3.91 AVERAGE


Barbara O’Neal writes beautifully, her characters are well developed and story lines intertwine seamlessly. I lose track of time when I read her books and Write My Name Across the Sky is no different. This is a story about family, the bonds of sisterhood and ultimately how three independent women are stronger together than apart. Willow, the younger sister is a truly talented musician, pixie-like and so eager to win her sister’s love. Her music is her world, much to her undoing at times but she also loves to nurture and take care of others. Sam, the older sister who is statuesque and has a beautifully gifted brain. A developer of video games, she has brains but feels ugly, odd and is full of resentment toward everyone especially Willow. Gloria, the auntie who swooped in and took care of the girls when their mother, a beautifully talented but unavailable musician died. Gloria has lived a glamorous life as a TWA flight attendant, traveling to exotic locales, having adventures, romantic flings and all that life entails. Now settled in NYC, she is still glamorous and an influencer. However, one past adventure is coming back to haunt not only her but others as well. This story will draw you in, you will feel Willow’s hurt and uncertainty, Sam’s anger and inability to ask for help, Gloria’s fear and protectiveness of her nieces; and how ultimately the resolve of each woman to determine their own path while staying together as a family. Pull up a comfy seat, you’re going be a while!

This is a beautiful story of figuring out who we are, examining the past, and trying to rebuild relationships. Willow, trying to make a name for herself and make it with her music. Sam, trying to overcome heartbreak and keep her business afloat. Gloria, desperately wanting her nieces to come together as she has always wanted them to. And in the middle of this, a potential life changing event for Gloria that could mean she will lose everything, and a near death experience for Sam. Can the three women overcome all of this and build the future they were meant to have?
This was such a beautiful story full of rich characters, music, love lost and found again, and finding ourselves. Barbara O'Neal does not disappoint and this will not be the last story of hers that I will get lost in.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
lighthearted reflective slow-paced
emotional medium-paced

Me gustó el manejo de los personajes, como se entrelazan sus emociones. La primera mitad la  leí con poco entusiasmo pero después  me encantó.

Good writing and story, but I probably will not remember it by next week.

Such a great, romantic, and sweet book about family: the family things that hold us together and the personal stuff that keeps us apart. I loved the art aspect as well, and the woman in her 70s still being beautiful and having an amazing life.

I am enjoying this author. Feel good novels with good stories, interesting characters, and beautiful descriptions.

"Why do people put up with so much, or rather, why do they settle for so little."

A slow read with too much going on to truly enjoy any of the stories.

This book holds the story of three main characters but also the hidden depth of many. Each of the main story lines was beautiful and full of promise, but no justice was given to any since to much was going on in the book.

The ending felt rushed and disappointing as the story lines demanded deeper conclusions. I felt myself dragging and unsatisfied.

Stunning story telling with captivating characters, I'd have loved to see this as a three book trilogy with more time given to everyone. Three stars as the characters are lovable, the writing is beautiful, and the story is still a fun read even if it does leave you feeling unfinished.

3.5

Gloria Rose, an Instagram influencer, stepped in to raise her two nieces when her very famous rock start sister passed away. Sam (Samantha), the older sister who creates video games, has recently split from her long-time business partner and best friend. Willow is the youngest child who followed in her mother’s footsteps to become a musician, only to have mediocre success and failed relationships. She returns to New York at Gloria's request. Gloria is in trouble.

As this story unfolds, each of these women faces challenges and learns things about themselves and each other. Rich in detail (you’ll feel like you're in each moment with these characters) and AMAZING descriptions, I couldn’t put it down. O’Neal weaves a magical world you’ll want to continue to explore. Even the secondary characters are interesting and intriguing. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did!