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When We Last Spoke
With the heart and humor of Fannie Flagg’s Fried Green Tomatoes and Rebecca Wells’s Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood , author Marci Henna introduces you to the Cranbournes—a mostly lovable and undoubtedly nutty family who’ve had more than their fair share of hard times. A beautiful blend of tears and laughter, When We Last Spoke tells the tale of sisters Juliet and Evangeline, who are dropped off by their Broadway-bound mother at their paternal grandparents’ Texas ranch in 1967. After their cherished father is killed in Vietnam, the girls are orphaned. Still mourning their son’s death, grandparents Walt and Ruby accept their role as guardians, only to be surprised soon after by another permanent houseguest’s arrival—Walt’s kooky mother, Itasca. Fast-forward to the present, where the warmhearted home in which the girls grew up is now just a faint memory. The estranged sisters are in need of a good dose of Walt’s famous stargazing “You’ve got to look real close. Pay attention to what’s around you in this life. You’re liable to miss something important if you don’t.” Packed with plenty of quirky characters and hilarious escapades, this must-read novel also digs in deep to the things that matter most—family, friends, love, and forgiveness.
242 pages, Paperback
First published June 9, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 20, 2018
A great read in the genre of Fannie Flagg
I received this book to read and review from Amazon. What a heart warming and touching book about love. Tears of joy and sadness were a constant when enjoying this synapse of life in Texas in the late 1960’s.
I received this book to read and review from Amazon. What a heart warming and touching book about love. Tears of joy and sadness were a constant when enjoying this synapse of life in Texas in the late 1960’s.
February 18, 2017
Sometimes love comes in quirky packages
When We Last Spoke is a moving tale of the messiness of life, of love and loss, sacrifice and forgiveness, and growing up. Told through the eyes of a little girl, now grown up, we meet a quirky family who never give up through tough circumstances, a family that is broken but hangs onto the most important thing of all, Love.
I really enjoyed the way Marci Henna so authentically told the story through the perspective of young Juliet. The style of writing drew me into the late 1960's world of small-town Texas and into the way Juliet perceives those, and the world, around her.
I'll quickly say that, to me, the true heroes of When We Last Spoke were Ruby and Walt. Through loss, difficult times, the hard work of Texas ranch life, they hold onto their deep love for each other and for family. The poignant moments when Walt and Ruby teach Juliet and Evangeline about life are truly moving.
There are a few instances of mild language but they were not off-putting in the least. It only made the story seem more accurate to me.
All in all I liked this step back in time to 60's small-town with author Marci Henna. The story was an enjoyable and I hope to see more stories about Fireside, Texas.
(I received a copy of this book through the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
When We Last Spoke is a moving tale of the messiness of life, of love and loss, sacrifice and forgiveness, and growing up. Told through the eyes of a little girl, now grown up, we meet a quirky family who never give up through tough circumstances, a family that is broken but hangs onto the most important thing of all, Love.
I really enjoyed the way Marci Henna so authentically told the story through the perspective of young Juliet. The style of writing drew me into the late 1960's world of small-town Texas and into the way Juliet perceives those, and the world, around her.
I'll quickly say that, to me, the true heroes of When We Last Spoke were Ruby and Walt. Through loss, difficult times, the hard work of Texas ranch life, they hold onto their deep love for each other and for family. The poignant moments when Walt and Ruby teach Juliet and Evangeline about life are truly moving.
There are a few instances of mild language but they were not off-putting in the least. It only made the story seem more accurate to me.
All in all I liked this step back in time to 60's small-town with author Marci Henna. The story was an enjoyable and I hope to see more stories about Fireside, Texas.
(I received a copy of this book through the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
December 14, 2017
When Last We Spoke
I enjoyed reading this story, what a "blast to the past". Heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time. I loved these characters in all their glory. I would read any books by this author anytime.
I enjoyed reading this story, what a "blast to the past". Heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time. I loved these characters in all their glory. I would read any books by this author anytime.
February 13, 2017
Take a trip to Fireside, Texas and you will want to stay there for more than ‘just a spell.’ The author, Marci Henna, tells the story of Juliet and Evangeline Cranbourne, two children being raised by their grandparents Walt and Ruby Cranbourne. Walt and Ruby raise the girls with love and teach the girls the true meaning of family. Throughout the trials they face in childhood, Juliet and Evangeline learn about family, strength, friendships, about forgiveness and healing.
Set in the late 1960’s, Marci Henna paints a picture of a small southern town equipped with a unique cast of characters. Each character is well-developed and you won’t be able not to find each character endearing. Personally, I fell in love with Fireside, Texas and its cast of characters. I do hope in the future, Ms. Henna will deliver us more adventures of these characters.
I encourage you to pick up this book and take a trip to Fireside, Texas, where you will laugh, cry, and be entertained.
