Author / Writer / Book
Lover - which are you?
SK ~ Author, book lover.
Title of Fiction book
and year published
THE RESURRECTION OF TESS BLESSING (December, 2014)
A signed copy of this great book will be given away this weekend! See information below!
A signed copy of this great book will be given away this weekend! See information below!
Author name
Lesley Kagen
Type of book
Contemporary women's fiction
What is it about this
book that pulled you in?
SK ~ You know those people who have such soothing voices and gentle
natures, that your whole being calms when they talk, and you wish you could
listen to them speak forever? Well,
Grace, the enigmatic narrator of this book had that effect on me. She drew me into the story and made me root
for the floundering protagonist, Tess. Grace prompted me to care if Tess
reconciled with her sister, rekindled her relationship with her husband, and
resolved her lingering issues with her deceased mother. It was Grace who
prompted me to root for Tess to find her strength to heal—and live!
Is there a relationship
in the story that resonated with you?
SK ~ I was enthralled with the relationship between Tess and
Grace. While I can't say too much about
their bond (it would be like telling you what you're getting for Christmas!), I
will say that I couldn't wait for Grace's commentary to pop on the page. I
found Grace's devotion to Tess, and Tess's dependence on Grace, very moving.
Truly, this is one of the most unique, fascinating, and magical relationships
in fiction. Everyone who reads this book will either long to be more like
Grace, or to have a Grace of their own.
Do you think that
relationship was portrayed realistically?
SK ~ Considering that Grace's character brings a touch of magical
realism to the story, I'd have to say that no,
their relationship is not
"realistic." Yet the love they feel for each other, as well as
the patience Grace shows as she guides and watches over Tess during her
tumultuous time, feels completely genuine.
Anything else you want
to tell us about the book without giving away too much of the plot?
SK ~ Readers often shy away from books they think might be too heavy,
too sad. Anyone who tends to skip these
types of books should know that, while the issues Tess is dealing with are heavy, Kagen's skill with humor
makes this book every bit as up-lifting as it is poignant. I consider this
Lesley Kagen's best book to date.
If author or writer,
your social media links:
https://www.facebook.com/kring.sandra
JHA ~ Thank you so much, Sandra, for taking the time to recommend Lesley's new book! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy as I'm a big fan of Lesley's WHISPERING IN THE DARK, and GOOD GRACES!
***TO WIN A COPY OF THIS GREAT BOOK - Please leave a comment below (you can open the comments by clicking on the red 'comment' word below photo of the book), or comment on my Facebook page (under Jill Hannah Anderson). If you 'LIKE' my Facebook page (not the post itself) at https://www.facebook.com/jillhannah.anderson?ref=hl you get an extra entry in the drawing! Winner will be picked on Sunday, December 14th.
JHA ~ Thank you so much, Sandra, for taking the time to recommend Lesley's new book! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy as I'm a big fan of Lesley's WHISPERING IN THE DARK, and GOOD GRACES!
***TO WIN A COPY OF THIS GREAT BOOK - Please leave a comment below (you can open the comments by clicking on the red 'comment' word below photo of the book), or comment on my Facebook page (under Jill Hannah Anderson). If you 'LIKE' my Facebook page (not the post itself) at https://www.facebook.com/jillhannah.anderson?ref=hl you get an extra entry in the drawing! Winner will be picked on Sunday, December 14th.
I generally don't shy away from books with heavy issues. I find that there is always something to be learned from them. It is nice to know that the heaviness is countered with humor. That is always the best combination. I've liked your Facebook page.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Kimberly, and I've read other books by Lesley Kagen and absolutely love her sense of humor. I can't wait to read this book myself!
DeleteKimberly, I guarantee you that this book will have you laughing out loud in places. And Jill, you're going to love it!
ReplyDeleteSandra
A continual source of amazement. And why I love books. Each person sees in the story what they want to see. I had one reader tell me about "Whistling in the Dark," which is about child abandonment, murder and molestation, that it was the funniest book she'd ever read. Another reader showed up at a book reading and cried the entire time because she had never dealt with her daddy's death and the story hit her in the heart.
