Betty Sweet never expected to be a widow at 40. With so much life still in front of her, she tries to figure out what’s next. She couldn’t have imagined what God had in mind. When her estranged sister is committed to a sanitarium, Betty finds herself taking on the care of a 5-year-old nephew she never knew she had.
In 1960s LaFontaine, Michigan, they make an odd pair. Betty with her pink button … pink button nose and bouffant hair. Hugo with his light brown skin and large brown eyes. But more powerful than what makes them different is what they share: the heartache of an empty space in their lives. Slowly, they will learn to trust one another as they discover common ground and healing through the magic of storytelling.
Award-winning author Susie Finkbeiner offers fans a novel that invites us to rediscover the power of story to open the doors of our hearts.
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Stories That Bind Us is another masterpiece from Susie Finkbeiner. I cried at several places. Finkbeiner is never melodramatic about anything, she just lets the drama of the human condition unfold on the page without fanfare or embellishment, because it doesn’t need any of that. As an author, she has this uncanny ability to touch on really hard things while never being dark about it. There is always hope. Even in the middle of the HARD HARD HARD, there is hope and light.
I loved living in this story, for that is what it felt like to me. It didn’t feel like reading a book, it felt like walking around and living a full life with a family who is just the most dear ever.
Ahhhh… I feel full to the brim after reading this book. Completely satisfied.
Susie Finkbeiner has a way of pulling readers deep into the heart of a story. She’s not afraid to write real. This novel is full of depth and authenticity and heartache and hope and I felt it a privilege to share each of these experiences with these characters. Containing truth and beauty in the midst of the hard, this story is not about a simple fix for a sometimes messy world, it’s about finding love and hope right where we are.
This is a beautifully written heartwarming family story that shows with love and faith, even the most severe problems can be overcome.
At 40 years of age, Betty becomes a widow. She was deeply in love with her husband of 23 years and didn’t know how she would live her life without him. His family was very supportive of her as she tried to find her way out of the darkness of grief. Her sister-in-law, Marvel finally convinced her to get out of bed and out of the house. Her 10 year old twin nephews also helped her find herself again. Just as she was beginning to feel more normal, her estranged sister Clara showed up at her door needing a place for her and her 5 year old son to stay. Betty was surprised that her sister was a mother and equally surprised that her nephew Hugo was black. Betty never questioned her sister but made up the beds so they would both have a place to stay no matter how long they needed to. Clara can’t seem to cope with her life and begins to stay in bed all day, leaving Betty to take care of Hugo. As she tries to help him overcome his fear and shyness, she finds that she is falling in love with the little boy. ” Don’t let the scary things of the world keep you from seeing the good.”
Interspersed with this story that takes place in the late 50s and early 60s, Betty tells the story of growing up, of having a mother who was manic depressive and died in a sanitarium when Betty was 10. She talks about how sad she and her sister were but that her father became more and more distant from them and left Betty in charge. When it turns out that Clara is also mentally ill and goes to the hospital, Betty takes over full custody of Hugo. She tells him beautiful stories about imaginary people and characters but they all pertain to whatever is going on in his life. Even though she worried at first how to take care of him because she had never had any children, she soon finds out that love and faith can solve her problems.
I loved the characters in this book – not just the main characters but the secondary characters, too. Betty is a kind and loving woman, Hugo is a delight as he learns to have fun, Marvel and the twins are funny but also very protective of Hugo. And the entire Sweet family are full of love and caring for each other. This story takes place in my home state of Michigan and these people all resemble people that I knew growing up in the 60s. I also enjoyed the references to places like Belle Isle and it brought back a lot of memories of going there with my family.
This is a beautiful book about love and faith and family and shows that family isn’t just family by blood but people that you love also become part of your family. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next book by this author.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own
“Just along the horizon I saw the birth of the morning. This was the gift God had for me right that moment. I saw hope.”
This passage struck me, I live this daily. Each and every morning I I say “thank you to God for giving me another day and for whatever that day brings”. Each day is a gift, each day brings renewed hope.
