This was a unique book. At first, it seemed far fetched but as the story fleshed out, I could see how it was all coming together. It was a very deep and significant read. Very highly recommended!

Usually novels by Cindy Woodsmall quickly grab my attention, I instantly connect with the character and their situations and I can't put it down. Usually the author reveals the characters circumstances, there is some information as to how they got there and over time the back story gets filled in. This story made a couple of jumps that felt disjointed to me. I found it hard to re-connect afterwards because the leaps were made in a very short time. The second chapter began with this line, “12 years later.”

The novel had started out in 2005 where Tara receives a letter from her grandmother Patricia Banks. She wants Tara to visit next week to discuss family matters.

Later readers meet Gavin a firefighter whose mother is part of the Glynn Girls who are friends and business partners. They are in the middle of a move. Gavin is helping them get settled. It’s then he meets Tara on the beach. She looks lost and confused. He offers her help.

I felt that I didn’t have time to connect with and get to know Tara, her situation and the people around her before the first leap occurred. So, when the 12-year jump happened I didn’t re-connect even after the unmentionable happens. I felt like I missed out on so much. I think I would have felt and connected more if I could have experienced some intimate time with Tara, her room mates, her brothers and/or the grandmother before the leaps. Near the end of the story things came together and I found myself smiling and cheering for Tara.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine https://tinyurl.com/y9lwbfrs
SVP Promotion

Wow! This book with have you in tears right from the beginning. If I didn't live books by Cindy Woodsmall, I probably would have stopped readying after the tragedy happened. God makes all things work together for good and the author clearly portrays that in this outstanding novel.

I was hooked on this book from the first page. After all the heartache Tara went through she never gave up. I would highly recommend this book. Thank you #NETGALLEY for the free copy, this review is my honest opinion.

Going into this book I knew it was going to be something I wouldn't want to put down. From the very first chapter I was captivated by Tara Abbotts character, I related to her in more ways then I could imagine. This book took me on a journey of self discovery and knowing that regardless of a haunting past you can look forward and keep going leading yourself to a beautiful future.