I am totally new to this series and this author, and count me in as a total convert! I absolutely loved the setting and the characters.
As always, you can get plot spoilers from the blurbs and other reviews. I want to talk about what really stood out to me in this book.
The camaraderie: The early scenes with the cousins (Jackson, Boone, and Tucker) had me chuckling from their first meeting up with each other. I liked how the author rolled out the stories as the cousins re-told them; instead of just telling the reader what happened, the reader got to reminisce right along with the guys (I’m thinking about why their great-aunt remembered them so well).
The interplay between cousins Celeste and Angelica (excellent names) is another example. Their totally opposite demeanors caused some friction, but when they worked off of each other, it was magical.
The author also hits on the small-town feel, from the secret list of contractors (and how carefully it’s guarded) to the support for the newly opened businesses, it is all accurate and endearing.
The setting: Her descriptions of Enchanted Canyon made me want to jump a plane and go find a place in Texas that was at least a little bit like what she was describing. (Kudos to the cover design for adding to that desire)
The literary allusions: The Last Chance Saloon is at the halfway mark on the road between the towns of Redemption and Ruin. C’mon, could it be any more Dante-ish? I loved the little references like this, as well as the naming of the Inn and other things (the Blessing cousins mentioned above). I appreciate the thought that went into the consistency of the names.
The overall story: It was natural and organic and everything made sense. The plot moved right along and didn’t waste time with superfluous events. Everything happened for a reason. I love when an author crafts a straightforward plot.
There was obviously a lot to like about this book. I, for one, cannot wait to dive into the previous books and get to know the McBrides better!
Jackson by Emily MarchMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I hadn’t read any of the Eternity Springs series by this author, so all the characters were new to me, but that didn’t matter in the bigger scheme of things. There were times that it was apparent that there was backstory somewhere, but I never felt lost in the plot or like I was missing anything. I got caught up in the descriptions of Enchanted Canyon and its surrounding area. They were so vivid that I found myself wishing that I could go there on vacation. I love it when an author brings a region and its inhabitants to life like that. I liked Jackson’s description of his music as well (I could relate), and the romance part of the plot was charming. It was a soothing read, and I look forward to more from this author. Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and the author for a complimentary pre-release digital ARC of this book.
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Author Bio:
Emily March is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the heartwarming Eternity Springs series. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Emily is an avid fan of Aggie sports and her recipe for jalapeño relish has made her a tailgating legend.
Buy-Book Link:https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250314918
