This book opened with an intensity that invites the readers to stop and really pay attention. I was immediately lured into the lives of these characters and found myself eager to know where they’d come from and where they were going. It was clear from the start that the road we’d be traveling together – the characters and I – would not be an easy one. From the first page, they’re clearly hurting and I hurt for them, but the journey was well worth the read.
There is quite a bit of history between Julia and Reid and their unique situation added a lot of depth to the plot and growth in their characters. I enjoyed seeing them work to communicate, move beyond past regrets, and learn to trust – and love – again. Their relationship is an emotional one – endearing one moment and heartbreaking the next. They face some serious difficulties and obstacles, but through it all they also discover themselves and a new dream worth living for.
There is a little bit of everything for readers in this book – romantic tension, surprising twists, adorable secondary characters, and hints of danger. You might think you know where the story is going, but you’ll be surprised. I enjoyed the unique twists of the tale and I loved finding out how the bridge and title connected to the story too.
Bridge of Faith is one of those books that stands out in several ways. It’s both simple and complex. It’s serious and it’s also lighthearted. It’s evident that it comes from the heart for the heart. What more can I say? I become a bigger fan of this author with every book of hers I read.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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ABOUT THE BOOK:
Two lives taken down different roads – one enduring love – one shot at starting over.
If only they believed in second chances.
Julia Connelly is finally free from twelve long years in an abusive relationship. Now able to live the life she’s longed for, Julia takes her two children back home to Vermont, hoping for peace and healing. The last person she expects to see is the man she eloped with at eighteen—who then abandoned her two months into their marriage, with little explanation.
When an assignment in the Middle East ends in tragedy, popular news correspondent, Reid Wallace, returns to his hometown seeking answers and peace of mind.
Confronting his past was not in the plan.
Now he’s asking different questions. Like why the only woman he’s ever really loved still mesmerizes him. Why the haunted expression she wears reaches right into his soul.
And why her twelve year-old son looks just like him.
They say you can’t go home again. Sometimes you don’t have a choice.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Catherine West is an award-winning author who writes stories of hope and healing from her island home in Bermuda. Educated in Bermuda, England and Canada, Catherine holds a degree in English from the University of Toronto. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. She and her husband have two college-aged children. Catherine is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America, and is represented by Rachelle Gardner of Books & Such Literary Management. Catherine loves to connect with her readers and can be reached at catherine@catherinejwest.com
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How did I possibly miss this review…wow…Savanna, if I didn’t already want to read this book, I certainly would after this! I’ve seen this book in 2-3 blogs and was hooked with the very first one I read. I really love when characters struggle with something in their lives, not that I like them to struggle, but in how they deal with it. If they find strength first in the Lord, and secondly in each other…it just makes for a deeper read. I like “meat” in my stories, not just all fluff, characters I can cry and laugh with, and wished they were real so I can hug them and bring a smile to their face.
Julia and Reid sound like those kind of characters, I really want to learn more about them! Thanks for an awe-inspiring review, Savanna! I really need to invest in this book and look for more by Catherine West!
Trixi, your words always make me smile. Yes, this is definitely one you should check out. All the stories I’ve read by Catherine have been well worth it! Julia and Reid are certainly the kind of characters you described. Thanks so much for reading my review. If what I write here can encourage others to pick up another great book, I’m always thrilled. Hope this story blesses you too!
Sounds lovely! Thanks for sharing.
I appreciate you stopping by and reading, Tarissa. I hope you’ll check out this great story too. 🙂 Have a great day!