4.05

1

Jun 27, 2017

What was that?!

I was told this was a mystery.

It is not a mystery.

Everything We Keep is an extremely long-winded "getting over someone" story, complete with the logistics of opening a cafe and a boring romance. Well, two boring romances. It's like After You, except it doesn't follow on from a book that was actually good.

Aimee Tierney's fiancee, James, dies during a boating accident in Mexico. She attends his funeral, buries him, and spends the next two years opening a new restaurant and What was that?!

I was told this was a mystery.

It is not a mystery.

Everything We Keep is an extremely long-winded "getting over someone" story, complete with the logistics of opening a cafe and a boring romance. Well, two boring romances. It's like After You, except it doesn't follow on from a book that was actually good.

Aimee Tierney's fiancee, James, dies during a boating accident in Mexico. She attends his funeral, buries him, and spends the next two years opening a new restaurant and refusing advances from guys who keep asking her out. That's the fist two hundred pages of the book. Aside from a strange encounter with a psychic at James' funeral, who claims James is still alive, nothing else happens for more than half the book.

It took forever to go anywhere. I cannot believe how many pages I sat through of Aimee talking about food and art and maybe opening a cafe and how she could date if she wanted to but she's not ready to let go of James.

Plus, Aimee is a chronic blusher. She is the standard blushing white romance novel heroine who feels her cheeks heating every time a guy talks to her. Mention anything sexual and she's red from the roots of her hair down to her *cough* lady parts. I lost count of how many times she blushed.

How much do you want to read a slow tale of cafe management? Because that's a large percentage of this book. In "Part 2", we start to finally get somewhere as Aimee digs deeper into the possibility that James is still alive. This takes us away from the cafe at last, but it's still dull. There is very little drama or tension; no climax either - Aimee's story simply seems to end with a shrug that says "Oh well, that's it then."

The problem is that the book isn't thrilling or fast-paced enough to be a mystery, but it also lacks the detailed characterization and excellent writing required for a successful family drama. I am fine with slow character studies like A Spool of Blue Thread and Everything I Never Told You, but Everything We Keep is nowhere near strong enough to sit among those either.

I found it to be a bland romance without a single memorable character.

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2

Jun 28, 2016

My thoughts and feelings were a constant ebb and flow. One minute I was enjoying the story and the next I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. I'll admit there were some great moments mixed in, things that made me swoon, but they were overshadowed by the things that felt too convenient. Too contrived. Too unnatural.

My biggest issue with the entire story was Aimee. A lot of her decisions didn’t make sense to me. Her thoughts and actions were confusing. One minute she’s convinced her fiancé is still My thoughts and feelings were a constant ebb and flow. One minute I was enjoying the story and the next I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. I'll admit there were some great moments mixed in, things that made me swoon, but they were overshadowed by the things that felt too convenient. Too contrived. Too unnatural.

My biggest issue with the entire story was Aimee. A lot of her decisions didn’t make sense to me. Her thoughts and actions were confusing. One minute she’s convinced her fiancé is still alive, that the body she buried on their wedding day wasn’t him, and the next she’s opening a café and vowing to move on. She was adamant, she couldn’t start anything with Ian until she had concrete answers about James. Her solution, keep Ian at an arms length, for an entire year, and then sleep with him on the trip to Mexico. Of all the times to give in, she picks that one? When she knew what she was after was literally a few blocks away? I don’t get it. I was pissed off at the way she handled things and pretty unimpressed with the way things played out.

“Fall for me, Aimee. I’ll catch you.”

The entire James storyline and the ensuing drama was completely ridiculous to me. I’m sorry, I just can’t get on board with what happened. Any of it. And again, I’m back to Aimee’s decision making. So many times she would be right there, about to get the truth and it’s like she would change the subject or ignore the elephant in the room. All in an attempt to enjoy the moment? Are you kidding me? I wanted to shake her and get her to pay attention. To focus.

I feel like the majority of the plot rested on convenience. On things that just seemed to “happen” or work out in Aimee’s favor. I would have appreciated a bit more development. With more development, comes more depth and in turn, a more engaged reader.

If I haven’t made it clear by now, I found this book to be kind of a mess and so was my head while reading it. Only to be compounded by the epilogue. I mean, seriously? That definitely tanked my rating a bit. There might be a second book in the works, but I won't even consider picking it up.

*Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. ...more

3

Sep 22, 2016

While I didn't love this book, I do have to say that it had an original storyline and kept my interest. There were some highly predictable elements, but many things that also surprised me. The what didn't surprise me as much as the why did, if that makes any sense.

The story centers on Aimee, a lady that finds herself burying her fiancé on what should've been their wedding day. In the year that follows, she tries to piece her life back together. She opens a business, spends time with her While I didn't love this book, I do have to say that it had an original storyline and kept my interest. There were some highly predictable elements, but many things that also surprised me. The what didn't surprise me as much as the why did, if that makes any sense.

