Glory Road

GIVEAWAY

DENTON, LAUREN K.
GLORY ROAD

Written in Lauren Denton's signature Southern style, Glory Road tells the story of three generations of women navigating the uncertain pathways of their hearts during a summer that promises to bring change -- whether they're ready for it or not.

At thirty-eight, garden shop owner Jessie McBride thinks her chances for romance are years behind her and, after her failed marriage, she's fine with that. She lives contentedly with her unexpected arrival of two men on Glory Road make her question if she's really happy with the status quo. Handsome, wealthy Sumner Tate asks her to arrange flowers for his daughter's wedding, and Jessie finds herself drawn to his continued attention. And Ben Bradley, her lingering what-could-have-been from high school days who's known her better than anyone and whom she hasn't seen in years, moves back to the red dirt road. Jessie's mother, Gus, increasingly finds herself forgetful and faces a potentially frightening future.

Meanwhile, Jessie's fourteen-year-old daughter, Evan, is approaching the start of high school and trying to navigate a new world of identity and emotions -- particularly as they relate to the cute new guy who's moved in just down the road. At the same time, Jessie's mother, Gus, increasingly finds herself  forgetful and faces a potentially frightening future.

As all three women navigate the uncertain paths of their hearts and futures, one summer promises to change -- whether they're ready for it or not.

My Review:

I have to say I've developed an unexpected fondness for Southern style fiction and Glory Road tickled my fancy in so many ways.

First off, the unhurried approach to the storytelling made me feel like I'd wandered up onto the McBride's front porch in the middle of a gab session and was invited to sit a spell. Nothing is rushed...these Southern ladies know the power of a pregnant pause and how to measure their words for the most emphasis. And the way they can turn a phrase! "Lanky as a coat hanger!" It's like they have their own secret language, painting bold images that stir a reader's senses to the point she can visualize every scene.

And I loved the multi-generational perspectives in this novel. We get three stories, really, as we live out a summer of change in the lives of the McBride women. Three points of view, each with its own distinct flavour. Gus on the cusp of a frightening diagnosis, Jessie on the verge of discovering that love can find her the second time round and Evan so eager to leave childhood behind but not quite ready for the complications womanhood brings. Their stories are pertinent and memorable, and the way they draw strength and comfort from one another is inspiring. Relationships aren't perfect, families can be dysfunctional but home is still a place of safety and love.

I listened to the audible version and Devon O'Day's narration really enhanced my reading...er, listening...enjoyment. She captured the essence of each of the McBride women and I could hear the pleasure in her voice -- like she was just as delighted with these ladies as I was.

Please note: I have not categorized this novel as Christian Fiction even though the publisher is Thomas Nelson. It is beautifully written and definitely a clean read, but the lack of an inspirational thread was disappointing.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Glory Road, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 17 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!