Counting Miracles: A Novel Hardcover – September 24, 2024

Another Nicholas Sparks movie possibility? Would be a great idea! Has all the right components. My wife and I both loved it.

Suspense, kindness, reality that we sometimes wander looking for answers we don't know even exist. Fear of being venerable without realizing that we are.

This is the first Nicholas Sparks book I ever read. Of course, like everyone else, I’ve enjoyed “The Notebook“ (the film). A great story, no doubt, but certainly an emotional roller coaster.This book starts with Tanner, but ends with Jasper. For this reason, I wasn’t really sure whose story this actually was. And (for me) there was too much bouncing back-and-forth through Jasper‘s history, which is of course necessary to understand how everything works out at the end— I skimmed a lot.I enjoyed Jasper‘s love and dedication for his family. I appreciated the Scriptural references as well. But I guess what I probably didn’t appreciate, in light of the inclusion of God‘s Word, were the encounters between Kaitlyn and Tanner of a sexual nature. I’m not necessarily prone to read books that feel like a sort of voyeurism—I’d much rather read between the lines and enjoy the innuendo. I suppose what I mostly didn’t appreciate was the sexual detail in a book that also talks a lot about the Scriptures—a strange combination, like mixing chocolate and scrambled eggs… Both are pretty good on their own, but maybe not mixed together?? It’s not that the two cannot coexist in life, of course. It just seemed to me a strange choice for the author to make: I mean, is it supposed to be a sexy book or a book based on self discovery through faith, as with Jasper?Certainly, it’s just my own opinion based on my personal preferences.This was a departure for me; I usually enjoy historical mysteries, but I was looking for a new read and I liked the plot. In terms of structure, I felt that we had to wait too long for Tanner to be able to employ his special skills from his military service. The character development was good. The pacing was a little slow, as I mentioned because of the historical backfilling of Jasper’s past. I did enjoy Jasper‘s observations of how he had felt left behind by modern technology, something I think seniors may often feel at times. I enjoyed the information about the Bradford pear trees. However, I was really frustrated that the author never fully allowed the plot to address Josh and family.And after the plot resolution, I wish we (as readers) had been allowed to spend a little more time with Jasper, Tanner, and Kaitlyn and the kids. I very much enjoyed the stomach-centered Arlo (and the reason for his name), not only with his love of food, but for man he seemed to have discovered so many years before… Jasper and Arlo, in a sense, saving each other. (Loved that!)For those who like Nicholas Sparks and that genre (dramas, romance, etc.), I’m sure that this would be an enjoyable read. The book could probably be finished in a day. Honestly, I would probably give it 3 1/2 stars if I could; and I feel like I spent too much money on it even at 50% off. For some, it would probably make a good pool or oceanside book.

As usual Nicolas Sparks didn't disappoint. I always love his books. The character interactions were incredible. The story was well written and I felt like I was part of the story!

At a very sad time in my life, reading this book has given me hope. My Faith won’t fail me.

Loved the whole thing! The realism created by words and the way it was wrapped up perfectly! Wouldn't expect anything less from Nicholas Sparks.

I love the sentiment behind the story. It was very sweet, but it was far from a page turner for me, personally.

I enjoyed the characters in the book. And I loved the last part of the story. I wish the first 2/3 had contained more challenges and suspense. I thought the middle of the story had too much other information.But I am very glad I read it!!🎉