Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Reviewer's Bookshelf: "Hearts Made Whole" by Jody Hedlund

Book Summary (from Goodreads): After her father’s death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren’t supposed to have such roles, so it’s only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper–even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He’s been given the post as lighthouse keeper, and the isolation where he can drown in drink and hide from his past is appealing. He’s not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who’s none-too-pleased to be giving up her position. They both quickly realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but Ryan’s unwilling to let anyone close, ravaged by memories and guilt. Caroline’s drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope…and possibly love?

My thoughts....
This is the third book I've read in which one of the main characters is a war veteran and dealing with PTSD.  Each character dealt with it in his/her own way.  With Ryan Chambers, it was to drown his nightmares away with drink and pills.  When he arrived at the lighthouse, Caroline saw a broken man.  But Ryan wasn't the only broken person in the lighthouse.

The vulnerability of each of the main characters in this novel really draws you in to their story.  Caroline has been forced into the role of mother and father, she works hard to try and be a good leader and influence in her little family, but it's a heavy load to bear.  Ryan is so broken physically and mentally that he can barely take care of himself.  They are both at a point of such high need that it draws them to each other for not just romantic reasons but for physical and emotional survival.

Hedlund is a master at creating wonderful romantic moments for her characters.  I know that when I read one of her books I'm going to have those butterflies-in-my-stomach moments and this book was no exception!  Tastefully done and creates a delightful page-turning experience!

Some of the romantic moments came together as part of the suspense aspect of the plot.  Someone was trying their best to harm and cause trouble for Caroline and her family.  There was also some tension between Caroline and another family member. The plot twists that came from both of those situations also made for a fantastic read.

Definitely recommend this book!

*I received a free e-copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I gave.*

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