DeleteThis book sounds like it is right up my alley. I enjoy reading about how pee respond differently to life's challenges.
ReplyDeleteIf it is anything like her other novels, Susan, it will have you laughing out loud, yet touching your heart. My husband has also loved reading her books! BTW, Susan, I'll need a last name from you for the drawing. :)
DeleteWhile I was reading THE RESURRECTION OF TESS BLESSING, I read passages out loud to the man of the house. He really chuckled when I read the funny stuff. And when I read passages that were more poignant and tender, he said, "Wow, that woman can really write." I agree!
DeleteI don't know how many of you just "have" to read a line or two out loud to your significant other on occasion, but I do it often. Admittedly, though, he's a better sport about this practice than me, because when he interrupts my reading experience to quote something from the book he's reading, I usually say, "Shhhh. Later. I'm reading." ;)
Ha..ha..ha Sandy. Your poor S.O. Although, I think we'd both agree, that man has wonderful taste:)
DeleteMany of the best books I've read have been about serious issues. Jill, your book-loving friends and you are helping me build a great reading list!
ReplyDeleteThat's what this blog is all about, Laura, so I'm glad you are finding new books to add to your TBR book stack. :)
DeleteJill has excellent taste in literature, Laura:)
DeleteSounds like a great read. Your descriptions draw me in.
ReplyDeletePlay off the Page
In the other books I've read of Lesley's, Mary, she depicts midwest small town life so well. I think you will really enjoy her writing!
DeleteLove Lesley Kagen's other books..looking forward to this one!
ReplyDeleteHi JoAnn (I need your last name for the book giveaway!) if you read WHISTLING IN THE DARK or GOOD GRACES, it sounds like Lesley's newest novel here is as wonderful of a read!
DeleteThank you, JoAnne. Much obliged:)
DeleteMy all-time favorite book is Lesley's "Whistling in the Dark". It should be mandatory reading for anyone who grew up in the 1950's and 60's. Written in the rambling narrative of a strong-minded 9 year old, reading it was like hanging out with one of my motor-mouth grandkids for a couple days. Along with a captivating plot, the book is stuffed with cliches and nostalgia from that time. Many belly laughs! I will definitely be reading your new book, Leslie!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Don. If you loved "Whistling in the Dark" I think you might also like the prequel novella for the novel---"The Undertaking of Tess." It's only available now in e, but will soon be released as a paperback. Also, within, "The Resurrection of Tess Blessing," there are flashbacks of :The Good Old Days." Thanks for enjoying my stories!
DeleteI already left one comment but I don't know what happened to it so I'm leaving another, if it turns out to be a duplicate, please delete one.
ReplyDeleteI really want to read this book and have ever since reading The Undertaking of Tess!
Okay, this one went through, glad I replied again! I also went and liked your FB page because 1) I'm very grateful for the chance to win and 2) I need as many entries as possible. lol
DeleteThanks, Sharon!
DeleteThat's funny, Sharon. Good luck!
DeleteHi Sandra,
DeleteWhen are you releasing a new book?
Hi Sharon, I just picked your name out of the hat (it was in there plenty of times!) ;) and also posted it on Facebook. Can you message me on Facebook or email me here through my blog to let me know your mailing address so Lesley can send you the book? Thanks much!
DeleteYAYYYYYY!! I'll message you on FB right now! So excited! Thank you!
DeleteHi Jill, Hi Lesley,
ReplyDeleteI write and always enjoy reading books with heavy or serious topics. Adding a touch of humor could only be a plus. I must read this and thank you!
Hi Beth,
DeleteHope you enjoy Tessie's story. And good luck with your writing!
Hi Beth, You'll find heavy topics with wonderful humor in both Lesley's books and Sandra Krings books. My favorite of Sandra's is CARRY ME HOME, and of Lesley's, WHISTLING IN THE DARK... but I have a feeling once I read about Tess, that favorite might change! :)
DeleteI love Lesley Kagen's books!
ReplyDeleteHi Book fanatic, can I get a name from you so I can add you to the book drawing for tonight? Thanks!
Delete