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In The Best Interest of the Child #1
In The Best Interest of the Child
Severely injured in an accident that forever changed her life, 10-year-old Olivia becomes another faceless, underserved child in foster care. With no time to mourn or grieve, the young girl is easy prey for uncaring social workers and ambivalent foster families.
Olivia quickly learns to hold her tongue and mask her emotions. Even when exposed to neglect, bullying, and assault, no one seems to care. Holding fast to the teachings of her late father, Olivia ages out of the system broken, but no longer a victim.
Now a successful child advocate attorney, Olivia is a passionate voice for children. However, a routine case assignment by the court plunges Olivia back into the trauma of her childhood. If she doesn’t face her demons, a child will be sent into foster care, and Olivia will lose the only chance at love she’s ever had…or wanted.
Foster care for her young client is not an option. But Olivia’s emotional scars run even deeper than she realized. Reconciling with her past means Olivia must confront the one woman she blames for her battered soul.
A woman who has no idea who Olivia is.
NOTE: This book is intended for 18+ only due to language, sexual activity and scenes of child abuse and near-rape. Those with emotional triggers should reconsider purchasing this book.
REVISED January 2017.
Olivia quickly learns to hold her tongue and mask her emotions. Even when exposed to neglect, bullying, and assault, no one seems to care. Holding fast to the teachings of her late father, Olivia ages out of the system broken, but no longer a victim.
Now a successful child advocate attorney, Olivia is a passionate voice for children. However, a routine case assignment by the court plunges Olivia back into the trauma of her childhood. If she doesn’t face her demons, a child will be sent into foster care, and Olivia will lose the only chance at love she’s ever had…or wanted.
Foster care for her young client is not an option. But Olivia’s emotional scars run even deeper than she realized. Reconciling with her past means Olivia must confront the one woman she blames for her battered soul.
A woman who has no idea who Olivia is.
NOTE: This book is intended for 18+ only due to language, sexual activity and scenes of child abuse and near-rape. Those with emotional triggers should reconsider purchasing this book.
REVISED January 2017.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2016
About the author
Felicia Denise
5 books102 followersWriting has been a hobby of Felicia’s since grade school, but other than serving as editor and writing for her high school newspaper, she never publicly shared anything until the early 2000s when she began writing fan fiction.
At the urging of a good friend, Felicia took on the challenge of NaNoWriMo in 2015, writing what would become her first published book, In the Best Interest of the Child. It was released in the fall of 2016. Free, a Novella, which began as a three-installment series on her website, was published as a short story in May 2017.
A long-time blogger, she also features books by indie authors daily on her blog, Nesie’s Place.
The recent widow calls Arizona home and has several works in progress.
Follow Felicia on social media – https://feliciadenise.com and https://nesiesplace.wordpress.com to keep up with author updates, blog promotions, and book reviews.
Amazon Author Page - https://www.amazon.com/Felicia-Denise...
Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/authorfelici...
Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/MsFelicia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fle_d/
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/fdreevers/
Monthly Newsletter - http://eepurl.com/cklOKL
At the urging of a good friend, Felicia took on the challenge of NaNoWriMo in 2015, writing what would become her first published book, In the Best Interest of the Child. It was released in the fall of 2016. Free, a Novella, which began as a three-installment series on her website, was published as a short story in May 2017.
A long-time blogger, she also features books by indie authors daily on her blog, Nesie’s Place.
The recent widow calls Arizona home and has several works in progress.
Follow Felicia on social media – https://feliciadenise.com and https://nesiesplace.wordpress.com to keep up with author updates, blog promotions, and book reviews.
Amazon Author Page - https://www.amazon.com/Felicia-Denise...
Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/authorfelici...
Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/MsFelicia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fle_d/
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/fdreevers/
Monthly Newsletter - http://eepurl.com/cklOKL
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 20, 2020
What a surprising book! I knew it would be good because I've read author Felicia Denise's reviews of other novels, interacted with her on social media, and visited her blog; however, there were so many different levels and components in the story, I really connected with it beyond expectations. And that's saying a lot because I am very far removed from the primary topics and experiences it covers. Kudos to the author for capturing this reader's attention and making my flight across the country quite entertaining and heartwarming.
