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The Bitter End Birding Society
Hometown hero Ana Leigh Watkins ventures to Bitter End, Tennessee, to help her great-aunt get her house ready to sell. Bitter End seems an ironic place for Ana to refresh her weary spirit, but she's desperate for respite from her community's attention and unwarranted admiration. While on a hike in Roan Mountain, a ragtag group of amateur bird watchers take her under their wing--a little against her will. However, she quickly warms to these genuine souls seeking solace in the great outdoors.
But when Ana's adventures in Bitter End lead her to a severed branch of her family tree--one that involves the forbidden love between a moonshiner's daughter and a preacher's son--what began as a quest to study Appalachian birds becomes a transformative journey that binds together two women who, though they live on the same street, have been estranged for sixty years.
Immerse yourself in the lyrical prose and layered plotting of award-winning novelist Amanda Cox as she offers up an engaging story of finding belonging, reconciliation, and new beginnings in the most unexpected places.
But when Ana's adventures in Bitter End lead her to a severed branch of her family tree--one that involves the forbidden love between a moonshiner's daughter and a preacher's son--what began as a quest to study Appalachian birds becomes a transformative journey that binds together two women who, though they live on the same street, have been estranged for sixty years.
Immerse yourself in the lyrical prose and layered plotting of award-winning novelist Amanda Cox as she offers up an engaging story of finding belonging, reconciliation, and new beginnings in the most unexpected places.
336 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2025
50 people are currently reading
6289 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Cox
6 books981 followersAmanda Cox is the author of The Edge of Belonging and The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery, both of which were the Christy Award Book of the Year in 2021 and 2022, respectively. She holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling, but her first love is communicating through story. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers. She lives in the foothills of Tennesee with her husband and their three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
August 31, 2025
In this story, you will find:
✌🏻Dual POV
✨Past/present Timeline
❤️Hope & healing
✝️Faith elements
🤭Humor
🐕Dog companion
👨👩👧👧Family dynamics
💫Dash of mystery
The Bitter End Birding Society is a beautifully written dual-timeline story filled with deeper themes, faith-centered moments, humor, and a whole lot of heart. It’s endearing and uplifting, exploring the power of love, family, and God through well-drawn characters full of depth. Some characters you’ll love right away, some will make you laugh or frustrate you, but in the end, you grow to love them all.
I love books that incorporate relatable characters and themes, ones that aren’t afraid to include harder-hitting topics, and Amanda does just that. She has a true talent for blending pain and struggles with hope, healing, and forgiveness. She does an amazing job at handling delicate themes with care and grace, where the story never leaves you feeling heavy or sad, but rather full of hope, with the beautiful messages intertwined.
"𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐭𝐢𝐝𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝."
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-crafted, feel-good story that will make you laugh, make you think, and leave you wanting to learn more about birds✨
Thank you, Amanda Cox, Revell, and Netgalley, for a complimentary ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Content to consider: [None of these are descriptive/heavy]
A few kisses, Grief, Loss of a loved one. Illness, Murder accusation, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Mention of a shooting (not detailed), Mention of a miscarriage (not detailed), car accident
✌🏻Dual POV
✨Past/present Timeline
❤️Hope & healing
✝️Faith elements
🤭Humor
🐕Dog companion
👨👩👧👧Family dynamics
💫Dash of mystery
The Bitter End Birding Society is a beautifully written dual-timeline story filled with deeper themes, faith-centered moments, humor, and a whole lot of heart. It’s endearing and uplifting, exploring the power of love, family, and God through well-drawn characters full of depth. Some characters you’ll love right away, some will make you laugh or frustrate you, but in the end, you grow to love them all.
I love books that incorporate relatable characters and themes, ones that aren’t afraid to include harder-hitting topics, and Amanda does just that. She has a true talent for blending pain and struggles with hope, healing, and forgiveness. She does an amazing job at handling delicate themes with care and grace, where the story never leaves you feeling heavy or sad, but rather full of hope, with the beautiful messages intertwined.
"𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐭𝐢𝐝𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝."
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-crafted, feel-good story that will make you laugh, make you think, and leave you wanting to learn more about birds✨
Thank you, Amanda Cox, Revell, and Netgalley, for a complimentary ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Content to consider: [None of these are descriptive/heavy]
A few kisses, Grief, Loss of a loved one. Illness, Murder accusation, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Mention of a shooting (not detailed), Mention of a miscarriage (not detailed), car accident
August 17, 2025
This is a ‘forever shelf’ story!
The Bitter End Birding Society surprised me, pulled at my heartstrings, and left me with a ‘to-do’ list for present and future personal growth. I enjoyed this one so much because I saw bits of myself in ALL the characters.
Imagine going to a place called Bitter End for a fresh start!
Ana Watkins is a Kindergarten teacher who’s running away from her life after a traumatic experience in the classroom. She ends up in Bitter End for the summer - and it changes her life. Instead of the R & R she imagined, she gets caught up in a decades-old feud tied to forbidden love between a moonshiner’s daughter and a preacher’s son.
Unravelling the intertwined lineage made for a compelling read; the dual timeline was a great choice as we get to see the effects of a single choice echoed through the generations.
Three things:
1) Joy is an important survival skill; we can learn so much from birds!
2) We don’t need to be defined by our brokenness.
3) Look for opportunities for growth and grace instead of evidence of failure
The characters were AMAZING! Some stayed for the duration of the novel, some for half, and some just popped in once - all had a purpose and a lesson for readers. I loved that there were two teachers and appreciated their lessons and advice; Marylin’s, especially.
I can’t say enough about this quiet, unassuming book. It’s worthy of all the stars and I can’t wait to share it with others.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The Bitter End Birding Society surprised me, pulled at my heartstrings, and left me with a ‘to-do’ list for present and future personal growth. I enjoyed this one so much because I saw bits of myself in ALL the characters.
Imagine going to a place called Bitter End for a fresh start!