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
Set in the late 1960’s, Marci Henna paints a picture of a small southern town equipped with a unique cast of characters. Each character is well-developed and you won’t be able not to find each character endearing. Personally, I fell in love with Fireside, Texas and its cast of characters. I do hope in the future, Ms. Henna will deliver us more adventures of these characters.
I encourage you to pick up this book and take a trip to Fireside, Texas, where you will laugh, cry, and be entertained.
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
February 10, 2017
This was an entertaining read.. Sister's left to live with grandparents who teach them what family should be all about. The references to Elvis were a fun family memory for the girls and the memories they made.. It certainly was a story pointing to the things that matter most—family, friends, love and forgiveness.
February 18, 2017
Marci Henna has written a novel that will resonate in the hearts of many even after they put the novel down. The Cranbourne Family has faced their share of heartache and loss but the deep ties of family, love and faith become the buoy that keeps this family afloat. Walt and Ruby become the soul family for their granddaughters of the loss of both of their parents.
Henna does an excellent job of bringing to life each character and navigating the waters of loss, love, faith and trials and the emotions entangled in these things. Through her transparent writing the reader is invited into the lives of two sisters who at the present are separated, a chasm of hurt and pain and misunderstanding laying between them. However, all this changes when the girls meet to discuss markers for Ruby’s grave.
A visit back home sometimes has a way of breaking down walls with warm memories of happier and simpler times. Before long the girls begin to remember what really matters in life and what is really worth fighting for. This story draws the reader in and invites them to work through the tumult of emotions Henna lays out.
This book is worth a read – excellent for those cool spring nights with a cup of hot tea.
This book was provided by the publisher for review in exchange for an honest review of the story.
Henna does an excellent job of bringing to life each character and navigating the waters of loss, love, faith and trials and the emotions entangled in these things. Through her transparent writing the reader is invited into the lives of two sisters who at the present are separated, a chasm of hurt and pain and misunderstanding laying between them. However, all this changes when the girls meet to discuss markers for Ruby’s grave.
A visit back home sometimes has a way of breaking down walls with warm memories of happier and simpler times. Before long the girls begin to remember what really matters in life and what is really worth fighting for. This story draws the reader in and invites them to work through the tumult of emotions Henna lays out.
This book is worth a read – excellent for those cool spring nights with a cup of hot tea.
This book was provided by the publisher for review in exchange for an honest review of the story.
February 11, 2017
When We Last Spoke by Marci Henna is a timeless story full of love, heartache, laughter and forgiveness. Although it was nothing like I thought it was going to be, this book was very enjoyable and a great read!
When We last Spoke starts out in the modern day with Juliet, who lives in Fireside, Texas, where she grew up. She's waiting for her sister, Evangeline to come to town to help her pick out a gravestone for their grandparents, Walt and Ruby. It is very easy to see there's been some "distance" between the two sisters for quite some time. That's when the real story of this book begins as Juliet begins to think back over their lives in Fireside.
Juliet and her sister Evangeline are two young girls ages 9 and 7, only 22 months apart. They are being raised by their Texan grandparents, Walt and Ruby, after their father went off to fight in the Vietnam war and their mama decided she needed to leave the girls to go to New York and pursue her fame. Walt and Ruby are able to provide a stable home full of love for the girls and they do their very best to protect them and raise them well after basically being abandoned by their parents.
As everyone knows, sometimes our family is not the one we are born into, but instead it is our family of choice or, like in this case, it is made of those people who step in and love us no matter what. As Juliet and Evangeline grow up, they argue and fight, they make bad choices, and Walt and Ruby discipline them with love no matter what. To make matters a little more chaotic, the girls' crazy great-grandmother joins the family for a time. But Juliet and Evangeline have some happy memories with their grandparents.
When We Last Spoke then comes back to modern time as Juliet hopes that Evangeline's visit to pick out the gravestone will offer a chance for healing and building a new relationship with her sister.
This book was a really great and quick read, the writing was easy to read and I breezed through this book in one sitting and really enjoyed it. I was provided with a beautifully packaged DVD with a short intro of the book.
I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
When We last Spoke starts out in the modern day with Juliet, who lives in Fireside, Texas, where she grew up. She's waiting for her sister, Evangeline to come to town to help her pick out a gravestone for their grandparents, Walt and Ruby. It is very easy to see there's been some "distance" between the two sisters for quite some time. That's when the real story of this book begins as Juliet begins to think back over their lives in Fireside.
Juliet and her sister Evangeline are two young girls ages 9 and 7, only 22 months apart. They are being raised by their Texan grandparents, Walt and Ruby, after their father went off to fight in the Vietnam war and their mama decided she needed to leave the girls to go to New York and pursue her fame. Walt and Ruby are able to provide a stable home full of love for the girls and they do their very best to protect them and raise them well after basically being abandoned by their parents.