Susie writes such great books about families and you will fall in love with the Sweet family and their small town life amidst some incredible historical events. Susie has a track record for tackling tough subjects… Cancer, the Vietnam war, the Dust Bowl, and more. And now, race and prejudice, mental illness, and a young widow. Despite writing about subjects that would lead one to expect her books might be dark and depressing, they are not. The overall message is always one of hope! Susie weaves together amazing stories of families and the Sweet family and their stories will stay with you for a very long time. I loved the character of Betty and I loved that Betty told such a wonderful stories! I love Betty’s strength, her compassion, her patience. Hugo melted my heart and Dick and Nick captured my heart. I loved reading about so many places that I have visited! I really enjoyed reading all ofthe kitchy language and terms from that era. Pedal pushers and Bermuda shorts, girdles, and so many other fun references! I found it difficult to put this book down and yet, I wanted to delay the inevitable, that I would finish this book. I didn’t want it to end! Stories that bind us has all the feels, I laughed and cried, each more than once. I was a bit angry on one or two occasions at the Injustice! And my heart was warmed by the consistent message of love and hope.
“There once was a turtle named Sam. . . He lived near a river filled with crayfish and frogs and minnows. . . . .but even as wonderful and special as that riverside was, Sam was too afraid to enjoy it.”
Isn’t it true that a well told story possesses a certain impression of artistry? Stories paint pictures, while their canvases store memories in an easy-to-open vault; available at just the right times, . . .perhaps, when a heart is heavy or a pair of sorrowful eyes need a touch of brightening. Or a loved one just needs to have something to remember. And just like flour blends the ingredients of a beloved family recipe into a well formed loaf of bread, a story has the uncanny ability to “bind us” together, forever.
There are those in this book who need these special kinds of stories; a grieving wife, an unstable mother, a terrified little boy, a kind, shy man and family members who are grieving the loss of one of their own. So often remembering is loving, and being loved resides at the heart of every good story.
What a remarkable book, written by an author who writes simply enough to form everyday people into outstanding characters.
I received this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews.
Loved this story by Susie Finkbeiner. The characters were so real I felt like I was right in the story with them. Susie touches on very painful and sensitive topics with grace and empathy. A beautifully written novel.
Stories That Bind Us is one of those books that lingers with you after you finish it. I thought it was well-written and captured the era. Significant historical events are included in this book including the assassination of JFK, Martin Luther Kings “I Have a Dream” speech, and an elephant that rampaged a city. The author touches upon the difficult subjects of depression, death, and racism. I thought she handled these sensitive topics very well. The present is interspersed with stories and memories of the past. We learn about Betty’s growing up years, how she met the Sweet family, her marriage to Norman, how much Mama Sweet meant to Betty, and other memories. It all comes together into one lovely tale. The Sweet family is realistic with their joys and struggles. They have a bakery in a small town where a chain bakery is trying to run them out of business. Pops Sweet is getting older and Albert still pines for Clara. Marvel and Stan are raising their mischievous twin sons who are kind to their grieving aunt. The stories that bind people together are their memories of loved ones and friends. I like how Betty’s make-believe stories fit into the book and how they help a frightened little boy. They formed a bond between Betty and Hugo. Hugo was such a sweet little fellow. I had to laugh along with Betty and Marvel when Hugo jumped into the mud pool with the twins. I thought the Stories That Bind Us is timely considering what is currently going on in our country. Stories that Bind Us is a heartwarming tale filled with hope, love, special memories, and family.
Susie Finkbeiner, is a new to me author who has instantly become a top pick for me. I cherished her most recent book, Stories That Bind Us. Set during the 60’s, this chronicled Christian tale sucks you into the story immediately. Betty, at the young age of 40 unexpectedly becomes a widow and is suffering from extreme melancholy.
I enjoyed reading how laid back the 60’s were compared to life in this day and age, and how easily it was to become part of the Sweet family through Finkbeiner’s writing. All good books must come to an end, unfortunately.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
This was a very heartwarming book! I was moved by this story. I loved all of the little stories throughout the book that talk about not being afraid and about having hope. I loved all of the details that made this story come to life. My only complaint was that the ending felt abrupt.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I love everything about Stories That Bind Us. The tone, the warmth, the beautiful family, gorgeous pieces of wisdom. I don’t know how Susie Finkbeiner does it, but somehow she always strikes the perfect balance in her stories. Her God-given talent as a writer is to show that both grief and joy co-exist in life, that it’s a continuous reconciliation between the two. Betty Sweet is one of the best characters I have met this year, and the rest of the family can be included in that as well. The issues here are relevant and timeless. Finkbeiner addresses heavy topics in this story, including mental illness, grief, and prejudice. She doesn’t exaggerate or sensationalize any of theses themes, but rather lets them play out as a part of life, both the good and the bad.
