Monique Bucheger

Having read the previous books in this series, I looked forward to reading this next installment. This book lived up to my expectations. Ginnie and Tillie continue to scheme and make plans. Extra characters continue to bring drama to the plot.

I love how the author introduces new characters throughout the series. I found Tillie’s dad to be an intriguing addition to the series. I also appreciate how children want to be part o this family. Growing up as the younger sister, I remember how my sister’s friends always visited our house and the stunts they pulled. This book helped recreate some of those memories.

This series provides an excellent group of books for tweens to read. The Christian and family values make the books worth reading.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (plus d'informations)

Ginnie and Tillie are best friend and soon they will be sisters. I’m thrilled that a wedding will soon take place. It has been a journey watching this family endure heartache and disappointment. Ginnie is still sassy but it seems she is starting to mature and keep her anger toned down.

This book focused more on Tillie and I like how the author handles domestic abuse in the story. It is no surprise that Tillie never wants to see her dad again. As the big day gets closer trouble is brewing in the distance. I was hoping everything would go smoothly but a detour stops everything.

When Tillie’s dad unexpectedly shows up, I knew there was trouble ahead. Jasper is not a welcome sight to Tillie and you can feel her fear as she stands facing him. The author delivers an honest look at the fallout of leaving your child with memories of being hit. I know first hand about abuse as a child so I could understand why Tillie didn’t want to give her dad a second chance.

The scene where Tillie expresses herself to her dad is honest and hard to read at the same time. It is never okay to say ugly things to a parent but I sympathized with how much she needed to be heard. With Jasper back in the picture , I began to wonder if there would be a wedding. There are many different emotions in the story but somehow I didn’t feel right about Ginnie’s dad marrying Tillie’s mom. I’m not sure that it is a good match and I wonder if maybe there is more to the story. I have a few theories but I’m not sharing. In reading the author’s notes I know there are at least two more books coming for the series. I’m glad because I have a few questions. Until then I will have to wait to see where the author takes the story. Does Aunt Roni want more than just getting to know her niece and nephew? Will we find out if Pierce’s dad gets help? The big question is , will there be a wedding?

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (plus d'informations)

This middle-grade book is filled with a large cast of characters and plenty of complicated family drama. It is well written and tackles some challenging issues. According to the author (who is "a former foster mom to over 100 foster kids"), her goal is to "give a voice to kids who feel voiceless and invisible." She allows Tillie to say things that I think a lot of kids would keep bottled up inside. There are many attitudes and situations that I would want to address as a parent if I had a child reading this book, so I would recommend parents read it along with their child(ren) and discuss those issues.

I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.… (plus d'informations)

This collection includes books 1 to 3 that chronicle the adventures of Ginnie West, her brother Toran, and their best friend Tillie Taylor. The two girls scheme and plot throughout the books to get Tillie’s mom together with Ginnie and Toran’s dad.

I love the antics of the three along with their friends. Ginnie’s uncles add to the story. I also enjoy seeing how all the members interact. The more I read of these books, the more I continued reading to see how the story would turn out. Having read these books as standalone books, I have to say I prefer the idea of them being in a collection.

The stories read rather quickly and perfectly suit preteens. The author includes antics, friendship, family, faith, and more meaningful way. The plot lines maintained my interest. The books build on one another, so having the three books in one collection makes it easier to continue reading without having to get additional books. So if you have young adults in your life, check out these books for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (plus d'informations)