Solomon's Oak: A Novel (édition 2010)

I was lucky enough to receive this book through Goodreads' Give Away program, and I am so, so pleased I took a chance on entering.

This book is wonderful. It came as no surprise to find out that Mapson is from the Southwest; she captured California and New Mexico's culture and beauty in a way that made me feel that I was right there with Glory and Joseph and Juniper, and as if I'd had Lorna for my own grandmother. The plot was very well put together; I love it when an author can intertwine related plotlines without the story becoming jumbled and confusing, and Mapson managed wonderfully. The only part that I think could be improved would be the end; it felt a little rushed in terms of plot. However, the very end of the book was perfect; not too vague, and not detailed enough so as to leave nothing to the reader's imagination.

This book is a great novel altogther, interweaving hope and grief into a beautiful tale of love and acceptance against a stunning backdrop of the Southwestern United States. ( )

The story unfolds slowly, but I enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing how their lives would impact each other's. ( )

Lovely book. I really enjoyed it - fell in love with the characters - one and all. Who wouldn't love to have a white oak in the backyard? ( )

Wonderful book. Great, unforgettable characters, lovely descriptions, deep emotion. HEA.
I'm going to Amazon to buy more of hers right now.

Found this on the Kindle Daily Deal, and authors, I highly recommend it, if you can get chosen. This worked just like it was supposed to - I read it, loved it (at $1.99) and it doesn't matter how much the rest cost. I can't wait to read them! ( )

Somehow this book got buried (and not in my tbr pile). After picking it up, I couldn't put it down. Jo-Ann Mapson wrote a good story, with great characters, enormous empathy for all characters, and ended it in a believable, satisfying way. I will be reading her other books immediately!