Baby Girl: A Memory House Novel, Book 4

'Baby Girl' shines - Bette Lee's Best to Date! This is by far the best, even though possibly the most emotional book of Bette Lee Crosby’s that I have read to date! Baby Girl is the fourth in the Memory House series, but it can also be read as a standalone. The author skillfully takes the reader through the height and depth of emotions. It is based on a true story; combine that with an author who understands much about women’s hearts and lives and you have a dynamic that few can achieve. Many readers will appreciate having a box of tissues handy, along with their tea or coffee. Cheryl Ann had loved her father, who passed away suddenly. After his passing, Cheryl had only her mother, who was a complainer – about everything – so when Ryan and his mother, another complainer, moved into the neighborhood, Cheryl had a new friend and so did her mother. Because of the difference in their ages and grades, Cheryl and Ryan’s friendship changed until that exciting day that she learned he broke up with his girlfriend. From that day forward, one often didn’t see one without the other. As I don’t want to give any spoilers, there is little that I can tell from this point on other than that Cheryl Ann and Ophelia Browne, when she still lived in Memory House, had become close friends. They talked and drank tea, including dandelion tea, and Ophelia’s wisdom helped Cheryl Ann make sense of how to go forward when crises occurred. Cheryl Ann is the best-defined character, followed by Ryan, William, then Ophelia. I really like Cheryl and have great empathy for some of the challenges she faced. She is extremely bright with a gift for the line of work she went into, and worked very hard. I also like Ophelia who did two of the best things she could as a friend – share her heart, and share the wisdom gained over many more years of living. I enjoyed Ophelia and Margaret; each had wisdom from their respective lives to share. William was … William was the kind of man that many women would feel blessed to have in their lives. In many ways I didn’t like Cheryl’s mama, as there were so few positive qualities that defined her. The author shares several profound truths, many seasoned with easy Southern charm. One that I liked, for example, is “Just like everything else misery has an expiration date, and when it comes around you get to choose whether to leave it behind or hang onto it. I had held onto mine for way too long.” Another is “God gives you what you need, not what you want”. I did appreciate that faith in God has a place in this novel, and that it could be considered a “clean read”. The story is a compelling read. There were times I had to keep reading in spite of not wanting to see where the plot twist occurred. Other times I kept reading because I truly wanted to see where the plot turned. The novel flowed well, didn’t have any slow places, and if I could have, I would have stayed up all night to read it. It is a story of love, change, growth, loss, gratitude and great joy. Through it all, Bette Lee Crosby grows Cheryl Ann from a young teen to a woman of substance and character. I highly recommend ‘Baby Girl’ to those who appreciate well-written, life-affirming women’s fiction with a completely satisfying conclusion. With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"Tissues Not Included" "Baby Girl" is Book 4 in the Memory House Collection and as Ophelia Browne is the only character from the other books in this series, that has a presence in "Baby Girl". "Baby Girl" is the story of Cheryl Ann Ferguson. Cheryl Ann, as the story opens, is a young woman on the verge of turning 15. On the day the new neighbors move in Cheryl Ann falls in love with the boy next door, or so she thinks. This is a story that pulls at your heartstrings as you read the flow of Cheryl Ann's journey to adulthood. Her journey is sometimes full of happiness and joy, then at others is so traumatic and makes you wonder if this young woman can overcome some of the hardship she suffers. The author, Bette Lee Crosby with her usual style, brings to her fans and other readers a story that you feel very connected to. The character of Cheryl Ann feels so very real to you. "Baby Girl" brought me to tears, made me laugh, smile and the ending was the best! If you have read the other book in this series "Baby Girl" is not a continuation but a new path to travel. For those who haven't read any of the Memory House books this can be read as a stand-a-lone. When I started reading I just could not put the book down and finished it before the end of the day. I am amazed at the talented Bette Lee Crosby and her ability to continue to write warm and touching stories. I always feel so blessed to have spent time within the pages of a Crosby book. I highly recommend "Baby Girl" and all the other titles by this author to anyone who needs a well written story to spend time with.

Baby Girl is Cheryl Ann’s story about growing up with a mother who seemed incapable of loving anyone, even her daughter and husband. When her father died, Cheryl Ann became more lonely than ever. Then things changed when Ryan Carter moved into her neighborhood. Though still in her teens she and Ryan set out on their own, and complications in their relationship set in when Cheryl Ann became pregnant. Ryan did not want a baby, and Cheryl Ann was put in a situation of choosing Ryan or the baby she was expecting. At times, this was a difficult read because Cheryl Ann was emotionally abused causing her to make decisions she didn’t want to make. Eventually, she finds the strength to move out and on, but her troubles didn’t end. The author created a complex character in Cheryl Ann. She was weak and easily led, but adversity is an unyielding teacher, and Cheryl Ann found her strength and determination to make a good life for herself and her children. Reading this book, you will laugh, and you will cry. You will be angry, and yet be overjoyed. It is a heartwarming novel based on a real person’s story – her growth, her weakness, and her strengths and resolve. This is a book you don’t want to miss. Baby Girl is the fourth book in the Memory House series. I have read all of them and you can find my review of Book 1 Memory House, Book 2 The Loft, and Book 3 What the Heart Remembers by clicking on the title of each book. It is not necessary to read them in order, but some of the characters are presented in the previous books, and, therefore, enhances your reading and enjoyment if read in order. I love all of Crosby's books and I have to give this one Five Stars. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.