In Sean Dietrich’s latest novel, The Incredible Winston Browne, a small 1950s town takes in a mysterious visitor whom they believe needs saving---but she might be the one who saves them.

Dietrich reminds us that sometimes ordinary people do the most extraordinary things of all.

Synopsis:
In the small, sleepy town of Moab, Florida, folks live for ice cream socials, Jackie Robinson, and the local paper’s weekly gossip column. For decades, Sheriff Winston Browne has watched over Moab with a generous eye, and by now he’s used to handling the daily dramas that keep life interesting for Moab’s quirky residents. But just after Winston receives some terrible, life-altering news, a feisty little girl with mysterious origins shows up in his best friend’s henhouse. Suddenly Winston has a child in desperate need of protection—as well as a secret of his own to keep.

With the help of Moab’s goodhearted townsfolk, the humble and well-meaning Winston Browne still has some heroic things to do. He finds romance, family, and love in unexpected places. He stumbles upon adventure, searches his soul, and grapples with the past. In doing so, he just might discover what a life well-lived truly looks like.

My thoughts:
Dietrich warmed my heart with this rich and nostalgic tale about community, kindness, and the meaning of the everyday incredible. Slow to start, like a lazy Florida summer’s day, this novel crescendos midway through and if you have been patient enough to stick with it, you’ll be in love with Moab and those who call it home. It was good to be reminded at the start of a new year, that regardless of how old you are or how long you’ve been doing something, there’s still time to change! Eleanor is forever changed by the kindness shown to her by Winston, Jimmy is brought to his knees and changes in order to win back the love of his life, and Jessie discovers who she is and what it takes to call a place ‘home’ – all done through changing the way she thinks. The old adage ‘kindness costs nothing’ is played out in this novel and readers see firsthand what showing a little kindness can achieve; it's transformative. This is another good reminder for us as we start a new year. This heartwarming novel is available March 2, 2021.

*deals with death experience after a battle with cancer, kidnapping and hostage situation*

Thank you Sean Dietrich, Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Fans of small town fiction will delight in this well told tale! Set in 1950's Florida, in a one police car town, the colorful cast of characters spring to life with their fun dialogue, mishap adventures, suspenseful moments, and real life struggles. It had me laughing out loud, reading late into the night, and in tears even, not wanting it to end. An instant add to my favorite books list!

Absolutely loved the main character, Winston Browne! He was indeed incredible, with his big heart, despite his own personal struggles. His love for others shines through his actions, and his faithful friendships grow through adversity. The author does a great job bringing all of the characters' perspectives to light. The story flows seamlessly along, like the little river flowing through town. Superb storytelling, like a Southern style Garrison Keillor. Not a light tale with the serious issues mixed in, but the humor kept it from bogging down.
Highly recommend! Solid 5 stars!

The Incredible Winston Browne by Sean Dietrich is a wonderful, heartwarming story that has it all: historical fiction, heartwarming characters, southern living, a bit of mystery, and a story about finding hope, love, and acceptance after all.

I loved reading this story centered within this small-town atmosphere of Moab, Florida. Even though it was in FL, the location felt as if it was more within the “deep south”. The community had a very 50s, quirky, creative vibe that brought along with it a unique and memorable set of inhabitants. I loved being placed within the community and felt at many times as if I was actually there.

I loved the focal story of second-chances and finding love and home after feeling as if all is lost. The ending was wonderful and satisfying, however I cannot say that a few tears weren’t shed throughout the story. It was so warming.

On a light note, I really enjoy baseball and relish the memories of going with my parents to many Indians games. I know, not the same team, but this book brought back those memories so easily.

I really enjoyed this journey and am glad I read this heartfelt novel.

5/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/2/21.

Well, as I read this book, I couldn’t help but think about the Andy Griffith show. Also, there was a ton of baseball talk (not my favorite) and a lot of small town feel. It definitely wasn’t your typical feel-good read as the main character is very sick, but the interaction of the characters and the setting kept me reading. I would think this story would appeal to men more than to women.

Sean Dietrich writes another endearing and can't put down book about a small town with unforgettable characters! I read this book in two days. I couldn't put this book down and did not want it to end. Thanks for the advance copy of this book!