When the fun-loving and spontaneous artist Willow West meets buttoned-up, retired English teacher George Emerson, it’s not exactly love at first sight. Though she does find the obsessive-compulsive man intriguing. Making it her mission to get him to loosen up and embrace life, she embarks on what seems like a lost cause–and finds herself falling for him in the process.A confirmed bachelor, … bachelor, George vacillates between irritation and attraction whenever Willow is around–which to him seems like all too often. He’s not interested in expanding his horizons or making new friends; it just hurts too much when you lose them.
But as the summer progresses, George feels his defenses crumbling. The question is, will his change of heart be too late for Willow?
With her signature heart and touches of humor, fan favorite Melody Carlson pens a story of two delightfully eccentric characters who get a second chance at life and love.
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This was my first book by Melody Carlson and I found it to be a light easy read. I enjoyed the fact that the main characters were all in their late 50s as I get a bit tired of reading books about people in their 20s and 30s.
George definitely has OCD. He lives alone and his life is very structured. He gets up at the same time every day and leaves the house to walk to his job as a teacher at the high school wearing a suit and tie every day. But now he’s decided to retire and his life will lose much of its structure. He will no longer be on the same routine and is a bit nervous how he will live his life. On top of the changes brought about by his retirement, he meets Willow, the grandmother of one of his students who is the complete opposite of him – a free spirited hippie who runs an art gallery. Despite their differences, he is attracted to her but not sure if he wants to change his rigid life to a much freer one. Will he be able to change or will Willow accept him as he is or reject him completely?
Thanks to LibraryThing for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
What can I say about this story? That I absolutely loved every page would be no exaggeration . It was sad. It was witty. It was romantic. A story about when a man and woman meet who are two opposites. George Emerson worked for almost 30 years as an English teacher at the local high school. He never married and was always a loner. Willow West is an artist who owns an art gallery down town. She is a type of person who loves to have fun and enjoys every moment of life.
George , who has been hurt so many times in life wants nothing more than to be left to himself and his own orderly quiet lifestyle. What happens when the two meet? Well that’s what this book is all about. Written by Melody Carlson who is an award winning author of over two hundred books , hasn’t disappointed readers of her latest release,
Courting Mr Emerson. I can’t recommend it highly enough as it deserves 6 stars. All readers of Christian Fiction , fans of the author or contemporary romance fiction will love this book.
I borrowed a copy of Courting Mr Emerson from the local library. A review wasn’t requested. All thoughts I’ve shared here are my own .
Melody Carlson takes a story that should be slow and boring and keeps you riveted and dying to turn the next page. Brilliant characterization.
Courting Mr. Emerson is such a sweet story. It has Melody Carlson’s trademark writing style. Courting Mr. Emerson contains good writing, thoughtful pacing and humor. I especially liked that the main characters are older. These are two people in their 50s who are getting a second chance. As we get older, people get more set in their ways as we see with George Emerson. George has suffered great losses in his lifetime and has become closed off. He is set in his way with a steady routine, but everything changes after he retires. George finds himself at loose ends and along comes Willow. Willow was raised by hippie type parents. She is an artist who is raising her grandson after her daughter took off to be a groupie. Willow’s life changes when her antagonistic daughter returns much to her son’s disappointment. Each character has their own issues that they need to work through with a little help from their friends and God. Courting Mr. Emerson is a story that you just need to read and enjoy (do not go looking for hidden or deeper meanings). Courting Mr. Emerson shows us that we are never to old to change or find love (it gives me hope). I am giving Courting Mr. Emerson 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). Courting Mr. Emerson is the perfect story for those who delight in reading inspirational romance. If you are looking for a heartwarming story to read, then pick up Courting Mr. Emerson.
What are the chances that a set in his ways newly retired teacher and a far less intense art gallery owner will find a bond that brings them together?
This Christian Romance novel is not your typical love story. In courting mr. emerson (the cover title is in lower case) we have a situation where George Emerson and Willow West are very different on the surface but are still drawn to each other. George, however, is reluctant to change his rigid lifestyle and act on this new friendship. Willow is busy with her gallery and some personal challenges. They build a relationship by reaching out to help each other, even though that help is sometimes only reluctantly accepted.
I was a little uncertain about the book for the first few chapters, but then found myself drawn into the story. It is well written, and I think many readers will recognize those moments when George and Willow second guess themselves.
