North of the Tension Line
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Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9780825308291 |
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| Publisher: | Beaufort Books, Incorporated |
| Publication date: | 06/06/2016 |
| Series: | North of the Tension Line Series , #1 |
| Edition description: | Reprint |
| Pages: | 478 |
| Sales rank: | 391,560 |
| Product dimensions: | 6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 1.20(d) |
About the Author
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
North of the Tension Line
4.9 out of 5
based on
0 ratings.
7 reviews.
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Enjoyed the characters, overall great read!
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A very good read.
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Reviewed by Lorelai Rivers for Readers' Favorite
North of the Tension Line by J.F. Riordan is true to its title, meandering through a year in a small community after city gal Fiona buys a ramshackle cottage on the remote side of the ferry -- just to prove that she can survive island living. Her successful art gallery friend Elizabeth is supportive in every way, after trying to talk her out of it first, of course. Fiona's furry housemates (not always wanted) insert their own thoughts on occasion and provide wry humor and some of the best interactions in the book. With two gently budding romances, a cranky neighbor, town meetings, and an embarrassing rumor, J.F. Riordan delivers a cross between Pride and Prejudice and Gilmore Girls.
If you're looking for loud action, high anxiety, or a torrid love triangle, this book will not be for you. But if you want to curl up on a snowy day with a cup of coffee and a glass of scotch, slow down time, and be put in mind of breezy seasons in the country and the simpler concerns of life, then North of the Tension Line may be just where you need to go. After reading this book, I have three thoughts: 1) I'm tempted to do some painting and house repairs but will be sure to put on mascara first. 2) There could be a spin-off to the book with only the animals, starting with "Robert and Rocco and the Mystery of the Crunch in the Wall." 3) I desperately wish that someday someone will gift me a goat.
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A most enjoyable read, full of interesting characters, romantic settings beautiful detailed, and a smart lead in Fiona Campbell, the book was such fun to read and I look forward to the next one from this author.
living on an island, through a rough winter season, dealing with locals, and the exploration of the us -and-them mentality that sometimes prevades small town tourist spots, are scrutinized in a kind and
objective voice. I became aware as Fiona did, of the dynamics of the geography and how it can develop such a strong role in our personal lives. J.F. Riordan introduces the whimsy that is often lacking in many novels
these days, a talking goat, a haunted pilots cabin, and aa somewhat quirky businessman, I would happily recommend this book.
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I once read that a good book or movie takes you to a new place. It provides an experience that you would not have otherwise have had. J.F Riordan, in her first novel North of Tension Line, takes her readers to a new place. I am no geographer, but I recognize the importance of place. Riordan is very good at describing a place that tourists visit but few people understand.
Riordan provides rich descriptions of Door County, a beautiful peninsula in northeastern Wisconsin wedged between the shores of Lake Michigan and Green Bay. But, much of the story takes place on Washington Island, a minimally inhabited island north of the peninsula, Her words allow you to visualize the place - - beaches, plants, water, coast, insects, and shops in wonderful detail.
But the descriptions of the place are just the appetizers. The main course is the adventures of her characters. It is her depiction of the people who occupy the place that keeps you turning the pages.
The main story revolves around the unlikely scenario that Fiona, in a moment of questionable judgment, accepts a “dare” to spend the winter alone in an old home on Washington Island. This would be a daunting challenge to anyone who knows Wisconsin winters. And, it is all the more daunting given the isolation of Washington Island. But, it turns out to be an adventure of fulfillment and character building involving Fiona’s cast of characters - - Elisabeth, Roger, Champagne Man, Rocco, Robert and Stella who all add considerable spice and suspense to the story.
There’s more. Riordan provides deep insights into life in this small town. She notes how life is scary, satisfying, exciting, liberating, frustrating, deceitful, and stifling - - all at the same time. Her views of the folks who reside in this little hamlet are all too human and ring true.
The story has many twists and turns. While mostly serious and filled with important thoughts about how we live our lives, there are many moments of fun and humor. I mean, how can you miss the opportunity to learn what Rocco has on his mind, and meet a couple of ghosts and a talking goat to boot.
I ordinarily read a book over few days as time permits. Not this time. I literally could not put it down. So, my advice to readers is to start with North of the Tension Line then let’s all hope that Ms. Riordan soon producers another. That, however, is hard for me to imagine because I think she poured her whole soul into the writing of this one.
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I LOVE this book. It's a really fun read but not an insult to your intelligence. When I finished the book, I missed Fiona and her cast of friends. I hope there is a sequel because I cannot wait to read more of Fiona's adventures in life.
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I absolutely loved this book, and could not put it down. Finished it in one day. Wonderful stuff.
Set in Washington Island, Wisconsin, the book is novel about friendship, and life in a small community, and how a woman can make a life for herself. And there's a goat. What more could you possibly want?
I highly recommend this book!
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