As everyone knows, sometimes our family is not the one we are born into, but instead it is our family of choice or, like in this case, it is made of those people who step in and love us no matter what. As Juliet and Evangeline grow up, they argue and fight, they make bad choices, and Walt and Ruby discipline them with love no matter what. To make matters a little more chaotic, the girls' crazy great-grandmother joins the family for a time. But Juliet and Evangeline have some happy memories with their grandparents.
When We Last Spoke then comes back to modern time as Juliet hopes that Evangeline's visit to pick out the gravestone will offer a chance for healing and building a new relationship with her sister.
This book was a really great and quick read, the writing was easy to read and I breezed through this book in one sitting and really enjoyed it. I was provided with a beautifully packaged DVD with a short intro of the book.
I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
February 7, 2017
When We Last Spoke is a beautiful tale that everyone will enjoy. It begins in modern day with Juliet who is still living in Fireside, Texas. Her and her sister, Evangeline, have allowed a rift from their past to come between them for years. To really understand how this happened, Mrs. Henna takes us back to when the two sisters were children being abandoned on their grandparents doorstep by their mother. She wanted to live her life performing in New York City. Their father was away defending our country in the Vietnam War. The girls were only nine and seven.
The girls are loved by their grandparents, Walt and Ruby, who become their permanent guardians when their father dies. Life becomes even tougher when the girl’s great-grandmother move in with them. Despite the harshness from their great-grandmother, the girls had amazing memories with their grandparents.
Eventually Juliet learns the truth about her mother and doesn’t tell Evangeline because she thinks she’s protecting her. Years later, she’ll come to realize that this is the reason that kept the two girls at odds with each other.
It’s a beautiful story about growing up, forgiveness, family, friendships and smalltown Fireside, Texas. Ruby and Walt are wonderful grandparents who loved the girls like their own. The characters are relatable and lovable.
Fireside, Texas is the kind of small town where everyone knows everyone and genuinely cares about their residents. They go out their way to make newcomers welcome. It’s a fictional town, but it sounds like the perfect place to live.
I loved this book so it’s highly recommended! It’s not overtly a Christian novel, but the contents are clean and wholesome for the whole family.
However I do have to note, that while I don’t think it’s a huge issue, some may not enjoy some of the language. “Durn”, “dammit”, and “damn” were used many times throughout the book. Their grandparents do discipline the girls for using these words.
I’m super excited that this is in development for a movie. I imagined it as a movie the entire time I was reading it.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
The girls are loved by their grandparents, Walt and Ruby, who become their permanent guardians when their father dies. Life becomes even tougher when the girl’s great-grandmother move in with them. Despite the harshness from their great-grandmother, the girls had amazing memories with their grandparents.
Eventually Juliet learns the truth about her mother and doesn’t tell Evangeline because she thinks she’s protecting her. Years later, she’ll come to realize that this is the reason that kept the two girls at odds with each other.
It’s a beautiful story about growing up, forgiveness, family, friendships and smalltown Fireside, Texas. Ruby and Walt are wonderful grandparents who loved the girls like their own. The characters are relatable and lovable.
Fireside, Texas is the kind of small town where everyone knows everyone and genuinely cares about their residents. They go out their way to make newcomers welcome. It’s a fictional town, but it sounds like the perfect place to live.
I loved this book so it’s highly recommended! It’s not overtly a Christian novel, but the contents are clean and wholesome for the whole family.
However I do have to note, that while I don’t think it’s a huge issue, some may not enjoy some of the language. “Durn”, “dammit”, and “damn” were used many times throughout the book. Their grandparents do discipline the girls for using these words.
I’m super excited that this is in development for a movie. I imagined it as a movie the entire time I was reading it.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 5, 2017
When We Last Spoke by Marci Henna is set in Fireside, Texas during and after the Vietnam War. It's a story of memories made and family bonds and secrets that can threaten relationships. It's a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The book begins in modern day with Juliet. She still lives in Fireside, Texas where she grew up, and she's waiting for her sister, Evangeline to come to town to help her pick out a gravestone for their grandparents. Readers find out that there's been distance between the two for a long time. And the real story begins when Juliet begins to think back over their life in Fireside.
The girls were abandoned when their father left for the Vietnam War and their mother dropped them off on their grandparents' front porch so that she could go live her life performing in New York City. The girls were only nine and seven.
Loved and cared for by their grandparents- Walt and Ruby- the girls end up living in Fireside permanently when their father dies. Life isn't always easy especially after the girls' crazy great-grandmother joins the family for a time. But Juliet and Evangeline have some happy memories with their grandparents.
After living with their grandparents for a time, Juliet learns a secret about their Mama. She doesn't tell Evangeline, thinking to protect her, but when she finds out years later, this causes a permanent rift between the girls.