Olivia was victimized in foster care ~25 years ago. Her father was killed, her mother's memory practically erased in an accident. Despite everything that happened to her, Olivia pushed herself to become a successful lawyer who helped other children in similar situations. The only issue... her emotional confidence and ability to open up to others never fully developed. She threw herself into work and closed the doors to many things in life. But then life throws her a curveball with a case about a young girl in a very similar situation who needs help. Olivia agrees to take the case, but it's far worse than she imagined: corruption, evil, family, secrets, and theft. On the flip side, the temporary family who is looking out for the young girl's interest is amazing, and there's a sexy uncle with a crush on Olivia. What's a girl to do?
My favorite aspect of this book is the writing style Felicia Denise has chosen to employ. After much build-up regarding the awful side of the family who is trying to gain custody / oversee the case (hard to explain, but I don't want to give anything away), readers will feel anger and frustration over the lengths selfish people go to steal from others. At the same time, we watch Olivia assemble information to protect the child, but we don't necessarily know what facts she's learning from all her meetings. We see her interact with others but through summaries while she's getting to know the temporary family. It's a wonderful approach because when the case goes to court to make the decision, EVERYTHING comes out and Olivia looks AMAZING. I had this jittery excited moment where I'm thinking... "Go Olivia, go!" I loved this approach and commend the author on igniting my passion for her story.
At some point, Olivia decides to give in to her feelings for the girl's uncle whom she's met and gone on a few dates with. The book completely changes in this chapter when we see Olivia's barriers removed, and readers are treated to a passionate, vivid physical encounter, what I imagine is along the lines of a romance novel. I'm not a huge reader in that genre, so I can't really compare... but it was quite strong and had a lot of contrast to the emotional tugging over what was happening to the young girl and Olivia's heartbreak. I didn't expect it and was like... wait... did I change books? All good tho, as it was tightly written, showcased the author's range, and made me thoroughly excited for Olivia.
Well-written, tons of heart, lots of pain (in a good way), and provides proof that readers should chance reading different styles. I look forward to my next book by this author, as I hear there may be a sequel coming!
Olivia was victimized in foster care ~25 years ago. Her father was killed, her mother's memory practically erased in an accident. Despite everything that happened to her, Olivia pushed herself to become a successful lawyer who helped other children in similar situations. The only issue... her emotional confidence and ability to open up to others never fully developed. She threw herself into work and closed the doors to many things in life. But then life throws her a curveball with a case about a young girl in a very similar situation who needs help. Olivia agrees to take the case, but it's far worse than she imagined: corruption, evil, family, secrets, and theft. On the flip side, the temporary family who is looking out for the young girl's interest is amazing, and there's a sexy uncle with a crush on Olivia. What's a girl to do?
My favorite aspect of this book is the writing style Felicia Denise has chosen to employ. After much build-up regarding the awful side of the family who is trying to gain custody / oversee the case (hard to explain, but I don't want to give anything away), readers will feel anger and frustration over the lengths selfish people go to steal from others. At the same time, we watch Olivia assemble information to protect the child, but we don't necessarily know what facts she's learning from all her meetings. We see her interact with others but through summaries while she's getting to know the temporary family. It's a wonderful approach because when the case goes to court to make the decision, EVERYTHING comes out and Olivia looks AMAZING. I had this jittery excited moment where I'm thinking... "Go Olivia, go!" I loved this approach and commend the author on igniting my passion for her story.
At some point, Olivia decides to give in to her feelings for the girl's uncle whom she's met and gone on a few dates with. The book completely changes in this chapter when we see Olivia's barriers removed, and readers are treated to a passionate, vivid physical encounter, what I imagine is along the lines of a romance novel. I'm not a huge reader in that genre, so I can't really compare... but it was quite strong and had a lot of contrast to the emotional tugging over what was happening to the young girl and Olivia's heartbreak. I didn't expect it and was like... wait... did I change books? All good tho, as it was tightly written, showcased the author's range, and made me thoroughly excited for Olivia.
Well-written, tons of heart, lots of pain (in a good way), and provides proof that readers should chance reading different styles. I look forward to my next book by this author, as I hear there may be a sequel coming!