Ana Watkins is a Kindergarten teacher who’s running away from her life after a traumatic experience in the classroom. She ends up in Bitter End for the summer - and it changes her life. Instead of the R & R she imagined, she gets caught up in a decades-old feud tied to forbidden love between a moonshiner’s daughter and a preacher’s son.
Unravelling the intertwined lineage made for a compelling read; the dual timeline was a great choice as we get to see the effects of a single choice echoed through the generations.
Three things:
1) Joy is an important survival skill; we can learn so much from birds!
2) We don’t need to be defined by our brokenness.
3) Look for opportunities for growth and grace instead of evidence of failure
The characters were AMAZING! Some stayed for the duration of the novel, some for half, and some just popped in once - all had a purpose and a lesson for readers. I loved that there were two teachers and appreciated their lessons and advice; Marylin’s, especially.
I can’t say enough about this quiet, unassuming book. It’s worthy of all the stars and I can’t wait to share it with others.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 19, 2025
4.5 stars ✨
-- "Sometimes things don't come to a tidy conclusion. Words are left unsaid. Things are left undone. But this life is not the end."
The daughter of a moonshiner and the son of a preacher - it was a forbidden romance from the very start. The choices they made would greatly impact both families far longer into the future than they could have expected.
THE BITTER END BIRDING SOCIETY is a story of healing and how to live without letting past experiences define one's life. I had no idea what to expect going into this book but am very happy I read it! Amanda Cox is not an author I've read much of yet, but after reading this book I will definitely be picking up more of her stories.
Amanda Cox tackles a lot of hard topics - generational hurt, estrangement, making poor or difficult choices, moving on from traumatic experiences, & PTSD, to name a few - and she gracefully handles them from a solid Biblical perspective. This character-driven novel is not a fluff read by any means, yet it also isn't a heavy or weighted read either. Each of the main characters have something holding them back from living life to it's full potential. This book is a reminder to the reader that what holds us back from living a life of joy is often not the outward circumstances or difficulties we face, but the perspective and attitudes we cling to regarding those circumstances.
-- "Before Bitter End, those conflicting descriptions had overwhelmed her heart with shame. But now the spaces between who she was and who she'd like to be looked like opportunities for growth and grace instead of evidence of failure."
I did find that the story took a bit to take off, even though I was fully invested from reading the prologue already. Although this book is filled in the last half with birds and experiences shared by the birding society, it took a while before the society even came up, making me wonder at first what the title had to do with the book. Like I said though, that prologue had me hooked and even though I was confused, I couldn't put it down.
*I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are purely my own.
-- "Sometimes things don't come to a tidy conclusion. Words are left unsaid. Things are left undone. But this life is not the end."
The daughter of a moonshiner and the son of a preacher - it was a forbidden romance from the very start. The choices they made would greatly impact both families far longer into the future than they could have expected.
THE BITTER END BIRDING SOCIETY is a story of healing and how to live without letting past experiences define one's life. I had no idea what to expect going into this book but am very happy I read it! Amanda Cox is not an author I've read much of yet, but after reading this book I will definitely be picking up more of her stories.
Amanda Cox tackles a lot of hard topics - generational hurt, estrangement, making poor or difficult choices, moving on from traumatic experiences, & PTSD, to name a few - and she gracefully handles them from a solid Biblical perspective. This character-driven novel is not a fluff read by any means, yet it also isn't a heavy or weighted read either. Each of the main characters have something holding them back from living life to it's full potential. This book is a reminder to the reader that what holds us back from living a life of joy is often not the outward circumstances or difficulties we face, but the perspective and attitudes we cling to regarding those circumstances.
-- "Before Bitter End, those conflicting descriptions had overwhelmed her heart with shame. But now the spaces between who she was and who she'd like to be looked like opportunities for growth and grace instead of evidence of failure."
I did find that the story took a bit to take off, even though I was fully invested from reading the prologue already. Although this book is filled in the last half with birds and experiences shared by the birding society, it took a while before the society even came up, making me wonder at first what the title had to do with the book. Like I said though, that prologue had me hooked and even though I was confused, I couldn't put it down.
*I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are purely my own.
August 15, 2025
"Birds sing to defend their territory. They sing to call for help, to warn, and to let others know they're safe. A male with a large repertoire uses his singing skills to prove himself a worthy mate. And if I had to wager, I think birds sing for the joy of it...Because joy is an important survival skill too."
The Bitter End Birding Society is a lovely split-time narrative. In the present, we follow Ana, a kindergarten teacher still recovering from the aftermath of a school shooting. In search of healing, she goes to spend the summer helping her great-aunt pack up her family home before moving to a retirement community. In the late 50s we follow Viola, Ana’s grandmother. It was in Viola’s part of the tale that we saw the most mystery and drama, Ana’s in which we witnessed the most healing and laughter. Through the eyes of both we see the mingled beauty and brokenness of the small town of Bitter End, tucked into the mountains of Tennessee. Both plot lines start on something of a traumatic note, but then lighten up somewhat from there.
"Sometimes things don't come to a tidy conclusion. Words are left unsaid. Things are left undone. But this life is not the end... Our present circumstances, our perceived failures, they are not final."
The themes in this story were beautifully handled. Cox portrays broken relationships with kindness and empathy, and we see how devastating those breaks can be. Specifically in regards to broken friendships, and how that kind of loss can continue to impact a person decades down the road. Balancing that brokenness is an emphasis on forgiveness—of those we love the most and those who hurt us the deepest, who are often one and the same. And of those who disappoint us the greatest, especially when that person is ourself.
"Because when a wound remained unhealed and untended, it had a way of warping time, keeping painful memories close to the surface."
