The first thing that caught my attention about Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner was the cover. It’s stunning. It makes me want to get in my car and drive. A road trip sounds great right now! Then I read the back blurb and knew I had to read this book. Here is what I was expecting with this story — a self-centered man journeys to a podunk town where everyone knows each other’s business. He meets an older, wiser woman battling cancer and she teaches him a thing or two before she leaves this earth. While in this podunk place, the man grows up, realizes certain life truths, maybe finds a real woman to fall for, and lives happily ever after. That’s not really this book. This book is WAY more. Yes, Eric is a self-centered man at the start of this story; he actually annoyed me quite a bit. Yes, he is sent to a podunk town in the middle of nowhere by his uncle in the hopes he grows up and understands that God has a bigger purpose for him. And, yes, Eunice is dying and does get Eric to see some of life’s truths. But this is no romance. This is purely a cathartic read, and I needed every minute of it!

I love that Eric is the main character of this story. I love that it’s about his growth as a man. And I love that it’s a journey where he has to learn to step outside of himself and choose others over himself. I love how Eunice is a force to be reckoned with and maneuvers her way into Eric’s life. And I do love all she unknowingly teaches him about forgiveness and making the past right. I so enjoyed their friendship. All of this is so, so good, but what I enjoyed the most is how this book helped me process some of my feelings from my best friend’s death. She, too, had a terminal cancer and I was blessed to support her and her family every step of her battle. It’s not really that Eunice’s character reminded me of my best friend, but rather it’s her walk with Eric through the final stages of her disease that reminded me of my best friend. So much happened so quickly that I often couldn’t process one day’s experience from the next. I just knew to spend as much time with her as I possibly could, as much as she would allow. I have pictures and videos and so many memories of us from throughout the her illness because I knew I needed to record our time together. Perhaps that’s the one blessing of knowing a loved one is going to die — you do NOT take any second with them for granted. As awesome as it is to have all these things, I never really dealt with all that happened each day I took her to doctor appointments and chemo treatments and radiation therapy sessions. I never really processed her final days in the hospital or the night her husband called me to tell me she had passed and I could hear the long beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep of the machines telling me she had flatlined. I just went right into funeral prep mode. And then after the funeral I went back into wife/mother/full-time teacher mode. It’s not even that I wanted to ignore all that had happened, I just didn’t realize that’s what I did until I read Where the Blue Sky Begins. Like Eric, I was selfish. I took the people in my life for granted. Not on purpose, mind you. I just thought my loved one would always be there for me. I honestly didn’t know any better. But then I read this book and processed some of what I went through with my best friend. I have come to realize that she helped me grow up. She helped me be self-less. She helped me see how important it is to tell ALL of my loved ones just how much they mean to me. And she taught me that I am more strong and brave than I actually thought because of my faith in Christ. I have a long way to go before I fully process everything from that time, but I am super grateful this superior story helped me start my processing journey.

Where the Blue Sky Begins is a wonderful story. I loved every second spent with these wonderful characters, and I really loved the catharsis I experienced. I really recommend this book and feel it is not one to miss. It definitely makes my top-ten for the year!

I received a galley copy of this novel in eBook form the publisher, Bethany House, via NetGalley, in order to review. I also received a paperback copy of this novel via Bethany House’s Influencer program in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Oh, how I love a book that makes me feel so many amazing emotions! I also love when an author hooks me with my first taste of their writing.

Where the Blue Sky Begins is the first book I’ve read by Katie Powner. It made me laugh, cry gasp, and sigh. And upon closing the book, it left me inspired. Now that’s signs of a gifted storyteller.

It was effortless to connect with Eunice. I learned a lot from her and admired how she sought forgiveness from those she’d wronged, despite her fears. Her eternal life was what mattered most.

It took a little bit to fully connect with Eric, but his growth is evident, and I enjoyed his transformation and his discoveries along the way.

This is such a satisfying redemption story with themes of hope, forgiveness, and understanding. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Powner’s work.

Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.

