Cover Image: The Restarting Point

The Restarting Point

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Member Reviews

A truly emotional but light and uplifting story. I felt for Jade and everything she had gone through and now having to decide what to do to continue her life forward. I love the women and new friends she makes and even the light flirting with Liam. The story spoke to me in so many ways but it's also the way the author writes that makes you feel everything.

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An amazing beginning to what promises to be another emotional series by Marci Bolden. Jade had what she thought was the perfect life. She was moving up the ladder in her work nicely. Her kids were both in college and her husbands business was finally where he wanted it to be. A cancer diagnosis and fight force her to re-evaluate her life and she realizes that she may have been absent in her families lives. Determined to try to change and make things better for everyone, she rents a cottage in beautiful Chammont Point. However, she will soon learn that not all is as it seems and her life quickly begins to unravel and she is not equipped to deal with the fallout. Chammont Point and it's cast of wonderfully quirky, loving and perhaps also broken characters will surround her and allow her to feel what needs feeling, learn new things and find out who she really is. I found this story to be not only emotional (yes I had real tears at times), but also insightful and funny. It brought be back to some memories that I had forgotten from my own past and this is what I find Marci best at. Bringing forward those memories.

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The Restarting Point
Marci Bolden

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4.5 stars!

Jade Kelly has just survived cancer and is looking forward to quaint cabin getaway overlooking the water. What Jade gets is shocking news... her husband is leaving her, the cabin is definitely not what she expected and she sprains her ankle. The Restarting Point is about starting over .... brought together by chance Jade forms friendships on her getaways day these women all need each other. I loved the different personalities and the bonds they were forming after opening up. Although heavy at times I found myself laughing out loud quite a bit. This is a sweet, heartbreaking as well heartwarming story. I’m also so excited that this book is the first of a trilogy. I can’t wait for the next book!! Put this on your to be read list!!

Sending a sincere thank you to NetGalley and Pink Sand books for an advanced copy of The Restarting Point for my honest review! Can’t wait to see what comes next!!

Review posted on my Instagram blog and Goodreads.

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A perfectly emotional charged read , Jade is facing the ultimate battle of all battles while on vacation to celebrate her victory from cancer . Jade meets some eccentric new life long friends that will help realize she is not alone in this fight . I loved the characters , everyone needs a "Darby" in their life! I love this author , always a home run with her realistic , honest , "what if" this happens type of scenarios . I really like her approach to these type of stories .

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Friendships, family and a new lease on life is the starting point for this new series. And it absolutely blew me away. The depth of the characters, the story, and emotion held my interest from beginning to end. Jade is a cancer survivor who has her world blown away. What was supposed to be a family vacation celebrating her second chance at life turns into Jade finding a new path and some new friends. The characters are witty and funny. The story line is heartwarming and emotional. With great characters and such an emotional story, this book is a huge hit with me. I absolutely loved it.

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The Restarting Point is a wonderful story of starting over in life by Marci Bolden. This story has all the feels as I experienced life through the eyes of cancer survivor Jade Kelly. Her time of celebration is cut short with unexpected events in her life. The title of the book is sums up what is in store for Jade, told with honesty, humor at times, heartbreak at other times and always with resilient hope.

I could not put this book down once I started it. Cancer is a life changer but others affected her life too. Still a fighter she comes out on top with new quirky friends who become family to her, her sons standing with her and her spirit one of hopefulness. Life lessons quotes come at the odd moment in this book delivered by some unexpected people.

I have probably said too much already since I try not to give away a story especially one that is worth reading like The Restarting Point. I also don’t have the words to express how authentic this story seems with me wishing I could be part of this group of friends but of course they are only real in the book. What I can do is honor the Jade’s thought of living my best life daily, thanking God for the good in it, being open to new experiences and even finding gratitude for the lessons learned in difficult times.

Needless to say I can’t wait for book two. Hope it won’t be long before it is released.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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A while back, I received a request to review one of Marci Bolden’s books. It was the first one I’d read by this author, and I was more than pleasantly surprised. So I was anxious to see if I’d continue to really enjoy her work with this story. Spoiler alert: I did!

