Release: March 13, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Archway Publishing
Source: YA Bound Book Tours
Find it at: Amazon, Kindle, Goodreads
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On the evening of May eighteenth, a young woman named Cass walks alone into the small village of Chimney Rock, North Carolina, intending to stay for exactly one year. She is in search of somewhere with peace, a place where she can safely picture herself and escape, shielding herself from recollections of the past.
Cass soon meets two precocious children, their mother, a caring and generous business owner, and the neighboring town’s chief of police. Moreover, family and loss make up many of their stories, and while these people and others attempt to get to know and help Cass, the history and troubled memories of what led her to this place begin to gradually unfold. Hence, as the date of her planned departure approaches, the potential for love and a path to healing become clearer. So, Cass and those around her must decide how forcefully they are willing to hold on: to the past, to the pain, and to the person.
This novel examines the true test of strength in the deepest depths of sorrow and reminds us of the overwhelming power of comforting influences in all of our lives, as our human souls struggle, against all odds, to survive.
About the Author:
Jordan R. Samuel is a former public school teacher and administrator who enjoys her current work as an Assistant Professor of Education. She spends her days with her husband, John, and her three children as she teaches, studies and writes. Moreover, she enjoys travelling immensely, and penned many parts of this particular story while relaxing in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina.
On the Eighteenth of May Review:
Reading this book is like basking on sunlight after the clouds depart. It was beautiful, heart-warming and left me speechless. I loved reading it.
Even though it is a relatively simple story, the beauty lies in the way the author narrates it. The story progresses like fine wine. The author describes every emotion that the characters go through in such a poignant manner. It’s a beautiful tale that shows the courage it takes to face your fears instead of running away from them.
You fall in love with the Lucas and Cass from page one. Both of them are vibrant and enchanting in their own manner. I became so engrossed with the characters that I was at the edge of my seat towards the climax. The plot progresses beautifully, as we slowly start to see snippets of Cass’s past, and the reason why she doesn’t stick to one place. There are a few moments in the story which are pretty violent. But otherwise, everyone in Chimney Rock is so friendly and adorable that makes you want to go and live in such a town. I loved Ella and just wanted to hug her through the pages.
Moreover, I also loved some passages that Lucas describes about his Cherokee heritage, like the symbolism of water. In fact, there are so many priceless moments that I loved, like how Cass talks about umbrellas and rain, and how she reflects on the shattered vase. The way the author adds these moments to the story makes it so memorable.
Overall, “On the Eighteenth of May” is a beautiful love story that I truly loved reading.
Giveaway:
I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the On the Eighteenth of May by Jordan R. Samuel Blog Tour hosted by YA Bound Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!