November 27, 2016
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
“In The Best Interest of the Child” is a romance/psychological novel by Felicia Denise. Olivia Chandler, the protagonist, is a child advocate attorney with a difficult past. At the age of ten, she was involved in a car accident which resulted in having her entered into the foster care system. She suffers through years of abuse and is nearly raped but when she leaves foster care she is determined to become a child attorney. As an adult, she firmly believes in her right to fight for kids like her who, at the time, can’t fight for themselves. When Judge Dennison, Olivia’s mentor and friend, assigns her a case with a little girl named Rena who is danger of being put into foster care, Olivia’s life unexpectedly changes.
Not only is Rena’s situation eerily similar to her own but while working on the case, Olivia experiences trauma when remembering her own childhood. Doing the best she can, the Bellamy family, the people who are currently taking care of Rena, treat her like a member of their own family. This is hard for Olivia, since she has never been surrounded by that much love in a long time. Also, to make things even more complicated, a member of the family named Bruce Bellamy is very interested in Olivia and isn’t afraid to show it. She knows she likes him back but says she is too involved in her work to be dating right now. Although he can’t take no for an answer.
Will Olivia be strong enough to fight for Rena’s right to stay out of foster care and with the Bellamys? Will she be able to let herself be with Bruce, a man she really likes? Most importantly of all, will she be able face and conquer her own psychological suffering?
“In The Best Interest of the Child” is well written with round, interesting characters. Olivia Chandler is honestly the type of woman I aspire to be in life. She is strong, confident and not afraid to show people what it means to act like a genuine human being. She is definitely flawed- she has a very hard time addressing her past (which I mean, who could blame her?) But by the end of the novel she understands that not everything is always okay, which is okay. She understands that like Rena, she needs time to grieve since she didn’t get to when she was a kid.
I completely agree with the idea that to be apart of a family, you don’t have to be blood related which is one of the prominent themes in this novel. The Bellamy family, as quirky as they are, certainly know how to love people for who they are. I loved seeing the way they would all interact with each other, it was touching and funny at times. Bruce Bellamy especially hit a chord with me. He is practically every girl’s dream and I love that he was able to shine with Olivia, and that they both realized they needed each other to stay sane.
Overall, I really, really liked this book! I thought it was different and unique from any court story I had read before and I fell in love with all of the characters. Denise’s gift of storytelling is beautiful. The story had a very nice pace, it wasn’t so fast that you figured everything out right away but it also wasn’t so slow that you got bored at any point. And, spoiler alert, although it was a good ending, there is a cliffhanger which made me scream (but in a good way!) I wanted to read the whole book in one sitting but had to pace myself because I wanted to savor the wonderful words that Felicia has written. I am so glad I did, because I feel like I got so much out of it- not only did I learn more about what goes on in a court, I also learned what it means to be an admirable woman. I CANNOT wait to read the next book! I suggest this book to anyone who is 18 or older, only because it does involve/mention violence, rape, and other emotional triggers. Otherwise, I think you’ll become obsessed with this book very quickly- I know that I did!
November 26, 2016
Title: In The Best Interest of The Child
Author: Felicia Denise
Genre: Women’s Fiction/Psychological/Romance
Rating: 5 Wholehearted ♥‘s
I want my own Bellamy! Before you get any ideas, it’s not just for the man, himself – but his entire cray-cray, laugh-out-loud, we do everything with passion family! Grab your box of Kleenex, you’re going to cry, especially when you laugh. Grab your beverage of choice and a guilty pleasure kind of snack, because oh yeah…it’s that kind of book.
Olivia Chandler has been through more than any person should ever have to go through and all of it prior to her eighteenth birthday. As the product of a broken foster care system, Olivia has taken what precious knowledge and resources her late father has given her, her own brains and a spine of steel to forge a career for herself as a Child Advocate of the Court. An attorney who prides herself on specializing in keeping children out of foster care by any decent means necessary. Unfortunately, this has resulted in years of hard work as an excuse not to deal with her own childhood trauma and to keep people at arms length no matter what.
When she gets a new case that closely mimics the childhood tragedy that forever changed her life–too much for the worst–Olivia finds herself facing a frightened, abandoned, haunted and betrayed little girl whom no one seems to give two cares about–and it’s not her new client, Rena Averest. It’s Livvie Chandler, herself. That girl still thriving inside of her, unable to heal.
Bruce Bellamy knows all about abandonment, and not just his own. When his wife walked out on him and their young children it did a number on him in many ways, making it difficult to trust in second chances. The first time he lays eyes on Olivia Chandler, though, all that changes. He can see right through her professional facade and down into the sad, yet genuinely compassionate woman bound and determined to stand for Rena Averest–a little girl who means a lot to him and his family.