The story centers on Aimee, a lady that finds herself burying her fiancé on what should've been their wedding day. In the year that follows, she tries to piece her life back together. She opens a business, spends time with her girlfriends and gradually begins to form a friendship with Ian.

All the while, she has this niggling feeling that James isn't really dead. Right from the start, Aimee had her doubts about the story she was told. She never saw the body and things just don't add up for her. Add to that a self-proclaimed psychic that keeps seeking Aimee out and telling her that James is very much alive, and you've got a big mystery.

As Aimee works her way through the clues, she discovers far more than she bargained for. Although some parts were predictable, others I found pretty surprising. In the end, I have to say I can't remember reading another story quite like it.

All in all, I thought it was a good story. I would've liked to have felt more of a connection to the characters. Also, some of the "twists" were too far-fetched and convenient to be believable.

The closing scene leaves this one wide open for a sequel. I'd probably read it. I have to admit I'm curious to see how things will work out now that the game has changed again. However, it won't be at the top of my TBR list.
...more

5

Jun 03, 2016

I’m absolutely floored that this was a debut novel. Kerry Lonsdale writes with the confidence and precision of a seasoned author, and its quite clear I’m not the only one who thinks so. After numerous glowing reviews prepublication, in addition to publishing 2 more books in the upcoming year, I think it’s safe to say that Kerry is here to stay. I can state without a second thought that I’ll be chasing down anything she publishes in the future and will not be able to get my hands on her work fast I’m absolutely floored that this was a debut novel. Kerry Lonsdale writes with the confidence and precision of a seasoned author, and its quite clear I’m not the only one who thinks so. After numerous glowing reviews prepublication, in addition to publishing 2 more books in the upcoming year, I think it’s safe to say that Kerry is here to stay. I can state without a second thought that I’ll be chasing down anything she publishes in the future and will not be able to get my hands on her work fast enough. Just for the record, I didn’t include this one in the genre of “Women’s Fiction”; although I think it fits nicely in that category, I fear it would scare off a number of guys who would enjoy this one as well.

The characters are what makes this read a 5 star experience. Sure, the story is intriguing and suspenseful, the cover art is pretty, and the book wasn’t too long nor too short, but these characters and their development over a period of many years are what sealed the deal for my ride alongside. I felt a wide range of emotions for and with Aimee; I began with feelings of sorrow and horror for her immeasurable loss. As Aimee progressed in her grief cycle, she and I started to disagree a bit. Why was she so bent on not moving on from James? She continues to push away everyone who cares for her, to the point where I almost disowned her during the Mexico escapades. Don’t worry, I hung in there because I cared for Aimee and wanted the best for her, but it wasn’t easy. I finally felt relieved in the end, even after that plot twist in the epilogue.

This story was a nice break from the dark thrillers and disturbing mysteries I tend to gravitate toward. I really enjoyed how it had all the thrilling elements of those former books I mentioned without feeling as heavy. Sure the pages were flying and the content wasn’t exactly fluffy, but it still felt lighter than most mysteries and crime fiction dealing with the same type of story. I would highly recommend giving this one a try; Kerry shows tremendous potential to grow in her future work, although I’m not sure how that’s possible based on Everything We Keep. She knows how to weave together a suspenseful story with deep characters in meaningful relationships, romantic and platonic. I’ll be remembering this story for awhile and cannot wait to get my hands on her next novel!

*I received my copy from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you Lake Union! ...more

1

Jul 27, 2016

Every now and then, a book comes along where I start gleefully anticipating my Goodreads review.

There was this Carolyn Hax advice column a while back where a man complained that he’d found out that a woman he’d dated had been calling other women “basic britches” on Facebook. (https://live.washingtonpost.com/carol...) And I thought, that is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard; who actually says “basic britches”. I take it back; that phrase is perfect. This book is basic britches. The main Every now and then, a book comes along where I start gleefully anticipating my Goodreads review.

There was this Carolyn Hax advice column a while back where a man complained that he’d found out that a woman he’d dated had been calling other women “basic britches” on Facebook. (https://live.washingtonpost.com/carol...) And I thought, that is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard; who actually says “basic britches”. I take it back; that phrase is perfect. This book is basic britches. The main character? She is… the least interesting woman in the world. I don’t always like art, but when I do, I like photographs of sunsets. (Edited: Basic Britches is much more fitting that Basic Bitches, because Aimee isn't a bitch in any way - she is the human equivalent of a pair of Belk khakis.)

Was it ever said explicitly that the story was set in the 90s? Capped sleeves and sheath dresses. New World fusion (said completely unironically). Speciality coffee shops as a creative business idea (“Aimee’s Cafe”, seriously). I kept trying to put myself in that mindset, but it didn’t feel like the fun kind of nostalgia.

