Reviews
I usually only read business books or legal dramas. Boy am I glad I went outside my box to read Finding the Way Home. Sometimes book reviewers say “they had me from the very first page,” and I have often written that off as literary hyperbole. However, if you pick up a copy of this book, it WILL have you from that first page. I have told several people I am going to go back through this next time with a yellow highliter, since there are so many phrases and concepts in this book that truly touched me on the inside. I will not ruin the ending of the story, of course, but even if you are a manly man like me, be prepared to turn away from whoever is in the room when you read the last page, because you will need to compose yourself if anyone is around. I was torn up inside. Can’t wait to read the next one, Sarah.
Bobby Kelland, Richmond, VA
I thoroughly enjoyed Byrd’s debut novel Finding the Way Home. Within the first chapter, I was craving picnics by the seashore complete with wicker basket and china. Her descriptions of rural British life are charming without being hokey. Byrd’s character development is strong; I found myself thinking of the characters throughout the day, as in “Oh, Peter would find that dreadful,” or “Yep, the way I just snapped at my kid would TOTALLY freak Suzanne out”.
I had been warned it was a dangerous book to read before bedtime as it was hard to put down, so I set a 2 chapter maximum for me to read each night. I worked around this rule by waking up at 5 am to have time to read before my two small children woke up. And it cannot be stressed enough that I am NOT a morning person.
The author characterized her book as gentle fiction. I tend to agree. I imagine if Rosamund Pilcher and Jan Karon had a love child, Sarah Byrd’s Finding the Way Home would be it. Here’s hoping for a large family…EJ Phillips, Richmond, VA
FINDING THE WAY HOME has all the makings of a good read – compelling main characters surrounded by a warm and eclectic supporting cast with a setting in the southern coast of England that is so appealingly described you want to immediately visit. The intricate relationship between Suzanne and Peter is so realistically developed that at times you are rooting for them to connect and at times you want to strangle one or both of them. This is a well told story of two restless hearts on the mend, confused and guarded. It’s the story of the struggle to believe that it really is possible that you can be loved well.
Gary N. Witthoefft, Richmond, VA
I just finished it and LOVED it! Once I started it, I kept wanting to get back to it – the sign of a good story! First of all – it was written so beautifully! You obviously are very gifted – the way you described this area was so wonderful that I truly felt like I was there – and would have wanted to stay, too! Second, what a perfect bookclub book this would be – so many relationship issues. I found myself identifying with some and seeing some other all-too-familiar issues through different eyes.
Marie Moyer, Manakin-Sabot, VA
What a pleasure to have a book to read that refreshes you as it keeps you engaged in the unfolding story. Finding the Way Home is just such a book. From the compelling character development to the beautifully descriptive passages of the English countryside, Sarah Byrd draws the reader into a satisfying reading experience.
Martha Taylor, Beaverdam, VA
“Finding the Way Home does not disappoint. This richly-layered novel is overflowing with real life and redemption. After only one chapter, you will want to book the next flight to the English coast just to see the world Sarah Byrd lovingly describes. I highly recommend this debut novel from Sarah Byrd!”
- Jana Ford Muntsinger, Literary Publicist, Muntsinger-McClure Public Relations
“Finding the Way Home is a gripping novel that through it’s wonderfully told story and vivid characters digs deep into human nature and will keep you up at night until you’ve arrived at the back cover! It captures humanity in its truest sense — the struggles, joys, flaws and gifts — and it will undoubtedly cause you to look internally and ask yourself some of life’s toughest questions. It is absolutely a must read.”
- Shawn Boyer, Founder and CEO, snagajob.com
“There is love and conviction flowing through every page of Finding the Way Home. I found myself wanting to cross the ocean to visit this tiny English village– not only because of its beauty, but because its characters display so much charm and character. Through their lively relationships, Sarah Byrd has captured what we all experience: the tension, the tenderness, the anguish, the grace, and ultimately, the rest that comes from trusting that we are loved after all. This story is deeply satisfying.”
- Kim Greene, Women’s Leadership Development, WEPC
“In a world choking with isolation, Finding the Way Home is a refreshing, restorative reminder of the power of love and forgiveness. So descriptive, I read through many cups of tea and was ready to pack my bags for a trip to the English countryside.”
- Kim Newlen, Founder and President, Sweet Monday®
