I thoroughly enjoyed Tender Grace, which was the first book I read by Jackina Stark (Lisa, Lauren & I reviewed it here). So I was excited to have the opportunity to read her latest work, Things Worth Remembering. I was not disappointed.
Maisey Laswell is about to be married to the man of her dreams. She’s eagerly anticipating the wedding, but not the trip home. In fact, Maisey would avoid her mother, Kendy, forever if she could. She’s gotten pretty good at it since the summer she turned 13, when she discovered an ugly truth about her mother that shattered their close bond.
Kendy, who grew up with a distant and cold mother, made every possible effort to ensure her relationship with Maisey would be different. And it was, until Maisey became a teenager. As she awaits Maisey’s arrival, Kendy foolishly hopes that whatever has come between her and her daughter will disappear and their relationship will be miraculously repaired. Maisey’s avoidance and pointed attempts to leave her mother out soon lead Kendy to realize that their relationship may never be restored.
Once again, Stark delves into the complexities of human relationships and the ramifications of hope lost. Her characters are real, flawed, and sympathetic. I hope we’ll be hearing more of Stark in the future.
Melissa has been captivated by books for as long as she can remember. She resides in Virginia and blogs at Breath of Life.
I read Tender Grace after it was mentioned on this blog. I loved the story. I am glad to know that Jackina Stark has another book out. I am even more glad to know that you liked this story as well.
I am going to read Things Worth Remembering, onto my to-read list it goes.