Safe Haven: Nicholas Sparks

Photo Credit: Google Images

Main Characters:

- Erin/Katie: abused
- Kevin: Erin's (Katie's) husband; abuser
- Jo: Katie's friend
- Alex: general store owner, widow
- Carly: Alex's late wife
- Kristen: Alex's daughter
- Josh: Alex's son

Pages: 340

Summary:

Erin has been longing to leave her abusive husband but in the past every time she's tried he's found out but this time is different. She finally musters up enough courage to escape the relationship by stealing someone else's identity and changing her appearance. Throughout her journey she faces varying obstacles and meets new people along the way, Alex for example whom she falls madly in love with. Complications arise as their romance unfolds and the suspense keeps you wanting more.

Will Erin stay alive and live happily ever after?

Risa's Review

Really great book! Starts out a bit sad but definitely turns out to be more positive. The audience sees how Erin really changes and grows into the character of a strong determined lady. A very inspiring novel, would definitely recommend. Also, the movie comes out in February 2013 so get reading.


I'd really appreciate my viewer's comments! Don't be shy! I'm always open to book recomendations as well! Thanks :D

The Christmas Box: Richard Paul Evans

Photo Credit: Google Images

In preparation for Christmas!













Main Characters:

Richard: husband and owner of formal wear shop
Keri: wife and co-owner of formal wear shop
Jenna: Richard and Kerri's daughter 
Mary Parkin: rich widow

Pages: 125

Summary

Richard and Keri wanted to move into a larger living space but could not afford it. One day they stumbled upon an ad in the local paper placed by a wealthy widow, Mary, wanting someone to cook for her and keep her company in exchange for board. Richard and his wife agreed to do so. While moving in Richard came across what was known to be a Christmas Box that was beautifully crafted and held hand written letters. Throughout the families stay they became closer and closer to Mary. Sadly, Mary becomes terminally ill but before she passes she leaves the family with an important message. 

What did Mary teach?


Risa's Review
A great quick Christmas story to read. Sad, but has a very good message.

Left Neglected: Lisa Genova

Photo Credit: Google Images

Main Characters:

- Bob: Sarah's husband; career driven; supportive 
- Sarah: Career driven; mother of three  
- Sarah's Mother 

Pages: 336

Summary:

Sarah had everything. Great job, supportive husband and a full and busy life with three children. While driving to work she reached for her ringing cellphone, and lost control of the vehicle. Her life as she knew it was altered. Leaving her with brain damage, she was later diagnosed with a neurological disorder called left neglect due to the brain injury. Through aggressive physiotherapy she fought to regain some semblance of normalcy and reinvented her life. On a more positive note, Sarah rekindles a long lost relationship with her mother.

Risa's Review

The truth is I learned more about a neurological disorder that I never knew anything about until reading the book. Also, we all know we should never reach for cell phones or text while driving, an unfortunate lesson that was learned the hard way. But all in all this was a good book.