Eric Larsen leaves behind his big city life in Seattle, to fill in at a branch of his uncle's financial company in Tukston, Montana, a small town of around 2,000. As soon as he arrives, he discovers that this town and the people who live there are going to give him a run for his money! He will discover things about himself he wasn't prepared for. And make friendships he didn't know he needed. This story is beautifully written! The words just roll and kept me turning pages as quickly as I could read them. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I would also really love to visit Tukston, MT! Meet the lovely people and make a few lifelong friends...because I'm sure that's exactly what they'd be. Go ahead and read this powerful story...you won't regret it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

This read is a worthy addition to both inspy-fic and the non-romance fiction genre! I've mentioned in other reviews that I read a lot of clean romance--which is great!--but it's always refreshing to change things up a little (and enjoy the process).

Anything that (accurately) incorporates Seattle, as _Where the Blue Sky Begins_ does (yay!), always makes me happy too. My expectations ramp up a bit accordingly, and thankfully, Powner does a great job. (It helps she spent her fair share of time in the PNW, as well, and I chuckled at the outright mention of Pete Carroll and the Seahawks. Woo hoo!)

Disease and ill health can hit anyone, with no seeming rhyme or reason. Powner explores this topic throughout _Where the Blue Sky Begins_, bringing it to life on every page and struggling--as we all do--with the answer (or lack thereof). I admired Eunice on all the levels; she is an all-too-relatable character, very human and yet very noble, too. Would I be seeking people out for the same reasons she does, knowing the end is coming? I'd like to think I would, but on the same token, I also have seen myself at the height of what I'd like to blame on PMS or some moon cycle or anything other than my own fallen humanity. (That dang apple, Eve; I ask you, as ever: was it worth it? LOL. Kidding, not kidding.)

Well worth the read and subsequent self-reflection, for sure. Hard sometimes, but rewarding all the time.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Where the Blue Sky Begins shares the powerful and poignant story of Eunice Parker as she seeks forgiveness from the people she feels that she's wronged. Will she be able to cross all of the names off of her list before she succumbs to her terminal illness? As her condition worsens, it seems unlikely that she will succeed. Can she do it on her own, or will she need her new neighbor to help her with this journey?

Where the Blue Sky Begins is definitely a love story, but it isn't about romantic love. It's about two imperfect people, totally different, who create a special bond that changes both of their lives forever. I was totally captivated by this unlikely friendship. Eric is somewhat shallow when he first arrives in Tukston but Eunice's deep faith changes him for the better.

Author Katie Powner made me smile, laugh, and cry, and she kept me totally engaged in this touching and thought-provoking story that has a plot twist that I didn't see coming! I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

This heartwarming story is filled with lovable characters and sharp wit. I adore the small town vibes and transformation the characters undergo. Eunice enlists the help of Eric in completing her 'list' before she passes. An unlikely friendship forms ad themes of forgiveness and faith are explored. Filled with humor and heart, this is a novel that stay with me for a while.

I won a copy of this book through Librarything. I am giving my honest opinion of my own accord.

This is published by Bethany House and is supposed to be a Christian book, but, there was very little about God in this book.

I did enjoy the book as it was well written. The 2 main characters were well done and believable. The story flowed well and gave a lot of insight into their lives. I was sorry that it ended as it did as it seemed to leave a lot left undone but maybe there will be a sequel.

I would recommend this book. It is a good, clean book that gives you a lot to think about.

How do you review a novel with such a bittersweet ending? A novel that leaves your heart feeling both warm and broken? Where the Blue Sky Begins was my first Katie Powner novel, and she has left an impression. Where the Blue Sky Begins is a story of forgiveness and the importance of slowing down. Of embracing the present and aiming to make a difference in people’s lives, as tomorrow is not guaranteed. I knew at least part of the novel’s ending when I started it…but it made the finale no easier to read. Katie Powner’s story is touching. Simple and straight forward, yet portrayed in such a way that readers cannot help but enjoy it.

Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner is a character-driven story. That is the best word to describe it. It is not thrilling nor suspenseful. You do not keep reading because you must know what the next action scene will be. You keep reading because you want to see the characters develop. You want to witness their stories unfold before you—whether that story is happy or not. Will Eric’s corporate mindset waver? Will he find joy in Tukston, or will he return to Seattle with no lessons learned? And how about Eunice (you-NIECE)? Will she complete her list, or will she let fear of rejection keep her away? Powner’s characters are everything to Where the Blue Sky Begins. If Eric or Eunice were any different, the book would not be as powerful as it is.

The novel is different than what I would usually read, which was why it drew me in. Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner should be relished, not scarfed down in one sitting. Think about it. Let it settle. Contemplate the messages Katie Powner so artfully portrays in the book’s littlest details, like a chicken named Cinderella, a turtle named Chicken, bowling balls, privacy partitions, and a refurbished table. You’ll have to read the novel to find out what I mean!

