JDCMustReadBooks

By: Kaira Rouda

ISBN-13: 9781608320912

Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group, LLC

Publication date: 5/1/2011

Pages: 312

Fomrat:  Paperback

My Rating:  5 Stars 

I so enjoyed Kaira Rouda’s newest upcoming release, IN THE MIRROR, (coming May 1, 2014), which I received an advanced reading copy  (highly recommend-5 Stars); thereby, wanted to read her earlier book, which received rave reviews. 

HERE, HOME, HOPE did not disappoint – from the front cover image –making you feel like pulling up a chair, and visiting with this group of women, to experiencing the ups and downs, and visions of more to come. An uplifting and witty debut novel which will keep you laughing, with this heroine of reinvention and inspiration. 

Totally agree with one of the other reviewers –reminds me of Desperate Housewives, as well, with this perfect neighborhood, and the grass is greener – as some may think.

Kelly is rethinking her life as she approaches her forties with a health scare, married to an attorney, and has two sons. She has sacrificed her time and passions for her family and envies her two best friends.

At age 39, she has memory challenges and places post it notes and reminders of things to change (midlife crisis). She learns of secrets her friends have been keeping and decides to start up a things to change list. With the help of Kelly's husband Patrick, her friends Beth, Charlotte and Katherine and Mel (Katherine's daughter) she turns her life around and gives it meaning and purpose.

A beautifully written story of friendship, humor, courage, empowerment of women, reinvention, and a belief it you want to attain and reach those dreams---you can (regardless of age). Of course, loved Kelly’s new business and the confidence it brought to her, as she reshapes her life.

Some great questions and topics for discussions at the end of the book – ideal for book clubs! If you loved Here, Home, Hope as much as I did, be sure and read IN THE MIRROR. An engaging, inspiring, and satisfying read for women of all ages!