(Originally posted to GoodReads June 5, 2022)
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Being in a book lurch is no fun. I was in one and this is just what I needed :)
Heather Day Gilbert never shies away from the tough stuff. This book has plenty of real life issues presented in a way that allows us to walk through them with the characters without getting swallowed up ourselves.
Inara wishes to do the hard work to become equal to the vision she had for her life and not to be swayed by other influences that come along. She learned in the process about her self worth and that it's okay to change one's mind when new perspectives are presented.
Ellisif's storyline marked a path that felt real in the messiness of life while she did her best to put aside her heart's "wants" and be the best mother she could be to her children. She also learned about her worth along the way and that abuse can come in many forms and change the way we think about ourselves.
Both reminded me of my need for my Savior and for the people in my life to walk life out with me.
Character Development was complete and thorough and excellent. The pacing of the story was perfect with just enough time for conversation, for combat, for scene description, and even for making sure all characters were included for a purpose. I was able to follow along with all of them without feeling overwhelmed or like I was tracking too many things. Even the dialogue beats were spaced out - it was such a JOY to read this book as a reader without my technical brain getting in the way and trying to pick things apart. There wasn't anything to pick!
I used this book as my reward to accomplish all my tasks and I simply couldn't WAIT to sit down and read the next part. The men were manly, the friendships were loyal, and the conclusion was complete!
Do yourself a favor and preorder :) 5/5 do recommend