If a Thomas Kincaid painting has ever made you tear up a little, this book is for you. Someone reading this is saying, “A Thomas Kincaid painting HAS made me tear up a little, you hipster asshole”. I’ll own it. ...more

3

Sep 13, 2016

My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...

3.5 Stars

Everyone is supposed to be excited and happy on their wedding day. All that waiting until they walk down the aisle to their beloved. However, twenty-six year old Aimee's wedding day has turned into a nightmare. Instead of walking down the aisle to marry the love of her life she is mourning the loss of him at his funeral. It's not just her fiance, James in the casket it's also all of their hopes and dreams that will My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...

3.5 Stars

Everyone is supposed to be excited and happy on their wedding day. All that waiting until they walk down the aisle to their beloved. However, twenty-six year old Aimee's wedding day has turned into a nightmare. Instead of walking down the aisle to marry the love of her life she is mourning the loss of him at his funeral. It's not just her fiance, James in the casket it's also all of their hopes and dreams that will be buried along with him.

"Same Church. Same flowers. Wrong Ceremony"

Meeting when they were eight years old, Aimee and James were first best friends then childhood sweethearts. After all those years together, they were the perfect couple. However, even though everything appeared to be perfect in their lives, things weren't exactly as they seemed. James and Aimee had a secret and James had secrets of his own, secrets that could devastate Aimee.

At the funeral, Aimee feels like she's about to break down and decides to slip away from the mass of people offering their condolences. As she leaves she's approched by a woman who gives her some shocking information about James. She wants to tell her more but Aimee's friends come along and whisk her away...

"Don't be naive, Aimee. People will take advantage of you."

It was supposed to be a quick business trip. James said he would be back in less than four days. Instead...James was gone. After missing for two months apparently his body washed up on shore.
What really happened on this business trip? Is James the man she thought he was? And what does this stranger know about what happened?

Will Aimee be able to move on without James or will she be pulled back into the past? The secrets that are revealed have the ability to break Aimee or make her stronger, and she will have some very difficult decisions to make.

I thought this was a pretty good debut novel. It flowed fairly well and it was a quick read. We get to see just how James and Aimee's friendship started and developed over the years through flashbacks. I can't imagine how heart breaking it would be losing someone and burying them on what was supposed to be your wedding day. How hard it would be to go on after spending so many years together.

The story had a decent amount of suspense. I was intrigued and really wanted to know what happened to James. With many twists and turns I wasn't even close to figuring out what actually happened and was quite surprised. However, I did find some of it to be a bit far-fetched.. Some of Aimee's decisions seemed a bit bizarre to me. But all in all I thought it was still an enjoyable story.

When I read the book I didn't realize there was going to be a sequel so I was a bit frustrated with the ending. Now that I know there's going to be another book I'm not as irritated. "What we leave behind" is the sequel to this novel and will be published in 2017.

Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Kerry Lonsdale for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
...more

1

Jul 09, 2016

Preposterous. Absolutely preposterous. While I rate books on goodreads, this is the first time I have felt compelled to actually write a review and it is because this book is just so darn awful. The storyline is absurd, the characters are extremely one dimensional, the plot is contrived and the writing is so poor. A fellow reviewer commented that the writing seemed to be that of an 8th grader - I think she was being generous there! I grimaced my way through the book. I can't even recommend it as Preposterous. Absolutely preposterous. While I rate books on goodreads, this is the first time I have felt compelled to actually write a review and it is because this book is just so darn awful. The storyline is absurd, the characters are extremely one dimensional, the plot is contrived and the writing is so poor. A fellow reviewer commented that the writing seemed to be that of an 8th grader - I think she was being generous there! I grimaced my way through the book. I can't even recommend it as a fast, fun beach read, it is just that bad! ...more

2

Aug 09, 2016

This might be the dumbest book I've ever read but damn it I couldn't put it down.

1

Jul 05, 2016

Upon completing this book, it dawned on me the reason for its tedium and superficiality. It appears that the writer had, in her opinion, devised a very clever way to end a novel, but had no story to complement the ending. Consequently, she needed to create approximately 300 pages preceding her ingenious conclusion (something like a college term paper). The result is a dull, simplistic, empty and clichéd yarn narrated by a very confused, indecisive and foolish character due to the book being Upon completing this book, it dawned on me the reason for its tedium and superficiality. It appears that the writer had, in her opinion, devised a very clever way to end a novel, but had no story to complement the ending. Consequently, she needed to create approximately 300 pages preceding her ingenious conclusion (something like a college term paper). The result is a dull, simplistic, empty and clichéd yarn narrated by a very confused, indecisive and foolish character due to the book being first person. Of course, I could be wrong, but many readers will find it so. Notwithstanding what I have already stated, I have several concerns with this novel.

