Rivers Sullivan bears both visible and invisible scars—those on her shoulder from a bullet wound and those on her heart from the loss of her fiancé during the same brutal attack. Not even her background as an art therapist can help her regain her faith in humanity. Still, she scrapes together the courage to travel to St. Simons Island to see the beach cottage and art gallery she’s inherited from … from her fiancé. When she stumbles upon recovering addicts running her gallery, she’s forced to reckon with her own healing.
After the tragic drowning of his cousin, James Cooper Knight spends his days trying to make up for his past mistakes. He not only dedicates his life to addiction counseling, but guilt drives him to the water, searching for others who’ve been caught unaware of the quickly rising tides of St. Simons. When he rescues a peculiar blond woman and her sketch pad from a sandbar, then delivers this same woman to his deceased grandmother’s properties, he knows things are about to get even more complicated.
Tragic circumstances draw Cooper and Rivers closer, but they fight their growing feelings. Though Cooper’s been sober for years, Rivers can’t imagine trusting her heart to someone in recovery, and he knows a relationship with her will only rip his family further apart. Distrust and guilt are only the first roadblocks they must overcome if they take a chance on love.
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It’s finally happened. I’ve found a book that’s SO excellent it’s rendered me speechless. Alas, I will prevail. LOL!
The Art of Rivers by Janet Ferguson is glorious. I was swept away by the highly-engaging storyline. I found the characters to be so expertly crafted they feel real and very relatable. The themes are timely, and I feel great reminders for all readers today. My most favorite aspect of this story, however, is how it opened my eyes to the plight of those who truly battle with addiction. The Art of Rivers ripped my heart in two and helped me see people in a more compassionate light. I count it a blessing to have read this book because it forced me to step into the shoes of someone else, then walk away changed for the better.
Cooper, the hero, stole my heart. His childhood experiences, his family interactions over the course of his life, and his moments of hopelessness tore at my emotions. I’ve never wanted to hug a character more than I did Cooper. Even though Cooper has gone through some extremely hurtful, very bad moments, I was greatly encouraged by his determination to continually fight his addictions. What a stellar person to recognize a deep issue within and make the concerted effort daily to fight to be the best version of himself possible. To me, this is real courage. Cooper’s strong drive to stay sober, to fight his fight daily and not give up, opened my eyes to just how hard the fight against addiction is.
I should preface that I do know (with my brain) how difficult it is to kick an ugly habit. There are 11 alcoholics/drug addicts in my family. In my lifetime, I have been directly affected by loved ones who have suffered from serious drug and alcohol abuse. Because I have been negatively affected by loved ones, I have created walls of protection around my heart and I have built up quasi-negative attitudes towards people who suffer from addiction. Cooper allowed for my walls to break a bit, and his character has helped me to see my loved ones through a different lens.
What I love so much about Cooper is his intense reliance on Jesus to see him through his mundane days, his hard days, and his really rough days. No matter the day, good or bad, Cooper is a great example of always going to God first. When his addiction craving rears its ugly head, and the temptation to go back to using is so fierce, Cooper acknowledges his struggle and immediately finds a way to go to God to cope. In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul tells us that “No temptation has overtaken [us] that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let [us] be tempted beyond [our] ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape.” Every time Cooper’s addiction temptation shows up, Cooper acts. He immediately prays, or he forces himself to go to an addict’s anonymous meeting, or he finds a trusted friend and confesses, or he prays some more, or he reads his Bible. The point is, Cooper is a great example of a man who lives out 1 Corinthians 10:13. Cooper’s example of going to God and to not giving up is my favorite takeaway from this novel; a timely message I think we all need today!
The Art of Rivers is a story I cannot recommend enough. If you are looking for a book replete with endearing characters, that contains a fast-paced and highly engaging plot, and that leaves the reader with a warm, satisfied fuzzy feeling in her heart, then The Art of Rivers is definitely the book for you!
I received an eBook copy of this book from the author in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I’ve long been a fan of Janet Ferguson’s Southern romances because she tackles tough subjects, while keeping the storylines fun and introducing me to fantastic characters who become dear friends. The Art of Rivers is now my new favorite! Addiction has probably touched most of our lives in one way or another (some in heartbreakingly painful ways), and this story doesn’t shy away from the gritty truth of the disease. Yet the hope and inspiration Janet weaves into this story makes this book a must read!
“The past has light and shadows we don’t see without looking from a different perspective.”