A wonderful novel
Author of contemporary fiction and blogger Katie Powner presents her novel "Where the Blue Sky Begins", published by Bethany House Publishers. "Eric Larson had never seen such a sorry excuse for a town" when he arrives in Tukston in rural Montana considering the fact that he is used to life in Seattle. He is sent there by his uncle to run the branch of Larson Financial which was set up by his uncle long time ago. It does not meet Eric's imagination either. Eric encounters interesting characters in Tukston. There is Eunice, terminally ill, who wants to "clean her slate" as much as possible before dying. She also steals Jack's Jeep and has a big heart for animals. And there is Cinderella, the "black Polish hen with a riot of black-and-white feathers on her head. But there are also secrets, e.g., the question of why is Jack's uncle number seven on Eunice' list.
I really liked this book with believable characters. It is a clean novel and a relaxing read. This was the first novel I read by this author and I highly recommend it to readers who like contemporary Christian novels.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#WhereTheBlueSkyBegins #Netgalley

Katie Powner delivers a story told quietly, with heart, provoking deep thought. One that will speak to readers of all ages. When Eric Larson meets Eunice, he has no idea how much his life will change. As he helps her face the last weeks of a terminal illness, he looks at life and what really matters differently.
Powner brings such a unique voice to fiction, one that is different from anything else I read and I find it refreshing. The characters found a special place in my heart. The story was by turns funny and then bittersweet. Be prepared to laugh out loud, then reach for a Kleenex the very next minute. Definitely one for the keeper shelf!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

What a beautiful heart-tugging story that kept me reading into the night! It brought tears into my eyes and also chuckles and laughing out loud. So many mixed emotions that felt like a roller coaster at times but felt deep and satisfying at the same time. I really couldn’t put it down!
Eunice Parker is a forty-six old year woman with a terminal illness. She only has a few months to live. But has before-dying bucket list: she’s determined to ask forgiveness and reconcile with every single person she has grieved. Only God can help her on this task that surely is bigger than herself. And maybe a neighbor stranger that Providence puts in her life in her most dire moments. But maybe she’s not the only one who needs help in this story.
Eric Larson is sent by his uncle Jack to from Seattle to Tukston, Montana, to work in the local branch of his financial company, Larson Financial, as the senior advisor. To him, it’s only a summer job that will earn him the chance to prove himself to his uncle and get his coveted promotion and return to Seattle by the end of the summer. He’s in for a surprise, for nothing will prepare him for the self-discovery journey that this small town has in store for him.
This story left me in awe and inspired me in many ways. It was poignant and thought provoking to say the least. Especially because it makes us delve in the things that every human heart yearns for: ending this earthly life with purpose and sense. It’s a deep story of redemption and forgiveness: forgiveness from God, forgiveness from the people we’ve hurt, and forgiving ourselves. The characters are so relatable because they are flawed and hence so realistic. Eunice has made her share of mistakes and she wants to earn her entrance to Heaven with her slate as clean as possible. But things are never easy with human relations. Some of her former friends react well, but not all of them. There was rancor and pride. And that made the story even more real, because that is life. We are not perfect, and freedom enables us to accept grace from God, or turn our back to Him and others.
Eunice’s journey was a bittersweet one, but I loved it and learned so much from it. I was inspired by her humility and her acceptance of her lot in life. And I loved how she made such a difference in Eric’s life. Eric was a broken soul too, even if he wasn’t so aware of it. Being abandoned by his father when he was very young, the grudges he holds aren’t easy to overcome. I loved his simplicity, his genuine concern for Eunice. And his natural kindness to others. I love how he reluctantly faces his fears and doubts about God’s existence as he experiences Eunice’s drama as if it were his too. He is touched by Eunice’s quest, and it slowly inspires him in different ways. Lastly, this story inspired me too. And made me think about how all of us have our days counted and none of us have guaranteed a long life. God could call us to him anytime, so I want to live each day as if it were my last. Eunice had a chance to prepare herself to eternity, but not everyone has this treasure of a chance. Hopefully, we can learn to embrace life fully and love and forgive in our daily life, without waiting for a life changing drama to make us change our view in life. Each day lived is a gift, a gift from God that we have to make the most of, trying to make a difference in other’s life by shining God’s unconditional love and light to others.
This book has also humor. My favorite part was Cinderella, the chicken, and when Eric has to drive the scooter with her! Lol!
And the ending was very satisfying, with a few surprises and unexpected things along the way.
My favorite quote: “...I do know that where I’m going, the sky is bluer than we can imagine, Eric. We don’t even know what blue is”. So much hope in this story.
Thank you, Ms. Powner, for this touching story that inspired me and made me want to live my life to the fullest. Not in the pleasurable way, but in the “think of others” kind of way. This book will stay with me for a while, and I’m sure I’ll be rereading it later.
I received a complimentary book from Bethany House via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Wowza, this story blew me away! It's a beautifully woven and moving story about forgiveness, bravery and what is truly most important in life. This book is fantastic. I also loved some of the surprises in the story like a rooster named Cinderella and some sweet things in the ending of the read. I need a sequel to this one! I definitely need more with these characters. Don't miss this one!!

