It’s been five years since the accident that altered the course of Kenna Rowan’s life. She’s returned to the town where it happened, hoping to see the daughter she gave birth to while in prison but was never allowed to even see. Kenna’s not looking for redemption, just a chance to see the daughter she named Diem (think carpe diem). She has just enough money to rent a meager space and walks the street where she and Scotty once did together. When she reaches the bookstore that’s now a bar, she wanders in and gets the attention of the bartender. They’re both inexplicably drawn to each other and get pretty far before she realizes he’s Ledger Ward, Scotty’s best friend who she’d never met.
There’s so much heartbreak in this story, along with sympathy and understanding for all sides. Kenna literally has no one and a bleak outlook. Hopes of just seeing her daughter is her anchor until she meets Ledger who also has a close relationship with Diem, being raised by Scotty’s parents. She was responsible for the accident that killed their son and there were other circumstances that made it even more egregious. They want nothing to do with Kenna, nor are they willing to let Diem meet her. The situation broke my heart for everyone involved and any path to forgiveness just seemed impossible. In the middle of it all is Ledger whose growing feelings for Kenna complicate everything, especially as he’s given her a job at his bar and is keeping all that secret from Scotty’s parents.
It’s an excellent story of redemption and forgiveness, the toll it takes to hold that back even when you feel justified. I’ve heard it stated by those who have forgiven the people responsible for having harmed them that it was the only way they could move forward. It is illustrated graphically and impactfully here as I experienced the emotional toll it took for Scotty’s parents to hold onto their anger. At risk was little Diem who might never know she has a mother who loves her. There were times this story threatened to sink me because of all this despair but the hope provided by Ledger had me power on. It was an uneasy journey and I loved the performances by the two narrators, especially Pressley, the voice for Kenna. She made me feel every emotional high and low deeply. I always choose to listen to books by this author because it heightens the reading experience. This was no exception. I loved everything about this story.
Book Info
- Release Date: January 18, 2022
- Narrators: Brittany Pressley & Ryan West
- Audio Length: 10 hours, 17 minutes
- Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Goodreads | Barnes & Noble | Amazon
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
I’m so glad you loved this too, Jo! It makes me get teary just thinking about it. I loved the respect everyone had for one another, and the way the parents eventually came around. Excellent review. ❤️
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Thank you, Mischenko💜 I think I’ll too get weepy whenever I see this title. Loved your review and agree how respectfully each character was portrayed.
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Wonderful review Jo. I wasn’t too sure if I could handle all emotions in this story, but having just listened to the clip I definitely want to give it try!
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Thank you, Nicki💜 I delayed it for the same reason but now wish I hadn’t. Trust me…go for it!
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This sounds like such an emotional read but in a good way. Excellent review, Jo!
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Thank you, Tessa💜 You’ve nailed it! Every once in a while I need this kind of emotional rinse😏
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Fabulous review Jonetta. I feel like I’m the only one who doesn’t read anything from this author.🤔💖📚
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Thank you, Kaceey💜 I was late to the party, too, but quickly became a fan.
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Her books have a real emotional impact.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Anne, she really has a knack for it!
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Wonderful review, Jo! I really want to read or listen to this one. I will make sure I have tissues handy as it sounds so emotional. Forgiveness is so hard sometimes.
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Thank you, Carla💜 This required me to put my big girl pants on but this story was so relevant it was all worth it.
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Fantastic review, Jo! I have this book on hold at the library.
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Thank you, Marialyce💜 I really hope you like it.
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Yes, I knew you’d like it too! It’s not easy to forgive someone but I think the pacing was just right in this one! Wonderful review Jonetta!
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Thank you, Inge💜 You know me well!
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Fab review! I definitely can’t wait to read this one myself. xx
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Thanks, Yvo💜 I have a feeling you’d enjoy this one.
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I tend to enjoy most of her books, and I have high hopes for Reminders Of Him. xx
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Thanks for sharing your review in Carol’s blog collab. I’ve heard so many good things about his book that I have to read it soon.
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Thank you, Gina💜
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