"Hearts Made Whole"

Beacons of Hope #2

by Jody Hedlund

5 stars!

Description

“Award-winning author Hedlund continues to perfect her craft…”–Publishers Weekly

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 is 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?

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

About the author

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories. 

She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee.

http://jodyhedlund.com/

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJodyHedlund?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

The above description of "Hearts Made Whole" is sufficient. In order to avoid spoilers I will not be repetitious by adding to the author's eloquent introduction to this book. 

This is the second in the Beacons of Hope series by Jody Hedlund, and it is as impressive as the first in the series. This author has a gift for creating historic events and topics through the use of an actual individual and location, and the details surrounding them. Her research is impeccable. Creative detailing is one of this author's exceptional talents. At the end of this book the author gives historic information explaining and clarifying where her story originates. 

I admire Caroline's character. She is strong yet feminine, courageous, responsible and beautiful, a loving mother figure for her younger sisters and twin brothers. Ryan, on the other hand, caused me some frustration in his penchant for painkillers and alcohol, and his lack of responsibility. His past experiences control his actions, preventing him from taking charge of his life.

Strong personality types are revealed and utilized to provide some mystery throughout this book. Questionable characters create suspicion and uneasiness. Others reveal jealousy and mischief. Situations develop with intensity and clarity, capturing my attention and inducing a mixture of emotions, anxiety, anger and compassion. The pace is swift, the action gripping and a stirring attraction potentially destructive. 

I highly recommend "Hearts Made Whole!" A native of Michigan, I have a strong respect and passion for the lighthouses and keepers of the light that have offered protection and guidance to those who have navigated The Great Lakes. The historic details revealed through this author's insights are educational and commendable.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.