The humor blended into the harder topics being explored was a lovely, needed addition. I love all of the backstories and theories as to how Bitter End got its name. I also like the Southern slang threaded throughout the book--like calling Walmart Wally World, or phrases like "butter my butt and call me a biscuit." Because we use both of these where I live, and more examples found between the pages of this story. And I adored the eponymous Bitter End Birding Society. It's beautiful how a diverse group of people with little in common can bond and heal and grow though a shared passion, one that none of them had initially or innately.
"Though it wasn't a chapel, the place had felt holy. The thump of her ailing heart had kept time with the jubilant, hopeful song of God's creation, reminding her even in a broken world, there was still wonder and delight to be found."
The Bitter End Birding Society is a lovely story, well-crafted with a compelling cast and a light but vital thread of faith coursing through the narrative. And any book that underscores my already deep and abiding appreciation for God’s workmanship through nature carries a little piece of my heart with it after I read its final pages. This was the first novel I read from Cox, but I definitely won’t be my last.
"Nature had a way of breaking down walls built by human hands. Gently, gradually. Not with wrecking balls but by infusing life.
Maybe that was why this group was drawn to nature. It was a living example of what they all craved. Little by little, tenaciously reclaiming life.”
July 19, 2025
Wow. More than 5 stars for this book. Amanda Cox is an extraordinary author! The way she crafted this story with its dual timelines that brought the hurt and brokenness of the past to healing and restoration touched my heart.
The characters are written brilliantly! They are relatable and I soon found myself wrapped up in their lives. Viola is a complex character. She loves her family and life in Bitter End but she also wants to travel and find love. She does find love in church of all places! Cora touched my heart the most. It seems like she has to endure one sad circumstance after another. I'm so glad that she found healing for her heart.
Bitter End certainly lives up to its name. But, it also becomes a place that offers respite and peace.
I enjoyed learning about birding. It's been an interest of mine for a while!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! They are relatable and I soon found myself wrapped up in their lives. Viola is a complex character. She loves her family and life in Bitter End but she also wants to travel and find love. She does find love in church of all places! Cora touched my heart the most. It seems like she has to endure one sad circumstance after another. I'm so glad that she found healing for her heart.
Bitter End certainly lives up to its name. But, it also becomes a place that offers respite and peace.
I enjoyed learning about birding. It's been an interest of mine for a while!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2025
If you have never read an Amanda Cox’s books, stop reading this and go find one. You can thank me later.
Once again Cox’s pens a folksy story that draws you into their world and you want to just stay there forever. Ana and her kindergarten class suffered a trauma that no one should ever be part of. Many have declared her a hero, but she knows she was no hero. She is taking a summer to get to know her aunt better and help her clear out her house so Cora can move to a retirement home.
So start the Bitter end Birding Society. A delightful book that is not only filled with some hurting people, but also very real and quirky. Cox makes her characters not only believable but ones you want to hang out. She makes her stories a place where you can heal also. They are beautifully written and are a place to go and rest.
Once again Cox’s pens a folksy story that draws you into their world and you want to just stay there forever. Ana and her kindergarten class suffered a trauma that no one should ever be part of. Many have declared her a hero, but she knows she was no hero. She is taking a summer to get to know her aunt better and help her clear out her house so Cora can move to a retirement home.
So start the Bitter end Birding Society. A delightful book that is not only filled with some hurting people, but also very real and quirky. Cox makes her characters not only believable but ones you want to hang out. She makes her stories a place where you can heal also. They are beautifully written and are a place to go and rest.
August 31, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 3/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This story brings a lot of mystery and intrigue. Right from the start we meet our FMC, Ana, and find she’s going through a lot of trauma involving a very serious event that happened in her place of work. She doesn’t hesitate to run off to Bitter End, TN to help her aunt. She’s desperate for something to keep her from a mental spiral. What she finds in Bitter End, TN, however, is a lot more than she bargained for.
The dual timeline format will keep you guessing. This family clearly has skeletons in the closet. Forbidden love and family drama abound, but strong healing themes of unlikely friendship will move this story in a direction that will cause you to pause and realize nobody is TOO broken. It’s never too late to mend fractures in life.
While I enjoy deep and slow-paced reads, this one did feel a little slower than I had anticipated, causing me to have a hard time connecting with some of the characters. Due to the disconnect I felt as though I was struggling to become fully immersed in the story. That being said - if you love nature and are craving a story that will bring lessons of growth and restoration, this book might just be for you. I loved the message of hope this author was providing within the pages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
This story brings a lot of mystery and intrigue. Right from the start we meet our FMC, Ana, and find she’s going through a lot of trauma involving a very serious event that happened in her place of work. She doesn’t hesitate to run off to Bitter End, TN to help her aunt. She’s desperate for something to keep her from a mental spiral. What she finds in Bitter End, TN, however, is a lot more than she bargained for.
The dual timeline format will keep you guessing. This family clearly has skeletons in the closet. Forbidden love and family drama abound, but strong healing themes of unlikely friendship will move this story in a direction that will cause you to pause and realize nobody is TOO broken. It’s never too late to mend fractures in life.
While I enjoy deep and slow-paced reads, this one did feel a little slower than I had anticipated, causing me to have a hard time connecting with some of the characters. Due to the disconnect I felt as though I was struggling to become fully immersed in the story. That being said - if you love nature and are craving a story that will bring lessons of growth and restoration, this book might just be for you. I loved the message of hope this author was providing within the pages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
August 20, 2025
Heartfelt and Genuine…A Must Read-
If you like mountain tales and southern fiction, this one is special. Amanda Cox intricately weaves past with present in this redeeming tale of healing and forgiveness. At its core, two families with opposing beliefs and opposing purpose…leading to unspeakable pain, broken friendships and lost family connections.
Cox delivers a poignant story with expert pacing, a beautiful spiritual arc and parallel themes, tying it up with a community of misfits…each unknowingly needing to heal from their own experiences. Each finding resolve to move on in a way they would have never chosen themselves. Dear Marilyn. You are a wise one.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
If you like mountain tales and southern fiction, this one is special. Amanda Cox intricately weaves past with present in this redeeming tale of healing and forgiveness. At its core, two families with opposing beliefs and opposing purpose…leading to unspeakable pain, broken friendships and lost family connections.
