I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "The Thing about Home " by Rhonda Mcknight! This story reminds that life is not always going to be kind and go the way you want it to, but always stay the course and don't give up. Sometimes you have to visit the past to live your future. And most importantly, love conquers all.

I really wanted to love this book. The description sounded great, and just like something I would enjoy. But try as I might, I really struggled to enjoy this one as much as I expected. When I started though, I was immediately drawn into the story. I think when it switched to the historical parts of the stories, I just failed to connect with that part of the story. This could definitely be my frame of mind while reading though... as the historical part takes place in a time in the past that is hit or miss for me anyway. They writing was great, and as I said I really found myself enjoying the contemporary parts of the story... just something about the historical aspects didn't click with me. But you know, that happens sometimes... especially as a mood reader! I enjoyed the parts I did enjoy enough that I hope to go back again in the future when I'm feeling more in the mood for this type of story and see if I like it more than!

While this one didn't capture my attention like I'd like, it's a well written book and one to check out if you enjoy dual timeline novels.

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

Casey Black is a former model and Instagram star. She is planning a second wedding, but when her groom backs out at the last minutes - and everything goes horribly wrong on social media - she needs to get away. She travels to Georgetown, South Carolina, in the Lowcountry area, to get to know her 99 year old grandmother that she has never met. This trip to learn about her family history changes her life.

I wanted to read this book because the Lowcountry setting was intriguing to me. The author did a wonderful job at capturing southern life (down to her amazing food descriptions!).

This novel was told in two timelines -- Casey, in present day, and her ancestor Odessa who grew up in an enslaved family. I didn't immediately warm up to Casey because of her big focus on social media and appearances. However, when she got to South Carolina and got to know her Granna (grandmother) and learn about her family, she became a much warmer, more likable person. Her Granna is one of my favorite book characters I've "met" this year in my reading and I loved every single scene she was part of.

I found Casey's family story, told in part by her Granna and in Odessa's timeline (1800's), very moving. As Casey connected with her family and her history she found a real sense of place. She also met the charming farm manager (and close friend of the family) Nigel, and sparks flew between them as they got to know each other.

I loved The Thing About Home and have recommended it to a friend already. It's a lovely, leisurely read about home and family and finding our sense of place and purpose in this world.

What do you do when your vow renewal doesn’t quite go as planned? Take a trip of course! In this lighthearted yet detailed novel, Casey learns just who she is, who she is not, and where she comes from. McKnight takes you on a journey from New York to the low country and for those of us lucky enough to know both places, it is definitely a treat! Changing points of view, times and circumstances give a well rounded story.

~4.5 Stars~
What a pleasant surprise this novel by new-to-me author, Rhonda McKnight, turned out to be! When I first started reading I assumed it was a rom-com which I'm not too terribly fond of. A heroine who's a superficial social media influencer and fashionista?-not really my cup of tea.

But a heroine who runs to South Carolina's Lowcountry to search for long-lost relatives and experiences the true essence of her culture—family, history, a glimpse into the faith of her ancestors, Southern comfort foods, and sweet tea? "Now we're talking!" says this South Carolinian gal.

What a beautifully written, inspiring story of a highly popular, somewhat spoiled young woman who learns to work the land, cook native fare, serve others, and perhaps uphold a legacy...IF she has the courage to let go of the past. Looking forward to more from this author!

"There’s no fountain of youth. The secret of staying young is walking, water, and vegetables.” Granna Ida

*I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*

This book follows the life of Casey B, a social media influencer whose world implodes at the beginning of the story. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she tries to figure out how to rebuild her life and what she wants her new future to look like.

In an effort to do something other than wallow, she sets out to find and meet her father's family, whom she's never known. And in doing so, she finds herself as well.

There are plenty of beautiful nuggets of wisdom in the story, and I was drawn along with Casey as she explored what's important in life and what it meant to finally find "home."

I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading future stories by this author.

Thank you Rhonda McKnight, Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an advance review copy.

"The thing about home is, it's not a place. It's a feeling.”
- The Thing About Home by Rhonda McKnight

It's Pub Week for Rhonda McKnight and The Thing About Home! It felt right to read this in May as it includes being connected to the land and growing food. This is the first novel I've read by this prolific author.

Casey B is a 30-something woman whose entire life has been lived publicly, first as a child model and then as a very popular social influencer. She's Black in two ways - it's her last name and her race/heritage. In a moment that should be filled with love and joy, her entire life crumbles for all the world to see. Readers follow Casey on her journey to figure out the rest of her life, which begins with a trip to South Carolina's Lowcountry.