Revell Publishing Group provided the copy that I received in a LibraryThing.com giveaway. No promise of a review was requested or provided.
Courting Mr. Emerson by Melody Carlson
Artist Willow West meets straitlaced recently retired teacher George Emerson and sparks fly. Read this great book to see if he can let go of his uptight ways and trust himself to love once again. Willow had me chuckling at her outrageous antics. Melody Carlson was able to weave Christian values into her story without being preachy. She takes us on a tale of mid life changes with faith and amusement. Even touches on some hard subjects with grace and dignity. This book was an easy enjoyable read. The characters were realistic and lively. I give Courting Mr. Emerson 5 stars and hope she continues the story of some of the minor characters.
Over the years, I’ve read a variety of Melody Carlson books. What I like about them all – and Courting Mr. Emerson was no exception – is that each plot is unique, relatable, and you come away with learning more about yourself or others as a result. Now that I can add Courting Mr. Emerson to that list, I’m glad to give it at 5 star review! It was refreshing to read about someone who wasn’t too young and had life experience.
George Emerson is a quirky fellow who is used to a life of solitude and predictability. All that changes for him when he decides to retire from teaching, and befriends Willow West. The way the two form an unlikely friendship was very comical, and for every time one or the other got their signals crossed and caused conflict, it reminded me that life is less about having every little thing go right, and more about appreciating the people I value. If you are looking for an easy-read, I highly recommend this book!
This is a delightful contemporary romance!
I love Willow West. She is a very friendly and outgoing person. She has a huge job on her hands with trying to get various people that have extremely different personalities to get along with each other. Most of the characters in this book have quirks that I was able to quickly identify someone in my life that they reminded me of. The biggest problem is getting them to get along, in relationship, with each other.
I was captivated by the story of how Willow handled it and yet found space for herself. She is very open about her relationship with God yet she isn’t preachy about it. This is a major plus in my mind.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions 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 is a wonderfully sweet romance. This centers abound Mr. Emerson and Willow. These two characters are complete opposites who keep running into each other and when they try to get closer they cause something to go wrong. This will make you laugh and cry. I just kept rooting for Mr. Emerson to become less rigid. I really enjoyed this book. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Melody Carlson is one of the most versatile authors I’ve had the pleasure of reading. From teen fiction to later-in-life romance and a bit of everything in-between, this author excels at character and plot formation. Her humor and wit blend so well with romance and powerful lessons in faith.
Courting Mr. Emerson is one of those later-in life, second chance romances. Mr. Emerson is never married and in his fifties and retiring from his career as a high school English teacher. Although Mr. Emerson has a set routine for his life, he soon finds that the days are much too long after his retirement. That is until he meets the grandmother of one of his students who seems to take George on as a personal project. Willow and George are true opposites. She is an extrovert, an artist, and a true free spirit as opposed to the strictly regimented George. Is there any possibility that Willow will be able to draw George out of his shell?
I adored this book. As an older adult myself, I sometimes grow weary of reading so many books highlighting such young characters. It was refreshing to read one about an older couple who still had years ahead of them. Willow could be a bit overpowering at times so I was kept in suspense about whether George would continue to spend time with her or just tell her where she could get off. Sweet story with a nice subdued romance that points its readers toward the Lord.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Courting Mr Emerson is the newest release by Melody Carlson. I found this romance to be a little different than most I often read with the characters being in their fifties instead of twenties or thirties. I found it to be unique, refreshing and realistic. However, the story was a little slow at times and I found myself wanting to skim over a page or two. There were some fun and sweet scenes that made me giggle, though.
I am giving Courting Mr Emerson three stars.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I love all of Melody Carlson’s books. This one was a fun read but I didn’t enjoy it as much as some of her books.
I adored this sweet, endearing read. With two main characters who are more experienced in life than the average leads in romance, Melody Carlson proves love can bloom at any age.
Finicky, prickly, set-in-his-ways George Emerson is oddly lovable with his stable routines and old-fashioned wardrobe and sensibilities. Willow West is an excellent contrast as she befriends and challenges him. Even the supporting characters from George’s neighbor to Willow’s family and employees add depth to the story.
This story is a beautiful example of one of the many ways God pursues his children. Sometimes it’s the quiet, steadfast presence that shows nothing can severe our relationship with him. There’s no limit to the number of times we mess up or the number of apologies we must make, God remains faithful.
