Winter in Full Bloom

Winter in Full Bloom
Anita Higman
(River North)
ISBN: 978-0802405807
July 2013/304 pages/$14.99
Lily Winter’s wings are folded so tightly around her daughter that when empty nest arrives, she feels she can no longer fly. But Lily’s lonely, widowed life changes in a heartbeat when she goes to visit a woman who is almost a stranger to her-a woman who also happens to be her mother. During their fiery reunion, her mother reveals a dark family secret that she’d been hiding for decades-Lily has an identical twin sister who was put up for adoption when they were just babies.

Without looking back, Lily-with her fear of flying-boards a jumbo jet and embarks on a quest to find her sister which leads half way around the world to Melbourne, Australia. Befriended by imprudent Ausie, he might prove to be the key to finding her sister. But her journey becomes a circle that leads her back home to attempt a family reunion and to find the one dream she no longer imagined possible-the chance to fall in love again.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She’s been a Barnes & Noble “Author of the Month” for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends. Find out more about Anita at anitahigman.com.


MY THOUGHTS

Winter in Full Bloom gives new meaning to the term "broken family" as the dysfunction of Lily's family has resulted in physical and emotional separation. The resulting issues that plague Lily, the sister she never knew she had, and the mother who seems unable to love either of them are far-reaching and heart-wrenching. Higman is adept at portraying relationships and their many nuances, including subtle and unspoken communication. Loss and resentment can only be overcome by grace and redemption. This is a tale that touches the heart. Don't miss it!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from River North and Litfuse Publicity as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”