Cox delivers a poignant story with expert pacing, a beautiful spiritual arc and parallel themes, tying it up with a community of misfits…each unknowingly needing to heal from their own experiences. Each finding resolve to move on in a way they would have never chosen themselves. Dear Marilyn. You are a wise one.
This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review.
August 11, 2025
This is the 5th book by this incredible author. Amanda Cox is also a homeschooling mom to boot! She weaves interesting plots as well as lovable characters together seamlessly. I loved both of the story lines she had going & I can’t pick just one favorite character as there were so many memorable ones! Even the birding society was unique & lovely!! This just might be my all time favorite of all her books. It’s a must read for sure!!
July 13, 2025
Thank you to the author, Amanda Cox, and Revell for an ARC copy of The Bitter End Birding Society. The Bitter End Birding Society is a delightful story that completely captured my heart. The characters are well written and full of depth. The main character, Ana Leigh Watkins, runs away from a personal tragedy for the summer. In a small town in Bitter End, Tennessee, she not only finds a piece of her long-lost family history, but she also finds an interesting group of amateur bird lovers. It's through her family ties, her new friends, and her relationship with God that she finds strength. The story is full of charm and the wonderful balance of humor and emotion kept me turning pages and eager to see what happens next. This book felt both comforting and meaningful in the best ways. I enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-crafted, feel-good story with real heart.
August 20, 2025
If you want a book that explores the depths of human emotion, the tension between who you thought you were and who you want to be, and how fragile and beautiful life is in all it's facets, this is your book!! Amanda Cox never fails to draw me into her stories, and The Bitter End Birding Society was one that left me full of hope and with a greater appreciation for the hidden wonders of life. The quirky characters one expects in Amanda's novels were on point, and had me laughing along with their antics. This book was so relatable, not only because I also work in education, but because it plumbs the depths of the universal human language of suffering and the beauty of forgiveness, reconciliation, healing, and hope. Readers will find themselves pondering these questions and healing right alongside Ana, Cora, Sam, and Marilyn-- and changed for the better because of it.
July 13, 2025
I'm not sure I've ever been hooked so quickly just reading a prologue as I was with this story, and the rest of the book did not disappoint.
True to this author's style, in The Bitter End Birding Society, she married tragedy and difficult life circumstances with redemption and forgiveness, all while taking the reader on an emotional journey to a satisfying, hope-filled ending.
This dual timeline story is not just a book about birdwatching. In fact, we don't really see much about the birding society until the latter half of the book. What we do find is a story filled with deep themes and the author's heart, soul, and faith pouring out through lyrical, quotable moments that make you stop and ponder the deeper meaning of life and the beauty that can blossom despite, and maybe even because of, the hardships we face in this world.
Some of those quotes include:
"What had once been fierce and full of fight inside her chest was light and wispy, as if it was liable to float away like down feathers on the wind."
"Just this once she'd let all she'd been stuffing down spill out. Maybe then she could finally sort through the mess and decide which parts of herself she was meant to keep and let the creek water wash the rest way."
"Just because something is lost doesn't change its worth."
"Real sacrifice don't happen cause you wanna be appreciated. It's done cause it's what's best for somebody else."
"Chilled and tired and aching as they all were, peace found them beneath that crowded overhang, wrapping them in the knowledge that storms end and mornings come."
Do you see what I mean? And that's just a sampling of the richness in this story.
If you're a fan of meaningful fiction with characters who are real and authentic and make you think deeply about life, you don't want to miss Amanda Cox's newest offering!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley. A favorable review was not required. All thoughts expressed are my own.
True to this author's style, in The Bitter End Birding Society, she married tragedy and difficult life circumstances with redemption and forgiveness, all while taking the reader on an emotional journey to a satisfying, hope-filled ending.
This dual timeline story is not just a book about birdwatching. In fact, we don't really see much about the birding society until the latter half of the book. What we do find is a story filled with deep themes and the author's heart, soul, and faith pouring out through lyrical, quotable moments that make you stop and ponder the deeper meaning of life and the beauty that can blossom despite, and maybe even because of, the hardships we face in this world.
Some of those quotes include:
"What had once been fierce and full of fight inside her chest was light and wispy, as if it was liable to float away like down feathers on the wind."
"Just this once she'd let all she'd been stuffing down spill out. Maybe then she could finally sort through the mess and decide which parts of herself she was meant to keep and let the creek water wash the rest way."
"Just because something is lost doesn't change its worth."
"Real sacrifice don't happen cause you wanna be appreciated. It's done cause it's what's best for somebody else."
"Chilled and tired and aching as they all were, peace found them beneath that crowded overhang, wrapping them in the knowledge that storms end and mornings come."
Do you see what I mean? And that's just a sampling of the richness in this story.
If you're a fan of meaningful fiction with characters who are real and authentic and make you think deeply about life, you don't want to miss Amanda Cox's newest offering!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley. A favorable review was not required. All thoughts expressed are my own.
September 7, 2025
I couldn’t pass this one up. Not only do we share a family name, but we share a family obsession with birds. I’ve been on my share of birding adventures, and really enjoyed that aspect of the book. However, it’s the dual timelines, tragedies, and threads of healing and hope that really solidified this story into my soul.
One might think that nothing good can come of Bitter End, but that is definitely not the case. When Ana returns, she finds herself deep into an age-old mystery, with branches of her family tree to discover, and current emotions to sort through. I thought the author did a beautiful job of tying the past and the present together with all kinds of tangly strands, allowing for the mending of many things as situations are sprinkled with friendship, love, resolution, acceptance, and restorative notions.
Not only are these characters wonderful, but the plot and storyline is superb. I loved the experiences from the bird outings and the meaningful relationships that resulted. This story is a beautiful encounter from start to finish–loved it!
