Review: Reviewed by Deborah Piccurelli
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 30, 2013
I have to say that this is my kind of romance novel. Author, Marianne Evans, packed it chock full of all the elements I like to see in one: Both hero and heroine strong, yet sensitive; humor, tragedy, intelligence, emotion. And, of course, we can't leave out LOVE.Political dynamo Matt Bellinger understands he has an unyielding responsibility to work hard for the betterment of his community and the world around him. Life, he believes, should be built strictly on effort and tangibles, not an elusive faith. But that belief is challenged when a bill to spearhead volunteerism leads him to canvassing efforts at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal's Place, and a meeting with Heather Cavanaugh. His polar opposite, the street-smart beauty challenges his heart and perceptions. She's the head stylist at Optiva, a trendy, upscale hair salon in downtown Detroit, as well as a tireless volunteer giving back to the city she loves in honor of the God she serves.Love blooms, gradually shifting Matt's perceptions. But when a life-threatening illness in his family challenges that fledgling faith, will he be able to hold fast to his new-found beliefs? Will he discover that faith makes all things possible and love makes all things beautiful?I especially liked the authentic feel to the story. Every emotion, every conversation, every action is perfectly placed, giving each a natural feel. One of the things that made this book so enjoyable to read, is the author's skill in carefully constructing sentences that make you forget you're only reading a book. For example:Sal iced Jack with a single look.OrWhy then, did the rest of the world fall away except for the way their eyes met, held and dueled?Nice.There are many other reasons why I truly enjoyed this book, but they would be spoilers, and I know readers wouldn't want that, so you'll all have to pick up this book and see for yourself how delightful it is. No one who is a reader of romance novels will be disappointed by this story.(The Wordsmith Journal strives to guide readers to books of personal interest, with the understanding and respect that what appeals to some may not appeal to others. Therefore we attempt to keep our reviews focused on content, genre and style. The rating is necessary to make use of Goodreads and Amazon. It reflects the reviewer's own level of enjoyment, but the review is intended to be informative for the benefit of all readers.)