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Through an Open Window
Not yet published
Expected 19 Aug 25A woman makes unexpected decisions for her future after uncovering long-buried secrets following the death of her husband, leading to conflict within her family in this compelling novel from the author of The Sweet Taste of Muscadines.
- GenresMagical RealismFamily
352 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 19, 2025
6 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Terry
11Ìýbooks256ÌýfollowersA lifelong Southerner, Pamela Terry learned the power of storytelling at a very early age. For the past decade, Terry has been the author of the internationally popular blog From the House of Edward, which was named one of the top ten home blogs of the year by London's The Telegraph. She lives in Smyrna, Georgia, with her songwriter husband, Pat, and their three dogs, Apple, Andrew, and George. She travels to the Scottish Highlands as frequently as possible and is currently at work on her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
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April 1, 2025This is my third book by this author, which makes three in a row that I loved.
Her focus seems to be families in the south, and their dynamics across generations, while evoking in graceful, sometimes elegiac language the smells, the tastes, and the feels of that part of the world.
This one begins with a widow, whose beloved spouse has been dead for almost a year, sustaining what she can only call a ghostly vision of the Aunt who brought her up. She resists the ghost idea at first, but the vision is gently insistent, and eventually leads to sharing with her three nearly middle aged kids, who don't communicate very well with her.
The omniscient narrator slides expertly in and out of their POVs as needed, first establishing everyone, then showing how everything changes. It's such a feel good book--something I really appreciated, in these nerve wracking days!
Her focus seems to be families in the south, and their dynamics across generations, while evoking in graceful, sometimes elegiac language the smells, the tastes, and the feels of that part of the world.
This one begins with a widow, whose beloved spouse has been dead for almost a year, sustaining what she can only call a ghostly vision of the Aunt who brought her up. She resists the ghost idea at first, but the vision is gently insistent, and eventually leads to sharing with her three nearly middle aged kids, who don't communicate very well with her.
The omniscient narrator slides expertly in and out of their POVs as needed, first establishing everyone, then showing how everything changes. It's such a feel good book--something I really appreciated, in these nerve wracking days!
March 12, 2025
There's nothing like a Pamela Terry novel to touch your heart and evoke your emotions with her beautiful writing and unforgettable characters. Her latest, Through an Open Window, is about a family in flux. Ever since her husband died, Margaret has been having hallucinations of the long-deceased aunt who raised her. She doesn't dare tell her children for fear they will think she is crazy, but she can't help but think that Aunt Edith is trying to tell her something important. Margaret's adult children are three exceedingly different people--even the twins, Lawrie and Tom. Lawrie is happy as a veterinarian but hasn't convinced his live-in girlfriend of 8 years to marry him, and property developer Tom has a failing marriage and expects to be fired from his job, but he has started pursuing a new passion that startles his family. Daughter Mouse (nee Agatha), a successful caterer, has been devastated by her father's death and fears she is driving her (wonderful) husband away with her depression.
Every one of these characters is vividly portrayed and relatable, each with details that set them apart and grab the reader's attention. Supporting characters such as Lawrie's partner Emlynn, Mouse's physician husband Nick, her flamboyant friend Kitty and elderly neighbor Harriet (and her chihuahua Gatsby) are no less complex and engaging. And then there's Jubal, a Clumber spaniel who came along at just the right moment.
The story alternatively focuses on each of the protagonists and uses expressive language, gentle humor, ands surprising plot turns--not to mention a modicum of magic--to keep the reader fascinated and wanting the best for these characters, in the face of daunting issues and long-held family secrets. Toward the end, the story brought me unexpectedly to quick tears--twice--and they were happy tears. Final revelations subtly promised more positive changes in the characters' lives. I highly recommend the author's latest book, in addition to When the Moon Turns Blue and The Sweet Taste of Muscadines, all three written by a consummate storyteller and a master of the genre.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
Every one of these characters is vividly portrayed and relatable, each with details that set them apart and grab the reader's attention. Supporting characters such as Lawrie's partner Emlynn, Mouse's physician husband Nick, her flamboyant friend Kitty and elderly neighbor Harriet (and her chihuahua Gatsby) are no less complex and engaging. And then there's Jubal, a Clumber spaniel who came along at just the right moment.
The story alternatively focuses on each of the protagonists and uses expressive language, gentle humor, ands surprising plot turns--not to mention a modicum of magic--to keep the reader fascinated and wanting the best for these characters, in the face of daunting issues and long-held family secrets. Toward the end, the story brought me unexpectedly to quick tears--twice--and they were happy tears. Final revelations subtly promised more positive changes in the characters' lives. I highly recommend the author's latest book, in addition to When the Moon Turns Blue and The Sweet Taste of Muscadines, all three written by a consummate storyteller and a master of the genre.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
April 1, 2025
I greatly enjoyed this book. Pamela Terry sure can write. This is the third book of hers I have read. The two previous ones are: The Sweet Taste of Muscadines and When The Moon Turns Blue - both were very enjoyable but I think she has outdone herself on this one.