Betty Sweet is a widow, who suddenly has to take care of her nephew, Hugo. She goes from not even knowing Hugo existed to realizing that her life will never be the same without him. Their relationship is not without bumps along the way, but it is a beautiful unfolding. Through the power of story and unconditional love, both begin to heal from their griefs, while still holding out hope that Hugo’s mother will one day be well enough to come home.
I just love when I read a story at the exact time I needed to read it. I was right in the middle of this story when I received some unexpected and upsetting news. Life is full of griefs, big and small, unspeakable and mundane. But it’s full of joy, too. Big, bold, beautiful joy. And stories that remind me to cling to those joys are keepers. It’s not denying the grief or the heartache, but it’s acknowledging that it doesn’t win the day. It doesn’t have the final say:
“…I imagined the bird perched in a nearby tree, not willing to be scared off by anything. As the night got darker, the bird would stay right where she was, singing even as the sun went down.”
I could say more about this story, but sometimes fewer words are best; Stories That Bind Us is in my top five favorite novels of the year so far and is definitely on my keeper shelf. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher; I was not required to post a positive review, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The first thing that will happen when you read Chapter One… You will fall in love with the characters! Ms. Finkbeiner has the innate ability to transform a character on paper into a person true to life. You will mourn when they mourn, rejoice when they rejoice, you will see the innerworkings of their hearts. Stories that Bind Us will not leave you the same… Your thinking will be stretched, your empathy flexed, and a life lesson (or several) will be learned along the way. Betty Sweet and her family are sure to touch your heart.
Near Detroit, Michigan summer 1963
Stories That Bind Us is a journey of healing for the characters Betty Sweet and her five year old nephew, Hugo. But for me it was a trip down memory lane. I was 14 in 1963 and lived a bit south of Detroit in a Northwest suburb of Chicago. I remember visiting my preacher uncle in Grosse Pointe and making a trip to Greenfield Village, as the characters did.
This novel was not just about stories that bind us but about shared memories of growing up that bind us together in unity. These were my memories!
The historical events depicted in this book were disruptions in a time of social unrest. In spite of that, the book came across in a comforting way. Betty’s life seemed normal. She was so fortunate to have a loving in-law family who gathered around her when tragedy struck. The author has written Betty as a strong, loyal and gentle person, whose idyllic life is torn apart. She takes on the task of keeping her nephew. She might not have been able to birth a child but her mother’s heart blooms when Hugo comes to stay with her. A quote as Betty is musing: “ Just along the horizon I saw the birth of the morning. This was the gift God had for me right that moment. I saw hope.” I love that Betty can use stories that tug at your heart and teach lessons at the same time. I would love to see a volume of her stories— hint to Ms. Finkbeiner.
This book reminded me of all the things this country has gone through in my lifetime. It caused me to be thankful for growing up in the era that I did, with parents who taught me so much of my values.
After reading two Susie Finkbeiner books, she has become a favorite author.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews And Reviews and Revell Reads program. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
What could be better than a story about story?
Susie Finkbeiner has woven together a tale that will keep you riveted to the page–whether the vignettes from the past, the stories Betty tells, or the story playing out in her life. One builds on and leads into the next until you realize you couldn’t have one without the other.
This book tackles difficult topics: unrequited love, mental illness, death, racial issues, and so much more. The juxtaposition of political and cultural turmoil during an otherwise idyllic time in American history only adds to the richness.
Betty Sweet is just “perfect” enough to make all she goes through seem so much harsher while not so perfect as to be annoying. Her personal and spiritual growth is minimal but profound.
Clara rips your heart out even while you want to pound her at the same time. She shows a very realistic picture of what mental illness does to a person and to everyone who loves that person.
Hugo… if you don’t fall in love with little Hugo, well… That breaks my heart even to think about it.
Recommended for lovers of historical women’s fiction and books with a deeper, richer thread. Not recommended for readers who prefer shiny stories without troubles.
This is my first ready by Susie Finkbeiner, but it will not be my last. It was such a delight to read a book that told a beautiful story about every day life. Betty Sweet is recovering from the death of her husband when her sister, Clara whom she hasn’t seen in years, appears at her door with her sweet 5 year old son, Hugo, who is obviously the child of a black father. Clara is suffering from severe depression, the same illness that took their mother’s life. So Betty becomes Hugo’s temporary guardian.
