Five Winters by Kitty Johnson turned out to be the cozy romance story that I absolutely needed. It’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming, and I loved every part of it. Over the span of five years, Beth Bailey’s life unfolds in a way that is truly memorable and at times even relatable.
My Overview
Beth’s parents died when she was nine. Rosie was Beth’s best friend when her parents died, so her family took her in as one of their own. Mark, Rosie’s’s brother, was older by a few years, and Beth fell in love with him early on. Unfortunately, although Mark has always been a part of her life, he’s never considered her anything more than a close family friend. Now in her thirties, Beth still can’t stop being in love with Mark.
What I enjoyed most about this story, were the various storylines that mingled and added depth. Beth, along with each of the members of her surrogate family, had varying situations they were struggling with. As is expected over the span of five years, there are plenty of twists and surprises life brings their way. Their love and loyalty for each other, is the only constant throughout the years. I loved the characters, their commitment to each other, and the way the themes of motherhood, marriage, and grief were handled.
I was initially hesitant to read this story, because sometimes the extended timeline over several years becomes repetitive. I’m glad I gave this story a try, since that wasn’t the case here. The story takes place over five winters, but covers a greater amount of time. Through flashbacks, further background and history about the characters is included.
My Recommendation
This is my first book by this author, and part of My Winter 2023 Reading List. I’m now looking forward to reading some of her other books. The writing style and character development are what I’m expecting to continue to enjoy in her stories. Needless to say, I highly recommend this book.
Have you read this book yet?
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
I’m a little hesitant to read stories that span years too. I’m usually worried it’ll be too drawn out and angsty. Glad to hear you enjoyed it!
Lucy
Thanks 😊. The five year span was done well here. The character development kept the story from feeling drawn out and repetitive.
Dedra @ A Book Wanderer
Oh, I have this one waiting on my kindle! So happy to see you enjoyed it. Happy reading!
Lucy
Thanks! I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did 😊.
Wendy
This sounds like a book I would enjoy. I just added it to my TBR
Lucy
Glad it’s on your TBR now. I hope you’ll enjoy this story as much as I did.