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Eric Larson is leaving his urban world in Seattle to spend the summer managing his uncle's investment firm in Big Sky Country. Not only is the small town life a lot different, he also has a quirky neighbor named Eunice (rhymes with fleece) and a Polish chicken named Cinderella to get used to. Everyone is sure they have the perfect girl for him, the owner of the local thrift store wants to take him fishing, and Eunice has blackmailed him into helping her with her "list." While Eric believes he has been sent to this town to make improvements in the office, he begins to realize that he is the one who needs to make some changes. Filled with small-town charm and a good amount of soul-searching, this new release from Katie Powner will remind you that the real blue sky is only visible through the eyes of faith.

Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

When I first picked up Where the Blue Sky Begins, I really wasn't quite sure what to expect. It didn't take long though for me to be drawn into the story. The story had a lot of humor to start. Considering the more difficult topics that the story takes on--- terminal illness, forgiveness and such--- I think that bit of humor really gave it a nice balance.

Eric and Eunice were imperfect characters, to say the least. There were many times where I disagreed with the characters' decisions. Still, that allowed the reader to really see their growth throughout the story, and to see how this rather unlikely friendship changed each of them for the better. Truth be told, I generally prefer stories that have some degree of romance and this one did not (okay, maybe a hint at the very end)... but I found myself loving the story either. It's a heartwarming story and one that will definitely have you reaching for the tissues.

If you enjoy small town stories with a whole lot of heart, this is certainly one to check out.


**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

This story was rich with so many ideas and so many emotions. An unlikely friendship slowly developed between a young man, high on his self worth and an older woman facing some serious issues.
Eric Larson pulls into small, rural Tukston, Montana with a seemingly sneer on his face. He cannot believe his uncle has sent him to this podunk town from his finance job in Seattle where money is no object. As he rolls into town he comes across an older woman wearing purple crocs and riding a motor scooter. She seems unsteady as she wheels along and finds herself in a ditch. When Eric checks on her she accuses him of running her off the road.
An unlikely “friendship” forms between Eric and Eunice and they both have things to learn from each other. I gleaned much from this story as well. You’ll find forgiveness is a center point around much of the story, as well as learning what’s important and what’s not so important among these characters in this small community. Eric has much to learn, and he does eventually “grow up” so to speak.
Grab a box of tissues and a hot cup of Keurig coffee and settle in for a good read and some life lessons that we all need to learn. Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through The Book Club Network but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. All opinions are strictly my own.

If you are looking for a book that will make you feel connected to the characters in a way few authors can, this is the book for you!

Small towns have a vibe all their own. When Eric Larson leaves Seattle to help in his uncle’s financial company in a small town in Montana, he wants nothing to do with the town, only to return to the big city. Eunice Parker has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and wants to make amends with anyone she has wronged before the illness takes her. When Eric and Eunice are brought together through an unlikely set of events and try to work to determine what is most important, especially when there isn’t much time left.

Katie Powner has a way of very different way of writing than most, which is very refreshing. So many of the books published the same version of each other with different names and settings, making reading very monotonous at times. Katie Powner is a breath of fresh air with her books about everyday people and the struggles they face. Readers will be able to relate and enjoy seeing the struggles these characters go through and how they overcome. This story takes characters in hard times and real moments that so many of us go through and helps us relate. Lately I have been in a slump of not wanting to read after reading so many books that seem like the same ole thing. Fortunately, I came across this book at just the right moment. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy a great contemporary read.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner gave me the full range of emotions, from laugh-out-loud humor to tears of sadness. This author has the gift to create memorable characters who are simultaneously down-to-earth and extraordinary - people you could know in real life. Even the animals in her novels are full of personality. She also creates a strong sense of small town life, and her love for Montana is evident.

