| Another visit to Tabor Heights, Ohio and I am thrilled! Reading a new instalment from her is like returning home for an extended visit. This book was an emotionally charged look at the fragile marriage of Lisa Matthews, her husband Todd, and her father-in-law Arthur. Arthur was a pillar of the community and the church. He had his hands into everything—whether others wanted him involved or not. He was a big problem in his son, Todd’s, marriage. He had never liked Lisa and constantly put her down. Unfortunately his son, unlike his four sisters, felt his father could do no wrong. He believed that his father had his best interests at heart. If he told Todd something, Todd believed him.
Todd travelled frequently with his job. That left Lisa home alone. His father continually checked on her—obviously intimidating her. He loved to share his beliefs about his daughter-in-law with his son. That meant Todd returned home without ever having contacted her on his entire trip. He had more excuses not to call her than was believable. His justifications were almost comedic. Lisa and Todd had to face their future either with or without the ‘couple-hood’ their marriage had created. After their marriage seemingly fell apart, the supporting family members and church family proved their love for the couple. This, of course, didn’t include Arthur. He didn’t think Lisa should be tolerated except to deliver his grandson. These people were created by Levigne’s hand and, along with the town we’ve come to love, made the storyline the success it was. Levigne has proven time and again that she knows how to captivate her audience. Her characters are strong, yet vulnerable. They are totally believable. The plot is strong and well developed. The more I read of her work, the more I love her. She has become a must-read for me. Anything with her name on it promises to be a strong, captivating her audience. I highly recommend you read this book. It’s a great book, part of her series, but this one could be read as a “stand-alone.” Grab the book quickly. You will not be sorry.
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Reviewer: Brenda Talley |