By 
Julie Hatcher, Author of “Not Quite By the Book” has written an enjoyable, memorable, and nostalgic novel. The genres for this story are Romance, Adult Fiction, Women’s Domestic Fiction, Life Fiction, and Sister’s Fiction with a dash of wit. The themes surrounding this story are finding yourself, and living your best life and the importance of family, friends, neighbors, and community. In this well written novel the author also discusses the importance of communication, honesty, love and hope. Julie Hatcher vividly describes her colorful and dramatic characters as complex and complicated.
The protagonist of the story, Emma Rini has always admired Emily Dickinson. Working in the family’s bookstore, Emma has been responsible for the financial and literary success. Emma has been the rock of the family, and has been there to help when there is sickness, or a problem. She belongs to an online book community, and and stays up to date on bookish news. When her parents discuss retirement, and her married sister is pregnant, Emma realizes that she will be needed to run the store by herself. Emma decides that she needs a break, and decides to get away back in time. Emma rents an old house, and is determined to make a list of things similar to what Emily Dickinson might do.
In the small community she is visiting, are a colorful cast of characters. There are some delightful and witty moments in the story. Of course there is one lovable dog. Emma attempts to add a small garden for the short time she will be staying. It does look very lovely, and at first one rabbit, and then the rabbit’s family seem to enjoy it! Emma has to make certain adjustments when she cooks. The owner and architect who takes care of the house certainly has his hands full. Emma does get mystery flowers, and romantic letters. She does live the list that she writes, and Emma shows growth in her decisions. I highly recommend this heart-felt and thought-provoking story.
Linda's Book Obsession: 