Content: themes of religion; mild romance; off-page trauma/tragedy
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
One might think that nothing good can come of Bitter End, but that is definitely not the case. When Ana returns, she finds herself deep into an age-old mystery, with branches of her family tree to discover, and current emotions to sort through. I thought the author did a beautiful job of tying the past and the present together with all kinds of tangly strands, allowing for the mending of many things as situations are sprinkled with friendship, love, resolution, acceptance, and restorative notions.
Not only are these characters wonderful, but the plot and storyline is superb. I loved the experiences from the bird outings and the meaningful relationships that resulted. This story is a beautiful encounter from start to finish–loved it!
Content: themes of religion; mild romance; off-page trauma/tragedy
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
June 25, 2025
What a lovely little escape of a book. Amanda Cox has a profound ability to merge pain and trauma with beauty and redemption and I enjoyed the journey through it all. I didn’t find the book sad, though it dealt with a lot of painful topics throughout the storyline, it was all endearing and a testament to the power of love and family. I loved envisioning the picturesque mountain town of Bitter End and the cast of lovable but flawed characters.
I will say, while I love the idea of the birding society, I had a more difficult time with the bird descriptions and situations, since I couldn’t really envision them. If you’re a birder, I’m sure it’ll ring more clearly. It did leave me wanting to pay just a bit more attention to the wonder that probably lies out there within the myriad of birds - their chirps are a bit louder now.
I had the opportunity to read this book prior to publishing, and I’m ever thankful to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. Nevetheless, all opinions are my own.
I will say, while I love the idea of the birding society, I had a more difficult time with the bird descriptions and situations, since I couldn’t really envision them. If you’re a birder, I’m sure it’ll ring more clearly. It did leave me wanting to pay just a bit more attention to the wonder that probably lies out there within the myriad of birds - their chirps are a bit louder now.
I had the opportunity to read this book prior to publishing, and I’m ever thankful to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. Nevetheless, all opinions are my own.
July 18, 2025
Ana ventures to Bitter End, Tennessee to help her great-aunt get her house ready to sell. Ana desperately needs to get away from her community's attention and admiration as she is considered a hometown hero. She goes to seek respite and time alone, but little does she know what awaits for her in Bitter End - reconciliation, family history, found family.
This book was so dear and full of faith, hope, depth, and so much more. I loved all of the characters and felt an immediate connection with them. It was deep and the character's situations caused you to ask yourself some hard questions, but there was humor all throughout that made it such a sweet and delightful book to read.
Thank you Revell and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was so dear and full of faith, hope, depth, and so much more. I loved all of the characters and felt an immediate connection with them. It was deep and the character's situations caused you to ask yourself some hard questions, but there was humor all throughout that made it such a sweet and delightful book to read.
Thank you Revell and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 23, 2025
A terrific dual timeline story set in the hills of East Tennessee.
From Viola's story in the late 1950's to Ana's later experiences in Bitter End, this engaging read held my interest throughout as their family history was revealed. Full of insight into relationships, particularly in the aftermath of personal traumas, showing the deep need for forgiveness, for oneself and others. Accepting grace and extending it to others was a solid theme in both time periods. A bit of romance is sprinkled in, but it wasn't the real focus.
I loved Marilyn and her eclectic birding group. Her sensitivity to people, encouragement and friendship was a lovely example of Christlike love. It was a good reminder to be still and listen, be thankful, show kindness and hold onto hope. This would be a good read for someone who has been struggling with self-doubt or a crisis of faith. It is a very well-written, character driven story that would be fine for teens and up. Recommend!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
From Viola's story in the late 1950's to Ana's later experiences in Bitter End, this engaging read held my interest throughout as their family history was revealed. Full of insight into relationships, particularly in the aftermath of personal traumas, showing the deep need for forgiveness, for oneself and others. Accepting grace and extending it to others was a solid theme in both time periods. A bit of romance is sprinkled in, but it wasn't the real focus.
I loved Marilyn and her eclectic birding group. Her sensitivity to people, encouragement and friendship was a lovely example of Christlike love. It was a good reminder to be still and listen, be thankful, show kindness and hold onto hope. This would be a good read for someone who has been struggling with self-doubt or a crisis of faith. It is a very well-written, character driven story that would be fine for teens and up. Recommend!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
July 21, 2025
In spite of that fact that I am not a birder, I loved this book!
Amanda Cox has such a way with words!!
Ana had an extremely traumatic event happening to her during the past year as a kindergarten teacher. When she was given the opportunity to go away for awhile, and help her aunt Cora clean out her cottage, she took it. She finds herself in the community of Bitter End.
So many surprises and unexpected things make this an enjoyable yet deeply touching book to read.
Ana makes many new friends, and finds herself with a dog she didn't want, and a part of a birding society, of which she also didn't know or want anything to do with.
As she gets to know some of the quirky and unusual people of Bitter End, she finds herself on a healing path.
This is just a beautiful story. It's not primarily a romance, although there is a hint of romance woven in.
It is about relationships. Love. Forgiveness. Second chances. And much more.
This is a story that will linger with me for awhile.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Amanda Cox has such a way with words!!
Ana had an extremely traumatic event happening to her during the past year as a kindergarten teacher. When she was given the opportunity to go away for awhile, and help her aunt Cora clean out her cottage, she took it. She finds herself in the community of Bitter End.
So many surprises and unexpected things make this an enjoyable yet deeply touching book to read.
Ana makes many new friends, and finds herself with a dog she didn't want, and a part of a birding society, of which she also didn't know or want anything to do with.
As she gets to know some of the quirky and unusual people of Bitter End, she finds herself on a healing path.
This is just a beautiful story. It's not primarily a romance, although there is a hint of romance woven in.
It is about relationships. Love. Forgiveness. Second chances. And much more.
