Finished audio 11-23-09, rating 4/5, fiction, pub. 2005
Betta Nolan is recently widowed and feeling alone in the world. With no family, her husband had been the center of her universe and now in her mid-fifties she is set to embark on an adventure. She sells her home in Boston and buys a large Victorian home in a small town outside of Chicago. She chose the town at random and bought the house on a whim and she has her weak moments where she thinks she has made a big mistake. Betta is still grieving and by making a few new friends and finding old ones she is able to start healing.
Betta’s heartbreak was touching and I felt for her as she tried to let go of her old life and forge ahead with new dreams. It was easy to put myself in her place. I was proud of her for taking her friend’s advice to purposefully do something everyday that makes you happy. We should all take that advice.
I really liked this book. I’ve seen people compare Berg’s books to sitting down with an old friend and I agree. There is a familiarity in her writing that draws me in. I felt that way about this one, but it was not without faults. A few of the storylines were skipped over at the end and I felt a bit cheated out of knowing what happened. So, while this wasn’t my favorite Berg novel I did enjoy it.
This was a library copy.
Stacy's Books 
You are right, I would feel cheated if any of the stories in a book are cheated but the plot does sound good! Love the cover art!
I don’t believe I’ve read anything by Elizabeth Berg but I’d like to. I also like books where it feels as if you are visiting with an old friend.
This book sounds perfect for my mother-in-law. Glad to learn it is available as an audio book, she so loves her books but doesn’t see so well anymore.
I need to try Elizabeth Berg – she sounds like an author I would love!
What’s your favourite Elizabeth Berg? I’ve only read Home Safe and thought it was ok but I’m willing to try another one if it comes highly recommended LOL
I have heard such great things about Elizabeth Berg, like you said, that reading one of her books is like sitting down for a chat with an old friend. I am glad you enjoyed this one, Stacy. I hope to read it one day too!
I’ve read one of her books and liked her writing. I definitely want to try this one. 🙂
I like her books too but haven’t gotten to this one yet. It’s on the list! Glad to hear you enjoyed it even if it wasn’t a favorite.
I remember seeing this cover before, but didn’t know what the book was about. Thanks for the wonderful review.