Let me tell you, Bruce is pure charm. I have never read a male lead with more sincere charm than this man and Felicia wrote him so well, that it doesn’t come across as pretentious or nauseating. Even his persistence is charming! He made me laugh–and swoon–right alongside Olivia. I won’t spoil anything, so you’ll have to read the book to know if all his fast-talking persuasion does him any good! “That man.”
Then you have the Bellamy family – strike that, they’re a clan. I think I counted no less than three or four generations of Bellamy under their roof at one time. They are the big, loud, boisterous and loving family taking care of Rena Averest, and as soon as they recognize Olivia’s intentions to do the same, they adopt her as one of their own. I can’t even begin to describe these characters, they’re the kind of relatives you’d love and dread having at the same time, because I doubt anything gets by them!
Most of the time during reading this book, I had tears in my eyes. From living through Olivia’s horrid past, the frustration over what Rena’s being put through due to sheer incompetence by so-called professionals, all of the amazing supporting characters and from the truly fantastic humor Felicia weaves into the plot in all the right places. The dialogue was a little confusing for me at first, having one person speak and another person react all in the same sentence could make it hard to tell who was doing the talking, but once I got used to that pattern, it became easy to read.
I loved how genuine all of these characters came across, whether they were good or bad, they were written wholeheartedly. I wasn’t left feeling any disappointment at all in the end. Even though this story is going to continue – (Yay! Does the happy dance) – everything that was a plot point in this book was tied up by the end, with the exception of what is to continue, but that’s explained immediately. I was very, very grateful for that! I can’t wait to read the next installment, and I highly recommend this book to everyone. I don’t care what your preferred genre is, read it. I also recommend that it be made into a movie, pronto. I want to curl up on my couch with my coffee, Kleenex and snacks and watch it asap.
♥ This is an Honest Review of a book that I purchased. I have not received anything in exchange for this review from the author, to include an ARC.
Author: Felicia Denise
Genre: Women’s Fiction/Psychological/Romance
Rating: 5 Wholehearted ♥‘s
I want my own Bellamy! Before you get any ideas, it’s not just for the man, himself – but his entire cray-cray, laugh-out-loud, we do everything with passion family! Grab your box of Kleenex, you’re going to cry, especially when you laugh. Grab your beverage of choice and a guilty pleasure kind of snack, because oh yeah…it’s that kind of book.
Olivia Chandler has been through more than any person should ever have to go through and all of it prior to her eighteenth birthday. As the product of a broken foster care system, Olivia has taken what precious knowledge and resources her late father has given her, her own brains and a spine of steel to forge a career for herself as a Child Advocate of the Court. An attorney who prides herself on specializing in keeping children out of foster care by any decent means necessary. Unfortunately, this has resulted in years of hard work as an excuse not to deal with her own childhood trauma and to keep people at arms length no matter what.
When she gets a new case that closely mimics the childhood tragedy that forever changed her life–too much for the worst–Olivia finds herself facing a frightened, abandoned, haunted and betrayed little girl whom no one seems to give two cares about–and it’s not her new client, Rena Averest. It’s Livvie Chandler, herself. That girl still thriving inside of her, unable to heal.
Bruce Bellamy knows all about abandonment, and not just his own. When his wife walked out on him and their young children it did a number on him in many ways, making it difficult to trust in second chances. The first time he lays eyes on Olivia Chandler, though, all that changes. He can see right through her professional facade and down into the sad, yet genuinely compassionate woman bound and determined to stand for Rena Averest–a little girl who means a lot to him and his family.
Let me tell you, Bruce is pure charm. I have never read a male lead with more sincere charm than this man and Felicia wrote him so well, that it doesn’t come across as pretentious or nauseating. Even his persistence is charming! He made me laugh–and swoon–right alongside Olivia. I won’t spoil anything, so you’ll have to read the book to know if all his fast-talking persuasion does him any good! “That man.”
Then you have the Bellamy family – strike that, they’re a clan. I think I counted no less than three or four generations of Bellamy under their roof at one time. They are the big, loud, boisterous and loving family taking care of Rena Averest, and as soon as they recognize Olivia’s intentions to do the same, they adopt her as one of their own. I can’t even begin to describe these characters, they’re the kind of relatives you’d love and dread having at the same time, because I doubt anything gets by them!
