A review by ireadloudnmynook
The Scent of Gardenias: A Strong Woman Overcoming Circumstances Novel by Lorraine Haas

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I'm completely in shock at how amazing this book was!  I recall flipping through the pages early on and thinking it would be a really long read but it wasn't.  The story flowed so well.  At every turn I wanted to jump inside the book and encourage Margaret.  The development of all the characters was very well done within the story, I was not a fan of Pa from the start!  This story felt very realistic, loosely based on a true story, but it gave me perspective on how our parents grew up.  This book has a gut wrenching story but a complete pleasure to read.  In the end, the authors note sheds light on the story.  After reading this masterpiece I'm looking forward to reading many more books by the author.