I cannot believe this is the first book by Janet Ferguson that I have read! So many bloggers and reviewers have raved about the author’s work and, obviously, I’ve been a little slow on following their advice. And now the author has found herself yet another fan of her work. Her writing is a deeply moving and thought-provoking work of art that blends words to create a beautiful canvas of hope and her characters are so real, tangible, broken, yet redeemed and they draw you right into their hearts and souls. The topic of addiction that is prominent in the story is well-researched, honest, and heart-breaking yet portrayed with tenderness and sensitivity. Misconceptions regarding addiction are shattered and hope for recovery is shown through faith and community. I especially appreciated that the struggles of all who are involved in addiction and recovery – those currently addicted (whether wanting recovery or not), those in recovery, those helping to make recovery a reality, and those whose loved ones are either addicted or in recovery – were addressed in this story which clearly shows that recovery is multi-dimensional and complex.
And the characters! Oh, Rivers and Cooper are such tender-hearted, compassionate souls hurting deeply from their gut-wrenching sorrow and pain. Rivers has yet to recover from the death of her fiance and she’s lost in a world of darkness when she used to paint light and goodness. Cooper is a recovered addict who is using his gift of art and counseling to help others gain and sustain sobriety but is still trapped in his past of regrets and mistakes. Their journey toward forgiveness, reconciliation, and freedom from fear is peppered with wonderful encouragement from Scripture and fantastic, funny, witty dialogue and interaction amongst the characters. You’ll need a box of tissues as you read the book but you’ll also find yourself laughing out loud unexpectedly from interesting similes and metaphors that one particular secondary character loves to spout.
If you’ve never read a Janet Ferguson book and love contemporary romance, this is THE book to start your journey; if you’re a fan of Janet Ferguson, you will be enchanted and captivated all over again. This is book 3 in the Coastal Hearts series but it is a stand-alone novel.
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
A moving story of second chances
I hesitated reading The Art of Rivers, seeing it was about addiction. I have read several heavy books recently and wasn’t sure I was ready for another one just yet. Something about the synopsis kept calling to me, inviting me in. And the wonderful cover. . .
I am so glad I didn’t pass it by! Janet Ferguson painted such a vivid picture with her words, full of life and hope. There was agony too, and deep grief, yet they were skillfully blended to create a lovely masterpiece.
Seeing characters about to make a bad choice kills me. Whether they are walking down a dangerous alley about to get mugged or are giving in to temptation. Anticipating their impending peril gives me a sick feeling in my stomach. Just about every time! I was so amazed at one point in The Art of Rivers where a character was being tempted by drugs to find instead of the typical nausea I experience, that instead I understood the lure and empathized with him! No, not that I wanted drugs! I was just so much in his head, experiencing his turmoil. Now that is some incredible writing!
I admired Cooper so very much! He had experienced so much grief in his life it was amazing he wasn’t completely broken. Knowing how powerful addictions could be and determined not to allow himself any addictive substance, no matter how “harmless”; he wouldn’t even drink coffee. His heart for those lost in the world of addiction was overwhelming and he poured himself out for those who were hurting in such a humble and sincere way!
Rivers earned her grief and fear the hard way. Her pain was palpable! I could sense how lost she felt and how out of her element. Yet even in her sorrow, she was willing to listen to God’s direction to serve the very people she despised for what they had cost her.
Drawn in from the start, my attention didn’t waver through the entire story. I found it difficult taking care of everyday things like working, cooking, and sleeping! Not only did I love the characters and the rich descriptions, which allowed me to see the images and the art clearly, I was also blessed by the deep spiritual message that permeated the story.
I highly recommend this beautiful story.
Read my review of The Art of Rivers by Janet W. Ferguson at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
The Art of Rivers is a poignant tale of hope, second-chances, love, and the reminder that nothing is too big and no one is too far gone for God to reach and lift up. This is a story that will touch and resonate every readers’ heart on many levels.
This book deals with a tough subject beautifully. It’s the story of addiction and how it affects more than just the addict. It is a gritty story but has hope woven through it. In my opinion, this is a must read!
The Art of Rivers was a deeply moving novel that dealt with broken people finding hope again. The main characters were connected in so many ways, including the fact that Rivers’ deceased fiancé was the cousin to Cooper. But, equally compelling was the way the destruction of addiction had touched both of these characters’ lives in different ways.
Cooper and Rivers had many things to deal with in this story and I thought that the author handled the topics in a sensitive way. There was much pain, the need for forgiveness, and hope all wrapped up in the pages of this novel. This is the third book in the series, yet can be read as a stand alone novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I truly admire the way that Janet Ferguson has been dealing respectfully and sensitively with heavier topics in the Coastal Hearts series. In The Art of Rivers, it’s that of substance abuse and addiction and the impact is has not only on the addict, but of their families as well. Not only with the immediate impact, but with the lasting consequences that can follow a former addict even if they’ve been clean for years.
I appreciate that the author shows both sides of addiction – the ugly, depraved side, as well as the hope there is for those released from it. Those who have come out of it have a strong testimony to those around them, but can also acknowledge their weakness and that they still struggle from time to time. Equally strong is the way that art plays a big role in the healing process for Rivers, Cooper, and other characters in the story. The descriptions of the art and its impact on the characters adds a beautiful depth.
