This is one of those magical books that makes you feel good and that only happens infrequently.  The author immediately draws you into the story of Beck, a hard and angry police sergeant in New York City, the same city in which her dad gave his life on 9-11.  She is bitter and angry but can’t seen to get to the bottom of her feelings until she finally gets suspended from work because of her actions.  This suspension gives her time to find out what is going on down south since she inherits a house from a former neighbor that she doesn’t even remember very well.  It is in Everleigh’s former home that Beck seeks to find herself.  This is a romantic mystery; the story of why Everleigh left the house to Beck is revealed slowly via the tale of both of their lives.  Flashbacks are used well, as is the point of view switching between these two main characters.  Both women need courage to face down the tragedy of the past so that they will be able to move into a promising future.  Both need healing, and God is part of this process in a way that is subtle but miraculous.  Rachel Hauck does a masterful  job of writing a novel that will stay with me for a long time since the heroines are strong female characters who overcome obstacles that would fatally cripple others.  Fans of Christian fiction should definitely read this book; fans of romance will love it; and fans of mystery will be surprised at the way the stories of the two women mingle and form one beautiful tale.

Disclaimer

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers via Netgalley.  I was not required to write a positive review, so the opinions 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 Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”