Book: Hope Takes the Reins
Author: Jenny Carlisle
My Rating: 4 Sweet Stars
Hey bookworms! Did you know that we have several local authors right here in Central Arkansas? This month all of my reviews are of books written by locals! I’m excited, because each book is so different. It’s a real testament to the talent we have in our own backyard. I’m starting with Hope Takes the Reins, recently published by Jenny Carlisle. She has a few book signings scheduled in Saline County. So you can go support her in person soon!
Ok, I hope y’all trust that I give my honest opinions here. So, I’ll just go ahead and say two things right now. One: This is not a typical book that I would choose for myself. Two: I went into this reading only the blurb on Amazon. With those two things being said, I read this in one sitting without even realizing until I finished. I think it’s safe to say I enjoyed it, and maybe I shouldn’t pass on every book with a cowboy hat visible on the cover. It was a sweet book with complicated emotions yet an encouraging message. I loved that the author incorporated faith in Christ into the story and that it wasn’t subtle. I can think of several books that give a subtle nod to Christianity, and I enjoy that. In this story, the faith of these characters was an essential part of the plot, and it was refreshing. Several characters prayed throughout the story, and their prayers were genuine and not fancy at all. It felt very authentic.
One thing I enjoyed immensely was the story being set in Arkansas, granted it’s a fictional town, but it was clearly written by someone who has first hand knowledge of the Natural State. She nailed it with the unpredictable weather, spotty cell phone reception, the dangers of spotting deer on the roads at night, and even a little wink at the rollercoaster ride of being a Razorback fan. Although, in a fictional book, I wish she had written the Hogs winning. (WPS! I’m even heartbroken at our fictional losses.)
The book focuses on two main characters and their families in small town Arkansas. Middle son, O.D. Billings is kind of the typical middle child. He feels invisible, stuck between the shadow of his big brother and the charm of his baby brother. O.D. is the brother that always steps up for everyone else, while getting none of the accolades. Then there’s Hope Caldwell, of the Caldwell Family Rodeo. Her mother recently lost a battle with cancer and Hope is trying to fill her mother’s shoes. There’s family angst on both sides. There’s a classic battle between big business and small business. There’s a rumor mill that spreads faster than greased lightning. There’s a diner that’s always serving pie. In short, it could be a hallmark movie set in Arkansas.
When I finished the book, I found it hard to put my finger on how to describe it. Simultaneously, I thought it was somber, but hopeful. There’s equal parts angst and comfort. It’s rare that I struggle to recognize my feelings at the end of a book. In this case, I think that’s due to the complexity of this story. I don’t see it as a negative, rather I think it’s proof that the book made me feel many things at once. I recommend it if you like contemporary westerns, if you like clean romance, or if you just want to read a book set in a familiar place.
Krystle Goodman is a crazy cat lady, who loves to drink exorbitant amounts of coffee, and read a shocking amount of books. She lives in Benton with her husband Josh, her son Roman, and their two cats Roxanne and Abby. When she isn’t reading, you’ll find her cooking, painting, or watching true crime shows. Watch for Krystle’s book reviews every other Friday. Send fanmail to: [email protected]
See more of Krystle’s reviews at www.mysaline.com/krystle.