Author Cindy Woodsmall is known primarily for her Amish fiction; this is her first contemporary fiction novel, set primarily on St. Simons Island. Co-authored with her daughter in law Erin, this book features two main characters: Tara Abbot, who has just experienced a terrible tragedy, and firefighter Gavin Burnside - he just lost his father and is also in the middle of a serious financial crisis.
With Gavin's "four Mamas" (the Glynn Girls) and Tara's best friends, (Elliott and Hadley) there are interesting supporting characters. The authors have added rich family histories - even the families that are not fully blood; and there's even a little bit of mystery. I am finding it a challenge to completely describe the storyline without giving too much away, as it really is a very layered book with many sub plots and expansion into the background of the supporting cast.
Overall, I will say that I enjoyed this book and felt this was a fine first outing into this genre for the authors. There were several plot points and dialogue that seemed just slightly odd/off, or just didn't ring FULLY true for me. I didn't think the mystery was at all hard to figure out and the resolution was expected; also, some of Tara's behaviors felt inconsistent and mildly annoying rather than creating empathy - but again, overall the story was interesting and I believe this book is worth reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.
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