The Restarting Point is less of a romance and more of a chick-lit book. However, I loved it from the very beginning. The friendship that developed between career-driven Jade, quirky Darby, and down-to-earth Taylor was fascinating to watch unfold. Three very different personalities from very different backgrounds somehow meshed into a chosen family and added some along the way. There was a lot of emotion to wade through in Jade’s story alone, and watching her hit rock bottom when she thought she’d already been there, done that, literally brought tears to my eyes at some points. But watching her finally be able to start to pick up the pieces and learning that family isn’t always blood-related warmed my heart.

If you’re looking for a good, emotional read, look no farther than The Restarting Point. Not only is it a story about picking up the pieces, but it’s also a beautiful depiction of how true friendship, love, and support make all the difference.

I give The Restarting Point by Marci Bolden 5 out of 5 stars!

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This book......this author, that should be enough said.]

This author sure knows how to write the most amazing books, with the most emotional story lines you could imagine, there will sure to be some tears shed and some kleenex used.

This is Jade story about starting over, almost her whole life, she has just finished battling cancer and has a family trip planned, when both her boys cant come and her husband bows at the last minute claiming he has to work, she sets off on the trip alone, to find the cabin not to be what was advertised to spraining her ankle on the first day of the trip. AT this point you would think nothing else could go wrong, but a phone call home to her husband sends her life spinning out of control and pressing the reset button.

Fantastic read

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“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by the publisher, Pink Sand Press, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

When I first found out that this author was starting a new series, I was ready to give it a try!

The most heartwarming part of this story is the friendships that Jade finds the small town of Chammont Point. Darby is sweet, fun-loving, spunky, and has lots of energy while Taylor is level-headed, supportive, and realistic. Add this to Jade’s strong, kind, and honest personality, then you have a great combination of friends that anyone could fall in love with!

Each of the characters were developed well, even the secondary ones. The author gives enough of a back story for each character to help readers connect and feel compassion toward each of them. After all, we all have stories that are both wonderful and potentially devastating. It’s the healing process and who is there with us through it all is what counts. Readers can easily feel that throughout these pages.

There is one thing that brings my rating down a bit. Full disclosure: when going through something traumatic, it makes 100% perfect sense to have to repeat your thoughts, either to yourself or to someone else, to help you process what just occurred. I do this even if what I experienced isn’t something traumatic. But for the sake of connection, when my sister died young, processing what occurred took time. Healing took time. Even now, after several years, I find myself thinking about what could have I done to help more? Did I do everything that I could have? Though I know the answer is yes, I did everything that I could during that time, it still hurts to think about all that she has missed since getting sick then dying. In other words, I know that repetition can help with processing and then eventually moving on. However, the amount of times that Jade repeats her story both within her own mind and with others aloud really did become a bit tiring. It wasn’t just her story, but it was also her thoughts at any given moment. She repeats herself very often and it really doesn’t advance the plot. It actually caused several scenes to drag because I already knew the information and since reading it more than once, I didn’t feel the need to read it again and again. Even some of the arguments that occur are repeated, which again doesn’t advance the plot.

Back to a positive note – the author does a great job in complicating the relationship between Jade and her husband. Because of this complicated relationship, Jade is in two minds after the initial shock, which again brings a great sense realism to the text.

I also love the setting! The author does a great job in placing the readers in a quiet little town, near a lake. It made me want to paddle board, kayak, and spend time outdoors and in nature! Aside from feeling like I’m there, reading The Restarting Point reminds me to enjoy life to the fullest and to go on adventures as much as I can. To remember to make life meaningful and appreciate what and who I have in my life.

Aside from the repetition and some of the dramatic arguments, I did enjoy reading The Restarting Point. I found a lot of what happened in the text to be realistic, the themes are strong and relatable, and the characters are easy to care for. Due to caring about the characters and curious if we learn more about them, I plan on reading the second in the series when it is published. For those who enjoy heartwarming tales about friendship and healing, then The Restarting Point might be for you!