The Thing About Home is a story of contrasts:
- urban NYC vs rural SC
- family of 2 vs family of many
- intensely public vs fiercely private
- materialistic vs spiritual
- current time vs 1800s

This felt very relevant for a novel from a Christian publisher, which I appreciated but other readers may not. The plot pulled me right in, but then it dragged after the first couple of chapters. But I'm glad I kept reading because I really enjoyed the rest of the story. I liked the characters; Nigel is VERY swoonworthy, and I loved Granna, even though she functioned incredibly well for age 99. And the faith elements emerged organically in the story.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGalley for a review copy of this novel.

The Thing About Home is a contemporary novel written by Rhonda McKnight.

Summary: Former model Casey Black has it all: a thriving social media business, a devoted husband, and a beautiful home.

Or so she thinks.

When her husband suddenly demands a divorce in the most public way possible, Casey’s life begins to come apart.

She flees to South Carolina in an effort to find the family she’s never known.

Can she find a way to put her life back together, or will bringing up the past cause problems of its own?

My Thoughts: I liked this book. The story is well-developed with plenty of drama right from the start. I really enjoyed the complicated and thoughtful relationships between the characters, and the strong emphasis on family.

I am not usually a fan of stories that follow two different timelines, as often times there is not a clear delineation between the past and the present, or the switch is abrupt and I have a hard time adjusting back to the other timeline. This book does have two timelines, and while it is really important to the storyline, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up had I known because it makes the book harder for me to read. This is really just personal preference, however.

Overall, I found the story to be well-written, poignant (I even got misty-eyed towards the end), and full of heart.

I would recommend this book especially to those interested in the history of slavery, and those that enjoy stories of finding oneself in times of struggle.

I would like to thank Thomas Nelson for providing me with a digital copy of this book for my review. Thank you!

An interesting look at Black history. One of the many low points in man's history, slavery and its aftermath. Finding one's roots and romance. Sweet romance. Sad secrets and events in the family lineage. The tale kept getting more interesting. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

I was happily surprised to read a "Christian" book that uplifted black voices and their history and didn't feature a conversion story, the characters were realistically flawed and the book didn't shy away from their sexuality and desires and I was really surprised that it featured drinking in moderation. It was honestly so refreshing to see an inspirational book done so well. And I learned a little bit more about black culture in the south.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.

This was my first Rhonda McKnight book and will not be my last! She has a richly detailed way of writing that draws the reader into the story. It was part historical fiction with a Christian flavor, but not overly preachy. Both the past and current timeline was deeply structured around the family relationships with well-drawn characters. The story focuses on Casey Black, a social media influencer after her world implodes leading her on a journey to not only find herself, but her lost family. There are also chapters mixed in with her ancestors' stories as well. I was invested in both timelines.

There was so much of this book I loved. The vivid setting, the delicate weaving of characters and the history that connects them, the building of relationships...family, friendships, romantic. Casey's whole healing journey with the Black family was just so lovely the way they immediately embraced her. And while I did not like Casey's mother for most part, the author managed to give us some vulnerability and even understanding of her character at the end.

Reading this book felt like coming home, I can hardly wait to check out more from this author! I thoroughly enjoyed my initiation into her works...:)

5 stars

The main characters in this novel were well developed. They instantly draw the reader into their story. One cannot help but love the grandmother. The layers in the storyline kept peeling back to reveal more about the story of Casey B. I would love to see this story continue in another book.

This is the story of a soft landing after a hard fall from the only life you know into the loving arms of a family you’ve never met. It covers a duplicate growing season — one involving seeds germinating and growing toward harvest, the other involving growing relationships and nurturing those things that give the soul sustenance. Along the way, the author fills interstices with long deceased relatives learning how to grow dreams post-slavery. Love grows after the ground is scarified by a husband who refuses to renew his vows when the rejected wife finds someone more deeply connected to her soul who is willing to put in the work healthy relationships require.. Heartwarming.

🏡 The Thing About Home 🏡

.

@potatoesandpaperbacks 3.5 ⭐️

.

Thanks to @netgalley for this ARC!

.

Casey B is a trending social media influencer, until her viral vow renewal ceremony is short a husband. After posting a cringeworthy breakdown on her social media, Casey escapes south to find her roots and get to know her late father’s family. While there, she discovers a 99 year old grandmother, family farm, history dating back to slavery and reconstruction, and a tall, dark, handsome stranger.

.

💭 Thoughts 💭

I enjoyed this story! It was a little slow to get started, but I got into it once Casey got to South Carolina! I enjoyed the interwoven stories from the past and present and how Casey learned the meaning of family and how to follow her heart.

.

⌛️ Favorite Moment ⌛️

In this case favorite character.. Mrs Ida Black aka Granna! This 99 year old walked daily, and won the senior Olympics just before her 100th birthday. A true badass!

