Defying Expectations: A Review of Certain Sensibilities by Sondra Rice Newman

Certain Sensibilities by Sondra Rice Newman

Genre:  Women’s Fiction

Blurb

Elizabeth, a retired librarian, alone and unable to care for herself, is resigned to spending her remaining days in a nursing home.

Not long after her arrival, her vitality is awakened by Cary, a young attendant. Elizabeth discovers that his interests in literature, art and the way of life of a gentler era are in step with hers.

When Cary eyes a framed photo of a young Elizabeth standing with her horse, attractive and vivacious, he is drawn to her as he’s been to no other woman.

Haunted by memories of a domineering mother who forced her into a loveless marriage, she is nevertheless a romantic who still believes in love.

This uncommon liaison leads to a deep devotion that transcends all boundaries. Despite their vast difference in age, Cary’s tender warmth inspires Elizabeth to make a new start in life.

Excerpt

Elizabeth Gardner had a patrician look about her and had been blessed with classic bone structure. Cary could imagine her likeness on a coin. Her hair, unlike that of so many of the women patients, appeared to have no tinting of any kind, but was cloud-white. She had a smooth complexion, though unnaturally pale.

“Good afternoon. My name is Cary. I’ll be looking after you between now and eleven tonight. Could I ask how you’d prefer to be addressed? By last name—Ms. or Mrs.? Or first name?”

“Elizabeth will do,” she answered. There was no power in her voice. It was weak and unsteady.

Author Bio and Links

In love with reading since childhood, Sondra began writing poetry early on.  She later contributed columns for a weekly newspaper in Ohio.   

A native of Michigan, Sondra attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.

She brought out her first novel, Silver Dreams, in 2006 (Robert D. Reed Publishers).

Sondra lives in Tucson, Arizona, with her husband, George, a retired newspaper reporter.  

Giveaway Information and Rafflecopter Code

The author will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

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Why Should You Read It?

Sondra Rice Newman’s Certain Sensibilities is a tender and unconventional love story that beautifully explores the transformative power of connection. Elizabeth, a retired librarian, finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Cary, a young attendant in her nursing home. Despite their age difference, their relationship blossoms into a profound and meaningful bond, allowing both characters to experience newfound self-awareness and emotional depth. Their connection is a testament to the idea that love can emerge in the most surprising of circumstances, defying societal expectations.

The novel shines in its portrayal of Elizabeth’s journey as she overcomes her past traumas and learns to embrace the possibilities of her twilight years. Cary, too, grows as he navigates the challenges of his own life, finding strength and solace in their relationship. Certain Sensibilities is a heartwarming tale of love, self-discovery, and the courage to follow one’s heart, no matter the obstacles. It’s a poignant reminder that true connection can bring light and meaning to life, even in the most unexpected ways.