This is a challenging review to write because I have conflicting feelings about this book. Overall, I think the story has great potential, but the execution leaves quite a bit to be desired, at least for my taste.

1. The Plot
The story concept, especially as a Christian allegory, is so spot on. I really enjoyed the overall idea: the steps the characters took to build the bridge back, what they learned along the way, and the ultimate portrayal of Christ as their savior. It’s just a perfect story idea (the concept, the formula, the progression). The way the story unfolds and the lessons learned are beautiful, well thought-out, and very much in line with the allegorical format. Having read Hinds’ Feet on High Places as my only other Christian allegory, I came into this knowing it wouldn’t be a typical novel as it’s a different kind of storytelling, and this book did that part really well.

2. The Writing
The writing style is what made me drop two stars. I even hesitated to rate it 2 star instead, but I just couldn't, because the message of Christ’s love and sacrifice was so beautifully conveyed. However, the writing is definitely, 100% AI-assisted, and some parts even feel fully AI-generated. Some readers might be okay with that, but I’m not. It takes away from the immersion, the soul of the writing, the core of it, you know? Something’s missing. So many sentences felt typically AI, and I’m not one to make baseless accusations. Maybe it’s fine for others, but for me, it pushed me away. Phrases like “voice quiet with reverence,” “voice just above a whisper,” or “slow and deliberate gestures” were repeated so often that I found myself skimming. I just couldn’t fully engage with a story that didn’t feel entirely human-written.

3. The Editing & Formatting
I didn’t notice any grammar or punctuation mistakes, which is great. But I do think the book could benefit from more editing and formatting to truly become what it’s meant to be. It has so much potential, but it feels rushed. A few more rounds of revision, editing, and beta reading would help immensely. Stronger and more thoughtful prose (crafted by a human) would elevate it. More precise language, less generic phrasing would add the substance it lacks right now. I’m also unsure about it being a series. Personally, I think it could have been a standalone book. I didn’t love the cliffhanger at the end. While most of the story is resolved (thank you, author!), there’s one unresolved element that’s saved for the second book. For an allegory of this genre, I strongly believe it should have been one complete book, even if it meant making it longer.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this e-ARC. All opinions are my own.

Please Ignore my previouse review, file was downloaded incorrectly, have been resolved now and enjoying this book so far. Rating will be updated once finished

Edited:
I’ve had to DNF this book. I was enjoying it, I haven’t been able to read anymore of it and I don’t think I’ll be picking it up any time soon, rating still stands as of when I put this book down but it’s in the DNF folder on my Kindle.

I didn't even read the whole first chapter because I knew this book wasn't for me. I don't like it for three reasons:

1. I'm not a romance reader, but I thought I'd give it a try. It obviously went as well as expected...

2. I don't like the names in the book, and especially the main character who's name makes me think of Fidel Castro.

3. I don't like how it is written, some sentences just made my skin crawl.