Eric Larson and Eunice (pronounced U-neese) Parker are similar in age, but at very different points of life . Eric's future is bright while Eunice's time is limited. Eric, a young urban professional, is sent to rural Montana to lead a remote office of his uncle's investment firm for a few months. He's counting the weeks until he returns to his luxurious Seattle life and earns a promotion in the firm. Eunice, a lifelong resident of her small Montana town, recently received a terminal cancer diagnosis. In her remaining weeks, she's on a mission to apologize to several people she's wronged.

When Eunice's mode of transportation is accidentally damaged by Eric, he assists her to visit community members to seek forgiveness. As he gets to know the people of Tukston, Eric learns important life lessons from the most unlikely (to him) sources.

While this novel deals with heavy topics, it includes clever humor as well. The theme of Christian faith is organically woven throughout and makes the story deeper and more meaningful.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the gifted copies of this powerful novel. Those who read it will definitely be impacted by their time with the citizens of Tukston

Eric is most unimpressed at being sent to Tukston for the summer as a trial for preparing to take over his uncle's business, but he's willing to do anything to get the job - even agree to chauffeur his neighbour around occasionally to stop her reporting on a bad first meeting. But there's more to Eunice than meets the eye. Will Eric learn the lessons Tukston has to offer, or will he hurry back to Seattle at the first opportunity, just the same as he left?

This was the first book I've read by this author, but I'm sincerely hoping it won't be the last. While definitely not a light read, it's hard to put down and the sort of book that stays with you - and hopefully changes you for the better. The topic of approaching death is rarely tackled so openly, particularly in a middle-aged person - and the idea of trying to make things right, regardless of the other person's response, felt like a helpful reminder to try to do it as you go through life, since you never know when it may be too late. I found Eric's initial attitudes somewhat frustrating, but watching him start to grow was satisfying and made up for the poor start! (To be honest, I felt sorry for him living with such an attitude.) All in all, a rich, heart-warming and deeply satisfying story. Highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Eric Larsen is sent to Montana to work in his uncle’s financial firm, hoping to prove himself and return to Seattle at the end of the summer. Eunice Parker is his neighbor and is quickly losing a cancer battle. A minor accident leads them to befriend each other, and thus begins this poignant tale of life beginning and life ending. Their time together leads to a glaring glance of what is most important in life. As Eunice navigates her forgiveness bucket list with Eric’s assistance, it is not lost on “city boy” Eric that perhaps he hasn’t been living his life as he should be. Add in a crazy hen named Cinderella, a turtle named chicken, and you have a delightful and deeply emotional tale of two people in different stages of life that desperately need each other. Ironically, both of them are just too stubborn to admit it.

This is Ms. Powner’s third novel and I have read and thoroughly enjoyed each of her published novels. I think A Flicker of Light is my favorite so far, but they are all incredibly good. She has a delightfully wonderful style and she Is never afraid of showing deep emotion and compassion. I do highly recommend all of her books!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and 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.”

This book was just wonderful. Big city boy meets small town in this story that starts like a stereotypical Hallmark romance but turns out to be so much more.
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In small town Montana, Eric meets Eunice, a quirky woman at least ten years his senior with terminal cancer. After nearly running her off the road with his shiny new Jeep (and she in her dilapidated scooter) Eunice pressures Eric into being her chauffeur for the summer as she checks things off her bucket list. Except, Eunice’s list doesn’t include things like bungee jumping or travelling. Instead, Eunice is determined to reconcile with anyone she has wronged over the years.
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Romance does NOT ensue, but as Eunice and Eric get to know each other over the course of the summer, and disdain turns to friendship, both lives are irreversibly altered by the power of forgiveness.
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A beautiful story full of hearty character development, this book is a true exploration of what really matters in life. While Eunice and Eric steal the show, the supporting characters are just as memorable. Oh, and there’s some edge of your seat suspense in the form of a snake bite and a brush fire too. This one will have you laughing and crying and calling up long lost friends.
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Thanks to @bethanyhousefiction for this copy in exchange for an honest review.