Disclosure: I received these books to review. The post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are that of my guest reviewer.

My sister had some extra time to read this summer, so she carried home a parcel of books to enjoy! Here are her thoughts on these three dramatic novels. Thanks for your review, Allison! 

Each of these books led the reader on a journey closer to God and reminded us about the importance of relying on Him in the midst of difficulties. Each book was inspirational, interesting, and relaxing.

Two Roads Home by Deborah Ramsey

In Two Roads Home, Corrine and Jesse had come to that place in marriage where a couple still loves each other, but are stuck in a pattern of complacency and restlessness in their relationship. The years of creating and enjoying their abundant upper-middle class lifestyle are gone and they have come to a place where more of their lives are lived out of habit rather than appreciation. It is time for a change. After a series of twists and turns with a stalking co-worker, a career change and a move, the couple learned that when they rely on God and are more open with each other, they are much happier. This book will appeal to anyone who has ever worried about the fidelity in their marriage, ever yearned for the freedom to pursue their individual passions, or ever wondered if the grass really is greener on the other side. This is a story about how God blesses us in ways we never expect when we take risks, live on faith, and leave our lives in His hands.  This  was another in the Chicory Inn series, in which family always comes first and a bed and breakfast plays prominently in the background. This one was a bit more suspenseful than the first, but all the Chicory Inn books are relaxing reads that take your mind off your everyday worries.

One Last Thing by Rebecca St. James and Nancy Rue

One Last Thing is one of the best books I’ve read in a while. It addresses issues that most Christian Fiction tends to shy away from and deals with it in a very honest manner. After the first few chapters, it was so revealing that I wasn’t sure I wanted to finish it, but I’m very glad I did. The plot quickly picked up and became an amazing story of how people can rise above addictions and learn to find the blessings in each situation. It was incredible to watch the characters in this story blossom and grow throughout the story into multi-faceted, resilient, and amazing people.The main character, Tara, grew up in the lap of luxury in picturesque, old-money, Savannah. One of the things I loved about this book was that the author really makes the setting a beautiful, important part of the book. Savannah is such a beautiful place, and those who love its old world charm will enjoy this book. The juxtaposition between the history of the setting and the very modern problems of its inhabitants made the book rich with imagery.

At the beginning, Tara was a sheltered, pampered young adult who planned on continuing her affluent, religious lifestyle after her upcoming wedding. When the hidden addictions of her husband-to-be are brought to light, it becomes evident that nothing in Tara’s carefully manicured life and relationship are asthey appear to be. This book was very realistic in the way it portrayed the complicated interplay of religion and addiction. One of the things I loved about it was that the portrayals of the different characters were so honest and true to life. This book sheds light on how addictions are viewed and dealt with in many prominent religious and political circles.  It was an eye-opening book and once the story really got going, I could not set it down. It was very interesting and left you rooting for the main character long after the story ended. I’m definitely going to read more books by Rebecca St. James and Nancy Rue.

Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund

Hearts Made Whole was an endearing story of a young woman’s fight to care for her family alone in Post-Civil War America. I was drawn to this book because of my affinity for lighthouses. The main character, Caroline had to endure sabotage, prejudice, and anxiety to keep the lighthouse shining its light on a world troubled by smuggling, addictions, greed, and bigotry.  Although somewhat predictable, this was a heartwarming story of a woman working tirelessly to keep her family alive without a man’s assistance in a time in which that was prohibited.

While women’s rights featured prominently in this book, ultimately Caroline fell in love with a man struggling with addictions and saw him through his struggles in true “stand by your man” style. This parallel was a little disconcerting and took some of the credibility away from the characters. The budding romance between the main characters was enjoyable as was the seaside setting. This book will particularly appeal to veterans, Civil War buffs, lighthouse enthusiasts, those who have lost a loved one, or those who deal with anxiety. It’s a good read if you want to relax by the seaside and fall in love all over again.