Most of the time during reading this book, I had tears in my eyes. From living through Olivia’s horrid past, the frustration over what Rena’s being put through due to sheer incompetence by so-called professionals, all of the amazing supporting characters and from the truly fantastic humor Felicia weaves into the plot in all the right places. The dialogue was a little confusing for me at first, having one person speak and another person react all in the same sentence could make it hard to tell who was doing the talking, but once I got used to that pattern, it became easy to read.
I loved how genuine all of these characters came across, whether they were good or bad, they were written wholeheartedly. I wasn’t left feeling any disappointment at all in the end. Even though this story is going to continue – (Yay! Does the happy dance) – everything that was a plot point in this book was tied up by the end, with the exception of what is to continue, but that’s explained immediately. I was very, very grateful for that! I can’t wait to read the next installment, and I highly recommend this book to everyone. I don’t care what your preferred genre is, read it. I also recommend that it be made into a movie, pronto. I want to curl up on my couch with my coffee, Kleenex and snacks and watch it asap.
♥ This is an Honest Review of a book that I purchased. I have not received anything in exchange for this review from the author, to include an ARC.
December 13, 2017
I fell upon this book by chance, seeing it listed under the 'customers also bought' category. The title just drew me in, and the story that followed did much the same thing. It didn't matter that I knew nothing about the topic (foster care and the legal system in the US) because the author filled in the gaps for me, but she did it through an engrossing story and a shedload of captivating characters.
Olivia Chandler is not your everyday child advocate; she doesn't just empathise with these kids, she was one of them. When the judge presents her with Rena's case - a child whose personal circumstances reflect those of an eleven-year-old Olivia - of course, she embraces the challenge. But it is not just a case of doing everything she can for the child, the parallels force her to face up to some of her own demons - demons she has buried effectively for nigh on thirty years. However, Olivia hadn't reckoned with meeting the Bellamy family - a delightful tribe of huge personalities (and a plethora of characters whose name began with "B" - with Courtney being the (as yet unexplained) exception. There is a sequel, so maybe that gem will be revealed then.
Bruce Bellamy, in particular, is a tour de force. Their relationship explodes, and had me grinning from ear to ear, rooting for them all the way.
While Olivia tackles Rena's case - it's more than a job to her - she also confronts the very real possibility that she, too, needs to make changes.
This story highlights the many issues with the foster care system - issues that exist everywhere, not only in the US. Running the whole gamut of emotions, "In the best interest of the child" will have you laughing, crying, smiling, sighing and just praying for a happy ending.
Olivia Chandler is not your everyday child advocate; she doesn't just empathise with these kids, she was one of them. When the judge presents her with Rena's case - a child whose personal circumstances reflect those of an eleven-year-old Olivia - of course, she embraces the challenge. But it is not just a case of doing everything she can for the child, the parallels force her to face up to some of her own demons - demons she has buried effectively for nigh on thirty years. However, Olivia hadn't reckoned with meeting the Bellamy family - a delightful tribe of huge personalities (and a plethora of characters whose name began with "B" - with Courtney being the (as yet unexplained) exception. There is a sequel, so maybe that gem will be revealed then.
Bruce Bellamy, in particular, is a tour de force. Their relationship explodes, and had me grinning from ear to ear, rooting for them all the way.
While Olivia tackles Rena's case - it's more than a job to her - she also confronts the very real possibility that she, too, needs to make changes.
This story highlights the many issues with the foster care system - issues that exist everywhere, not only in the US. Running the whole gamut of emotions, "In the best interest of the child" will have you laughing, crying, smiling, sighing and just praying for a happy ending.
January 17, 2017
LOVED IT!! In The Best Interest of the Child by Felicia Denise is a powerhouse novel, overflowing with emotion and real life messages that quite frankly NEED to be said. This book gives insight into legal AND personal prospective when it comes to DCS and the U.S. foster program. It does it in such a way that makes you feel very personally attached, not only with facts but also with very heart wrenching emotion.
The main character, Olivia Chandler, is a very prominent child advocate attorney, and she is very very good at her job. Every child's case that comes through her office is treated with the up most importance. She actually cares about them. Every. Single. One. And she gives them a fighting chance to a wholesome life that many others in the system may likely care little about or even skip over. When Oliva is assigned to a young girl named Rena, her own haunting past is forced to resurface. The similarities in Rena's case and Olivia's own childhood are very real and even more unnerving. Not only is Olivia able to fight through her pain and anguish, but she also finds love along the way.