The writing is lyrical, moving, atmospheric and laugh out loud funny. The story is about Margaret Elliot, a recently widowed mother of three grown children: Lawrie & Tom who are twins but are not anything alike and Agatha who goes by the name of Mouse. Lawrie is a successful and happy veterinarian with his partner of 8 years, Emlynn who owns a local shop in town & she is adorable in so many ways. Tom is a developer who isn't too happy with his profession anymore and then there is Mouse who owns a successful catering business and her doctor husband Nick. There is also Margaret's friend Harriet and Mouse's friend Kitty -who has a very big and over the top personality.
Margaret is raised by her Aunt Edith because both of her parents died in a car accident. Aunt Edith died many years ago but suddenly Margaret is seeing her Aunt as clear as if she were still alive, she doesn't say a word but she's holding a yellow envelope. Margaret is afraid to tell anyone for fear they think she is losing her sanity.
It is a family drama of secrets held far to long. I love how the writer developed each and everyone of the characters in this novel. You just feel like you know them and that is a unique talent. I wish I could tell you more but I don't want to spoil anything.
A big thank you to: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
The writing is lyrical, moving, atmospheric and laugh out loud funny. The story is about Margaret Elliot, a recently widowed mother of three grown children: Lawrie & Tom who are twins but are not anything alike and Agatha who goes by the name of Mouse. Lawrie is a successful and happy veterinarian with his partner of 8 years, Emlynn who owns a local shop in town & she is adorable in so many ways. Tom is a developer who isn't too happy with his profession anymore and then there is Mouse who owns a successful catering business and her doctor husband Nick. There is also Margaret's friend Harriet and Mouse's friend Kitty -who has a very big and over the top personality.
Margaret is raised by her Aunt Edith because both of her parents died in a car accident. Aunt Edith died many years ago but suddenly Margaret is seeing her Aunt as clear as if she were still alive, she doesn't say a word but she's holding a yellow envelope. Margaret is afraid to tell anyone for fear they think she is losing her sanity.
It is a family drama of secrets held far to long. I love how the writer developed each and everyone of the characters in this novel. You just feel like you know them and that is a unique talent. I wish I could tell you more but I don't want to spoil anything.
A big thank you to: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 25, 2025
This is a delightful, heartfelt story about Margaret Elliott and her family. Margaret has no recollection of her parents, who died when she was a baby; she was ultimately raised by her great-aunt Edith. She married Lawrence, the boy next door, and together they raised twin boys and a girl. After the death of her beloved husband, Margaret begins seeing visions of Aunt Edith and becomes convinced that her aunt has an important message to share.
Margaret's grown children start to grow concerned about her well-being, especially her daughter, nicknamed "Mouse," who is still grappling with the loss of her father. One of the twins, Tom, is facing challenges with his employee and his wife, adding to the ongoing tension with his twin brother, Lawrie. As the siblings observe their mother struggling, they realize they need to pay closer attention to her.
As Margaret's sightings of Aunt Edith continue, she becomes increasingly convinced that a long-buried secret from her past needs to be revealed. This beautifully written story explores the theme of family, illustrating how, despite facing significant loss, the importance of supporting one another through uncertain times is a true victory for all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Margaret's grown children start to grow concerned about her well-being, especially her daughter, nicknamed "Mouse," who is still grappling with the loss of her father. One of the twins, Tom, is facing challenges with his employee and his wife, adding to the ongoing tension with his twin brother, Lawrie. As the siblings observe their mother struggling, they realize they need to pay closer attention to her.
As Margaret's sightings of Aunt Edith continue, she becomes increasingly convinced that a long-buried secret from her past needs to be revealed. This beautifully written story explores the theme of family, illustrating how, despite facing significant loss, the importance of supporting one another through uncertain times is a true victory for all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
March 24, 2025
Pamela Terry's *Through an Open Window* is a heartfelt story about love and loss, set in the charming town of Wesleyan, Georgia. The main character, Margaret Elliot, is a recently widowed woman trying to cope with her grief while receiving mysterious visits from her Aunt Edith’s spirit. As she works to uncover the truth her aunt wants to share, she also deals with the struggles of her three adult kids—Mouse, Lawrie, and Tom—who each have their own baggage.
Terry's writing style is warm and inviting, making the Southern setting come alive. The ghostly visits add an interesting twist without being too much, highlighting how our past influences our present and the enduring nature of love. Overall, *Through an Open Window* is a touching look at moving on while remembering where we come from, perfect for fans of family dramas with a little mystery thrown in.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
Terry's writing style is warm and inviting, making the Southern setting come alive. The ghostly visits add an interesting twist without being too much, highlighting how our past influences our present and the enduring nature of love. Overall, *Through an Open Window* is a touching look at moving on while remembering where we come from, perfect for fans of family dramas with a little mystery thrown in.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 31, 2025
The Sweet Taste of Muscadines. Remember this one? It was one of my favorite books. And the author has given us another gem.
