Review: Perfection!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 30, 2013
I have now read two perfect books in my life...both written by Terry Dean. "Letters to My Friends" is a perfect conclusion to "Letters to My Wife" - perhaps a little too perfect.We met Kevin Clarke in LTMW, and we spent the entire book getting to know him and some of the dynamics of his relationships, especially with his wife. We come to understand the fractured relationships of the Clarke family...as they're being mended, but we never see how well Kevin knew his neighbors or how deeply he affected them until LTMF.Terry Dean not only brings Kevin's friends fully into the story, he masterfully gives the reader their backstory and insight into who they are. Long before the story ends, you're rooting for Sam and Sharon; you can feel Blake and Cari's pain - and you wonder why anyone puts up with Julie, especially Clay. I was really afraid for Amy, and Nathan was truly starting to annoy me...until I understood why. Wish we had met his wife - she sounded like a jewel. I love Jimmy Mackler! His wise words on people being placed into your life for a reason foreshadowed the key role he would have. Wish I could have seen the video Blake made that morning! Timmy was new to the story, but very important as he was able to supply more details from the day Kevin was shot. And Diogi..OMG! For someone who doesn't consider herself a "dog person", this dog grabbed my heart and didn't let go.So, I say Mr. Dean's sequel is almost too perfect...because Kevin's friends and family have become MY friends and family. And I would like to hear from them and know how they're doing. I'd like to be there for the birth of both babies, see Julie and Chelsea spend time together, and watch Sam woo Sharon. Are there any more letters? Probably not, but this story will always be with me.I highly recommend it!