My heart strings were pulled from cover to cover! I was 100% satisfied with the in depth details of each character's story. The way Felicia was able to strongly develop so many different lives and individualized stories into one book, all the while pointing out the flaws AND pure hearts when it comes to foster care is truly a work of art.
I was also very satisfied with the ending. There were no loose ends left untied. I actually felt that Oliva is very deservingly on the road to a healthy love life and to very overdue closure. I also absolutely loved the way that she paved a path to resolve for Rena and her family, as well as other clients! I will definitely recommend this book, LOVED IT!!
The main character, Olivia Chandler, is a very prominent child advocate attorney, and she is very very good at her job. Every child's case that comes through her office is treated with the up most importance. She actually cares about them. Every. Single. One. And she gives them a fighting chance to a wholesome life that many others in the system may likely care little about or even skip over. When Oliva is assigned to a young girl named Rena, her own haunting past is forced to resurface. The similarities in Rena's case and Olivia's own childhood are very real and even more unnerving. Not only is Olivia able to fight through her pain and anguish, but she also finds love along the way.
My heart strings were pulled from cover to cover! I was 100% satisfied with the in depth details of each character's story. The way Felicia was able to strongly develop so many different lives and individualized stories into one book, all the while pointing out the flaws AND pure hearts when it comes to foster care is truly a work of art.
I was also very satisfied with the ending. There were no loose ends left untied. I actually felt that Oliva is very deservingly on the road to a healthy love life and to very overdue closure. I also absolutely loved the way that she paved a path to resolve for Rena and her family, as well as other clients! I will definitely recommend this book, LOVED IT!!
August 22, 2021
Olivia Chandler is a high-powered attorney. She’s asked by a respected judge to represent a young girl Rena. Rena was injured in a car accident that killed her mother and put her father in a coma. Her situation is so similar to Olivia’s childhood experience that it raises old trauma. While Olivia dedicates herself to making sure Rena doesn’t end up in the foster care system, the case changes her life.
But the story is only half legal-drama. The other half is romance, almost too good to be true except that it runs up against Olivia’s deeply ingrained self-doubt related to her childhood.
The characters are deftly drawn and consistent—endearing, charming, greedy, and despicable (this is about lawyers, after all). If I had one tiny complaint, it would be that the extended family of Olivia’s love interest, Bruce Bellamy, is just way too wonderful. I loved Olivia’s strength most of all and her determination to protect her young client. There’s some questionable behavior going on that Olivia is determined to ferret out.
I enjoyed this well-written story on multiple levels. It’s not only about how the legal and foster care systems work (and don’t work), but the romance is sweet. The pace is steady and the dialog is exceptional. Well-edited. Highly recommended for readers of romance with a lawyerly twist.
But the story is only half legal-drama. The other half is romance, almost too good to be true except that it runs up against Olivia’s deeply ingrained self-doubt related to her childhood.
The characters are deftly drawn and consistent—endearing, charming, greedy, and despicable (this is about lawyers, after all). If I had one tiny complaint, it would be that the extended family of Olivia’s love interest, Bruce Bellamy, is just way too wonderful. I loved Olivia’s strength most of all and her determination to protect her young client. There’s some questionable behavior going on that Olivia is determined to ferret out.
I enjoyed this well-written story on multiple levels. It’s not only about how the legal and foster care systems work (and don’t work), but the romance is sweet. The pace is steady and the dialog is exceptional. Well-edited. Highly recommended for readers of romance with a lawyerly twist.
February 26, 2017
In The Best Interest of You to Read This Book!
Debut novelist Felicia Denise definitely knows how to capture her readers’ attention with the depths of the characters she presents along with the layers of subplots that support the main storyline very well.
Without giving away too many Easter eggs, Olivia Chandler, lawyer and child advocate, is a complicated and tough woman who has no time for games. But the reader soon discovers the "why" behind Olivia's approach to life and those around her. It's not until Olivia's own childhood is reflected back to herself in the eyes of the child she is fighting for that she begins her journey to coming to terms with the residual issues that still lurk deep inside of her. Dealing with past trauma, loss and love interest with Bellamy gives the story a number of complex dimensions that keeps the reader interested to the very end of the book.