After Juliet's memories, the book comes back to modern time where Juliet hopes that her sister's visit to pick out the gravestone will offer an opportunity for healing and beginning a new relationship. Ultimately both women learn lessons about life and family through their experiences.
I loved this one. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself truly liking them all- especially Juliet's grandmother, Ruby. I liked the way that the story was told with Juliet's memories of her childhood and then the transition to modern time and her relationship with her sister.
We've not all been through the same things that Juliet and her sister went through, but anyone with a family can relate to problems that sometimes come in relationships. And, as Juliet and her sister address the secret that has pushed them apart all these years, readers can relate to their feelings and emotions.
The book begins in modern day with Juliet. She still lives in Fireside, Texas where she grew up, and she's waiting for her sister, Evangeline to come to town to help her pick out a gravestone for their grandparents. Readers find out that there's been distance between the two for a long time. And the real story begins when Juliet begins to think back over their life in Fireside.
The girls were abandoned when their father left for the Vietnam War and their mother dropped them off on their grandparents' front porch so that she could go live her life performing in New York City. The girls were only nine and seven.
Loved and cared for by their grandparents- Walt and Ruby- the girls end up living in Fireside permanently when their father dies. Life isn't always easy especially after the girls' crazy great-grandmother joins the family for a time. But Juliet and Evangeline have some happy memories with their grandparents.
After living with their grandparents for a time, Juliet learns a secret about their Mama. She doesn't tell Evangeline, thinking to protect her, but when she finds out years later, this causes a permanent rift between the girls.
After Juliet's memories, the book comes back to modern time where Juliet hopes that her sister's visit to pick out the gravestone will offer an opportunity for healing and beginning a new relationship. Ultimately both women learn lessons about life and family through their experiences.
I loved this one. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself truly liking them all- especially Juliet's grandmother, Ruby. I liked the way that the story was told with Juliet's memories of her childhood and then the transition to modern time and her relationship with her sister.
We've not all been through the same things that Juliet and her sister went through, but anyone with a family can relate to problems that sometimes come in relationships. And, as Juliet and her sister address the secret that has pushed them apart all these years, readers can relate to their feelings and emotions.
February 16, 2017
I got this book because the plot really intrigued me. I like family stories and this one sounded like one that is enjoy. I was a bit disappointed in it though. The description was not quite right. The book actually spends most of its time in the past. Almost all of the book is spent telling about the sisters when they were younger. There were also several spots that felt like they edited and didn't replace it with anything. Almost like a random thought that didn't go with the story. The biggest negative for me was the bad language. I don't usually read books with bad language especially when children are the ones using it. I liked the storyline and plot but overall this book was a miss for me. I wouldn't discourage others from trying it, it just wasn't for me. I received this book from FlyBy for free. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
February 5, 2017
On today's bookstore shelves and libraries, there are many styles of writing, genres of interest, and types of characters and events to portray. As I began reading When Last We Spoke, I quickly saw that this was not a style or character portrayal I prefer, but I thought perhaps I need to infuse a bit of variety into my reading. So I continued to read.
The story is of two little girls abruptly dumped on their grandparents by an uncaring, selfish mother who flees the scene. The father is in Vietnam fighting the war. I felt deep sympathy for the girls as well as the grandparents for being thrust into this situaiton. Early in the book the paternal great-grandmother is also brusquely deposited on the threshold of Ruby's and Walt's home and quickly insinuates herself rudely into each one's life. Situations and events evolve day by day and in a quirky way Ruby and Walt show grace and caring.
As the story progressed, I saw that during a visit to town, the little girls got a perception that their beloved grandfather, Walt, was having an affair with the local woman who wore tight pants (and grandmama had had choice words about how the woman's bottom moved) and real flashy makeup. Then in several spots the words "durn," "damn," and "dammit" were used. I do not care to read books with curse words and children seeing actions which caused them to perceive and discussing a grandparent's adultry. Perceptions can be wrong and wrong can be done based on wrong perceptions.
The book is well written depicting life in a small Southern town with quirky characters whose conversations are rife with quirky "sayings" that will keep you chuckling and sometimes simply wondering. I think the book is essentially clean and and wholesome and it is certainly heartwarming.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review of my honest opinion which is freely given.
The story is of two little girls abruptly dumped on their grandparents by an uncaring, selfish mother who flees the scene. The father is in Vietnam fighting the war. I felt deep sympathy for the girls as well as the grandparents for being thrust into this situaiton. Early in the book the paternal great-grandmother is also brusquely deposited on the threshold of Ruby's and Walt's home and quickly insinuates herself rudely into each one's life. Situations and events evolve day by day and in a quirky way Ruby and Walt show grace and caring.
