Scent of Lilacs Book Review

The Heart of Hollyhill

Book One

SUMMARY:  After the summer of 1964, life for Jocie Brooke will never be the same.

     Life-changing events rarely happen in quiet Hollyhill, Kentucky, and when they do, they are few and far between.  But for young Jocie Brooke and her family, they happen all at once during the humid summer of 1964.  Though on the surface things are just fine, it seems like everyone in Jocie's life has something they're not saying, something they're hiding from her - and from themselves.  As Jocie digs into her family's past, she stirs up a whirlwind of discoveries.  Will she find the answers everyone so desperately needs?  Or will her questions lead to truths better left hidden?

     Combining unforgettable characters, true-to-life struggles, and the perfect dose of humor and nostalgia, this riveting story from bestselling author Ann Gabhard explores the very essence of new life and love.

REVIEW:  Ann Gabhard does a great job in this book.  Jocie's enthusiasm for life and how much she loves her dad and is not afraid to show it is refreshing.  I also love how Jocie's faith in God never waivers when she faces some difficult questions and situations.  The author shows how, if you keep secrets, the truth will come out when you least expect it and in ways you never thought.  Even secrets that are 50 years old and only known to a few people will be found out.  God's grace and mercy is evident throughout this novel, shown by the congregation David leads, Tabitha's return home after being gone about seven years, and Wes, just being Wes.  This was an interesting story that kept my interest throughout.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Available March, 2013 in your favorite retailer or bookseller.

Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, Words Spoken True,  The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted.  She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky.  Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.