I must admit that back in the day, I could read fairly quickly and with the best of them. Not sure what happened to me in the last year or so, except to say that blogging and blog reading took center stage. Don’t get me wrong, I still very much do both, but in order to find a better balance, I am finding myself shutting down in the evening and also during the day sometimes now, too.
When it is quiet here and my family is otherwise occupied by sleep or what not, you will now probably find me reading, which I seriously cannot get enough of nowadays.
That is the thing about reading it can really suck you in and give you promise of things to come in each novel you do put your heart and soul into. And probably why I am kicking that 12 books in a year challenge over at Goodreads and heading towards my seventh and February has just nearly begun.
For the fourth book though, I chose The Promise of Stardust, by Priscille Sibley to read.
I saw one of my fellow Goodreads friends reading this one (I swear it was Kate) and knew once I read the Goodreads synopsis that I had to give this one a go.
Sometimes a book just captures your heart and soul and this one did just that, but first read what Goodreads did indeed have to say on this book below and then I will share my thoughts, too
Goodreads Review:
Filled with grace, sensitivity and compassion, The Promise of Stardust is an emotionally resonant and thought-provoking tale that raises profound questions about life and death, faith and medicine, and illuminates the power of love to divide and heal a family in the wake of unexpected tragedy.
Matt Beaulieu was two years old the first time he held Elle McClure in his arms, seventeen when he first kissed her under a sky filled with shooting stars, and thirty-three when he convinced her to marry him. Now in their late 30s, the deeply devoted couple has everything-except the baby they’ve always wanted.
When an accident leaves Elle brain dead, Matt is devastated. Though he cannot bear the thought of life without her, he knows Elle was afraid of only one thing-a slow death. And so, Matt resolves to take her off life support.
But Matt changes his mind when they discover Elle’s pregnant. While there are no certainties, the baby might survive if Elle remains on life support. Matt’s mother, Linney, disagrees with his decision. She loves Elle, too, and insists that Elle would never want to be kept alive on machines. Linney is prepared to fight her son in court-armed with Elle’s living will.
Divided by the love they share, Matt and Linney will be pitted against each other, fighting for what they believe is right, and what they think Elle would have wanted resulting in a controversial legal battle that will ultimately go beyond one family . . . and one single life.
From the very first page, the author did such justice setting up the above story of the two fated lovers, now husband and wife, Matt and Elle.
The words captured me and jumped off the actual pages as I read their story and how from the moment Elle was born she made Matt whole and complete as a small child, even to their teenage ill-fated romance, where Matt and Elle conceived their first child, all while Elle’s mom was tragically dying of breast cancer and her dad slipped into a deep depression that led him down a path of becoming a bitter alcoholic during this time period.
Poor Elle, even suffered her first of many miscarriages during this time, when her 5 month old baby was forever lost to her and Matt. Then shortly thereafter, this young girl then, of course, lost her mother, who succumbed to her cancer finally after seeing her for months suffering to no end.
After this occurrence. Elle and Matt eventually for years went their separate ways, where Matt had a one night stand with a sorority girl at the Ivy League college he was attending to become a neurosurgeon, finally becomes a neurosurgeon and even gets engaged to another woman for brief time. While Elle went on to not only get her Phd, but also becomes a famous NASA scientist, who moved on with her life (or so she thought).
But fate has a way of bringing people back into each other’s life if it is truly meant as this story so easily proved that theory. So much so, that in the end after all these two went through, they some how and miraculously found their way back into each other’s lives and arms.
They eventually did marry, but unfortunately still had their troubles in the form of conceiving, miscarriages and even a stillborn birth.
We learn, all of the above, through very well written flashbacks that help to develop the story at hand of Elle having fallen off a ladder at her brother’s house while helping him clean his windows at his home. After having survived heaps of tragedy and even seeing space through her NASA adventures, Elle hits her head on a rock upon landing front his fall and suffers irreparable damage to her brain.
She is literally brain dead and this close to be taken off life support, when it is found out that she is pregnant again. Matt (her husband), who again knew her better then anyone in the world, knows in his heart of hearts that she would want this baby to have every chance of survival and goes against what so many others even his own mother, who believes to be true that Elle would not want to stay on life-support, because Elle expressed this so after the long suffering death of her own mom as mentioned previously.
This is where the story takes flight to determine what this tragic, yet once vibrant lady would have wanted. Matt believes it to be quite simple to save the baby at all costs, which many think he is just trying to save his child, while putting his wife’s wishes and needs secondary.
His mom and even Elle’s ex believe she would want to have her life support cut off and not suffer for months on end even if it means losing the last chance at having a baby.
Thus a bitter court battle breaks out between the two camps and mindsets here, all while Elle is no longer capable or able to make her own cognitive choices, as well as the baby growing and becoming more of a reality as the days and months of this battle rage on.
