I read Only Child because it was suggested for a book club discussion. It is so sad. Adult reactions are too selfish to imagine. Forced myself to finish reading it.

What a disappointment! Just don't want to dwell on people & circumstances like this. How did this book get recommended??

"My mother left when I was 5 years old" -- the first sentence opened my heart to Carla's struggle for life in Honduras. She exhibits intense determination, courage
and love for her little brother, Junior.

But wait-- now the author has shifted to another scenario with Alice and Jake. On the surface, a happily married couple who own a popular barbecue spot in Texas.

Ms Ward teases us with alternate chapters of these two situations: a study in contrasts and yet the same human emotions.

Why? The diverse stories entwine as we turn the pages of this engaging novel.

Most avid readers know Robert Louis Stevenson's vast array of publications-- and they're so diverse! Poetry to Pirates plus Jekyll & Hyde!
Under the Wide & Starry Sky reveals Stevenson's highs and lows of creativity, issues with health, poverty, romance & marriage to a feisty American, Fanny. Although Horan provides a superb look at the lifestyle of writers, the vivid narration of disagreements with his friends became tiresome (in my opinion).
Overall, I am DELIGHTED to have read this book and intend to discover Stevenson's work that I've missed.

You wish the characters in this novel lived next door. They are open and easy to know.
You'll experience their highs and lows -- and wonder if you'd have made the same decisions.
The love story gets a bit too erotic for a bit, but over all the book is a wonderfully unique story.

Vast, sprawling farms of wealthy sheep and cattle barons provide the background for this story of the people and conditions. We meet heirs (like Elaine) who love the land and animals, and others (like Kura) who want a musical career. The story spans treacherous roads, fires, coal mines, abusive husbands and delightful pub scenes and romances.

Do not be intimidated by its length! Somewhat reminiscent of "The Thorn Birds," this story captured my attention on the first page & I enjoyed every moment reading it.

This compelling story is set within US Civil War, revealing events through three distinctive individuals: Johnny, a Chinese immigrant whose enchanting personality survives prison, hunger and pain. Era, beautiful nurse skillfully cares for soldiers under harsh conditions. Warren, the Southern soldier who falls in love with Era is enraged by North's invasion of Southern way of life. Surprising events that were not in schoolbooks are revealed. Not a war story, definitely not a romance, this beautifully detailed novel provides pleasurable reading for anyone.