First, I wonder about the inconsistencies of the book including its writing style such as the use of obscene language. For example, the "F"word is used only once in the first 50% of the book, but in the second half of the book it is used about 30 times. It is as if the writer discovered the word and started using it as her favorite adjective. Another example relates to one of the characters. He is a "successful" photographer who states that he knows nothing about painting (really?!). I'll stop there because some of the other inconsistencies are related to the "surprise" ending.

Second, the book frustrates the reader because the characters spend so much time "waiting" instead of "doing." For example, the primary character of the story waits for over a year before she does something to discover what befell the most important person in her life. Rather the reader is forced to wander through pages describing how she starts a cafe. It seems as every time characters decide to do something they are "waiting for luggage", or waiting for tomorrow because they just missed seeing another character, or being convinced by friends to wait for a better day. Eventually the reader becomes frustrated with all this inactivity.

Finally, and maybe this is just me, the book is simply not literature. Yes, it tells a drawn out story, but the characters don't really explain "why" they do things even though the story is primarily told in first person. The reader never knows how characters feel when, for example, they see a sunset. The use of metaphors and similes is rare or even non-existent. It's just a story and that's all, and one that is much too long for what it tells. When it comes down to it, the writer would have been much better off to offer up a 20 page short story for her "clever ending." It would have had as much impact, and the reader would have been more satisfied with the quick conclusion. ...more

2

Jul 16, 2016

This book...I'm not sure how to review it. I mean, I didn't exactly hate it, but at the same time I kinda did. I'm not sure that makes any sense, but it's how I feel.

It started out well enough, and then about 2/3 of the way through, it just got so convoluted. Like really convoluted. The writing was uneven, sometimes it flowed really nicely, and at other times it was really choppy. The ending felt rushed, because it took the main character so long to act on her suspicions. Once she did, all these This book...I'm not sure how to review it. I mean, I didn't exactly hate it, but at the same time I kinda did. I'm not sure that makes any sense, but it's how I feel.

It started out well enough, and then about 2/3 of the way through, it just got so convoluted. Like really convoluted. The writing was uneven, sometimes it flowed really nicely, and at other times it was really choppy. The ending felt rushed, because it took the main character so long to act on her suspicions. Once she did, all these hidden secrets came tumbling out, mostly via flashback, and it was just...so quick.

Had the book ended before the epilogue, I'd have probably been a bit more generous and rated it three stars. Because, while I did have some issues with it, for the most part I was enjoying it. Oh, but that epilogue. It angered me. I deducted a star because of it. I won't go into it because of spoilers, but suffice it to say, I wasn't happy.

Looking at the author's website, it appears she has a sequel planned for next year. Not sure if I want to read it or not. ...more

5

Feb 10, 2016

I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of EVERYTHING WE KEEP and wow. I inhaled it in two sittings while my life went on hold. It's hard to decide what I enjoyed most: Aimee's journey, the author's style (no words wasted), the suspense elements, the twists (yes, there's more than one), the psychological bent, the romance… It's a thumping good read, a perfect book club pick, and one of those gems people pass around with, "You don't need to know anything about the plot. Just read it and I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of EVERYTHING WE KEEP and wow. I inhaled it in two sittings while my life went on hold. It's hard to decide what I enjoyed most: Aimee's journey, the author's style (no words wasted), the suspense elements, the twists (yes, there's more than one), the psychological bent, the romance… It's a thumping good read, a perfect book club pick, and one of those gems people pass around with, "You don't need to know anything about the plot. Just read it and then we'll talk." ...more

2

Jul 02, 2016

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. *spoilers*

It did keep me interested enough to want to find out what happened. But...

1 - so much of what the characters do is not how a real person would act. After 2 years you think you are in the same town as your husband who was declared dead... so you go have a couple of drinks at the hotel, and then take a stroll to the place you think he will be? Hell no, you take a cab from the airport directly there.

2 - the whole book she just can't understand what could have happened, then at the end she *spoilers*

It did keep me interested enough to want to find out what happened. But...

1 - so much of what the characters do is not how a real person would act. After 2 years you think you are in the same town as your husband who was declared dead... so you go have a couple of drinks at the hotel, and then take a stroll to the place you think he will be? Hell no, you take a cab from the airport directly there.

2 - the whole book she just can't understand what could have happened, then at the end she recounts a conversation she overheard where he was talking about bringing in the DEA or dealing with things himself. Is she stupid?! It never crossed her mind that could have had something to do with it?

3 - Incest. Really?! And it wasn't even necessary to drag that in. Just make him a jealous cousin and that's fine.

4 - An angel, or wth was Laney/Lacey/Lucy supposed to be? If she is just a person, what a convenient coincidence that she was part of Ian's early life and then shows up for Aimee.

