This February pick was a quick read and very relaxing. A good one to be read in comfy socks and blanket with hot cocoa. Compared to other books by the author, this one was very laid back. Anyway, I’ll share my thoughts on this one, the experience might be different for you.
This novel was a mix of love and redemption story. At that particular summer, Karen and Val who were sisters committed to taking care of their sick and ‘dramatic’ mother Margaret. I call her dramatic because a lot of her words and attitude always triggered emotions, mostly not very good ones. I can’t imagine living with someone like that, it would take constant grace to deal with them. Better still, be like Val, create a wall against her sarcastic comments. Margaret’s constant comparison of her two daughters caused some sort of sibling rivalry between the sisters. One was always thinking the other is better or preferred.
The redemption story comes in to play when one of the sisters feels remorseful and seeks forgiveness for a past mistake that she’s been carrying around in secret for years. Karen and Val determine in their heart to take a step of faith into a better relationship, help each other walk out of low self-esteem, work on forgiveness and look to God for better days.
The summer becomes more interesting as they both find love and a healthy relationship with David (Margaret’s therapist) and Scott (a musician recovering from a terrible accident). Both men have a complex background and they are also trying to work things out themselves. Together they all found their way through faith, patience, and love; totally relying on God for strength to move on.
I couldn’t choose my favorite character, I admired the two sisters especially how they helped each other rise up again. That’s what family and friendship are about. Val did a good job encouraging her sister to get out of the timid zone, move on from her past toxic relationship and embrace life positively. The part that lingers on my mind is when Val makes peace with God for her past mistake and leans on true love with David. That was a great relieve for me as a reader.
Until next review, remain blessed.