As the story progressed, I saw that during a visit to town, the little girls got a perception that their beloved grandfather, Walt, was having an affair with the local woman who wore tight pants (and grandmama had had choice words about how the woman's bottom moved) and real flashy makeup. Then in several spots the words "durn," "damn," and "dammit" were used. I do not care to read books with curse words and children seeing actions which caused them to perceive and discussing a grandparent's adultry. Perceptions can be wrong and wrong can be done based on wrong perceptions.
The book is well written depicting life in a small Southern town with quirky characters whose conversations are rife with quirky "sayings" that will keep you chuckling and sometimes simply wondering. I think the book is essentially clean and and wholesome and it is certainly heartwarming.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review of my honest opinion which is freely given.
February 9, 2017
Imagine you’re a woman in your 50s. One day, your daughter-in-law leaves her family. Your son is shipped off to Vietnam. Their two young daughters come to live with you and your husband. Just as you’re getting used to that, you get word that your son has been killed. That’s not all either, because your quirky and ornery mother-in-law moves in, too.
If this all stresses you out, you can relate to the plight of Ruby Cranbourne in “When We Last Spoke,” by Marci Henna. But Ruby is that woman we’d all like to be: sweet, a great cook, loving, and seems to have won the relationship lottery with handsome farmer husband, Walt, who treats her well.
This book is narrated by the older of the two granddaughters taken in by Walt and Ruby, Juliet. She begins telling the story when she’s an adult, but most of the book is a flashback to Juliet and sister Evangeline’s childhood in fictional Fireside, Texas, with their grandparents.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters all have vivid personalities with memorable southern language, and you’ll feel like you know them. The 1970s setting comes alive and feels very authentic as well.
As I read the book, I kept thinking that it had similarities to the Mitford series by Jan Karon: sweet, evocative of a place and time that aren’t current, but where it would be pleasant to spend some time.
If this all stresses you out, you can relate to the plight of Ruby Cranbourne in “When We Last Spoke,” by Marci Henna. But Ruby is that woman we’d all like to be: sweet, a great cook, loving, and seems to have won the relationship lottery with handsome farmer husband, Walt, who treats her well.
This book is narrated by the older of the two granddaughters taken in by Walt and Ruby, Juliet. She begins telling the story when she’s an adult, but most of the book is a flashback to Juliet and sister Evangeline’s childhood in fictional Fireside, Texas, with their grandparents.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters all have vivid personalities with memorable southern language, and you’ll feel like you know them. The 1970s setting comes alive and feels very authentic as well.
As I read the book, I kept thinking that it had similarities to the Mitford series by Jan Karon: sweet, evocative of a place and time that aren’t current, but where it would be pleasant to spend some time.
February 15, 2017
The setting of old and new times brings me back to childhood right back to today. When we Last Spoke is about two sisters that grow up with their grandparents, the things they learned, the love they felt, and then they grew up and went their own ways, Until Christmas when one sister wants the other one to come home-the home they grew up in. Will she? What drove them apart and will they heal and be best sisters again.
February 11, 2017
"When We Last Spoke" is a wonderful story of a simple time and simple place. Love is the main character in this book. As a child of the 60's, and one that was raised by her grandparents, I can definitely feel this book come to life.
I love the characters and their personalities. A husbands love for his wife and a wife's love for him. Sisters who share a deep bond of oneness and their love for their grandparents. Hope for better things , but settling for what they have and making it amazing.
The girls may lack a mother and father, but being taught about life and the feeling of true love is not left out of their lives.
Remarkable story! I loved it! A Fiction book, but also a Biography of many lives!
I love the characters and their personalities. A husbands love for his wife and a wife's love for him. Sisters who share a deep bond of oneness and their love for their grandparents. Hope for better things , but settling for what they have and making it amazing.
The girls may lack a mother and father, but being taught about life and the feeling of true love is not left out of their lives.
Remarkable story! I loved it! A Fiction book, but also a Biography of many lives!
February 17, 2017
On one level, When We Last Spoke is about the relationship between sisters Juliet and Evangeline Cranbourne. On another level, the book speaks to sisterhood in general (blood relations or not), the things that bind us together and those that tear us apart. When We Last Spoke is like Stand By Me for the ladies.
I could drum up little or no sympathy for the girls' mother. It's bad enough that she 'abandoned' Evangeline and Juliet at all - even to follow her dream. IMO, when you bring a soul into the world, you are responsible to teach them how to (be able to) live. That's kind of hard to do if you willingly walk away.
On the other hand, Walt and Ruby should be put up for sainthood - as should any grandparent who took on the job of raising their grandchildren for ill or absent parents. I started having children later than most, and it's all I can do some time to keep up with them ... and they're of an age where they can do for themselves now!