This is a story that will linger with me for awhile.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
June 20, 2025
I'm feeling rather bitter that this story had to end!
The dual timeline story was a fantastic way to tell this story. It gave a chance for the reader to understand the complexity of the story and the choices that were made.
My favorite characters were Marilyn and Piper. I loved how Marilyn overcame so much in her life and still maintained her joy!
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
The dual timeline story was a fantastic way to tell this story. It gave a chance for the reader to understand the complexity of the story and the choices that were made.
My favorite characters were Marilyn and Piper. I loved how Marilyn overcame so much in her life and still maintained her joy!
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
“…joy is an important survival skill too.“
When I think of places that sound great for a fresh start or a period of soul-restoration, a town called Bitter End wouldn’t ordinarily top my list. But that’s before I read Amanda Cox’s latest novel and found some grace for my own spirit there too. This author – a master of insightful character arcs – brings a handful of broken people to that tiny Tennessee mountain community and tenderly orchestrates the start of healing. Not the kind that happens overnight. Not the kind that ties everything up with an easy solution. Not the kind that makes everything all right. But the kind that makes you all right, eventually, if you stick it out and do the work and let God do His thing. And in between the broken moments, Cox weaves in perfectly-placed humor, joy, faith, birdsong, belonging, and even a dash of romance … along with a multidimensional ‘tale of two families’ that ripples across six decades.
I couldn’t stop myself from falling in love with each of those wounded characters she brought together in Bitter End – either in the 1958/59 timeline or the present day one – but I have to say my favorite has to be Piper. My guess is that you’ll understand why once you officially meet her, but on the off chance you do not, I’ll say this: her story, to me, acted as a beautiful picture of Ana’s own search for belonging in this novel. God tends to teach me heart-lessons through characters like Piper in real life too, so I naturally gravitated to her presence in Ana’s life. The ‘ragtag group of amateur bird-watchers’ that enfold Ana into their midst made me smile every time they were on the page too, even in the deeper moments, because I could so easily picture – and hear – them in my mind as I read.
Bottom Line: Amanda Cox consistently writes books that remind me why I love reading fiction, and The Bitter End Birding Society sings with the same heartfelt storytelling I’ve come to expect from her. The gripping scene that begins our story, its profound affect on the present day, and the perceptive placement of each new element to the ‘full story’ kept me absolutely transfixed, even more than my hopes that Sam and Ana would fall in love (and we ALL know how difficult it is to distract me from any romance subplot lol). Cox’s lyrical writing brought every scene, every voice, to life, and I loved immersing myself in the setting. The friends I made on these pages, their grace-filled personal & spiritual transformations, and the poignant nuggets of wisdom they discover in the process are lasting treasures I’ll be taking away from this novel. This is the kind of story that leaves you a little more whole by the last word than you were when you started – don’t miss it!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
When I think of places that sound great for a fresh start or a period of soul-restoration, a town called Bitter End wouldn’t ordinarily top my list. But that’s before I read Amanda Cox’s latest novel and found some grace for my own spirit there too. This author – a master of insightful character arcs – brings a handful of broken people to that tiny Tennessee mountain community and tenderly orchestrates the start of healing. Not the kind that happens overnight. Not the kind that ties everything up with an easy solution. Not the kind that makes everything all right. But the kind that makes you all right, eventually, if you stick it out and do the work and let God do His thing. And in between the broken moments, Cox weaves in perfectly-placed humor, joy, faith, birdsong, belonging, and even a dash of romance … along with a multidimensional ‘tale of two families’ that ripples across six decades.
I couldn’t stop myself from falling in love with each of those wounded characters she brought together in Bitter End – either in the 1958/59 timeline or the present day one – but I have to say my favorite has to be Piper. My guess is that you’ll understand why once you officially meet her, but on the off chance you do not, I’ll say this: her story, to me, acted as a beautiful picture of Ana’s own search for belonging in this novel. God tends to teach me heart-lessons through characters like Piper in real life too, so I naturally gravitated to her presence in Ana’s life. The ‘ragtag group of amateur bird-watchers’ that enfold Ana into their midst made me smile every time they were on the page too, even in the deeper moments, because I could so easily picture – and hear – them in my mind as I read.
Bottom Line: Amanda Cox consistently writes books that remind me why I love reading fiction, and The Bitter End Birding Society sings with the same heartfelt storytelling I’ve come to expect from her. The gripping scene that begins our story, its profound affect on the present day, and the perceptive placement of each new element to the ‘full story’ kept me absolutely transfixed, even more than my hopes that Sam and Ana would fall in love (and we ALL know how difficult it is to distract me from any romance subplot lol). Cox’s lyrical writing brought every scene, every voice, to life, and I loved immersing myself in the setting. The friends I made on these pages, their grace-filled personal & spiritual transformations, and the poignant nuggets of wisdom they discover in the process are lasting treasures I’ll be taking away from this novel. This is the kind of story that leaves you a little more whole by the last word than you were when you started – don’t miss it!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
August 19, 2025
5 Stars!
Completed: Aug. 18/25
Format: Advanced Reader Copy
Challenge Prompt: 2nd entry for CNL’s #35 of 50 “a book with a bird on the cover” — birds are on the cover
Book #104 of 2025: I read my first Amanda Cox novel - her debut - a few years ago and loved it so much. I knew then I’d be reading whatever she wrote.
I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. Birdwatching isn’t exactly on my list of things I like to do! However, I love nature and Amanda Cox’s writing so I felt quite secure that it would be a great journey. And it was, even more than I could have imagined.
Both timelines are so captivating and they flow together so well. The characters are all so well-defined and clear in my mind. The author’s writing has a way of making everything so detailed but without bashing you over the head with it. No words are wasted or superfluous. Sounds, sight, smells, tastes, etc are woven into the two time periods as if they’re characters in the book.
