Bird of Paradise

I’m newer to fiction reading - but after moving to my paradise a year ago I promised myself to slow down and enjoy a well written imaginary word. Emily was a guest on my wife’s podcast “Sailing Through Life”. When you know the back story of how this book came about (and how I learned about it) you know (and you know) you paths were meant to cross. A wonderful reflectional, inspirational, and passionate journey of well …. “life”. Thank you both for creating this world that I’m so thankful you shared. So glad the Heywoods are a part of my life now too!

The story of Ari and her family from her young teen years through adulthood - such a well-written story, it made me truly care about the characters and that emotional attachment is what I look for in a book. Often when trying a new author (or in this case, authors) you don't know what you'll get, if the writing style will appeal, if the story will hold your interest. This one definitely scored very high on both points - a richness of description that really brought me into each scene (and now I want to visit this island!), and a story that kept me wondering what would happen next and how the family would handle each challenge that came their way. I definitely recommend this one!

As a youth services librarian, I rarely read adult books but this is one of the exceptions. A lush story with exquisite detail about a very loving family. While some may view the family dynamic as unrealistic, for me it came at a time when my own family was struggling through some very heavy things and it comforted me. Also, as an avid reader I can almost always tell what the plot twist or "big reveal" will be, but this mother and daughter duo caught me off guard. These are the moments that I call "throw the book across the room" (which I don't actually do) because I truly did not see that coming. Well done!

I loved this book. Like others have said, it's like watching a movie in your mind. I was quickly drawn into the lives of the characters and couldn't put it down. This book has everything - family, love, tragedy and unexpected twists. It is a perfect read for book clubs. I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for a beautifully descriptive story.

Bird of Paradise is a beautifully written novel about a a teenage girl coming of age and experiencing all that life has to offer, good, bad, wonderful and awful. The authors take you on a journey all over the world and weave you into this close knit family that loves each other well.This is an excellent debut novel made bittersweet by the authors’ story. I sincerely hope that Emily Johnson is already penning a follow up.

This novel by a mother daughter duo is to say the least captivating. I could not put it down. It is so well written. I believe it will be on the best sellers list. I enjoyed it so much. It has intrigue, romance, the characters come alive. Very descriptive, like a movie playing in your mind. Highly recommend this book. It will change the way you look at life.

I have read a lot of books in my life...this was an experience and an exceptional journey to many wonderful places with a family of wonderful traditions! It made you feel like you were watching in person as their story unfolded! I cried at some parts...and that doesn’t happen often! This book is right up there with Marie Force and Barbara Freethy my favorites! What a great book!

Filled with family values, adventure, life lessons, intrigue, hope, and love, this captivating novel by a mother/daughter duo might just cause you to rethink the way you're living life and make some adjustments to your own. One may travel the world over, but in the end, there's truly no place like home.