A Good Yarn by Debbie Macomber
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Mira (May 1, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0778322955
ISBN-13: 978-0778322955
From Amazon.com
Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
Macomber revisits the cozy Seattle yarn store of 2004’s The Shop on Blossom Street in another heartfelt tale of crafts and camaraderie. After a slow beginning, this sequel clips along satisfyingly, as shop owner Lydia, a cancer survivor, and her no-nonsense sister, Margaret, meet three new and conveniently quite different friends and bond over the complications of life. Overweight, depressed teenager Courtney Pulanski has found herself plopped into a new town for her senior year, living with her grandma while her dad works in Brazil. Bethanne Hamlin, a recent divorcée, and Elise Beaumont, who’s been single for years, are both still suffering from their broken marriages. Serving as sounding boards and sources of endless support for each other, the women find friendship and, of course, resolution for their problems (the latter a little too easily). Readers will miss The Shop on Blossom Street’s spirited Jacqueline, who plays a minor role here, and a few things—like the character of Elise’s ex-husband, Maverick—strain credibility. But the author’s trademark warm treatment of the lives of women will satisfy her readers. Despite occasional draughts of treacle and a too-easy denouement, this should be another Macomber bestseller. (May)
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This is the first novel I’ve ever read by Debbie Macomber and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although this is not an inspirational title, it was sweet, for the most part, and I could see lovers of inspirational fiction enjoy this novel.
Courtney is still hurting over the death of her mother four years ago. When her father has to go out of the country to work, she is forced to move, spending her senior year in a new school. Her grandmother signs her up for a knitting class and she bonds with the older women.
Lydia has found comfort and solace by knitting. Knitting provided an outlet while fighting bouts of cancer. Now, cancer free, she wants to share her joy of knitting with others, so she opens a yarn shop. Her life changes when Brad, her current boyfriend, wants to give his relationship with his ex-wife another chance.
Bethanne’s husband has recently divorced her, and she’s left struggling to make a living for herself and her teenaged children. She discovers that she has untapped business skills which enable her to support herself, helping her to heal from her breakup.
Elise has yet to forgive her ex-husband for his gambling habit. Due to circumstances, the two abide together in their daughter’s home. After over thirty years of separation, they find that their attraction still sizzles.
All of these women find comfort with one another while knitting every week in Lydia’s shop, making socks for and sweaters for sweethearts as well as family members.