reminded that she exists. She’s the outcome of an affair – and one that ended before she was born.
Her mother gave her father one last chance to know her, before she moved them to NYC – and away from what her mother thought was nothing but pain for her daughter. Unfortunately, Julian was abandoned as her father stayed with his wife and daughter instead. Never reaching out to her – not even before it was too late.
Julian is conflicted, if she should even attend his funeral – but with some prodding from her Aunt Bev, she ends up going and seeing her sister Mackenzie, after all these years. Their reunion isn’t smooth – especially after her father’s will is read.
What I didn’t expect was all the mystery and suspense – and the possibility that Julian’s father was murdered. I spent the entire book trying to figure out what the heck was going on and who was responsible. Convinced I had it right at least three different times – to which I was wrong. Shane writes a mystery well – and left me curious as to what would happen next with Julian & Seven…. and even Mackenzie – is there a possibility she can see past her jealousy and forge a relationship with her sister? Their father is gone – they’re the only siblings each other has…. and then Seven, oh lovely Seven…. is he too good to be true?
All the lies – the deceit that Julian is thrust into – amongst a family she doesn’t trust, and who are just waiting for her to leave and head back to NYC. She is a constant reminder for her step-mother of the infidelity of her late husband – and for Mackenzie, the love of a daughter she could never measure up too.
Lies are revealed, secrets exposed… and a shock that will leave you wondering how the hell you didn’t see that coming.
Check it out!
Shane Morgan | Professional Dreamer 