This book also brings up heated issues also such as the Terri Schiavo Case and even Roe Vs. Wade.
These issues aside, the book had me literally gripped and found me unable to physically want to put it down. I read it in less then 4 days times and must admit I truly wished for a happy ending knowing full well that I would be bawling at some point before it was all said and done. Yes, tear-jerker and hanky warning here.
Yet, I would read The Promise of Stardust all over again, because it was that good. Another recommended book on Goodreads that I am truly so happy that I got to read and share here.
What book is next on deck for me?
Reconstructing Amelia, by Kimberly McCreight
And by the way, If you missed my ModCloth article last night all about their ongoing fashion design contest, click here: (You could become the next fashion designer!)
Please Visit my Sponsor of The Month:
One Click Is All It Takes!!
rmemommy says
I so need to era more! I am a slow reader -not in a bad way. I have just never been one to sit down and get so engrossed in a book that I finish it in in just a few hours. It usually takes me a couple weeks. Between family, house, blogging, etc. I just don't make the time. But I should. And good for you shutting down in the evenings!
My recent post Tuesday Ten Linkup – Ten Superpowers I'd Like To Have
Janine Huldie says
I have always been a fast reader, but everything that has been on my plate in the last few years, I do know what you mean about not having as much time as I would like. I am just glad that I found ways around a bit and have had some extra time on my hands to read lately 🙂
massholemommy says
I am not a fast reader, but I have this tendency to skip over words as I read and not even realize I do until I notice I've missed something. Then I Have to go back and re-read.
My recent post Weird Science Series: Bottomless Pit
Janine Huldie says
Robin, if I am very tired or bored with a book, I have a tendency to skip over parts sometimes and that is how I know if a book is truly engaging me or not to be quite honest.
ginnymarie says
I'm always looking for good books to read! I'm reading a freebie I got as a perk from Klout right now. I'm ahead of my Goodread's goal, too, which is surprising! (I'll slow down later this year, I'm sure!)
My recent post Valentine’s Day Heart Craft
Janine Huldie says
I am also reading the book now we were talking about in MOAM group the other day, which was free for me to read and review. Enjoying it so far and looking forward to reviewing it now, as well. And as for Goodreads, I am sure I too will probably slow up a bit myself, but very much enjoying myself while can now 🙂
ginnymarie says
Oh, that's right! I need to read that book, too. It looks really good!
My recent post Valentine’s Day Heart Craft
Janine Huldie says
So far, enjoying it and definitely made me remember all the finer and (not so finer) moments of pregnancy, too 🙂
rosey says
I love that you're reading so much this year, plugging right along with your goal and having a blast doing it too!! Happy Reading to you, and Happy Wednesday too. 🙂
My recent post Wordless Wednesday
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Rosey and I know truly having a blast getting to finally read more now!! Happy Wednesday to you, too!! 🙂
The Vanilla Housewife says
I remember way back in high school, I would skip classes so I can stay in the library and read novels. My love affair with books continued on until I graduated from college. I remember reading the last chapters slowly because I don't want the story to end.
The story seems so tragic! I wish it has a happy ending. It sounds a little similar to a story on the news about a woman who was declared brain dead but the family is caught up in a court battle whether they should keep her alive or not because she is pregnant.
Janine Huldie says
I am with you and have had a love affair with books from the time I was a kid. So, I have trouble now closing a book. Even when I tell myself, I will after a chapter is over, I sometimes continue for at least another chapter or two. And I must have missed that case in the news, but does sound similar to that.
Calipsa says
Thanks for sharing this! I'll get a copy prolly this weekend. Thanks again. 🙂
Janine Huldie says
My pleasure and if you do read hope you will let me know what you think 🙂
Nancy C. says
Oh, I'm feeling so guilty for spending my snow day so far on the computer…I should really go read a book! Before the baby wakes up anyway…
My recent post Slice of Life #5
Janine Huldie says
I too have been online a lot this morning, but at least I read late last night for about an hour. So that makes up for it a bit 🙂
anothercleanslate says
This book was SO sad. After I finished, Joe asked me what it was about and then was so confused by why I would read such an emotional book. But it was an incredible story! Glad you enjoyed it too! i'm sure as a mom it was even more powerful for you.
My recent post Getting lost in my own backyard
Janine Huldie says
It really was so sad and so tragic, but such a compelling and amazing story that wasn’t sorry in the least that I read. Being a mom think did add a layer to it for me, but even if I wasn’t a mom, still would have wanted to read. And thank you again for recommending 🙂
vitatrain4life says
You know I love a good book and this sounds like yet another to add to my growing list. Like you, I've shut down my laptop at night and started reading my books again. It's one of the best parts of my day!!