In summary, a lot of things in this book just made me shake my head. ...more

5

Jun 10, 2016

In Everything We Keep, Lonsdale’s protagonist, Aimee is forced to attend her fiancé’s funeral on what was supposed to be her wedding day. James died tragically a few weeks before in a boating accident in Mexico. But as Aimee starts to rebuild her life, she can’s shake the feeling that James may not be dead. When some of his paintings mysteriously goes missing, and then appear in a gallery in a beach town in Mexico, she risks everything she’s gained in her new life to find out the truth. Is her In Everything We Keep, Lonsdale’s protagonist, Aimee is forced to attend her fiancé’s funeral on what was supposed to be her wedding day. James died tragically a few weeks before in a boating accident in Mexico. But as Aimee starts to rebuild her life, she can’s shake the feeling that James may not be dead. When some of his paintings mysteriously goes missing, and then appear in a gallery in a beach town in Mexico, she risks everything she’s gained in her new life to find out the truth. Is her first love still alive, or is she simply holding on to the past. A perfect page-turner for summer.! ...more

3

Jul 07, 2016

This book read like a Mary Higgins Clark novel or the written version of a Lifetime movie. Some of the scenes are so cheesy that I found myself rolling my eyes. The so-called talented photographer shoots sunrises and sunsets which sounds a bit cliché. Also, when talking about artist styles the author mentions Monet and Kincaid in the same sentence. I'm pretty sure that's blasphemy. Anyway, despite all of that, I enjoyed this book and was curious to see what would happen next.

1

Jul 16, 2016

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I'm supposed to believe in this overwhelming love Aimee had for her dead fiancé, but even after hearing he might be alive the day of his funeral, she waits a year to start to investigate? And Ian - a gorgeous, successful photographer - falls instantly in love with Aimee and is willing to put his job on hold to be a barista in her café and is satisfied with being friends for a year?! Ridiculous. On top of that, the writing appears to have been done by a overly dramatic teen with heavy reliance on I'm supposed to believe in this overwhelming love Aimee had for her dead fiancé, but even after hearing he might be alive the day of his funeral, she waits a year to start to investigate? And Ian - a gorgeous, successful photographer - falls instantly in love with Aimee and is willing to put his job on hold to be a barista in her café and is satisfied with being friends for a year?! Ridiculous. On top of that, the writing appears to have been done by a overly dramatic teen with heavy reliance on a thesaurus. By 40% in, Aimee had gasped so often and/or become breathless in one way or another that I began to suspect she had asthma. Usually I finish books in a day or two, but this is so plodding and poorly written, I kept reading other books in between. Over half way done and one week in and I'm going to throw in the towel on this one and declare CNF. ...more

5

Jul 19, 2017

Childhood sweethearts Aimee and James have a perfect plan for their perfect life together.
But when James disappears in a boating accident in Mexico, Aimee finds herself at his funeral on the very same day that she was to walk down the aisle.
Leaving her unsettled she delves deeper into James disappearance uncovering secrets and lies that make her question everything about their life together.

A wonderful debut novel that I didn't want to put down until I turned the very last page. And then I Childhood sweethearts Aimee and James have a perfect plan for their perfect life together.
But when James disappears in a boating accident in Mexico, Aimee finds herself at his funeral on the very same day that she was to walk down the aisle.
Leaving her unsettled she delves deeper into James disappearance uncovering secrets and lies that make her question everything about their life together.

A wonderful debut novel that I didn't want to put down until I turned the very last page. And then I wanted more!

Ms. Lonsdale gives us a unique storyline, a mystery full of twists and turns and an "OMG" epilogue that I didn't see coming at all.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review. ...more

2

Oct 10, 2016

Oh dear heavens above. This book was not well written AND the plot was totally ridiculous. I gave the author a star for completing her first novel and me a star for completing the danged thing. I'll start with the overwrought writing which stopped me in my tracks. Here are a couple examples: "A gentle breeze scented with wet pine and wood smoke whispered against my flesh, puckering the skin. I fisted my hands. "Cold here."

"Then reality let itself into the room, and the euphoria of last night's Oh dear heavens above. This book was not well written AND the plot was totally ridiculous. I gave the author a star for completing her first novel and me a star for completing the danged thing. I'll start with the overwrought writing which stopped me in my tracks. Here are a couple examples: "A gentle breeze scented with wet pine and wood smoke whispered against my flesh, puckering the skin. I fisted my hands. "Cold here."

"Then reality let itself into the room, and the euphoria of last night's lovemaking dissipated like water on a hot griddle. I'd betrayed my feelings for James. I'd betrayed myself."

Then there's the plot which tries so hard. Why is everyone trying to write another twisty plot like Girl on the Train? Aimee's behavior was unrealistic. James' situation was absurd. There was a mix-up with names that was confusing. Bad guy Phil was underdeveloped. I need to stop. It's crystal clear that I'm not a fan. ...more

5

Dec 05, 2015

First off, thanks to Kerry for sending me an early copy of her book!
WOW! Just wow! This book grabs you with the first sentence & takes you on a roller coaster ride til the very end! I loved every word & couldn't read it fast enough!
Don't miss this book!

