After reading Mrs. Pearson’s debut novel, which I enjoyed, I was interested in trying some of her other books. So when I saw that this one was coming up, I decided to try it. I appreciate the way family and faith carry big roles in her works, and I expected the same in this one—and I wasn’t disappointed! Both were definitely there, especially the family aspect of the equation.

Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the story as a whole, though. Almost all the way through the book, I was confused about what was going on, and I didn’t find the story itself very gripping. I struggled to stay on track and keep reading this one—and very nearly quit a few times. I’d like to blame it on the reading season I was in, but I don’t know if that’s all there is to it or not.

In all, this isn’t a bad book. It has a good premise and illustrates some excellent points. If you enjoy books with Southern charm, families working through their differences, and well-formed characters, this could be an excellent choice for you. There was a lot to love here. I’m just sorry this book wasn’t a good fit for me.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

I liked this book. I enjoyed the dynamics of the family. I liked how the author would give us pieces of the past,,,,just enough that I wanted more. The characters were interesting but oh my, Aunt Juju was a piece of work! Her love for her husband did shine through.
This book was about racism but to me it was more about family..

I experienced a significant loss shortly before this book released and, as this is definitely not a light-hearted, feel-good story, it took me a long time to finish and left me with a wide range of reactions. It’s hauntingly heartbreaking, full of lovely prose, uncomfortable truths handled with deft sensitivity, difficult relationships, and deep faith, which are this wonderful author’s hallmarks. I laughed at some parts and teared up at others (especially the bigotry and racial profiling too many of my friends and family have experienced). I loved Uncle Lawrence, Paulette, Mackenzie, and his friends. But despite understanding Fred, I disliked him from start to finish, which made it hard for me to see what Paulette saw in him or to root for their marriage. I also got lost in the numerous metaphors, sometimes losing the story thread and having to backtrack to pick it back up again. I found the last couple chapters confusing, though the ending mostly cleared things up and finished on a hopeful note.

What a great novel that shows the difficulties and struggles within the family, yet shows God's grace and healing.

This is the first book that I have read by this author. She has a way with words describing a setting that you can visualize in your mind. She writes about everyday situations people find their selves in. She touches on racial issues and how to overcome them. It took a couple of chapters into the book before it really got my attention and then I didn't want to put it down until I finished the last page. Will be looking for other books written by this author. I got this book from Netgalley and leaving a review.

Walking in Tall Weeds by Robin W. Pearson

Author Robin Pearson writes a family drama rooted in the south. It centers around Paulette, her husband Frederick, and their son McKinley. Paulette senses that something is not right about her family, and she tries her best to draw her son back into the fold of his family during the brief time he will be home for her birthday. Her son does have a secret that keeps him at a distance from his mother and she longs for the closeness they had when he was learning at her kitchen table. But not only does she feel distanced from her son, but things are not the way they should be with her husband either. As the story goes on, the reader realizes that this family’s relationships are further complicated by the secrets they keep.

Robin writes realistically about the relationships. She explores the relationship between a mother and her son, and about the relationship between a long-married husband and wife. She also explores the relationship between black people and white people and how their relationships are complicated by their past.

I enjoyed reading this book because it presented an unfamiliar point of view of black people in Christian fiction, as well as covering the more familiar topic of complicated family relationships. Readers of women’s fiction will enjoy this book. I am grateful to Tyndale House publishers for the complimentary copy of the ARC.

Walking in Tall Weeds by Robin W. Pearson

Author Robin Pearson writes a family drama rooted in the south. It centers around Paulette, her husband Frederick, and their son McKinley. Paulette senses that something is not right about her family, and she tries her best to draw her son back into the fold of his family during the brief time he will be home for her birthday. Her son does have a secret that keeps him at a distance from his mother and she longs for the closeness they had when he was learning at her kitchen table. But not only does she feel distanced from her son, but things are not the way they should be with her husband either. As the story goes on, the reader realizes that this family’s relationships are further complicated by the secrets they keep.

Robin writes realistically about the relationships. She explores the relationship between a mother and her son, and about the relationship between a long-married husband and wife. She also explores the relationship between black people and white people and how their relationships are complicated by their past.

I enjoyed reading this book because it presented an unfamiliar point of view of black people in Christian fiction, as well as covering the more familiar topic of complicated family relationships. Readers of women’s fiction will enjoy this book. I am grateful to Tyndale House publishers for the complimentary copy of the ARC.

I enjoyed this story. So often perception becomes the truth. The author writes the story of a family's journey through secrets, perceptions, and assumed truths.

I’ve read a prior book by Robin Pearson. Hence, going into Walking in Tall Weeds, I knew I’d be in for lush prose and poignant description of family relationships. She delivered even more than I expected.