Thanks for the review and I look forward to reading the next one 🙂
My recent post I Heart Headbands & Runnerbox
Janine Huldie says
I am loving turning off at night now and seriously becoming a real favorite part of my day. My pleasure with the review and hope you get to read soon 🙂
Billybuc says
Thanks for the review, Janine. I can never get enough good book reviews. Have a great day in your winter wonderland.
Janine Huldie says
You and me both Bill. And definitely is a winter wonderland here for sure today yet again. Happy Wednesday 🙂
notinjersey says
I'm still reading it! will let you know what I think when I finish, lol!
My recent post Pinewood Derby
Janine Huldie says
Definitely let me know Dara and can't wait to hear you weigh on this one 🙂
tamaralikecamera says
Oh dear, that book looks heavy. I'm still so behind with "And The Mountains Echoed." And yet, I read "Me Before You" in just a day or two. Well, most of it. I had to take a break before reading the ending! As you know.
I used to be a great reader, but life is calling these days, so I gotta make the books count more.
My recent post The Lost Boys & Girls.
Janine Huldie says
I know exactly what you mean Tamara. This is a heavy read for sure, but going to tell you I think I loved this book more then any I read so far with the same heavy nature in recent years. So, if you are going to read another book soon, I would tell you this one is definitely worthy (IMO).
Michelle Liew says
I really must check out these books, Janine! Thanks for the intro!!!
Janine Huldie says
Totally my pleasure and hope you get to read soon, Michelle!! 🙂
Dana says
I think this is on my to-read list – I'll have to check. Sounds like a real tearjerker! So glad you are finding time to read, Janine!
My recent post How to make a wall photo arrangement
Janine Huldie says
Total tear jerker, Dana, but still had me captivated. Hope you read this one soon!! 🙂
Camilleta says
Wow, I'm putting this on my list to read next!
Good for you for making time to read. I'm trying to do that now too. I used to go through a books so fast, back before I had kids, lol.
My recent post [Mostly] Wordless Wednesday
Janine Huldie says
I know that feeling of having read so much before I had kids, too. But like I said I am trying now to rectify that and hope you get to read this one soon! 🙂
Tara Newman says
Ugh. Yes, blogging and blog reading has taken over my reading time (more like my everything time). I need to do a better job at powering down at night. I think it is time for a curfew.
My recent post WIAW: The Winter Blahs Edition
Janine Huldie says
I am trying to set a curfew here for blogging too. For the most part, I do very good and turing out by a certain time right now. One night a week, I have a late night with the FTSF linkup, but even that I am trying to curb a bit, too, because I really found myself plugged in all day and night, too. Just too much!
ashleyinnc says
It sounds great! Off to check it out right now! Can't wait to hear what you think of Reconstructing Amelia…I read that this summer.-Ashley
My recent post How Twitter Made One Mom’s Teenage Dreams Come True
Janine Huldie says
I totally finished Reconstructing Amelia (about a week behind on reviews here, but did enjoy, but I actually felt it fell a bit flat after reading this book, because this one was that good. Promise to share all about it, possibly next week 🙂
Lanaya says
I am so proud of you for keeping up with the reading. I don't know how you do it all mama!! You are my hero. Read for me k?? xoxo
Lanaya
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks Lanaya so much and trust me somedays I am so not sure. I will totally read for you though anyway of the week now!! 🙂 xoxo!!
.MIS. Manhattan Image & Style says
I wish I was a fast reader! Thank you for this awesome review! <3
Diana http://www.ManhattanImageandStyle.com
New Blog Post: How to Get What You Want
Janine Huldie says
My pleasure and happy to share with you Diana!! 🙂
day-with-kt.com says
I love all of your reviews – I think we have similar tastes in books. I started The Husband's Secret last night!!!
My recent post Snow Days – Productive or Play?
Janine Huldie says
I think we do too and let me know what you think of The Husband's Secret, when you finish it now!! 🙂
stephrufa says
I could only read the first paragraph of the Goodreads review of the book but based on your enthusiasm I'm going to read it – I hate to know what happens in a book so I base my choices on reviews and very little knowledge of the actual story. It's weird, I just like to be surprised and not be anticipating the stuff I know is going to happen. I have a friend who reads the last pages of every book FIRST. I could never! Looking forward to your upcoming reviews!
My recent post Wordless Wednesday
Janine Huldie says
Stephanie, I truly hope you read this one and will tell you I know it is sad, but seriously such a truly amazing story that I can't stop raving about it. And I too could never read the last page first! 🙂
stephrufa says
I just bought it for my iPad, I'm reading it after I finish my current book. Thank you!