For anyone who feels stuck in the routines of their life, has given up on finding love, or just wants a sweet and moving story, Courting Mr. Emerson will leave you a bit wrung out but uplifted and hopeful for what’s to come.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Courting Mr. Emerson is one of the most delightful books that I have had the pleasure of reading this year. I absolutely adored George Emerson the retired English teacher. As a matter of fact he is one of my all time favorite male characters.
He’s a loner and socially awkward so when he meets artist Willow West his world is about to be shaken up. Willow is an artist and outgoing so she managed to introduce George to a few new experiences that had me laughing out loud. There were times that I could imagine the discomfort George felt and that made me feel bad for him.
I loved Collin the young grandson of Willow and who in my opinion seemed more mature than his mother. The one character who I viewed negatively at first was Lorna, George’s neighbor but I found myself liking her as the story progressed. The relationships in this book are complicated but they genuinely care for each other so I appreciated that aspect of the storyline.
This is a fast and enjoyable read that will have you smiling and if you’re like me, perhaps even laughing loud a time or two. This is a book that I will definitely read again at some point and one I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Why should you read Courting Mr. Emerson? The first line might snag your attention. It sure did mine. “George Emerson didn’t need anybody.”
Melody Carlson’s narrative has an easy flow about it. Like a weekend afternoon car ride on a warm spring day. This is going to be fun, enjoyable, humorous, etc, …until it isn’t.
Which brings me to the two next reasons to read Courting Mr. Emerson. Because this is a romance between two mature adults, we have a departure from the usual beautiful, young heroine and wonderfully handsome, young Adonis. Some readers will especially appreciate this. I know I did.
Which leads into the next motive for reading this wonderful book. After a few chapters, it stops being the “joyride” I described above. Instead, real life hits from many angles and Willow, George, Collin, and others have to figure out how to navigate around obstacles to find the peace and relationships they desire. One thing is for sure… I thought this would be a cute, breezy romance. Instead, it is a slightly humorous romance filled with broken people with weighty problems, who need God to help them.
Quotes I would like to share:
“I don’t know if you can measure pain…it’s probably relevant, different for everyone…The thing is, you have to keep going.”
“…when I discovered God was really real, well, I grabbed on tight and I’ve been holding on ever since.”
“…an atheist is simply a seeker who is hoping that God will show up.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
COURTING. MR. EMERSON. Melody Carlson
George looking out his window and knew that Lorna was hoping to get a few minutes with him before he went to work. He was a teacher at the high school and walked there every morning. Invite for that evening, but he had other plans. She rented the bungalow next door, from him, and was always making something for him, She seemed determined to befriend him. He soon would be retired at fifty five with thirty years of teaching. She is an artist, spontaneous, loving life. While he is a stick in the mud, and not wanting change. She wants him to loosen up and enjoy life. She irritates him, and yet he is intrigue with her. The happiness and enjoyment she shows, could he let down his barriers and change. Delightful story that the author is so good at writing about, second chances, and seeing life in a new way.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion by
Net Galley and Revell.
I chose to read this book because of the author, I have enjoyed several past books of hers and this one was no exception.
We meet a hurting man, George, and because of past deep hurts he has put up walls around himself, and we witness a little chipping at the boards.
The other main character has also weathered life with loss and hardship, while being a gifted artist we see her reach out to George, and in turn George reaches out to her love ones.
We also see what could be Willow tormenting George, oh my, that poor man.
In the end we see that the one Being who can help George is God, but he claims not, will Willow be able to reach him, or will he continue to isolate himself?
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
I have always enjoyed Melody Carlson’s stories of Christmas and I thought this one would be quite good from reading the synopsis. But things are not always what they seem. George Emerson is retiring from teaching English after 29 years. George has always been sort of a stick in the mud, doggedly sticking to his routines, day in and day out, leaving no room for anything but said routine.
Willow West is a free spirit, an art studio owner and artist herself who has practically raised her grandson all by herself. That grandson, Collin, is a senior in Mr. Emerson’s English class. Willow meets George when she goes over to talk about Collin’s college applications.
This book just did not work for me. I enjoyed Willow’s character. She believes in God, but is not completely sold on Christianity, from what I could gather. And George Emerson says he is an atheist. Not that either of those have to do with why I didn’t care for this book. The character of George Emerson is just so wooden. I doubt there would have been anything to bring him to life at all. I won’t stop reading Carlson’s Christmas books, but this one was a dud for me.
*My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.