Homestands by
Sally Bradley is full of romantic whimsy! She writes big city fiction with real
issues and real hope.
The story starts with Meg, a single mom who bumps into her
ex-husband, Mike, who just happens to be a professional baseball player. When
he meets her 6-year-old, who happens to share his last name, Meg is not
prepared for this revelation of a secret she’s been keeping since he hurt her
all those years ago.
Mike is surprised, but thrilled to have a son. Terrell is thrilled to have
a dad. Meg is not thrilled to be hanging out with Mike on a regular basis
again. Mike and Meg battle guilt and deep hurts as memories of their relationship
pop up on a daily basis, spreading confusion and longing all over the place.
Chicago is the author’s hometown, and it’s obvious in this, her
second novel. She paints the town with a personal touch, deftly weaving details
that this former Chicago resident recognizes with glee. I like that the
professional baseball team she chooses is a fictional team: The Chicago Wind.
This team replaces the Cubs in Bradley’s fictional Chicago, but don’t worry, The
White Sox remain.
The pacing is spot on, never flagging. I love the adorable
6-year-old boy, and I love how Meg’s thoughts and feelings ring very true to
life. There’s lot to love here, check it out for yourself!
Since this story takes place in Chicago, I have to ask this:
Have you tried Chicago Style pizza? Which is your favorite? Leave us a comment to win our prize this week!
Sounds good. I love when an author writes a child or dog into a story.
ReplyDeleteI like the sound of "romantic whimsy".
ReplyDeleteNever tried Chicago Style pizza. Seen it in movies though.
Love the sound of this book and love pizza......beef and jalapeño for me!
ReplyDeleteGiordano's pizza for me. :-)
ReplyDeleteGiordano's pizza for me. :-)
ReplyDeleteNo, I've never had Chicago pizza but I am a pizza lover! Thanks for sharing about Sally's book.
ReplyDeleteConnie
cps1950(at)gmail(dot)com
I've had Chicago style pizza. I'm not a fan of it. I prefer my thin crust pizza. Homestands by Sally Bradley sounds like a fun read--a child adds to a story.
ReplyDeleteHomestands is a fantastic book!
ReplyDeleteI have never had Chicago pizza before, but it sounds delicious.
I'm late to the party here, but thank you, Jennifer! So very glad you enjoyed Homestands. I, of course, adore Chicago pizza, but it has to be Lou Malnati's. And I'm so sorry to say that Lou's doesn't make an appearance in Homestands. :( It does in my other two books. Must make sure it gets in #4!
ReplyDelete