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Jade Kelly knew that surviving cancer would be one of the hardest things she would have to face during her lifetime. Does she have the strength to face the next challenge in her life, one that she will have to face alone? As Jade returns to Chammont Point, she will have hope for the future with her new friends…delightful Darby the owner of the cabin, Taylor and her so far unsuccessful contracting business, Parker who will soon be a single mother and Liam who… well just Liam. She soon realizes that she is not completely starting over as she has the love and support of her two sons. A beautiful and poignant story about a strong woman who is restarting her life after what she thought was real and lasting is gone. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)

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I will leave a review on Amazon or B&N on April 27th

The Restarting Point is the first book in a new series by author Marci Bolden. I found this to be an enjoyable read even if for me it was also a very emotional read. I just lost my boyfriend of 8 years in January to cancer, and I was his caregiver the last 18 months of his life. So to say this book brought up some emotions would be puttin it mildly. I know everyone doesn't react in the say way to very stressful situations, but for me I could never have made the decision that was the basis for the main storyline in this book. I would definitely recommend this book to others.

I received a ARC from NetGalley and the publisher Pink Sand Press and all opinions expressed here are my own.

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Jade has recently been pronounced to be in remission from colorectal cancer, and to celebrate, she and her husband Nick, plan a getaway at Chammont Point, a lake community about an hour from their home. Unfortunately, Nick backs out at the last minute due to work, and Jade goes alone.

Well, the house wasn't exactly what she was expecting, but she was ok with it for a week. Ok with it until she crashed through the porch railing and flew like a baby bird into the bushes below, ending up with a sprained ankle. Jade figures that the rest of her vacation would be better spent at home, so she leaves, after promising Darby, the next-door neighbor/landlord that she won't sue!

Yes, you guessed it, when Jade arrives home she finds her husband packing his things, with help from his new girlfriend. Nick explains he hasn't been happy for a long time and wants a divorce. Crushed, Jade returns to Chammont Point to lick her wounds and try to reset.

The rest of the book focuses on family (Jade's two sons who are very supportive); friendship (Darby and Taylor, the contractor called in to fix the porch who quickly becomes one with Jade and Darby); another friendship (Liam, who owns a sports equipment rental place and isn't afraid to challenge Jade when she needs it); and new beginnings (Parker and her baby). Along the way, Jade learns about herself and heals. I am looking forward to the next book in the series to see where these characters wind up.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

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This was a great book about family, friends and starting over.

Jane, a recent cancer survivor has a fresh outlook on life, she wants to spend more time with her family and plans a family vacation to Chammont Point. Unfortunately, things don't work out how she planned and she ends up going alone. During her stay she finds out her husband has decided to move out of their house and moves on with another woman. Jane is devastated but finds comfort in new friends she meets at Chammont Point.

I absolutely loved this novel. I found it to be an easy, enjoyable read with likeable characters, especially Darby who made me laugh at times. This was my first Marci Bolden book and I am very much looking forward to reading her next book in this series "The Selling Point". I would recommend this book to those who enjoy nice "feel good" stories.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Pink Sand Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.

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One of my top 3 books of 2021, by a new author, at least to me! 1st in a new series, for which i will anxiously await book 2 and 3. All the emotions are here. The surprising dissolution of a 20 year marriage after surviving cancer sends Jade on a journey of every emotion possible. Leading her to the sought after peacefulness of a small lake community, a quirky group of new friends, possibly the only friends she has had in years. Her shock, anger, and hurt lead her to a new acceptance and new perspective. I laughed and i cried. I am a big fan of small town life, especially small town lake life!

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I absolutely adore Marci Bolden's books. Her writing style always makes me smile. Or weep. This book was another great and I look forward to the next one.

This book has a cast of characters that you will love. With one exception. One I detested immensely. Even though he stayed and helped Jade get through the toughest time in her life I just did not like Nick at all. He was basically a very big coward in my book. He was untrustworthy and a jerk. But he did stay and help Jade when she needed him most.

Jade, Darby, and Taylor all become friends on Chammont Point. A quiet lake hideaway that Jade escapes to after getting over cancer treatments. You will love these characters no doubt about it. They are all a messed up group of women who are there for each other after only knowing each other a mere week. Friends can be made fast at times. You don't always have to know people for years. You don't have to always grow up with someone for them to be a best friend.

Then there is Liam. I totally love Liam. To me he was sincere, funny, serious and just an all around good guy. No ones lover or serious relationship partner, just a friend who was there if you needed him. I'm still hoping that him and Jade start seeing each other romantically. I think they would be great together.

