4*
All about letting go of fear that prevents us from loving and experiencing joy.
Sam, a private school librarian, has epilepsy and, as a result, had a very tough childhood. As an adult, it’s mostly under control, but the damage to her self-esteem is evident. She, by her own admission, purposely fights to find joy, but can’t let go of the ghosts of the past.
Duncan, who Sam has loved for years, comes back into her life a changed man...and not for the better. The charming, magnetic free spirit (“human mood-enhancer” per Sam) is gone, replaced by a buttoned-up, rigid man who, as new principal, wants to turn their beloved school into a prison, all in the name of keeping the children safe. Sam is determined to find out what’s happened to him and, when she does, she’s forced to look at her own life and acknowledge the comparisons between their stories that have had such a profoundly sad impact on their lives.
Despite the heavy topics discussed, the love story between them is redemptive and very touching. Center, author of Things You Save in a Fire, has gifted us with another heartwarming story that leaves us feeling optimistic at a time when we could all use some joy in our lives. The only thing that would have made it better would be a dual POV so we’d be privy to Duncan’s thoughts. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
No comments:
Post a Comment