Book Review: Sunday Morning (Sunday Morning, #1) by Jewel E. Ann
As a long-time fan of Jewel E. Ann, I often find myself drawn to her stories like a moth to a flame. Her knack for crafting compelling characters and weaving intricate plots never fails to entice me. “Sunday Morning,” the first in her new series, caught my eye with its tantalizing premise—pastor’s daughter meets the brooding older brother returning from military service. Who could resist such a blend of forbidden allure and small-town drama?
A Journey of Self-Discovery
The heart of “Sunday Morning” lies in its exploration of personal growth and breaking free from societal norms. Sarah, the sheltered pastor’s daughter, is poised to follow the predictable path of her boyfriend—the good little rancher’s wife, as outlined by her family and community. Enter Isaac, the captivating older brother who sees beyond the confines of her world and encourages her to pursue her dreams. Their chemistry sizzles, but it’s Sarah’s internal struggle that draws the reader in.
What I adored about this book was its guiding theme of liberation. Isaac’s character embodies that urge to break free from the mundane, inspiring Sarah to chase her passions rather than succumb to expectations. There’s a balance of family drama and personal exploration that felt authentic, though I wished for more insight through Isaac’s perspective. Given how much I enjoyed him, I longed for deeper access to his thoughts and feelings—especially when he was grappling with his emotions for Sarah.
Writing Style and Pacing
Jewel E. Ann’s writing style is distinctive; her voice flows effortlessly, keeping the reader engaged page after page. The pacing was generally good, leading us smoothly through the rising tension and moments of connection between Sarah and Isaac. However, I found myself a tad disappointed in the epilogue. It felt like a hurried wrap-up, leaving many of my burning questions unanswered. I yearned for more of Sarah’s journey as she transitioned into her role as a musician, something that was hinted at but not fully explored.
As for the romance, I appreciated the slow-burn nature of Sarah and Isaac’s feelings, which developed organically rather than falling into the trap of instalove. Their push-and-pull dynamic was palpable, creating that delightful tension I crave in a romance. However, some readers should note that the book delves into complex themes, including cheating and loss, which may not resonate with everyone.
Honorable Mentions
The chemistry between Sarah and Isaac ignites with moments of anticipation and passion, peppered with moments that tug at the heartstrings. While the emotional weight wasn’t as intense as I anticipated (based on other reviews), I did find myself shedding a few tears at key points—a testament to Ann’s ability to evoke feelings, even if it didn’t reach the full crescendo I had hoped for.
Final Thoughts
Overall, “Sunday Morning” earns a solid 3.5 stars from me. It’s a compelling story of dreams, identity, and the struggles of young love caught in the throes of family expectations. Fans of Jewel E. Ann will likely relish this ride, though I’d recommend it with the caveat that it might not fulfill every reader’s emotional cravings.
If you’re drawn to stories that fuse romance with self-discovery and you don’t mind a few unresolved questions at the end, then “Sunday Morning” is definitely worth the read. Just like me, you might find yourself returning for more of Ann’s enchanting prose, even if it leaves you yearning for that added depth and connection through music. Happy reading!
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