4

Aug 05, 2016

On our wedding day, my fiancé, James, arrived at the church in a casket.

Holy bananas, what a book!!



I liked it since I have read the opening sentence. In the middle I was just curious but by the end breathless with anticipation. After first chapter I knew what kind of story it will be, but the resolution was way to different than I expected. I would like to say, that I need sequel (you just cannot end it with such a prologue, Kerry!), but it would ruin the mystery I would like to keep.

If you On our wedding day, my fiancé, James, arrived at the church in a casket.

Holy bananas, what a book!!



I liked it since I have read the opening sentence. In the middle I was just curious but by the end breathless with anticipation. After first chapter I knew what kind of story it will be, but the resolution was way to different than I expected. I would like to say, that I need sequel (you just cannot end it with such a prologue, Kerry!), but it would ruin the mystery I would like to keep.

If you like mystery thrillers, add this to your TBR.

***
I received a free copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ...more

5

Jun 28, 2017

Wow! The twists and turns in this book had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down. I was invited to read Everything we Keep via Netgalley. Romance novels are my usual read, but I try to avoid sad stories. I'm so glad I gave this one a chance.

Aimee's life is about to fall apart before her very eyes. Her family sold her future job, and her husband to be is going to be buried on her wedding day.

This book is about the future you didn't see coming. I don't want to give anything away so Wow! The twists and turns in this book had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down. I was invited to read Everything we Keep via Netgalley. Romance novels are my usual read, but I try to avoid sad stories. I'm so glad I gave this one a chance.

Aimee's life is about to fall apart before her very eyes. Her family sold her future job, and her husband to be is going to be buried on her wedding day.

This book is about the future you didn't see coming. I don't want to give anything away so that's all I'm saying.

Fantastic suspense novel with romance and mystery. 5 stars out of 5.
Everything We Keep is a must read!

*Netgalley readers copy given in exchange for a fair review* ...more

4

Jan 18, 2016

A very special thank you to the author, Lake Union, and NetGalley for an ARC (paperback) in exchange for an honest review. Also my July "Kindle First" Pick (e-book).

Kerry Lonsdale delivers a riveting debut EVERYTHING WE KEEP, a woman who attends her fiancé’s funeral instead of her wedding. From intrigue, mystery, secrets, and betrayal; being true to oneself. 4.5 Stars

Aspiring Dreams. Second Chances. From letting go, to healing, forgiveness, and love.

Sous chef Aimee Tierney has been A very special thank you to the author, Lake Union, and NetGalley for an ARC (paperback) in exchange for an honest review. Also my July "Kindle First" Pick (e-book).

Kerry Lonsdale delivers a riveting debut EVERYTHING WE KEEP, a woman who attends her fiancé’s funeral instead of her wedding. From intrigue, mystery, secrets, and betrayal; being true to oneself. 4.5 Stars

Aspiring Dreams. Second Chances. From letting go, to healing, forgiveness, and love.

Sous chef Aimee Tierney has been planning a perfect wedding and perfect life with her childhood sweetheart James Donato (Donato Enterprises -import/export business). James had made promises- they would grow old together. They had been together since they were eight years old as best friends; inseparable.

They each had their own dreams. Aimee’s to open her own restaurant. James' passion was art. However, his family would not hear of this career from an early age. Aimee helped him hide in her own house as a child, to find solace, offering a place for painting without his parent’s approval.

Claire the mother had wanted James and Thomas working at the dad’s company, when they grew up, and James painting pictures was not part of her plan.

However, James disappears while on a trip to Mexico, right before the big wedding day. A tragic boating accident. She never saw the actual body. When he returned they had decided he would quit Donato Enterprises and pursue art. Painting was his passion. If she had insisted he stay home, they would be married and on their honeymoon in Saint Bart’s.

Aimee is devastated and many answers still unsettled. In addition, she receives more bad news when her parents sell their restaurant (The Goat) due to financial reasons, and she had planned on buying it. She had worked with them for years, and had envisioned buying it when they retired. They owed too much money on the business.

Over the years, while she helped her mom craft new recipes for the restaurant, James painted, and his talent and their friendship flourished turning into much more. Sous chef and restaurant manager, Aimee is at odds with her life and cannot figure out why her husband was taking off at the last minute; and the events leading to the death. She had so many memories connected to both.

Things become even more complex , when a psychic named Lucy (Lacy) shows up at the funeral and says James is alive. An enigma, she remains a mystery to the very end. Readers cannot imagine how she is connected.

Thomas, James brother (his beneficiary) shows up with money saying she was entitled. The check was dated the same date as James’ funeral. With no job and no restaurant, she is tempted to take the money. Are these two connected?

Should she use the money to start her own restaurant? Something was drawing her to Joe’s, a special place she and James frequented, to find it for lease. Joe’s Coffee house was closed. The café was empty. Gone forever. Just like everything else in her life.