My recent post Wordless Wednesday
Janine Huldie says
Yay and so happy you bought it. When you do read it, let me know what you think!! 🙂
stephanie2006 says
This sounds like a heartbreaking story. I don't think that the comparison to the Terri Schiavo case is not really jutified in my opinion, as it is keeping omeone alive for a few months to save another life vs. keeping someone alive for years and years without any hope. Thank you for sharing your opinion, Janine!
My recent post Wordless Wednesday – Bigger On The Inside
Janine Huldie says
Stephanie, I agree with you on this and if you do read the book, you will see how the author explains from the husband's point of view how it isn't the same as Terri Schiavo at all. And seriously love your opinion and thank you for sharing, too!! 🙂
latinamamapr says
Oh, I so want to read "The Promise of Stardust"….I love to read, and yes I am a super fast reader. However, after motherhood knocked on my door almost 13 years ago, I hardly have time to read. Like you, I would love to read 12 books this year. I love a real book…I am all for saving trees but the feeling I get from holding a book is priceless to me 🙂
Janine Huldie says
I swore I would only read real books for the longest time, but now I just can’t get enough of reading on my Kindle app on the iPad. But yes I fought it for the longest time, too!
Nellie says
girl, I am going to go broke behind your book recommendations!! LOL! this one sounds crazy interesting and really intense. I guess I know what I am reading once I get through the husbands secret.
My recent post Weekly Wednesday Workout: Cross Crunches
Janine Huldie says
Lol, Nellie I have spent more on books in the last few weeks, but each one has been totally worth i, because they each were that good in their own right! 🙂
Woods of Bell Trees says
Sounds interesting. I have also had a hard time getting books in the last few years!
My recent post Geometry’s for Suckers! Or Something Like That
Janine Huldie says
It was definitely a great read and just glad I have been able to read more. Hope you can soon, too!! 🙂
plutrell says
Excellent review…I think you have convinced me to add this to my summer reading list! Thanks for sharing on the blog hop! Have a wonderful Thursday!
Janine Huldie says
Awesome and hope you enjoy it when you do read it. Seriously, one of the best books I have read so far!! 🙂
MelChi says
Sounds like the type of book I could get lost in for a few hours, thanks Janine! Will keep it in mind. Love coming here to read your book reviews 🙂 I'm busy reading a JD Robb "In Death" series book. I love that series, have you read any of those books?
My recent post Animals in Circuses: The Fight for Freedom
Janine Huldie says
Totally a great book to get lost in. I never read that series you mentioned, but will look into and add it to my list. Thanks Melanie and so happy to be able to share my book reviews with you 🙂
Brittnei Washington says
I'm not going to lie. This book sounds really interesting! You make me want to read, seriously, Janine! I wonder if I could make the time for it though. I'm interested to know how the court battle ended.
My recent post New Sponsor With Style: Angel from Sew Crafty Angel
Janine Huldie says
Oh I hope you get to read this and seriously don't think you will be disappointed 🙂
Amanda Love says
Oh my goodness Janine, now you have me wanting to get this book. I am a big book reader and have been sticking with romance novels a lot lately. I may just have to get this for my Kindle.
My recent post Oh My Devita Baby Skin Care Line
Janine Huldie says
I seriously hope you do so that we can chat about this, because I need someone to share it with (even after it has ended, still can't quite get over the story).
Sandy_Ramsey says
I have to say I am really proud of you! You are kicking ass and taking names on this reading thing! I keep adding your books to my list but am having a hard time finishing the one I'm currently reading and I have one next that I was sent for a review. So my list is getting backed up! Thanks for paving the way and making choices for me so when I do finally get to sit down and read, I'll have a lot of choices.
This one sounds tough. I know it's got to be filled with all kinds of emotions but sounds like a great read, too.
My recent post Number One Songs 1982: The 80s (A Series)
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Sandy and I too have fallen behind the past few days with my two linkups and also doing a design job, but hoping that the weekend will bring more quiet time and can finish up the book I am reading now and start a new one, too! 🙂
wilson tom says
Hi I am a new follower to your lovely blog (Via Twitter, G+, Pinterest & Blogvin) You have really a wonderful blog am really impressed with your blog, it looks really cool. Found you through Weekend Blog Party.I would love it if you follow me back.
My recent post A Bunch of Friends at Lansdowne Celebrating New Year 2014
Katherines Corner says
I still read fairly quickly. But I absolutely must have a quiet room in which to do so. I have the bridget jones book waiting for me to dive in.this book sounds interesting too. I am happy you found tiem to sit down and enjoy it. Thank you for helping to make the Thursday Favorite Things Blog hop so much fun. Big Hugs ♥
My recent post Little Sweetheart Giveaway
Janine Huldie says
I totally need quiet, too Katie and I want to read the new Bridget Jones here, too. Totally on my list and as always a pleasure to share with at the hop. Thanks for hosting again 🙂 <3