“Beautifully written with the most endearing characters I’ve encountered in quite some time. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the Ozarks, Reading The Sweet Oak is a novel of family, friendship, love, and the ability to forgive not only others but one’s self, as well as a journey of self-discovery. Each of the five women are so well-developed and true to life that I felt as though each one was an old friend with unique qualities and personal experiences that I could easily identify with on some level. Whether it be BJ’s diagnosis of ELS (Empty Life Syndrome), Ruby’s desire to see her grand-daughter happily married, Pearl’s struggle with accepting her grandson’s recent revelation, Jen’s strained relationship with her mother, or Tulsa’s aversion to romance in general, each of these women are absolutely endearing and are sure to tug at any reader’s heart. However, the most prevailing characteristic of this novel is the author’s ability to evoke such a wide array of emotions; I found myself often laughing aloud and simultaneously reaching for a box of tissues. Only a truly gifted and talented writer can evoke such emotions. With a well-developed plot filled with unsuspecting twists and turns throughout, this would certainly make for an excellent reading group selection and questions for discussions are provided as well. Easily deserving of FIVE stars and highly recommended!”
—Kimberly’s Bookshelf, Read More
“Every page is filled with love, emotion and clearly reveals the commitment Tulsa has for her home and grandmother. The heart is torn in different paths when she tries to find love and happiness, but at the cost of giving up everything she believes in and what truly makes her happy. I loved this story written about normal people in a close-knit community giving and aiding each other in times of desperation. READING THE SWEET OAK is a truly awesome read!”
—Fresh Fiction, Read More