This is a beautifully written love story that draws the reader in from page one. The characters felt so real that I was instantly drawn into their story, feeling their ups and downs, highs and lows. The author truly has a gift for words that kept me furiously turning the pages, eagerly anticipating what would happen next.
The story begins in 2006 where we meet Brian Weller, a bestselling author who recently lost his son in a terrible accident that left his wife in a coma. As he struggles to cope with the loss, an unexpected e-mail changes everything. It is from Joanna Richman, his first true love and, arguably, the love of his life. As e-mails are sent back or forth, Brian decides to head back to Boston for a book signing and to reconnect with Joanna.
The story then shifts to 1991 when Brian and Joanna met. It was love at first sight, but Joanna isn't available. She is engaged to another man, Erik Ruby. He is mean, manipulative, and egotistical, seeing Joanna as a possession that he must own, flashing his money and stature at every moment. Even though I knew the outcome, I was rooting for Brian and Joanna, hoping things would have worked out and they could have been together. I could feel the emotions between them and truly believed that they are soul mates. Erik, learning of Joanna's affair, manages to force Brian out of her life. Although I did not agree with how Erik handled things, I can understand where he was coming from. I think he did love Joanna, but was more concerned with having a "trophy wife" than actually loving her for who she is.
The story then shifts back to 2006 and Brian and Joanna's reunion. It is heartfelt and full of emotion. But, will anything change? Will Joanna learn the truth about her husband? Will Brian and Joanna get another chance?
I was impressed with how well this story was written and how much I cared about the characters. This is truly a remarkable love story that I would very highly recommend. I am definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.
The story begins in 2006 where we meet Brian Weller, a bestselling author who recently lost his son in a terrible accident that left his wife in a coma. As he struggles to cope with the loss, an unexpected e-mail changes everything. It is from Joanna Richman, his first true love and, arguably, the love of his life. As e-mails are sent back or forth, Brian decides to head back to Boston for a book signing and to reconnect with Joanna.
The story then shifts to 1991 when Brian and Joanna met. It was love at first sight, but Joanna isn't available. She is engaged to another man, Erik Ruby. He is mean, manipulative, and egotistical, seeing Joanna as a possession that he must own, flashing his money and stature at every moment. Even though I knew the outcome, I was rooting for Brian and Joanna, hoping things would have worked out and they could have been together. I could feel the emotions between them and truly believed that they are soul mates. Erik, learning of Joanna's affair, manages to force Brian out of her life. Although I did not agree with how Erik handled things, I can understand where he was coming from. I think he did love Joanna, but was more concerned with having a "trophy wife" than actually loving her for who she is.
The story then shifts back to 2006 and Brian and Joanna's reunion. It is heartfelt and full of emotion. But, will anything change? Will Joanna learn the truth about her husband? Will Brian and Joanna get another chance?
I was impressed with how well this story was written and how much I cared about the characters. This is truly a remarkable love story that I would very highly recommend. I am definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.
This was an excellent read and a great way to start my book touring adventure. I was provided this book for a tour and my nerves went crazy wondering what in the world I would do if I didn't like this book - shouldn't have worried.
I am always hesitant when I read a romanticsh novel written by a guy. Being a female - I enjoy reading when it is from the female's perspective. I am a changed woman! I loved reading how this man cherished this woman his entire life and how when she was torn away from him he never was able to heal and live fully.
My one moment was - there is a pause where we go back in time to see how this whole situation came to be. WELL I got a little confused when we went back to real time where in real time we were. Not to worry - a few pages in and I found myself!
Again - I am not one to spoil a good book - so I will say this. Go find this book. I am passing my signed copy - thanks Bill Walker - off to my mom to borrow. She has received clear instructions to return upon reading.
I am always hesitant when I read a romanticsh novel written by a guy. Being a female - I enjoy reading when it is from the female's perspective. I am a changed woman! I loved reading how this man cherished this woman his entire life and how when she was torn away from him he never was able to heal and live fully.
My one moment was - there is a pause where we go back in time to see how this whole situation came to be. WELL I got a little confused when we went back to real time where in real time we were. Not to worry - a few pages in and I found myself!
Again - I am not one to spoil a good book - so I will say this. Go find this book. I am passing my signed copy - thanks Bill Walker - off to my mom to borrow. She has received clear instructions to return upon reading.
