Walden has an amazing gift for beautiful writing about controversial or unorthodox topics. Her stories are believable, and it's even more sad to realize people actually go through these experiences. She also writes about characters with determination, perseverance, and loyalty. Be sure you have tissues nearby, brought tears to my eyes at least three times. The story is tough to read at times, but so worth it in order to experience the author's skill in drawing out emotions. 4.5 stars. Another wonderful read by S. Walden. I don't think I've ever been quite as depressed as I was in the beginning and middle of this story, only to be totally jubilant at the heartwarming ending.Honeysuckle Love is about two young girls, 16 and 10 when the books starts. Their depressed mother has abandoned them. Gone and left them on their own to worry about bills, keeping the electricity and gas on, feeding and caring for themselves. They learn to cook on their woodstove and take cold showers as the electricity and gas are eventually turned off. They are afraid to really tell anyone for fear that they will be turned over to foster care and possibly separated.They do get some help from a caring neighbor and the older girl falls for just a wonderful, popular guy at school who does the best he can to try and help their situation while also keeping their secret.Finally, the older girl falls apart trying to keep everything together and when her mother finally returns the girl has a breakdown. Its a real struggle for her to just be a teenager again and she pushes everyone away, including her boyfriend (with some help from a total prom disaster).One of the joys of this book is how the author brought it to a conclusion. No insta-reconciliation here. Just a slow, methodical conversation here, confession there, a hand held in the hallway -- and love wins out. Beautiful.
What do You think about Honeysuckle Love (2012)?
What a beautiful and yet heartbreaking story! I loved it.
—Claudia
Giving up on this I'm afraid. Can't get into it at all.
—bryce_haven
Bummed didn't like this one at all. Got bored of it
—Eunice