From the details throughout the novel, it is obvious that Ms. Denise is well-versed in the area of child protective services, details which added a level of authenticity to the book and Olivia as a character.
I have been following this writer for a while and expected no less than a great novel and that is what I got. It's a worthwhile read and I thoroughly enjoyed the introduction of a number of characters who could easily be developed into future stand-alone novels.
If you are looking for a great new author to follow now and for future books to come, I would highly recommend this book.
Debut novelist Felicia Denise definitely knows how to capture her readers’ attention with the depths of the characters she presents along with the layers of subplots that support the main storyline very well.
Without giving away too many Easter eggs, Olivia Chandler, lawyer and child advocate, is a complicated and tough woman who has no time for games. But the reader soon discovers the "why" behind Olivia's approach to life and those around her. It's not until Olivia's own childhood is reflected back to herself in the eyes of the child she is fighting for that she begins her journey to coming to terms with the residual issues that still lurk deep inside of her. Dealing with past trauma, loss and love interest with Bellamy gives the story a number of complex dimensions that keeps the reader interested to the very end of the book.
From the details throughout the novel, it is obvious that Ms. Denise is well-versed in the area of child protective services, details which added a level of authenticity to the book and Olivia as a character.
I have been following this writer for a while and expected no less than a great novel and that is what I got. It's a worthwhile read and I thoroughly enjoyed the introduction of a number of characters who could easily be developed into future stand-alone novels.
If you are looking for a great new author to follow now and for future books to come, I would highly recommend this book.
September 10, 2017
Fun
This story explores and interesting topic, family court, that frequently is cited as not in the best interests of children. One attorney made a difference. I wish this was an example of things to come but I really am afraid this wonderful story is an exception rather than the rule.
This story explores and interesting topic, family court, that frequently is cited as not in the best interests of children. One attorney made a difference. I wish this was an example of things to come but I really am afraid this wonderful story is an exception rather than the rule.
February 10, 2017
This story is full of heart. Olivia is a woman who works so hard to protect children but she carries the weight of her past and we wonder if she'll ever find love and happiness. That's until Bruce.
June 19, 2017
Book Title: In the Best Interest of the Child #1
Book Author: Felicia Denise
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Fiction
Source: K.U.
Rating: 5 stars
NOTE: This book is intended for 18+ only due to language, sexual activity and scenes of child abuse and near-rape. Those with emotional triggers should reconsider purchasing this book.
Side note: R&R Blog Tours shared with me a sign-up for a cover reveal for the second book in the series by Felicia Denise. I decided to read the first book before being willing to do a cover reveal. ^_^ And...
drum roll....
The first book is amazing! Read it!
Also, stay tuned to see the cover reveal here (Where Dragons Recide) on Thursday, June 29th!
Felicia has a WordPress blog.
Review:
You guys know me. I don't read things that could be emotional triggers, but I had to read this one and I'm glad that I did. This a good reading for those of us who read contemporary novels. ^_^
The characters are fantastic and so is the writing. There are several typos, but they don't take you out of the novel. Because it is an emotional roller coaster for the main character-Olivia, one may get attached to her and root for her happiness. She suffered through much and we get inside her head through her thoughts and memories. She is a successful child advocate attorney and helps out kids...to not become foster kids if she could help it. Her next charge, Rena, brings out old wounds and we get to see why she's so good at her job. Great character!
The emotions in the novel are raw. One minute, I was liked I had her weight of the world on my shoulders and the next, I had the biggest grin plastered on my face thanks to Bruce. Olivia was grinning and laughing and so was I. Great writing!
Felicia was able to show some dark moments, but they didn't stay in the reader's mind for long because she would throw in something good. The Bellamy clan in also fantastic. So fun and there's a thing about B's. Read to find out what I mean.
I highly recommend it and it's on K.U., so those of you who have K.U. don't have a choice. ;)
Book Author: Felicia Denise
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Fiction
Source: K.U.
Rating: 5 stars
NOTE: This book is intended for 18+ only due to language, sexual activity and scenes of child abuse and near-rape. Those with emotional triggers should reconsider purchasing this book.
Side note: R&R Blog Tours shared with me a sign-up for a cover reveal for the second book in the series by Felicia Denise. I decided to read the first book before being willing to do a cover reveal. ^_^ And...
drum roll....
