Celia's Gifts: Family Drama, Midlife Women's Fiction

Book excerpt: Before becoming a wealthy matriarch and the proud owner of Whispering Pines, Celia Middleton faced the challenge of a lifetime—saving her family. Kimberly Diede’s heartwarming series, Gift of Whispering Pines, began with this amazing woman’s legacy. Now it’s time to discover the secrets behind her success. Intent on escaping the far-off echoes of World War II, Celia tags along to her friend’s small lake resort, Whispering Pines. She’ll soon realize the quaint family getaway is the perfect place to spend the hot, humid days of a Minnesota summer. One glorious month of sun-drenched days and starlit nights will never be enough. The tranquil environment is a balm for Celia’s anxious heart. Troubles back home fade away. Here, she can be herself, even if she doesn’t quite fit in. Her friends are focused on nabbing the perfect husband, but Celia has other plans. Her own father left them destitute, and she’s vowed to never wind up like her poor mother. Celia’s steely resolve softens as she twirls across a crowded dance floor in the arms of a man she barely knows. She’s intrigued—tempted, even. But when tragedy shatters the serenity she’s found at Whispering Pines, she faces an agonizing decision. Can Celia hold tight to her vision and battle through crushing discrimination to build the career and financial independence she so desperately seeks? Even if she manages to protect her family, how can she save Whispering Pines, too? Travel back to an earlier era in Celia’s Gifts where Kimberly Diede introduces you to a loyal, ambitious young Celia in this sixth book in her uplifting series. Immerse yourself in the making of an incredible woman. Will societal expectations and unthinkable loss destroy Celia, or will she emerge stronger than ever? If you enjoy books by Fiona Baker, Hope Halloway, or Julia Clemens then give yourself the gift of this series. The Gift of Whispering Pines Series Escape to Whispering Pines with this unforgettable family. They’ll come together to heal and thrive, despite the inevitable wounds that life delivers. If you enjoy a family saga filled with unanticipated twists, second chances, and the many gifts life offers, you’ll delight in your visit to Whispering Pines! Whispering Pines (Book 1) Tangled Beginnings (Book 2) Rebuilding Home (Book 3) Capturing Wishes (Book 4) Choosing Again (Book 5) Celia’s Gifts (Book 6) Celia’s Legacy (Book 7) Related Series by Kimberly Diede: The Kaleidoscope Girls Series When five young girls connect at summer camp over butterflies, drama, and a simple craft project, they're destined to become forever friends, dubbing themselves The Kaleidoscope Girls. Decades later, they'll discover their wings together as they navigate life's difficult transformations, and find comfort in knowing their journeys are richer and better with friends. Better with Friends (Book 1) Sunshine and Friends (Book 2) Five Golden Friends (Book 3) Gift of Friends (Book 4) Life with Friends (Book 5)