I appreciate how the flaws and strengths of the characters are included and that things are not completely wrapped up in a big, fairytale bow. WHY? Because we are all on a journey. We see a lot of growth, realizations, courage, and healing in the characters. We see how God can bring things, people - and even birdwatching - into our path to help and guide us. No matter our situation, hurts, trauma, etc., He is always on the journey with us to light the way. We just need to open ourselves to that truth and embrace it.
I highlighted in several places and this is one of my favourite quotes: “And if I had to wager, I think birds sing for the joy of it." She put an arm around Ana's shoulder and pulled her to her side. "Because joy is an important survival skill too."
I could go on and on about this novel and how it touched me personally. I cannot recommend it enough.
*** Gargantuan thanks to Revell and Net Galley for an advanced reader copy of this novel. My honest review is voluntary and in my own words.
#revell #netgalley #AmandaCoxWrites #TheBitterEndBirdingSociety
Completed: Aug. 18/25
Format: Advanced Reader Copy
Challenge Prompt: 2nd entry for CNL’s #35 of 50 “a book with a bird on the cover” — birds are on the cover
Book #104 of 2025: I read my first Amanda Cox novel - her debut - a few years ago and loved it so much. I knew then I’d be reading whatever she wrote.
I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. Birdwatching isn’t exactly on my list of things I like to do! However, I love nature and Amanda Cox’s writing so I felt quite secure that it would be a great journey. And it was, even more than I could have imagined.
Both timelines are so captivating and they flow together so well. The characters are all so well-defined and clear in my mind. The author’s writing has a way of making everything so detailed but without bashing you over the head with it. No words are wasted or superfluous. Sounds, sight, smells, tastes, etc are woven into the two time periods as if they’re characters in the book.
I appreciate how the flaws and strengths of the characters are included and that things are not completely wrapped up in a big, fairytale bow. WHY? Because we are all on a journey. We see a lot of growth, realizations, courage, and healing in the characters. We see how God can bring things, people - and even birdwatching - into our path to help and guide us. No matter our situation, hurts, trauma, etc., He is always on the journey with us to light the way. We just need to open ourselves to that truth and embrace it.
I highlighted in several places and this is one of my favourite quotes: “And if I had to wager, I think birds sing for the joy of it." She put an arm around Ana's shoulder and pulled her to her side. "Because joy is an important survival skill too."
I could go on and on about this novel and how it touched me personally. I cannot recommend it enough.
*** Gargantuan thanks to Revell and Net Galley for an advanced reader copy of this novel. My honest review is voluntary and in my own words.
#revell #netgalley #AmandaCoxWrites #TheBitterEndBirdingSociety
August 19, 2025
Can I just say this book needs a stellar award and way more stars. My favorite book this year as it makes you experience all kinds of feelings. At one point I was absolutely sobbing. I loved how flawlessly it switched between 1959 and present day to tell this beautiful multifaceted diamond of a story. I’m a big fan of bird watching and therefore I was delighted to read about this bird watching society but was unexpectedly surprised to see the healing power that this group experienced. The Bitter End can be more than the name of a place but a choice we can make in life to be bitter or better from our experiences. So many layers to this one that as you peel back the layers one at a time you reveal more depth and truth to each person’s perspective and story. I loved the characters and the beautiful ebb and flow of the story like reading a beautifully written poem. It is inspirational and thought provoking with truths we can apply to our lives. I definitely recommend making this your next read. This is going on my favorite book shelf along with everything else by this author as I will have to revisit it time and again.
I received a complimentary copy from the Revell Publishing/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the Revell Publishing/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
August 16, 2025
This is soooo good!! Ana ventures to Bitter End, Tennessee, for the summer. She thinks her great-aunt Cora will be there for the summer, too. Well, her first surprise is that no, she won't! From there, there are many twists and turns Ana dreamed would happen. When she learns the truth about her great-grandparents, she's not sure how she feels about the forbidden love between the preacher's son and the moonshiner's daughter, nor about the tearing apart of a friendship between two women living on the same street but estranged for sixty years. Will Ana's stay help her to heal, and will she, through her own healing, be able to help others to heal, too?? This story took twists and turns that I didn't see coming, either!! Talk about all of the feels, and seeing that a father's love can sometimes have him making sacrifices that someone should never be forced to make. Loved how things work out in the end, and how all of the main characters learn to trust God, even in the midst of pain.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
June 14, 2025
This is a wonderful page-turner! I think this is the first book that has ever made me cry during the prologue. The Bitter End Birding Society deals with some hard topics, yet it’s full of quirky and fun characters so it doesn’t feel like a heavy book. If you’ve experienced any kind of trauma (and I think we all have to one extent or another), go on a healing journey with these characters. I did and I’m better for it. I appreciated that the book isn’t a love story, even though there are love stories in it. It goes so much deeper than that and really dives into different types of relationships, the hurt, the life lessons learned, and the healing that can be found. I not only loved it, I was blessed and encouraged by this book. Author Amanda Cox has another winner on her hands with The Bitter End Birding Society!
Note: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher. Thoughts are my own.
Note: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher. Thoughts are my own.
August 15, 2025
Ana who is trying to process an act of heroism at her elementary school, goes to Bitter End, Tennessee for the summer to help her Great Aunt Cora downsize. What she discovers is a quirky hamlet with quirky inhabitants and a family secret waiting to be revealed. The Bitter End Birding Society not only took bird watching excursions but bonded and helped eachother navigate life.
This book brought back many memories of watching birds from my kitchen window : from the diverse varieties in Wisconsin to a hawk perched on my patio next to a busy highway in St. Louis and those fiesty hummingbirds no matter where we lived.
This author writes complex but significant stories that entertain and also teach valid spiritual wisdom. If you are looking for a great romance, a spunky sidekick dog and wonder how Bitter End got its name - take a chance on this lovely book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
This book brought back many memories of watching birds from my kitchen window : from the diverse varieties in Wisconsin to a hawk perched on my patio next to a busy highway in St. Louis and those fiesty hummingbirds no matter where we lived.