Welcome to Wesleyan, Georgia. Margaret has lived here forever and loves her home. Margaret’s husband has recently died. And suddenly she is seeing her dead Aunt Edith! Standing mysteriously holding out an envelope.
Margaret wonders if she is losing her marbles. She is not. But her grown children think she may be.
As clues to what Edith wants magically appear to not only her but her children! And now everyone is trying to figure out what the big secret is.
These characters were so real and so human, they could have been my neighbors. I cried, I laughed, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this one so much, I read it twice!
NetGalley/ August 19, 2025 Random House Ballentine
Welcome to Wesleyan, Georgia. Margaret has lived here forever and loves her home. Margaret’s husband has recently died. And suddenly she is seeing her dead Aunt Edith! Standing mysteriously holding out an envelope.
Margaret wonders if she is losing her marbles. She is not. But her grown children think she may be.
As clues to what Edith wants magically appear to not only her but her children! And now everyone is trying to figure out what the big secret is.
These characters were so real and so human, they could have been my neighbors. I cried, I laughed, and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this one so much, I read it twice!
NetGalley/ August 19, 2025 Random House Ballentine
May 2, 2025
I didn't know what to expect when I was sent this book to read. I have never read a Pamela Terry book. I was intrigued by the premise of the story and feel like it surprised me (in a good way) by the events in the story. I feel like the ghost of Aunt Edith visiting was only a small piece of the story as this is more about family and the bonds we can share (and renew). Multiple perspectives of the different family members really helped me connect more to who they are. I am thankful to Random Penguin House for allowing me a chance to read this early. I cannot wait for others to meet the Eliot family (and Aunt Edith!).
April 16, 2025
I truly enjoyed this story!
Are ghosts real?
Margaret is quite sure that her deceased Aunt Edith is back as a spirit.
She has been "visiting" ever since Margaret's husband has died.
Is there a reason? What exactly is the message that Aunt Edith is trying to give?
It's an emotional, funny, heartbreaking, heartwarming ,journey of a family that is not perfect with secrets and troubles.
I loved it!
Thank you to @NetGalley and to @Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine Books for this wonderful ARC and allowing me to provide my own review.
Are ghosts real?
Margaret is quite sure that her deceased Aunt Edith is back as a spirit.
She has been "visiting" ever since Margaret's husband has died.
Is there a reason? What exactly is the message that Aunt Edith is trying to give?
It's an emotional, funny, heartbreaking, heartwarming ,journey of a family that is not perfect with secrets and troubles.
I loved it!
Thank you to @NetGalley and to @Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine Books for this wonderful ARC and allowing me to provide my own review.
March 25, 2025
A family drama with a little bit of mysticism that will grab the reader in the first chapters. A recently widowed woman sees the ghost of her aunt at different times in her home. Is she having hallucinations and is she the only one seeing her? Add some family drama with the woman's three grown children and you will have a fascinating read! I stayed up late reading this and highly recommend it. I have read this author's previous books and look forward to reading more in the future.
April 16, 2025
I enjoyed this book. It was quick. It is a story about grief and processing grief. Everyone deals with pain differently and I enjoyed reading the different perspectives. I was sometimes confused because there are many characters in this book and a lot of them tell their perspectives. I didn't connect to anyone really though so sometimes I found it hard to pick up and read. Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC
April 25, 2025
I'm a sucker for a strong southern drama and this one didn't disappoint. A bit far fetched at times but I think today we call it magical thinking! I really liked the characters and I would happily read a sequel.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Pamela Terry for this ARC ! This was a quick heartfelt read. It was my first Pamela Terry book and I enjoyed it. This was very different from my normal reads and I thought it was a great story !
Expected Release August 19, 2025.
Expected Release August 19, 2025.
April 26, 2025
I was able to read this novel thru NetGalley and enjoyed it. If you like stores about Siuthern families along with a little ghost story then this is the book for you. It was well written and the author’s descriptions of southern lifestyles and the people were entertaining.
April 11, 2025
I received a free ARC ebook of Through an Open Window from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I love books with Southern messy extended families. Of course, as with any family, there are simmering resentments that flavor their interactions, but there is also absolute familial love. Throw in grief after the death of a loving spouse and father and Terry's snappy dialog, and readers will have a wonderful time.
I love books with Southern messy extended families. Of course, as with any family, there are simmering resentments that flavor their interactions, but there is also absolute familial love. Throw in grief after the death of a loving spouse and father and Terry's snappy dialog, and readers will have a wonderful time.
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