The first book is amazing! Read it!
Also, stay tuned to see the cover reveal here (Where Dragons Recide) on Thursday, June 29th!
Felicia has a WordPress blog.
Review:
You guys know me. I don't read things that could be emotional triggers, but I had to read this one and I'm glad that I did. This a good reading for those of us who read contemporary novels. ^_^
The characters are fantastic and so is the writing. There are several typos, but they don't take you out of the novel. Because it is an emotional roller coaster for the main character-Olivia, one may get attached to her and root for her happiness. She suffered through much and we get inside her head through her thoughts and memories. She is a successful child advocate attorney and helps out kids...to not become foster kids if she could help it. Her next charge, Rena, brings out old wounds and we get to see why she's so good at her job. Great character!
The emotions in the novel are raw. One minute, I was liked I had her weight of the world on my shoulders and the next, I had the biggest grin plastered on my face thanks to Bruce. Olivia was grinning and laughing and so was I. Great writing!
Felicia was able to show some dark moments, but they didn't stay in the reader's mind for long because she would throw in something good. The Bellamy clan in also fantastic. So fun and there's a thing about B's. Read to find out what I mean.
I highly recommend it and it's on K.U., so those of you who have K.U. don't have a choice. ;)
January 24, 2020
Wow, what a heroine. Olivia Chandler is an amazing woman. She's got such a wonderful mind and heart. Not to mention her iron-will and determination to see a goal to the end. But she's so understated, so natural, so relatable that this fact slips up on the reader as the compelling, emotional story moves along. I just couldn't wait to turn the pages and continue the journey with her. I love this kind of story within a story. The mysteries she must solve are not only to save a young girl but are also mysteries she must solve to become whole herself. I felt everything in my own heart, all her pain and eventual joy.
I read this novel at first for the good-versus-evil type story and wanting to see what happens to the little girl. But by the end of the story, I was totally invested in Olivia's struggle and needing to see it all work out for her, because she so deserves a HEA.
There is a real focus in this story on the power of true friends and functional, loving family members. And also what it means for a woman's life when those things are inconsistent or missing.
Bruce, as her love interest, is masculine, sexy, nurturing and right on time. But can he find the patience to wait for this one-in-million woman while she works out the things she must work out in order to find the peace within herself that she needs? You'll have to read to find out. But I believe you'll enjoy the journey if you do.
An emotional story and compelling characters. A strong authorial voice. A real page turner.
I purchased this novel and this review contains my honest thoughts.
I read this novel at first for the good-versus-evil type story and wanting to see what happens to the little girl. But by the end of the story, I was totally invested in Olivia's struggle and needing to see it all work out for her, because she so deserves a HEA.
There is a real focus in this story on the power of true friends and functional, loving family members. And also what it means for a woman's life when those things are inconsistent or missing.
Bruce, as her love interest, is masculine, sexy, nurturing and right on time. But can he find the patience to wait for this one-in-million woman while she works out the things she must work out in order to find the peace within herself that she needs? You'll have to read to find out. But I believe you'll enjoy the journey if you do.
An emotional story and compelling characters. A strong authorial voice. A real page turner.
I purchased this novel and this review contains my honest thoughts.
January 28, 2018
A dedicated child lawyer finds love and healing
A sweet (and spicy) love story housed within a story of child protection. Olivia had faced the dangers when child protection falls short of its goals. She passionately commits to protecting children through the practice of law. The legal pieces were my favorite, the spots where the writing really glimmers. As a warning, there are two explicit sex scenes, which took me by surprise. Overall, a lovely story about how we can (and should) protect our children. I'm definitely updating my will after reading this.
A sweet (and spicy) love story housed within a story of child protection. Olivia had faced the dangers when child protection falls short of its goals. She passionately commits to protecting children through the practice of law. The legal pieces were my favorite, the spots where the writing really glimmers. As a warning, there are two explicit sex scenes, which took me by surprise. Overall, a lovely story about how we can (and should) protect our children. I'm definitely updating my will after reading this.
November 26, 2019
An emotional, heartwarming story. The heroine has had a tough childhood, but made it through and now helps others to stay out of the foster care system.
May 1, 2017
Great read with a good pace. Olivia is a fixer while also dealing with her personal issues.
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