Darby was my favorite character in this book. She reminds me of the blonde, big bosom, woman that played on Two Broke Girls. Her name escaped me now but if you ever watched the show you would know who I am talking about. Darby is so full of life. She doesn't care at all what people think about her. She lives life. She absorbs life. She's just great. The best thing that happens to Jade.

Taylor is also very likable but in a different more serious way. She's a great friend but at times comes across as harsh. Together though these three women make a great friendship. Like they just belong.

This book has all the feels. Laughter abundant. Tears of course. Friendships forever. Anger at some. Love in many. A huge secret that sets this one in motion. It's an all around breath of fresh air. It was just what I needed.

Thank you to #NetGalley, #MarciBolden, #PinkSandPress for this ARC. This is my own true feelings about this book.

5/5 stars and I highly recommend it. It's great!

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Having cancer and surviving is a major turning point for Jade .When life then throws her another curve ball. Taking some time away to reassess her life and move forwards, she meets some wonderful new friends.
The strong bond between the women is at the heart of this book. Each gets something from their relationship and their self development was heart warming.
Marci Bolden has created a charming story about women rebuilding their lives, new friendships and seeing hope for the future. The characters were so real and very endearing and I was drawn into their lives.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the chance to review this book.

Probably the most “real” story I have read from this author. Cannot wait to read the next one in the series.

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What a fabulous read. I was fortunate to be offered this book to read and was not left disappointed.
The author puts so many feelings in this book that you can visualise the characters as you’re reading. This is one of my must haves in a good book.
Jade has an incredible journey where she needs to rebuild her life after her husband leaves her for another woman. The new life and friendships that she makes with Darby and Taylor are ones that will carry through fir a life time. I trust this because I see the book as I read it.
Sorry no spoilers; you’ll have to read it yourself.
Praise to Marci Bolden on a thoroughly enjoyable read.

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I'm a big fan of Marci Bolden's writing and knowing she was starting a new series made me super happy! The Restarting Point showcases friendship, heartbreak and starting again and it was a wonderfully told story.

Jade Kelly has spent the past year fighting cancer and she was lucky enough to beat it. Knowing that she wasn't able to spend time with her family as she would have liked, she is looking forward to the vacation they are all to take together. She is upset when her two sons cancel and her husband tells her that he has to work and is unable to go as well. She forges ahead and what she finds when she gets to her rental in Chammont Point isn't exactly what she was expecting, but she's going to make the most of it! What she does do is meet two very different women who she becomes quick friends with. Friends it turns out she's going to need more than she knows.

When Jade heads home to get her life underway again with her family, she has a curve ball thrown at her. With the help of her new friends, Taylor and Darby, Jade begins to plot what the next phase of her life is going to look like. The three women are very different, yet they have all been through their share of challenging times. They are there for one another even when they may not agree and the friendships continue to grow and strengthen as the book moves along. Plus, a good dose of humor is thrown in for much needed levity!

I was hooked from the very outset of this story. I needed to know what happened with Jade and her new friends. I'm very interested to see how things continue to unfold as the series continues! I'd highly recommend picking this one up!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

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The restarting point.
Book one..
Story about Jade Kelley..



Jade recovers from cancer, But then her life takes a twist, one she Didn't see coming..

Jade's life has always been work work work she was always the breadwinner in her family. No time for things that really mattered. Now things have changed. And it's too late to turn back time.


Nick Kelly, The husband He's about to do his own thing. It's not what Jade saw in their future. a Future they had together.
Or so she thought.

This is the 4th book I have read by this author and each book I have read I have just truly loved.
Her stories totally keep you involved you just don't want to stop until you finish because you want to know what's going to happen. this was one of those awesome stories pick up a copy and read Jade story I am excited for book 2..


Thank Marci Bolden

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5 Stars for this very emotional story

I haven't read a Marci Bolden book that I haven't loved. My heart went out to Jade. After the fight of her life with cancer, she is forced into starting her life over. So she goes to the lake at Chammont Point and rents the most decrepit cabin from a woman who dresses like a diva from the 1950s. But this is where she meets two women that will help her navigate from her old life to the new one. I cried and laughed with the three of them as they became true friends that help each other through the good times and bad times. This book will make you think twice at what is important in life, what battles you should fight and know when to move on. I can't wait for the next book in the series.

I received an early copy courtesy of Pink Sand Press through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

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