This author writes complex but significant stories that entertain and also teach valid spiritual wisdom. If you are looking for a great romance, a spunky sidekick dog and wonder how Bitter End got its name - take a chance on this lovely book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
July 29, 2025
This book was so good. The writing was great. I enjoyed the dual time line. It was easy to follow. I love birds so I really connected with this book. The small romance that was happening was so sweet. I love the family connections that were revealed. If you enjoy something that is not too intense but keeps you interested from the beginning this is the book for you. Set in Eastern Tennessee, my home, made it even better.
August 19, 2025
This story was completely engrossing, with a plot that presented an extremely powerful story of estranged family members and individuals with pasts that needed to be overcome before they could move forward to a more promising future. Ana is a kindergarten teacher who had a terrible encounter with evil that has kept her from thinking that she can ever again be an effective teacher. Ana takes the opportunity to escape her current reality to go to a small town where her Aunt Cora lives. Cora has asked Ana to come help her pack up and get ready to move into a new home, and Ana is happy to be able to help someone as well as to hopefully escape her memories of the past. Once in Bitter End, Ana meets up with a rag-tag bunch of people who form the local birding society under the leadership of her Aunt Marilyn. The relationships between the people in this group form the foundation of the story as they explore not only the woods and record the birds that they see, but they also explore their own feelings of inadequacy and support each other in being willing to step out into an unknown future. I think that this book was a delight to read and I got invested in the lives of each character, my favorite one being Sam, the shepherd who is like a lost sheep himself. I loved the multi-generational element of the story, with its dual timeline and backstory about characters who aren’t present physically but who affect the current stories of the characters in imaginative ways. The rich, descriptive details of the setting and the birds that the group discover gave the story a high sense of believability as well as forming a wonderful setting for the intricate plot threads that were so well woven together. Infused with spiritual truth and enriched with authentic details, the entire book was a pleasure to read and I was sad to see it end although the conclusion was more than satisfactory. It was a heart-warming and thought-provoking story that everyone who is questioning a past choice or decision needs to read.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I also purchased my own copy since I collect the books by this author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I also purchased my own copy since I collect the books by this author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
August 10, 2025
The Bitter End Birding Society by Amanda Cox is one of my favorite books of the summer.
At the start of The Bitter End Birding Society, a character is in a sad situation. Initially, I wasn't sure I wanted to read this book because it would be sad. However, I have read all of Amanda Cox's books up until now, so I thought I better keep going. I am glad I did. Yes, there are sad places. This book deals with some complex situations. However, it also has some light moments in between. It just feels like it could be a real life story of a family that faced difficult challenges and how that looked through the years.
The Bitter End Birding Society is a split time story. In the modern time line, There is Ana Leigh Watkins who is staying at her Aunt's house for the summer to take a break from working as a kindergarten teacher after a difficult school year. She reluctantly joins The Bitter End Birding Society and we meet a variety of interesting characters.
In the past timeline, readers learn the story of Ana's family tree that faced a difficult challenge as forbidden love between a moonshiner's daughter and a preacher's son fall in love. I found this story to be more painful to read but it was also beautiful in the end.
I enjoyed the whole story. I finished reading the book in less than 24 hours as I could not put it down. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book through the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
At the start of The Bitter End Birding Society, a character is in a sad situation. Initially, I wasn't sure I wanted to read this book because it would be sad. However, I have read all of Amanda Cox's books up until now, so I thought I better keep going. I am glad I did. Yes, there are sad places. This book deals with some complex situations. However, it also has some light moments in between. It just feels like it could be a real life story of a family that faced difficult challenges and how that looked through the years.
The Bitter End Birding Society is a split time story. In the modern time line, There is Ana Leigh Watkins who is staying at her Aunt's house for the summer to take a break from working as a kindergarten teacher after a difficult school year. She reluctantly joins The Bitter End Birding Society and we meet a variety of interesting characters.
In the past timeline, readers learn the story of Ana's family tree that faced a difficult challenge as forbidden love between a moonshiner's daughter and a preacher's son fall in love. I found this story to be more painful to read but it was also beautiful in the end.
I enjoyed the whole story. I finished reading the book in less than 24 hours as I could not put it down. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book through the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 29, 2025
Absolutely heartwarming, and brilliant connections of generations that Amanda does so well. This is a dual timeline story of Appalachia in the 1950's and current time. There is tragedy, joy, and mystery. Family secrets that eventually are discovered as the story unfolds. Also, makes me want to get out into nature, and watch some birds!
July 15, 2025
Since I’m not really a bird watcher, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. But I’ve read Amanda Cox’s books before, so I dove in and I’m thrilled that I did. First of all, I loved how she creatively connected the characters and the storylines of both time frames. Next, her bird watchers were unique flawed characters dealing with a variety of life issues. The group involved family and some friends that wouldn’t naturally fit together yet Cox beautifully intertwined their lives. I especially appreciated the impactful faith lessons along the way. Since reading this story, I have been noticing birds in a different way and remembering these characters. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2025
Really lovely and heartfelt, real and raw. The book centers around people dealing brokenness from guilt, disappointment or bitterness, who find healing in community and nature, slowly allowing for God’s grace for themselves and others.
The author did a really great job at handling difficult and heartbreaking situations in each of the character’s lives, and making a path for each of them with hope and perseverance as they supported one another. I loved how it showed the importance of community especially when it’s the last thing you want to do when you’re in pain. And how seeing the beauty of God’s creation can open us up to hearing his heart, especially when it’s been hard to find.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
The author did a really great job at handling difficult and heartbreaking situations in each of the character’s lives, and making a path for each of them with hope and perseverance as they supported one another. I loved how it showed the importance of community especially when it’s the last thing you want to do when you’re in pain. And how seeing the beauty of God’s creation can open us up to hearing his heart, especially when it’s been hard to find.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
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