Falling in love again wasn’t on her checklist, but he’s about to pencil it in.
Nate Reynolds’s ugly history has dogged him long enough. He has spent years reforming himself, but there has to be a purpose for all the pain in his youth. When he discovers the perfect campground for rehabbing juvenile delinquents, he sees his chance for redemption. Even if it means butting heads with the owner’s granddaughter, Gwen Doornbos, a woman who, for all her sharp edges, possesses a heart similar to his. The more time he spends with her, the more he envisions a future he once thought impossible.
Four years ago, Gwen Doornbos lost her husband at the hands of a troubled teen. Her dream of ministering to kids died with him, and she returned home to help her grandfather run their family summer camp until his retirement. That day has finally arrived, except her grandfather has other plans for Camp Hideaway, and they include the irritatingly handsome Nate, a do-gooder with more brawn than sense who insists on bringing the past right to her door.
When an accident requires Gwen to temporarily assist Nate, she discovers that the campers challenge her in ways she’s not ready to face. Yet if she can find the courage to stay, the darkness that has shrouded her for so long may lift to reveal a love arriving out of the blue.
My Thoughts
Anyone else get a little nervous when one of your favorite author’s releases a new book? I always get just a little worried that each new book just might be the one I don’t enjoy. But thankfully Susan Tuttle’s streak remains unbroken. This one didn’t unseat my favorites of hers but I still thoroughly enjoyed it!
Gwen was a tough nut to crack for sure. After facing unimaginable grief she had closed herself off and allowed bitterness and anger to to root and poison her outlook on what had once been her ministry. She came across very unlikable at first but I was also able to see through her pointed words to the hurt that lay underneath-not excusing her harshness but understanding what caused it. And I loved seeing her growth and softening as the story progressed. It wasn’t an easy journey but slowly she was able to release her anger and see things through eyes of grace.
I absolutely loved Nate. He had the biggest heart and was willing to do whatever it took to help even just one kid. Yes, he was a little naive at moments but he truly wanted to give everyone a chance to prove they could be better. And I loved the way he gently prodded Gwen toward seeing the good as well. He also was endlessly patient with the kids and Gwen, guiding and pushing when needed but never forcing. And the respectful way he handled honoring Gwen’s late husband while carving space in her life for him was definitely well done.
Nate and Gwen were definitely opposites in most regards but they balanced each other out and were exactly what the other one needed.
I was thoroughly caught up in this story and, other than Gwen’s less than stellar moments, enjoyed every moment. I also really hope there will be some follow up books about certain characters!
Meet the Author
ACFW Carol Award finalist, Susan L. Tuttle lives in Michigan, the Mitten State, where she’s a mom of three and happily married to her best friend. Between homeschooling her youngest and leading the women’s ministry at church, she finds time to write stories filled with inspiration, hope, and encouragement. Connect with Susan at susanltuttle.com.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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