When Last We Spoke is not all hearts and flowers, but then neither is life. But reading it felt like I was learning about my own family's history, and gave me a deep satisfaction. There are many things to like about WLWS, not the least of which are the sisters' potentially blooming relationships with a couple of gentlemen in the town. This is my first experience with Ms. Henna's work, but if her other writing is as good, she's got a new fan.
I could drum up little or no sympathy for the girls' mother. It's bad enough that she 'abandoned' Evangeline and Juliet at all - even to follow her dream. IMO, when you bring a soul into the world, you are responsible to teach them how to (be able to) live. That's kind of hard to do if you willingly walk away.
On the other hand, Walt and Ruby should be put up for sainthood - as should any grandparent who took on the job of raising their grandchildren for ill or absent parents. I started having children later than most, and it's all I can do some time to keep up with them ... and they're of an age where they can do for themselves now!
When Last We Spoke is not all hearts and flowers, but then neither is life. But reading it felt like I was learning about my own family's history, and gave me a deep satisfaction. There are many things to like about WLWS, not the least of which are the sisters' potentially blooming relationships with a couple of gentlemen in the town. This is my first experience with Ms. Henna's work, but if her other writing is as good, she's got a new fan.
February 4, 2017
When We Last Spoke is Marci Henna's story of Juliet and Evangeline Cranbourne left on their grandparent's porch by their mother as she lit out of town for the big city lights of Broadway shortly after their father left for war.
The small town of "Fireside, Texas where no strangers are known! We are the home of the free and the brave and everlasting polite persons. We never take the last cookie and never eat beets, but thank the hostess for them anyway."
When We Last Spoke is narrated by Juliet, the older of the girls by 22 months. It briefly opens in modern day with Juliet asking Evangeline to come home and quickly slips to the time when she and her sister were unceremoniously left on Walt and Ruby's doorstep. Anyone who's had to raise their grandchildren or who were raised by their grandparents knows that life changes in an instant in these situations.
Their grandfather Walt is a good-looking rancher who's married to Ruby, who's still quite glamorous and a former traveling performer with her sisters. Together they raise two very busy girls.
I really enjoyed this book and had a difficult time putting it down. I like the small town feel where everyone knows everyone else's business but they also take care of one another. While not an overly Christian novel Marci Henna knows that writing a good book doesn't require nudity and obscene language. When We Last Spoke is the story of could just as easily been about any two sisters you know.
The small town of "Fireside, Texas where no strangers are known! We are the home of the free and the brave and everlasting polite persons. We never take the last cookie and never eat beets, but thank the hostess for them anyway."
When We Last Spoke is narrated by Juliet, the older of the girls by 22 months. It briefly opens in modern day with Juliet asking Evangeline to come home and quickly slips to the time when she and her sister were unceremoniously left on Walt and Ruby's doorstep. Anyone who's had to raise their grandchildren or who were raised by their grandparents knows that life changes in an instant in these situations.
Their grandfather Walt is a good-looking rancher who's married to Ruby, who's still quite glamorous and a former traveling performer with her sisters. Together they raise two very busy girls.
I really enjoyed this book and had a difficult time putting it down. I like the small town feel where everyone knows everyone else's business but they also take care of one another. While not an overly Christian novel Marci Henna knows that writing a good book doesn't require nudity and obscene language. When We Last Spoke is the story of could just as easily been about any two sisters you know.
February 13, 2017
A enjoyable book of time of past. Bought back memories of the old days. This book will make you laugh and probably bring up a few tears. It's the story of two sisters Juliet and Evangeline. Fro the death of the father and mother leaving them to pursue her own dreams. The girls are being raised by grandparents. I think there is a lot of nutty things going on in this family. Story of finding hope and forgiveness . Story of love and devotion. Think we all can think back to a time with our grandparents and sweet and funny memories. All these things is what builds a life. Great story.
#WhenWeLastSpoke & #FlyBy
#WhenWeLastSpoke & #FlyBy
February 2, 2017
Who doesn’t love a book about good ‘ole Southern people, tight family bonds and the secrets they hold? Juliet and her sister Evangeline are being raised by their Texan grandparents when their father goes off to war and their mama decides to go to New York to start her star-studded career. The grandparents, Walt and Ruby, have an ageless love and provides a stable home for the young girls and do their best to protect them and raise them right.
As in every family, there are some secrets that are kept. One big secret tears apart the sisters. Years later, can Evangeline forgive Juliet and become a family again? Even beyond the grave, Walt and Ruby’s presence help steer the girls toward forgiveness.
Be ready to meet a handful of quirky characters in a small southern town where the local radio program’s introduction is “Welcome to Fireside, Texas — where no strangers are known! We are the home of the free and brave and everlasting polite persons. We never take the last cookie. No one here eats beets, but we thank the hostess for them anyway.” Sounds like my kind of town!