Paulette and Fred Baldwin are an older couple from Hickory Grove, North Carolina. Robin does a great job portraying the familiarity the two have with each other but also the widening chasm that has formed in their relationship.

The Baldwins’ only child, McKinley, who’s relocated to Philadelphia, is visiting to celebrate Paulette’s 60th birthday. Before he arrives, it’s already apparent from Paulette and Fred’s preparations that McKinley’s presence will provide its share of tension among family members.

Throughout the book, Robin delivers information at a steady pacing, deepening the complexity of the Baldwins’ relationships with each other, and their individual perspectives on the secrets they harbor.

Early on, Robin provides hints that emotional wounds caused by past racial prejudice will drive the actions of some of the characters. She delivers Christ-centered examinations of prejudice and racism and even addresses the often-neglected fact that racial prejudice is not always one-way (as a reader of African descent, I was pleasantly surprised to see this acknowledged).

Ultimately, Walking in Tall Weeds offers the inspiring and perennial message that iron can sharpen iron regardless of skin color. Readers of slow-burn, rich and layered Southern drama will enjoy this novel.

What a story, I loved it from beginning to end.
This book beautifully delves into the complexities that can be found in family relationships.
Fred & Paulette have been married long enough to wonder about their marriage. Can it survive? Is there any spark left?
When their son Mckinley returns home, in time to celebrate Paulette's 60th birthday, thinks get even more complicated.
This story deals with some hard topics. Marriage complications. Racial tensions. Family relationships.
And much more.
I found it heartwarming, inspirational, and a down-to-earth story.
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

A Christian southern family drama novel that takes place in the setting of Hickory Dock, North Carolina. It was a slow mover for me, but nonetheless a fascinating and a simple read filled with great characters.... first and foremost a story about a family (and a multi-racial family…dad Fred Baldwin is Black and mom Paulette is white). McKinley their only son returns home from Philadelphia after he graduated from college to dreadfully listen to the overheated conversations along the way, even though marriage conflicts arising in his mum and dad's relationship was present but what keeps them together daily is their faith towards God.

I was feeling sympathetic towards each of them. McKinley's dad, Fred designed furniture for George & Company. He was truly a professional architect who thinks like a designer and was not interested in feelings of his friends or colleagues when it came to building a business. Mckinley grew up around the business, so he was familiar with his daddy's business but not interested to follow his footsteps. Paulette a bit concerned about their son's future after thirty-five years knew it was Fred's life's work. Their livelihood.

The author addresses relationship conflicts and racism in a careful manner in this novel. I was feeling sympathetic towards each of them. This is my first novel written by Robin W Pearson. I would rate it 4 star!

I just reviewed Walking in Tall Weeds by Robin W Pearson, Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for an advance copy for my honest review.

A family drama that deals with racism, past wrongs, a struggling marriage, and new beginnings.

Frederick and Paulette have worked hard to move beyond the mistakes of their forbears to give their only son McKinley every opportunity. But secrets that they are all keeping from each other threaten the delicate threads of their family, as they wonder if they can turn to a new chapter or stay mired in the past.

A compelling read that explores each of the main characters in detail, unearthing their most painful secrets, as well as their dreams for the future. It was interesting to see how each of their struggles would affect the others, as well as what it would mean for their family. I liked how the characters were each compelling and raw, well crafted and explored.

An emotionally deep read, masterfully woven showing the power of God's love, mercy, and justice. A powerful read, that will not disappoint!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Robin W. Pearson has written another rich Southern story, centered around a layered, flawed, and relatable family. Walking in Tall Weeds takes the reader into the Baldwin family's past, present, and future with an honest look at difficult issues. Racism, betrayal, loss, and forgiveness all come into play as the family struggles to find their footing, both in the world and in their relationships with each other. The story moves at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time to dive deep into the characters' hearts and motives. If you are a fan of richly layered Southern fiction, you will love this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Walking in Tall Weeds is story rich in family, history, love, and legacy. Each of the characters brings a different dynamic that's laced with difficulty. But the truth of difficulties lies in how each chooses to learn from them, grow in them, and whether or not they move past them. The characters are very well written. I enjoyed the plot and characters. I even found myself cheering them on! The depths of truth layered within this story are beautifully woven in history and family. How God sees each of us and who He created us to be. These are lessons we all can still use! A great read and one I highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

What lovely characters nestled among the comforts of home. I believe every reader will be challenged to love a little deeper as we see just a bit of ourselves in the Baldwins.

Robin W. Pearson is still a fairly 'new' author--- this being only her third published novel, yet she has already proven herself to be masterful story teller, tackling family issues in a way that both draws the reader in and makes them think. It takes drama and conflict to create a good story that will leave readers wanting more and Walking in Tall Weeds is a reminder that often we don't have to look far to find that at all... after all, is there any conflict like those within the family?

