My Review: A thoughtful and evocative read, that takes you into Scarlett's world.
I fell in love with Ms. Coker's contemplative, easy flowing writing style, and the quirky characters that she brought to life.
The characters were all so different, and unique, yet each had a quality that I was captured by. Scarlett was a strong heroine, molded by the chaos around her, yet she and her brother, Cliff had a special bond, and I liked how much she cared for her brother and protected him.
In Chasing Jupiter I really did feel like I was inside Scarlett's head, she saw things in a simple sort of way, with a certain weariness, yet love for her brother, and confusion with her sister, while Frank was pleasant surprise.
In conclusion, this book reminded me alot of the books I read when I was 10 (when my mom considered me too young to read Christian romance--even Janette Oke!) I always loved the depth of such books, balanced with quirky characters. I haven't seen a many new books like this in a while, because in my mind, Chasing Jupiter certainly has a special timeless quality about it, paired with a an inspiring message of finding God while everything seems to be falling down all around. A book that I would happily recommend! And I will definitely be reading Rachel Coker's future novels :)
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
About the book: Scarlett Blaine’s life in 1960s Georgia isn’t always easy, especially given her parents’ financial struggles and the fights surrounding her sister Juli’s hippie lifestyle. Then there’s her brother, Cliff. While Scarlett loves him more than anything, there’s no denying his unique behavior leaves Cliff misunderstood and left out. So when he wishes for a rocket to Jupiter, Scarlett agrees to make it happen, no matter how crazy the idea might be. Raising the rocket money means baking pies, and the farmer’s son, Frank, agrees to provide the peaches if Scarlett will help him talk to Juli. The problem is, Scarlett really enjoys her time with Frank, and finds herself wondering if, someday, they could be more than friends. Just as she thinks everything might be going her way, Cliff suffers an accident that not only affects the rocket plans, but shakes Scarlett’s view of God. As the summer comes to an end, Scarlett must find a way to regain what she’s lost, but also fulfill a promise to launch her brother’s dream.
Buy the book here: Amazon or CBD or Barnes and Noble
And if you'd like to read Rachel Coker's thoughts on Chasing Jupiter: http://www.rachelcoker.com/talking-about-chasing-jupiter/
And last but not least, be sure to visit all of the other wonderful stops on this tour!
ADD Librarian • Becoming More Like You • Book Nook 4 You • Blooming with Books • Bookworm Reading • Christian Book Review Blog • CTF Devourer • Gillian Adams • Jessica Laurie • Jill Williamson • Labor Not in Vain • Rachelle Rea • The Ramblings of a Young Author • A Slightly Nerdy Bookworm • Shadow Writer World • Surrendering All of Me • Worthy2Read
I loved this one too, Faye! Glad you liked it!
ReplyDeleteAwesome! Thanks for stopping by, Rosie!
DeleteI have many of the same feelings for this book. The characters were diverse and well developed. I also think your right about a timelessness with this book. Great review.
ReplyDeleteThank you Rachel, I can't wait to read your review too!
DeleteI loved Scarlett and Cliff. So well done. Great review, Faye! :-)
ReplyDeleteGood review -- I agree with you --Her characters and narration draw you in. You feel like you are Scarlett, experiencing it all.
ReplyDeleteI think getting a good first person voice going is super hard, but Rachel really pulled it off :)
DeleteWhat a beautiful blog you have! :) Great review! This sums it up perfectly: "I really did feel like I was inside Scarlett's head, asnd she saw things in a simple sort of way, with a certain weariness, yet love for her brother, and confusion with her sister, while Frank was pleasant surprise."
ReplyDeleteThank you Rachelle! I look forward to reading your review too!
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