As in every family, there are some secrets that are kept. One big secret tears apart the sisters. Years later, can Evangeline forgive Juliet and become a family again? Even beyond the grave, Walt and Ruby’s presence help steer the girls toward forgiveness.
Be ready to meet a handful of quirky characters in a small southern town where the local radio program’s introduction is “Welcome to Fireside, Texas — where no strangers are known! We are the home of the free and brave and everlasting polite persons. We never take the last cookie. No one here eats beets, but we thank the hostess for them anyway.” Sounds like my kind of town!
February 9, 2017
This book is something I can cuddle up to and travel back in time with. The characters are full bodied and relatable. The story seems real and is something you can lose yourself in. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was heartwarming and entertaining and wasn't something that was far fetched and unrealistic. Not only were the characters relatable, so we're there experiences. Life happens and everything can have an effect on you. It was also interesting because of the time period. Definitely a must, feel-good read.
I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review but all of the opinions above are my own honest opinions. I truly loved it.
I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review but all of the opinions above are my own honest opinions. I truly loved it.
February 2, 2017
This is a sweet, sometimes funny story about two sisters, Juliet and Evangeline, who live with their paternal grandparents. Their dad is fighting in the Vietnam War, and their mom has run off to New York City to pursue fame.
I loved this story, especially Juliet and Evangeline's spunky grandparents, Walt and Ruby.
The bulk of this story takes place when the girls are young. The last few chapters take place after the girls are older and Walt and Ruby have passed away. This is the weakest section because I feel the author tries a bit too hard to give the book a perfect ending.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed the book!
I loved this story, especially Juliet and Evangeline's spunky grandparents, Walt and Ruby.
The bulk of this story takes place when the girls are young. The last few chapters take place after the girls are older and Walt and Ruby have passed away. This is the weakest section because I feel the author tries a bit too hard to give the book a perfect ending.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed the book!
October 22, 2017
A+ Read
Best book I have read in a long time. I enjoyed the characters in the story. I hated for the book to end.
Best book I have read in a long time. I enjoyed the characters in the story. I hated for the book to end.
August 11, 2015
What a joy to read this wonderful novel by Marci Henna! "When We Last Spoke" is a a timeless story full of love, heartache, laughter and forgiveness. By book's end, "Squirrel," "Rabbit," Walt, Ruby and the other characters were familiar to me and I appreciated their strength, loss, perseverence and love. Thanks for providing such a great read!
October 9, 2017
Fireside, TX (Maitlin County). Juliet “Squirrel” Cranbourne (sister, narrator), & Evangeline “Rabbit” Lynette Cranbourne (sister), attended Fireside Elementary School.
James Nelson Cranbourne (father) was in the military & Marguerite Cranbourne (mother) was having a good ole time in NYC.
Ruby Cranbourne (Mamaw, nee Gemburree), & Walter Scott Cranbourne (Walt, grandfather, farmer/rancher) kept a watchful eye on the 2.
It was never a dull moment around the Cranbourne household.
Itasca Cranbourne (Walt’s mother/great grandmother) had once clogged up the toilet.
12/2002, Ruby & Walter Scott Cranbourne had both passed away.
A funeral/burial were held, & the headstones picked out & set in place.
What does the future hold for Juliet & Evangeline?
I was in Jr. HS, but how did guys every think Playtex Cross Your Heart Bra & a Wonder Girl Girdle were sexy?!
S&H green stamps, how many of those I had to lick & put in books for my step-mom, for junk.
Spam, now there is some disgusting stuff I will never eat again.
Orange, Grape, Cherry Nehi every kid’s favorite.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well down-home family style written book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great down-home family movie, or better yet a mini TV series. 1 of my top 25 books for 2017. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
James Nelson Cranbourne (father) was in the military & Marguerite Cranbourne (mother) was having a good ole time in NYC.
Ruby Cranbourne (Mamaw, nee Gemburree), & Walter Scott Cranbourne (Walt, grandfather, farmer/rancher) kept a watchful eye on the 2.
It was never a dull moment around the Cranbourne household.
Itasca Cranbourne (Walt’s mother/great grandmother) had once clogged up the toilet.
12/2002, Ruby & Walter Scott Cranbourne had both passed away.
A funeral/burial were held, & the headstones picked out & set in place.
What does the future hold for Juliet & Evangeline?
I was in Jr. HS, but how did guys every think Playtex Cross Your Heart Bra & a Wonder Girl Girdle were sexy?!
S&H green stamps, how many of those I had to lick & put in books for my step-mom, for junk.
Spam, now there is some disgusting stuff I will never eat again.