I loved this book so much. While I didn't have much in common on the surface with the characters, I so enjoyed following along on Casey's journey. Further, the supporting relationships with her grandmother and Nigel made me so invested. Excited to see what Ms. McKnight puts out next!

The Thing About Home is a beautifully written novel about love, family, faith, and finding your true self. All the characters were extremely likable. I enjoyed seeing Casey grow throughout the book and find not only her family and roots, but also herself. It is a book that I will think about for a long time.

I highly recommend The Thing About Home and I have added more Rhonda McKnight books to my TBR!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I am not sure where or how to start this review without spoilers. I felt right at home reading The Thing About Home, it took me back to the farmland my great-grandfather owned/worked in Alabama.

This story started with a popular social media influencer Casey being left at the altar, by her then-husband of seven years, Was it the seven-year itch, or something else? Drew just left. I felt as if the Black family was my family.

Ms. McKnight covered several genres in this novel, there was a romantic element, a dual timeline, and historical fiction dealing with life after the Civil War, Women's fiction, and family drama. As she transitions from one subject to the next it was very smooth, as the reader I wanted to see what was next,

The Thing About Home is a must-read, Rhonda has written the Bennett and the Black family. What"B" will the next family be?


Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Publishing, and Rhonda McKnight for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Happy pub day!
I love how connected we are to family and love. I love these types of stories where you find that lost family and you love them through the ups and downs. I love the characters and the hardships that each pursue. The family has unconditional love and it's really evident through the story. I was able to get into this story really quickly and it felt like I was there with Casey throughout. I could not recommend this book more!
5/5 stars for long last family, unconditional love, and what it really means to find yourself!

**Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a free review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I'm a sucker for almost any book that takes place in the Lowcountry. Having been to Georgetown and Pawley's Island, SC, I could visualize the locations depicted in the book. Ms. McKnight did a fabulous job describing the beauty of the Lowcountry.

In the beginning of the book, we're introduced to Casey Black, a former model turned social media influencer. I'll admit, I'm not a fan of 'influencers', so I almost gave up on this book. I'm so glad I gave it a chance. Casey has staged a seven year vow renewal, which is to be filmed for her millions of fans, when suddenly, he husband pulls the rug from beneath her. Casey has a breakdown live on social media, which causes her to rethink her life. Casey is forced to reconcile the life she is living for attention and fame vs. a life of true happiness.

Casey's dad died when she was young and her momager has kept Casey away from her dad's side of the family. As a result of her breakdown, Casey hops in her car and heads south to Georgetown, SC, home of her dad's family. She knows no one and is not sure of how to find them.

Casey quickly finds her family and is welcome with open arms. While this probably wouldn't happen in real life, it made for a great story.

Casey comes from a long line of farmers who were once slaves. Her female ancestors kept journals that gave her insight into who they were, her family's history and what it means to overcome obstacles.

During her time in Georgetown, Casey develops to relationships. One with her paternal grandmother and the other with Nigel, the farm's manager.

I was incredibly close to my maternal grandmother and she left a huge imprint on my life. Casey and her grandmother's relationship is what made me love this book so much. Sure, there's a love story, but for me, it was the beautiful (albeit quick) relationship with her grandmother that captured my heart and made me miss my grandmother all the more.

I loved that Casey had access to her great-grandmother's journals, and wish my grandmothers and great-grandmothers had kept similar journals. As an adult, I have so many questions about what life was like for them in Poland and the USSR. What did they encounter upon coming to America?

The Thing About Home is a beautifully written story about love, redemption, finding one's self, and the importance of family history. I would absolutely love a sequel.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson ARC. #TheThinggAboutHome #NetGalley

Home is not a place—it’s a feeling. Casey Black needs an escape. When her picture-perfect vow renewal ceremony ends in her being left at the altar, the former model turned social media influencer has new fame—the kind she never wanted. An embarrassing viral video has cost her millions of followers, and her seven-year marriage is over. With her personal and business lives in shambles, Casey runs from New York City to South Carolina’s Lowcountry hoping to find long-lost family. Family who can give her more answers about her past than her controlling mom-slash-manager has ever been willing to share. What Casey doesn’t expect is a postcard-worthy property on a three-hundred-acre farm, history, culture, and a love of sweet tea. She spends her days caring for the land and her nights cooking much needed Southern comfort foods. She also meets Nigel, the handsome farm manager whose friendship has become everything she’s never had. And then there are the secrets her mother can no longer hide. Through the pages of her great-grandmother’s journals, Casey discovers her roots run deeper than the Lowcountry soil. She learns that she has people. A home. A legacy to uphold. And a great new love story—if only she is brave enough to leave her old life behind.

Beautifully written. This was the perfect story to read. It has everything from family secrets to dynamic self growth and discovery. Will recommend to others.