This story is beautifully written. The characters feel very real, and it's hard not to find yourself drawn into their lives. It takes on some pretty tough subjects, so I cannot always say it's the mot enjoyable read, but it was one that makes the reader think and I definitely feel like the author takes on those more difficult subjects with grace. It did perhaps seem a bit slower paced to me that what I typically prefer, but I felt like it works for this story.

If you're looking for a beautiful, inspirational read with just the right amount of Southern charm, this is certainly one to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

McKinley is headed home on a short vacation from his successful career to share some news with his parents that may not be welcome. He is involved with someone they know and like. But they not like the identity of her father or that she's white. However,, they also have some surprises in store for him. Add a childhood friend, a store full of finely made furniture, and a visit from an uncle and a hypercritical aunt and it looks to be a very interesting visit.

Robin W. Pearson tells it like it is in her newest book!

McKinley Baldwin is returning to his childhood home of Hickory Grove, North Carolina after he fled to Philadelphia over a year and a half ago. His parents aren’t bad, just stubborn with their traditions. Now he has big news to tell, he is planning to ask the love of his life for her hand in marriage but knows that it will be a difficult step to take with his parents. With a black dad and white mom, McKinley has learned all about the difficulties a mixed race can bring, and his future fiancé will be no exception to that as a white woman. What complicates things even more is that she is the daughter of the furniture company that his dad works at and has a grudge against the family for years after they stole his grandfather’s land. Can past hurts be healed? Or will grudges be just as stubborn as traditions?

Robin Pearson has penned another impressive story tackling many of today’s toughest issues. Set in North Carolina, Fred and Paulette are a mixed-race couple that have an only child, McKinley. Pearson brings to light the issues that many mixed-race couples face from both a public and private perspective. Possibly the most difficult issue are the issues with outside family members who can’t seem to hold back their thoughts and opinions throughout all the time these two have been married. There is not a tremendous amount of spoken dialogue throughout the book but focuses more on intrinsic issues with thoughts that occur and how different people deal with those thoughts. I love that Pearson has always managed to bring things to light that people deal with to help readers gain insight into what different people go through. Great book as usual!

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

Walking in Tall Weeds is a ver well written book. I enjoyed the plot and felt the characters were well developed and believable. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.

With Walking in Tall Weeds, Robin W. Pearson once again takes readers on a journey with characters who are easy to love despite their flaws.

Walking in Tall Weeds is the third book I have written by Robin W. Pearson, which is fitting since it is the third book she has written.

Each time I read one of her books I am pulled into a world that I am both familiar and unfamiliar with. Her characters feel like people I know, partially because they are from the South and my mom’s family is from the South, but also because Robin is so amazing at writing characters who are multi-dimensional and well-rounded.

Robin details each part of her characters' personalities in deeply personal and creative ways which creates a warm and nurturing environment for their stories to be told.

Each time I read one of Robin’s books, I am drawn to the main characters. In A Long Time Comin’ I related to Evelyn and felt like maybe Robin had been reading my private journals before she flushed out her character. In ‘Til I Want Not More I didn’t understand Maxine at first, but as I continued to read and think about her, I realized I was a lot like her as well. In Walking in Tall Weeds, though, I share so much of Paulette’s personality it was almost like looking in a soul mirror. When she did, said, or thought certain things I thought, “Oh my. That’s me.” This was both a good and a bad realization depending on the moment Paulette was in the midst of.

This book definitely touches on the evil of racism, but it is not overly dark or the only theme of this emotionally rich novel.

Robin has a way of dealing with the tough issues with a little bit of humor and a whole lot of love.

Walking In Tall Weeds is a book that intertwines a number of challenges — both family and social — but at the ultimate center of it all is how humans relate to each other.

Some readers might call this a book that focuses on a societal issue and yes, that is one aspect of this book, but the main, undercurrent focus of this book is relationships. To steal a quote from the author, this is a book that asks, “How do we love others well, through all the different stages of life? Husbands, wives, extended family, children, friends, enemies, co-workers, ourselves?”

Robin’s writing makes you think deeply about what her characters are going through but also how to tackle those same issues in your own life.

Interesting, descriptive title. To be “in the weeds” implies wading through something difficult to deal with, perhaps so stuck in the small details that you lose sight of what is important. This is an apt description of the Baldwin family.
Each member of the family is affected by past experience, injustice and wounds that color present feelings and choices and drive a wedge between their relationships both inside and outside their family. The author doesn’t shy away from the reality of racial bias and injustice and how it impacts family life. The writing is beautifully descriptive but the storyline moved along slowly for me. Toward the end I felt like it switched gears suddenly and ended a bit abruptly.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale for the opportunity to read for honest review.