Five months later, Aimee’s designer friend, Nadie wants her to attend a gallery opening for Wendy V Yee Gallery (international photography). The photographer was Ian Collins. Nadie had created a beautiful space for the artistic talent. They soon become friends.

She also starts thinking about turning Joe’s into "Aimee’s Café." James had even suggested the name. A place where they spent their Sunday mornings. Her friend, Nadie had told her she needed to move forward. Now at age twenty-seven could she be the proud owner of a business with no plan, no employees, or no product? A boutique coffee shop and gourmet eatery.

Aimee receives many clues through paintings that leaves her wondering if James may still be alive. She does not want to tell anyone-they would think she was crazy. She has to find out. She had buried her fiancé and mourned him. She missed him something fierce, and that longing only fueled the seeds of doubt Lacy had planted. Until those went away, it wouldn’t be fair to let Ian assume she wanted anything more than friendship.

After fourteen months since James left for Mexico and one year since she buried him, Aimee’s search leads her to Mexico, with clues from the mysterious psychic, and the art gallery post card from Mexico.

Ian Collins whose wife died five years earlier, comes along- he too has suffered a painful past. Aimee’s heart reached out to him, as she knew exactly how he felt. Hollow and incomplete. Loss left an empty cavity in the chest.

If James were alive, it meant something bigger and more sinister had been going on around her and she had been too naïve to see it. However, when Ian’s sister opens up to Aimee, she learns he too has suffered a great loss and this journey with Aimee may be what he needs, and at the same time capturing his photography.

Lonsdale takes readers on a suspenseful and emotional journey, to an intense mystery of the past about James’ childhood, his accident, and how each character is a connecting puzzle piece.

Part Two takes us to The Emerald Coast to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, to a boutique beachfront resort, and a gallery to meet the artist, Carlos at this mysterious gallery. Did the postcard and painting prove James was alive, or was she wasting her time, looking for answers for the last nineteen months.

As the Belize Sunrise, true artists elicit an emotional response through their work, whether art or cooking –could Ian be the man for her, to catch her, or can she give up James’ ghost? Aimee’s heart was divided from James to Ian.

“The worst feeling in the world is never to be remembered by the one person I can’t forget.”

Does Aimee know whom she can trust? Was she losing her grip on sanity? From James, Imelda, Thomas, Lacy, James missing paintings, a death, and now Ian; opening her heart to him. It was all to to much. Who were the victims? Can perfection be an illusion?

A splendid debut, complex, multi-layered mystery and suspense, keeping readers glued to the pages to learn the dark family secrets, and the whereabouts of James’ missing paintings.

“The pain of rejection, the pain of betrayal, and the pain of everything that had been lost to us.”

When you reach the halfway mark, there are many unexpected twists, 75% intense, and the best part is the Epilogue- Twisty and surprising (Loved it)! Contemporary fiction, mixed with suspense, romance, and intrigue. Not only a physical journey traveling thousands of miles, also an internal journey.

From mental illness, DID dissociative identity disorder, fugue, emotional trauma, assault, and forgotten memories—being true to oneself. When life cannot be forced upon someone, against their will. Discovering the truth about the ones we hold dear, and the lengths they will go to protect. Would make for an entertaining movie.

Can’t wait for the next two books: All the Breaking Waves, Dec, 2016 and What We Leave Behind June, 2017! An author to follow!

Amazon Kindle First (Prime) readers, you can read this title early, before, August 1 release date. BTW, it is 3:06 am just finishing. After reading, dying for a delectable scone and an espresso! When reading, you will relate.

For all you fans of (2015) James Hankins The Prettiest One, you are going to love this smashing new name in contemporary domestic suspense!

JDCMustReadBooks ...more

2

Jul 04, 2016

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I really wanted to like this book. Based on the high reviews it got, I built an expectation...sadly, that expectation was not met. If you have ever suffered a terrible loss, the kind of loss that Kerry portrayed (best friends for over or about 20 years, lover, partner, fiance), then, if there is the slightest chance, that the person is alive, you will explore it; no matter how slim, no matter how insane you might look. It took Aimee 19 months to get on a plane and walk to the gallery! I couldn't I really wanted to like this book. Based on the high reviews it got, I built an expectation...sadly, that expectation was not met. If you have ever suffered a terrible loss, the kind of loss that Kerry portrayed (best friends for over or about 20 years, lover, partner, fiance), then, if there is the slightest chance, that the person is alive, you will explore it; no matter how slim, no matter how insane you might look. It took Aimee 19 months to get on a plane and walk to the gallery! I couldn't get over that. Also, I couldn't get over the logic behind Thomas' actions. It just didn't make enough sense. This is your brother that you have a 'good' relationship with. How could he just leave him there and deceive everyone that loved him; including his own mother! And the danger..? The danger was Phil. Not the Mexican cartel. Just an older cousin with evil intentions. That was enough reason to deceive the whole world? And not because James had this big information that could bring Phil down. He just didn't want to mess up the DEA investigation. It just doesn't add up. And Aimee just walked away. Without talking to a doctor. She just took Ian's google research as the gospel truth! How preposterous. How do you walk away from the 'love of your life'? Your best friend? And then James' friends? Nick and Kirsten (also childhood friends). It was almost like they didn't want him to be alive. At some point, I was certain that they were they ones that tried to kill James or had a hand in his disappearance.
Good writing and for the most part, I enjoyed how easy it was to read this book. Unfortunately, the pieces didn't just work. ...more

