If you are a fellow blogger you have undoubtedly marveled at the friendships that develop across the miles.  The people one “meets” through the blog world, while seldom face to face, somehow become friends that enrich us, much like our best friends we see regularly.

This is how I feel about my friend Kristy Harvey Woodson.  She is a talented designer and now a published author.  Her book, Dear Carolina released yesterday, May 5th. I’m so happy for her success, something that until recently, she said she only dreamt of.

I was thrilled when Kristy asked if I would read and post a review of her book. Once I started reading I was drawn not only to the storyline, but to each of the characters. The story is about two women and their journey through childbirth, family life and the love and understanding that each come to share.  Khaki, one of the two main characters, is easy for most of us who enjoy home decor to relate to.  She is a talented designer and a kind and thoughtful person.  Jodi, the second of the two main characters, is a smart woman with an unfortunate past.  Her talents are just waiting to reveal themselves with a little motivation from the right set of circumstances.  The contrast of these two women is what brings the narrative to life.

Khaki’s story, in addition to her wishing for a second child, details her design business and the upcoming release of her much anticipated book. Kristy keeps this part of the tale as entertaining as the main story of Khaki’s juggling home life in North Carolina, a shop and thriving design business in New York, and struggles with getting pregnant.

Jodi’s life is much different from Khaki’s, filled with a history of trials and unfortunate personal choices.  You quickly realize she is determined and very strong and you are compelled to pray she can find her way from the very beginning. An unplanned pregnancy for Jodi becomes a blessing for both women.  Khaki and Jodi’s story is one of love, friendship and the baby that intertwines their lives will touch you and bring you to tears.

Kristy weaves an uplifting tale that draws you in and makes you care very much for the entire family, but especially the outcome of the two main characters.  The story is told as each woman writes to Carolina, the baby they share, journaling their thoughts and love for her. In the end the tapestry woven is complete and emotionally rewarding.

Although I have never been to North Carolina, I was drawn to the area through Kristy’s detailed and colorful descriptions of Kinston, where most of the story takes place.  The story involves the lives of a family, some by blood, some by marriage.

The relationship-driven story would make this a wonderful Mother’s Day present, but I believe it’s such a heartwarming story that you will want extra copies for yourself and your friends.

Kristy Woodson Harvey is the author of Dear Carolina. She blogs at Design Chic about how creating a beautiful home can be the catalyst for creating a beautiful life and loves connecting with readers at kristywoodsonharvey.com. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s school of journalism and holds a Master’s in English from East Carolina University. She is a regular contributor for The Salisbury Post, Domino magazine and Houzz. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three-year-old son.

You can order Kristy’s book from your favorite bookstore:

BARNES & NOBLE • INDIEBOUND • BOOKS A MILLION • AMAZON • POWELL’S • TARGET • iTUNES • GOOGLE PLAY • KOBO

but wait, there’s more…

 Kristy and her mom, Beth, [Design Chic] have a shop filled with wonderful decorative treasures.  During Dear Carolina’s launch week (now) they are offering a $1,000 Shop Design Chic Shopping Spree to one lucky winner. To enter: Send proof of purchase of Dear Carolina (photos are fine!) to readdearcarolina@gmail. Every book is an extra entry!

The lucky winner will also receive a free e-copy of the Dear Carolina Companion cookbook, full of favorite Southern recipes from renowned bloggers and family members, and Dear Carolina printable quotes just for entering!