Orange, Grape, Cherry Nehi every kid’s favorite.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well down-home family style written book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great down-home family movie, or better yet a mini TV series. 1 of my top 25 books for 2017. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
February 11, 2017
*Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for my honest review*
This should have been a really sweet book. Unfortunately, there was a good amount of bad language (mostly 'd' and 'h') and a handful of references to what a lady was wearing and how she looked. Nothing terrible, but not helpful or necessary to the story. I was ready to quite by the fifth chapter, but I received this book for free in return for a review, so I needed to finish it. I ended up speed reading the rest.
Honestly, the best part of the book was the end when Juliet and Evangeline were grown up. Even without the negative elements, the would not have been a great book, one that I'd recommend or re-read.
I also didn't appreciate the way Christianity was used in this book. It seemed to be just done as a cultural nod or something. William prays (a very good prayer actually), but the other spirituality makes it seem like the author is just trying to throw some Christianity in to get a wider audience. It seemed out of place and fake. I would have preferred Marci not use the Christian faith at all, as the rest of the book does not espouse Christian values and in some cases, is directly opposed.
This should have been a really sweet book. Unfortunately, there was a good amount of bad language (mostly 'd' and 'h') and a handful of references to what a lady was wearing and how she looked. Nothing terrible, but not helpful or necessary to the story. I was ready to quite by the fifth chapter, but I received this book for free in return for a review, so I needed to finish it. I ended up speed reading the rest.
Honestly, the best part of the book was the end when Juliet and Evangeline were grown up. Even without the negative elements, the would not have been a great book, one that I'd recommend or re-read.
I also didn't appreciate the way Christianity was used in this book. It seemed to be just done as a cultural nod or something. William prays (a very good prayer actually), but the other spirituality makes it seem like the author is just trying to throw some Christianity in to get a wider audience. It seemed out of place and fake. I would have preferred Marci not use the Christian faith at all, as the rest of the book does not espouse Christian values and in some cases, is directly opposed.
July 7, 2021
I think I won this book years ago in a blogger’s giveaway. It’s been sitting on my shelf for years.
This is a slice of life story from the tiny town of Fireside, Texas. It even says on the front cover “a Fireside, Texas story”, which makes me think authors from Fireside are pretty proud of themselves and their town?
Anyway, it was honestly a bit of a boring book. It starts with the first chapter being the protagonist in her grandparents’ home, reminiscing about them (they’ve passed away) and how her sister, who hasn’t spoken to her in YEARS, is coming back to help clean up and purchase headstones. Then 3/4 of the book is the childhood of the sisters. The last 30 pages or so goes back to present day and things are kind of rushed ending with both sisters falling in love and moving back to the tiny town to marry childhood friend and live honky-dory perfect fairy tale lives.
It is very stream-of-thought, which is not my favorite type of narration. It also had a lot of cliches. Although I did love the character of the grandma. She was like the only redeeming thing of this book.
This is a slice of life story from the tiny town of Fireside, Texas. It even says on the front cover “a Fireside, Texas story”, which makes me think authors from Fireside are pretty proud of themselves and their town?
Anyway, it was honestly a bit of a boring book. It starts with the first chapter being the protagonist in her grandparents’ home, reminiscing about them (they’ve passed away) and how her sister, who hasn’t spoken to her in YEARS, is coming back to help clean up and purchase headstones. Then 3/4 of the book is the childhood of the sisters. The last 30 pages or so goes back to present day and things are kind of rushed ending with both sisters falling in love and moving back to the tiny town to marry childhood friend and live honky-dory perfect fairy tale lives.
It is very stream-of-thought, which is not my favorite type of narration. It also had a lot of cliches. Although I did love the character of the grandma. She was like the only redeeming thing of this book.
February 12, 2022
Marci Henna’s books in her Fireside, Texas, series, When We Last Spoke and What Lies Ahead, transport you to the sixties via two spirited, indomitable little girls, Juliet and Evangeline, and their grandparents. Her pitch-perfect rendition of the girls, especially, is reminiscent of Harper Lee’s Scout and Jem. And although it’s tempting to think the earlier time translates to an easier life, Marci Henna does not skirt the tough issues: abandonment, Vietnam, racism, dementia. However, she portrays in equal measure the compassion, the grace, and the resilience of her characters, making me yearn to live in a small town again. Her books made me want to stand up and cheer!
May 28, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book, loved the character of Walt and Ruby, they both were so positive and gave love so unconditionally. At times, I found myself laughing out loud, and other times, I was crying, especially with the characters of Selma, Juliet, and Evangeline!
December 21, 2019
Sweet book about family
Grandparents take two sisters in and fill their lives with love and lifelong memories in a small town in Texas.
Grandparents take two sisters in and fill their lives with love and lifelong memories in a small town in Texas.
May 27, 2022
A good book❤️
April 12, 2023
Well written
Life between sisters with their ups and downs.
Life between sisters with their ups and downs.
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