Main character Rivers is strong yet fragile. She was willing to go through personal discomfort for others, but she wasn’t stoic all of the time. The balance between strength and fragility is well done in her character. Cooper is a strong character as well, in that the author isn’t afraid to show his weaknesses as well. It feels realistic that, even after being clean for five years, he still has struggles and temptations. His faith plays a huge role in his battle of addiction, and I feel it is portrayed with dignity and beauty. Though there is a significant amount of romance, I feel like it plays out nicely throughout the story. I think I used the words “realistic happy ever after,” and I still think that is the best way to describe the outcome of Ferguson’s books.
This is probably my favorite of the series so far, and – if my guess is right about the main character of the next book – well, she sure is a tough customer in this story, so I’m eager to see how things play out for her.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel and was not required to post a positive review; the thoughts expressed here are my own.
Honestly, I am so blessed that Janet Ferguson has allowed me to read this story prior to release date. I can tell you this book got to me in so many ways, the realism behind addiction and sorrow and rehabilitation is so spot on, Janet sincerely nailed this story from all angles. This work of fiction is so much more than a love story…it is the story of anyone who has been touched by addiction, the wife of an alcoholic, the mother of a drug addict, the survivor of a brutal, senseless attack, the parents who have lost a child much to young, or someone struggling with their own guilt ….……goodness, I do not think there is a soul out there that has not experienced some sort of the tragedies this book entails.
And yet…..and yet, there is hope. There is God and forgiveness and recovery. I cannot even begin to tell you how personally emotional this book was to me, I have struggled as a family member in a few of these tragedies covered, and still continue to pray and fight for my loved ones every single day. There are no easy answers, and there is no magic button. There is Jesus. He is the answer for all the struggles….there is no promises that this life will be easy, but He does promise to walk with us every step of the way. I cannot emphasize enough that while this is a work of fiction, it truly addresses real life issues in a non-fiction way.
I struggle every single day with what addiction has done to members of my family. It frustrates me and makes me angry and scared……reading a novel such as this one has truly opened my eyes and heart to what others go through, including the recovering addict themselves. Thank you, Janet Ferguson, for putting pen to paper and bringing this story to life…even now, days later I sit here and cry as I write this review.
The Art of Rivers is the first book I’ve read by Janet Ferguson, and I didn’t expect to relate to the characters in this book as much as I did. The engaging plot, descriptive setting, and the well developed characters brought this story to life for me. I thought the author handled the rollercoaster of emotions and heartaches that come with addiction and drug abuse in a realistic and hopeful way. I really enjoyed it, and I look forward to reading more of Janet Ferguson’s books.
A young artist loses fincee and inherits his wealth. She falls in love with counselor, bringing families together again. Great Christian read.
Enjoyed this author…new to me.
This was a beautifully written story which tackles the issue of addiction. I loved how the author showed the hold addiction can have on the lives of people, and how their circumstances can lead them to the place where they allow drugs or alcohol to take over their lives. The characters are wonderfully complex and believable. The author beautifully weaves a Christian viewpoint into the story and shows how we can lean on the Lord for healing. I haven’t read other books by this author, and while this is # 3 in the series, it is a standalone book. I’d like to read more from this author.
You will fall in love with Rivers Sullivan and Cooper and be inspired in their love of people and helping them slay their demons. You will be cheering for them to find love and peace with each other.
This book shared a persons interest and involvement with a person that the “family” and perhaps society would call hopeless. It was real in revealing the character, hopes, dreams, and most of all the regrets of life, but redeeming character came through during the last part of the book. To me this book just shows that no matter how, “put together” your life seems and how you want it to be that way, how you can adjust and find treasures in the lives of others when you take time to look for them. A very great read.
Realistic story of addiction and how this affects everyone in the addict’s life. The repercussions after a tragedy because of the addict’s inability to save drowning cousin, because he was high, is rejected and isolated from his entire family. There are other factors at work, which makes the story one of hope, forgiveness and reconciliation.
Story is haunting and makes one aware of the flourishing drug traffic trade going on under our noses.
I enjoyed this book. It was entertaining as well as eye-opening. Never having been involved in the world of addiction, the storyline allowed the reader to gain an understanding of the everyday trials faced by those who want to overcome addictions and of society’s preconceived prejudices. All the while I was still enjoying a love story and was able to see how love grew even in difficult circumstances. I definitely recommend this book.
I really enjoyed this book. It was so different than other typical romances. It was interesting to see the effects of the family dynamics and a realistic picture of addiction, both its distruction and of overcoming addiction.
I love reading this Christian authors inspirational uplifting book.
Very well written on a not so easy subject. I appreciated the realistic approach and not trying to push a HEA for everyone.