3

Oct 05, 2016

This is the story of Aimee who has to attend her fiancé's funeral on the day that should have been her wedding day. Everything We Keep follows Aimee over several years as she tries to get over losing James, tries to get on with her life, but ultimately is unable to do so until she finds out what exactly happened to James when he went on a business trip to Mexico and vanished.
I didn't hate this, but I didn't love it either. I thought the premise sounded quite interesting, but the further I got This is the story of Aimee who has to attend her fiancé's funeral on the day that should have been her wedding day. Everything We Keep follows Aimee over several years as she tries to get over losing James, tries to get on with her life, but ultimately is unable to do so until she finds out what exactly happened to James when he went on a business trip to Mexico and vanished.
I didn't hate this, but I didn't love it either. I thought the premise sounded quite interesting, but the further I got into the audiobook the more eye-rolling took place. I was rather unimpressed by the epilogue. When I started this, I didn't realize there would be a sequel, Everything We Left Behind, to be published in 2017. I think I'm unlikely to read it. I can see how this story appeals to many readers, the plot is suitably mysterious and intriguing. But unfortunately, I always struggle when things become far-fetched, and by the time Aimee decided to look into James' disappearance this was really adding up one contrived development after another. And why did she wait all that time? I had a difficult time connecting with Aimee. Most of her decisions I just couldn't comprehend. Of all the possible places and times, why would she behave towards Ian the way she did when they were in Mexico? If people close to someone would discover what Aimee discovered in Mexico would they really react so blasé about it all? Aimee's and James' friends and family? I just couldn't believe any of it. But as I said, it wasn't terrible. Kind of like a lifetime movie that can be mildly entertaining while you watch or in my case listen to it and try your hardest to not overanalyze it. Amy Landon's narration was ok. Overall, somewhere between 2.5 and 3 stars rounded up.

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5

Oct 04, 2018

Everything We Keep
Kerry Lonsdale

EVERYTHING WE KEEP is the first book I've ever read by Kerry Lonsdale. The twists and turns keep coming and I had to know how it was going to end! Every time I thought I knew where this story was going, a few pages later, Kerry Lonsdale threw me for a loop and I knew I was wrong! I'm kicking myself for not reading this wonderful debut novel sooner.


EVERYTHING WE KEEP is a quick read and unputdownable! There were quite a few times when reading it that I wanted to Everything We Keep
Kerry Lonsdale

EVERYTHING WE KEEP is the first book I've ever read by Kerry Lonsdale. The twists and turns keep coming and I had to know how it was going to end! Every time I thought I knew where this story was going, a few pages later, Kerry Lonsdale threw me for a loop and I knew I was wrong! I'm kicking myself for not reading this wonderful debut novel sooner.


EVERYTHING WE KEEP is a quick read and unputdownable! There were quite a few times when reading it that I wanted to reach into the pages and slap a few of these people with their wishy washy ways of thinking. I found myself laughing one second and then tearing up the next. If you are looking for a beautiful story to pull you out of your book slump, you can’t go wrong with EVERYTHING WE KEEP. I’m so excited to continue with this series. Kerry Lonsdale is now one of my auto buy authors.


The twists and turns in EVERYTHING WE KEEP are going to keep you up late into the night trying to figure it out. One minute you believe you know where Aimee is going with her life and the next you are sitting there shaking your head, wondering what the heck just happened. I had my ideas, I had it all figured out, or so I thought, and BAM.......wrong again! Once you start reading, trust me, you aren't going to be able to stop! When everything is finally revealed, well, you won't believe it!


EVERYTHING WE KEEP begins with Aimee in a church she was supposed to be getting married in. Instead, she is attending her fiancées funeral. I thoroughly enjoyed reading EVERYTHING WE KEEP. It is also heart warming and filled with so many different emotions. There is so much going on in this story, but Kerry Lonsdale does a wonderful job of weaving all the pieces together. All of the characters will have you feeling sad and then giggling on the same page. More than once I wanted to be in Mexico with my new found friends! Once you finish devouring this story, you are going to want to tell everyone you know about this awesome book.


I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. ...more

1

Jul 24, 2016

The book's synopsis promised an exploration of loss, and I indeed feel devastated for the time I lost. As the book suggests, if after a few chapters you're not feeling it, don't be afraid to let go.