Review: Storyline has potential, but gushy dialogue and ridiculous drama ruined it
Rating: 2 out of 5
Date: 02 11, 2013
I was really disappointed in this story.  I think the author had a good basic premise, but tried to cover too much ground.  The conversations (and many of the described mannerism) were too childish for two adults, there were too many odd details to the story that never went anywhere, plus many gaping holes in story. Debra supposedly runs a bed and breakfast, yet there is NEVER any mention of taking care of her guests or even checking her schedule before going out with Eric.  Debra's cooking is repeatedly praised, but the only detail is when Eric is stuffing in a bite of the "world's best meatloaf."  Debra raised her siblings and is complaining about the way her sister takes advantage of people while completely enabling her. (minor spoiler alert: later much of her behavior is "excused" with the explanation of postpartum depression, but the behavior clearly was going on before the baby was even in the picture.  Not really buying that tidy little explanation).  What was up with the ridiculous drama between Debra and Darcy?  And then miraculously after 1 conversation they're best friends again?  And what was going on with the robbery? (another comment: there's NO WAY a young woman could "wedge" herself in a closet and fend off a determined male!)  I also had to laugh at the the description of Debra wearing "new-fashioned hip huggers" (location 1380) - this was published in 2013?!Some examples of the over top writing:"Eric knew logic didn't hold a candle to the perseverance of the heart" (location 809)"It was as if the music of the countryside ebbed and flowed and centered around Debra." (location 1380)"The joy in his voice, the happiness, was worth the very air in her lungs as far as she was concerned." (location 2024)And lastly, for a "Christian" novel this was sadly lacking in a portrayal of a real relationship with Christ.  Yes, the characters attended church and prayed before meals, but that was it.  Eric once prays, "God, bless the choices I've made today," (location 1690) and when Debra is sobbing she has an "inner knowledge finally clicking into place. Be still my child, for I love you and will never leave you." (location 2308) Lovely sentiment, but where do we go from there?