A story about a couple who finds themselves in a new season of life. I liked the family dynamics in this book! It was very real and relatable. McKinley is my favorite character! His love for his parents is sweet. There are lots of reminders of God's power and faithfulness! A definite must read ! ( )

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. ( )

This gripping, and inspiring story will surprise you and make you think as these well-developed, flawed characters search the depths of their souls to face the hard realities of life. I loved how the author gave insight on how there had to be healing in their hearts from wrongs in the past, so they could live fully in the present. This novel is a challenging and perceptive read as questions arise, which made me ask myself what I would do in a similar situation. I liked the natural faith thread that provides compassion, seasoned with well-timed humor, and provided for a hopeful ending

Emmeline, a childhood friend says to McKinley, “What will you do if someone says something out of turn about our relationship?… we can’t go through life on the defensive with everyone else and keep the peace between us…We’re going to have to consciously see our love for each other and for others through our lenses of faith. No matter what.”

Keeping the main thing the main thing was hard on the best of days. I like what the author shared about her faith growing up in note to readers, “While sitting in her grandmothers’ kitchens, Robin …learned about the power of God and how His grace led her grandmothers to care for their large families after their husbands were long gone, a grace that has endured through generations. Robin’s family’s faith and superstitions, life lessons, and life’s longings inspired her to write about God’s love for us and how this love affects our relationships with others.”

Robin shows this in a witty, inspirational, and engaging way. I was emotionally invested from the start as the author digs deep into hard topics such as, racial tensions, forgiveness, seasons of marriage, growth, faith) in a loving, eye-opening way. This is a book you don’t want to miss. It would make for a great book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher/NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/ ( )

A story that is rich in family dynamics, and we are there to witness even the outer edges.

We have a mom and dad, and then junior home after many months. Add to this mixture a aunt who raised the dad, and is now visiting!

Well, you get the idea, no one is really good enough for her nephew, but there are deeper issues here, including race.

The author does a wonderful job of dealing with tough subjects, and at times you will be smiling with the banter that is offered!

This is a roller coaster of emotions, past hurts and grudges, revenge, and the race card, and a page turner looking for how everything will turn out, and maybe healing?

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale House, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )