Review: Simple, Sweet Novella
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 6, 2013
Ripples Along the Shore is the third in a series of novellas by Mona Hodgson. This series is about a group of women in a quilting circle in the South after the Civil War. As all of these women deal with the changes in their lives and community, the novellas relate their stories of loss and love. The novellas are centered around a real life place in Missouri after the war.In this edition, Caroline- a widow whose husband was killed fighting for the Union- comes back to her sister's home and the community of the quilting circle. Her sister's husband is bitter after the loss of his leg in the war. And Caroline wishes to join the wagon train headed West for a change in her life. But Garrett, the leader of the wagon train and a former Southern soldier, doesn't want a young, unmarried woman along. Caroline searches for a change and purpose in her life as she has growing feelings for Garrett.I enjoyed this short read. I think it would have made more sense if I had read the other novellas. This was the third and many people and situations from previous books weren't understood. I think it would help me enjoy the novella if I had read the others.The characters were likable. The setting was great for me. And I like the idea of a series that builds on the community of the quilting circle.I did feel like many situations were left "undone" and that there was no real beginning and end to the story. I felt as if I was dropped in part way through and then picked up before it finished. Again, I think it may have been better to read the other novellas first.I've read some of Mona Hodgson's books before. They are simple, easy reads that aren't anything deep but are enjoyable.Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.