Review by Bdixon1991 -- One Way or Another

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Bdixon1991
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Latest Review: One Way or Another by Mary J. Williams

Review by Bdixon1991 -- One Way or Another

Post by Bdixon1991 »

[Following is a volunteer review of "One Way or Another" by Mary J. Williams.]
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2 out of 4 stars
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The Benedict Sisters were a one of a kind family. Born into wealth beyond anyone’s imagination by a mother who had four different girls from four different fathers, their names were known to everyone. It didn’t matter what came their way, the Benedict sisters stuck together through thick and thin.

Just like her sisters, Calder Benedict didn’t care too much for dating. After witnessing all of her mother’s failed relationships, Calder just wasn’t interested in having her own heart broken. Instead, Calder focused on her charity. Calder’s life was going fine, until one night, after a terrible date, she bumps into Adam Stone. Former Navy man turned successful entrepreneur, Calder was attracted from the start. Then one random encounter turns into a few more and Calder can’t help but think maybe she was wrong and that maybe having an amazing man wasn’t so bad after all. When their mother begins dating a man that could threaten the Benedict Sisters and their way of life, Calder will have to decide if Adam is really is a good man that she could trust or, if he is just playing a part in a bigger scheme of things.

Mary J. Williams’ One Way or Another is part one of a four part series. I will say that I did enjoy this book. Did it blow me away? No, not really. Was it entertaining? Yes it was. The character development for the four sisters was very well done. I thought it was great to make each one completely different, considering their situation. I was surprised by the twist with Calder and her twin, Bryce. I could tell you but that would ruin it. The dialogue between all four sisters is priceless, as there is a lot of back and forth banter. More importantly, there is a deep bond they all share. With a mother who is self-centered and focused more on her next boyfriend and fathers who are not really in the picture, the Benedict Sisters only had each other.

However, let’s not forget that this is a love story at its core. When Calder and Adam meet, it's surprising and fun! Then they keep running into each other and it almost seems like fate wants them together. However, once they actually get together, this is where the story tends to get a tad boring. I feel like Adam is “too perfect” of a man and Calder gives in to dating him too quickly, despite her beliefs. There is a surprise twist towards the end that does pick up the pace of the story.

I believe Calder and Adam’s story was meant more for setting up the series as a whole. Most of the book is focused on describing each sister and their accomplishments as well as give insight to their relationship with their mother. The book also sets up the main issue in the series as their mother starts dating a man who only wants the Benedict fortune. With these two plots intermingling then throw in Calder and Adam falling in love, one of these three plot lines had to be rushed through. Unfortunately, it ended up being Calder and Adam’s story.

All in all, I give Mary J. Williams One Way or Another a 2 out of 4 stars. While the character development for the sisters was good, and the book also set up the main issue for the series, the love story plot was “too perfect” and felt rushed. I feel that with four books planned, the author could have done so much more with Calder and Adam by possibly spreading out the other two plot lines.

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One Way or Another
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Rosebella
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Post by Rosebella »

Overall it sounds like an interesting read, despite the few issues you highlighted. The relationship between the sisters is definitely unique because you would think having four different fathers would put a strain on bonding. The mother's relationship history would dissuade them from any sought of romance. I will grab copy to check it for myself. Thank you for the review. :tiphat:
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Tcaudill
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Post by Tcaudill »

I don't usually like romance books but this is different. It talks about family. How the sisters are close. I read the sample and may just finish the book.
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