Review: a story of misplaced guilt and new beginnings
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 8, 2011
Tory Richard's novella "The Promise" is a story of love and loss, of misplaced guilt and new beginnings that mixes the warmth and affection of a large and welcoming family with a sensuality that just about sizzles on the pages. It will break your heart, make you smile, and encourage you believe in once- (or is that twice?) in-a-lifetime love.I was captivated by the Hayes family in this story. Ms. Richards has imbued them with color and energy and humor, and I found myself believing in them and enjoying the dynamic that exists between the married siblings. Although I did not get to know the two main characters, Shannon and Ryan, as well as I might have liked, their story still tugged and my heart and made me wish for them to have a happy ending.Ryan's gruff and stoic marine front does feel a little heavy-handed, and I caught myself becoming a little annoyed at his combativeness towards Shannon and his "never sneak up on a soldier" attitude. However, Ms. Richards tempers this by telling part of the story from his point of view, so that we see how his guilt and grief are affecting him. We also gain insight into his true nature in the scenes where he interacts with Shannon's daughter, exhibiting a previously hidden gentle side. These scenes are brief, but the contrast between tough marine and innocent toddler is almost sweet enough to lead to cavities.The sexual tension that exists between the two main characters in "The Promise" is well-executed and intense. The love scenes exhibit enough heat to fog your glasses, steal your breath, and make you sweat. Don't be surprised if you find yourself yearning for a cool breeze as you read them, because these two lovers have enough chemistry between them to make you believe in spontaneous combustion.Readers looking for a combination of sweetness and sensuality will find that "The Promise" fulfills those expectations. This Christmas-themed story has enough warmth and humor to entertain, sufficient sensuality to spice things up, and a heart-catching storyline that will fully involve your emotions.