Susie writes a heartwarming and loving story about the interrelationships within a family that bring them closer and help them survive the ups and downs of life: its loves, losses, and surprises. The way she used the stories Betty told Hugo which helped him weave his way through all the transitions in his young life were so touching, and the bond they developed was incredible. This book could easily be turned into a wonderful Hallmark movie that would leave the audience spellbound.
This quote seems to sum up what Finkbeiner was trying to say with her lovely spiritual content:
“The people in our lives, they were God’s before they were ours. And just because we’ve got them doesn’t mean they stop being His.”
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
First things first. While I am a fan of illustrated or art-text covers like this, I mostly see them on contemporary romance or contemporary women’s fiction, often with an element of humour. Stories that Bind Us is neither contemporary, humorous, or romantic. (If that’s what you’re looking for, check out Kara Isaac or Victoria Bylin.)
Instead, Stories that Bind Us is a typical Susie Finkbeiner novel. It is set in the “Goldilocks-sized” town of LaFontaine, Michigan, “smack-dab between Detroit and Michigan.” It’s the story of Betty Sweet, wife of town baker Norman Sweet for twenty-three of her forty years. But what starts as a chatty story soon turns into something more serious when Betty’s pleasant life is turned upside-down.
Stories that Bind Us examines grief, mental illness, and racism through Betty’s experiences with her husband, sister, and nephew … and even her memories of her long-dead mother. There’s not an over plots with Things Happening. It’s more a story of life and living, even when life is hard.
Susie Finkbeiner doesn’t write action-packed novels that keep you turning the pages. Instead, she writes quiet novels that keep me thinking about her characters and themes long after I’ve finished the novel.
Recommended for fans of historical fiction thought-provoking historical fiction. Thanks to Baker Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This book made me laugh but often made me cry. The author has so sensitively written about loss of a spouse, mental illness, racial injustice, faith, and family. I loved the Sweet family, from Pops down to twins Dick and Nick. Their compassion and acceptance of Clara and adorable Hugo made me like them even more. We experience everything through the eyes of Betty Sweet, Clara’s sister. This is a wonderful book I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
I was not sure how I was going to feel about this book in regards to what happens in the first few chapters. Betty is 40 years old and one day her entire world changes. I felt for Betty, her grief was palpable. I did not want her to walk down the road of grief. The author was very sensitive in dealing with Betty’s grief and there were many nuggets of truth sprinkled throughout.
This actually became a delightful book to read. It was about family and the memories we make together. It was also about the curses that can continue through the generations. I liked Betty. She had some hard times in life, but she also seems to have let her experiences teach her and help her to grow and learn.
Author Finkbeiner has a gentle way with words and I always feel drawn into her stories. This one was a treasure trove of lyrical sayings, and I found myself laughing out loud at parts. I look forward to more.
I was provided a copy of this novel courtesy of Revell Publishing through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
A deep and moving tale of family, persevering, and the strength that comes from a word fitly spoken at the right time, in the right way. Betty loves her husband deeply and is not prepared for life without him. Then Hugo arrives with his sister and in a way that only a lost child can, begins to draw Betty out of her grief and back into life. Betty uses stories to bring instruction, healing, memories and love in a beautiful way to reach the most tender places. Tears and smiles and guaranteed in this highly recommended historical fiction.
Now here is a story that is satisfying to read. Susie Finkbeiner touches all kinds of emotions as she leads the reader through a story that is mixed with shock, questioning, sadness, determination and joy. Since the story takes place in the 1960’s, the author doesn’t shy away from hard topics like racism, depression and anxiety, and death of a loved one, but brings them up with such care and grace throughout the book. I loved that the book takes place in my home state of Michigan. It’s always fun to read about cities you’re familiar with, and my home city of Grand Haven even got a mention. Betty Sweets’ character is so down-to-earth, and I loved the stories she made up to tell her young nephew, Hugo. I can’t say enough good about this book and would highly recommend it!
*I received this complimentary book from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
In Stories That Bind Us, Susie has spun a quiet story of an ordinary woman whose heart becomes whole even as it breaks for her sweet nephew. It is tenderly revolutionary. It breathes hope into the idea that change can actually happen. If ordinary people simply love and act? That is the best and most lasting change that could ever happen.