About The Long Way Home, Marichus Real says, “It’s a book that makes you think about life and death and about giving thanks for all the people you love and the joyful times you’ve had with them. Easy to read, The Long Way Home by D.L. Norris is one of those books you want to finish in order to know what happens next, but at the same time, you feel sad finishing it because you’ve so enjoyed reading it. It’s the best book I’ve read in a long time. I would highly recommend to all readers. ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC.”
Tony Parsons says, “The Long Way Home is a very well-written historical fiction novel. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start to finish with never a dull moment. There were lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns and a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This would also make another great historical family fiction movie, or mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.”
Deborah Lloyd says, “Although The Long Way Home is centered on a loving, harmonious group of like-minded individuals, there are also some unsavory characters. The greedy son of Doc and Anna, along with his ill-intentioned spouse, cause havoc in the town. A frequent non-paying guest provides some discordant moments. There are also times of great grief, especially when the cause of death is questionable. The author has skillfully developed each character, and it is easy for the reader to imagine each one. Likewise, the town itself, along with its café and church, is easy to imagine. The plot progresses smoothly, with some scenes from the past, and a style of writing that flows well. Author D. L. Norris has penned an intriguing story in The Long Way Home. An intriguing read!” ~ Reviewed By Deborah Lloyd for Readers’ Favorite, 5 Star
Self-Publishing Review writes, “Author D.L. Norris invites readers to slow down and enjoy the view, and perhaps spin a story or two, in The Long Way Home, an insightful and memorable novel about family, grief, and growing up.
Maggie Davis stands like a proud pillar at the heart of this tale, a recently widowed mother running a bed and breakfast in an out-of-the-way corner of Nebraska. Guests come and go, with their stories and burdens, grateful for a home-cooked meal and conversation, but small-town life for Maggie is far from simple. In addition to her own battle with loss and loneliness, she must navigate the constantly changing landscape of gossip, residents, and the temperamental moods of the family members still living. As old secrets about her ancestors are revealed, and deeper connections with townsfolk are built, Tilden begins to feel like home, until someone tries to take it all away.
Norris writes with a lyrical pen, painting landscapes and intense emotional moments with easy grace. Every character that appears in this world is vividly shaped and summoned in readers’ minds, whether we are familiar with the archetypes of small towns or not. There is also a slightly heightened formality to the narration, consistent and compelling, as though this is a novel from another time.
Whether we are witnessing Maggie’s self-examination and stirrings of guilt over a new passion, or putting together the pieces of the book’s ultimate twist, Norris’ writing is entrancing and polished. While some of the plot developments are classically predictable, The Long Way Home resonates with mystery, nostalgia, and promise.” ~ Self-Publishing Review
Retired educator Brenda Burke says of The Long Way Home, “It was fantastic, and I look forward to more of the same. Craft of writing excellent and the characters jump off the page and enter one’s living room. Congratulations!”
“I love this book,” says Jean K about The Long Way Home. “Each of the characters was so realistic and brought back memories of visiting family in a home very much like this one. I know I will want to read this book again in the near future. Thank you so much to the author and publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this amazing story!