Genre
Audience
Adult
Author’s Worldview
Catholic
Year Published
2016
Themes
Reviewed by
M.S. Ocampo
Katherine “Kate” Middleton (not to be mistaken for the Duchess of Cambridge)’s life changes with a single phone call from a woman she has never met. The man she thought was her husband has a whole different life apart from her, including another wife and kids. Her marriage is not even valid.
Subscribe to our Newsletter & Get Weekly Catholic Books for as little as $1
Longing to escape this false life and start fresh, Kate leases a house on Chincoteague Island, off the coast of Virginia. She takes on a new job writing for the local paper, a step up from selling advertisement space for a Washington D.C. magazine. Kate quickly makes friends within the Chincoteague community. Sparks start flying between her and Aaron Kelly, a member of the Coast Guard.
Unfortunately, Kate quickly discovers that she’s pregnant with her ex-husband’s baby. She never considers abortion as an option, in spite of not being religious. However, she avoids the responsibility of telling her former husband about it until well into the pregnancy.
Motherhood brings on many new responsibilities. Lucky for Kate, the people of Chincoteague Bay as well as her family are ready to help her. Even her brother, who has been on tour with the Army, eventually arrives to help her out. But Kate still has to face the responsibility of telling her former husband and dealing with whatever consequences come from it.
A few interesting subplots revolve around the burdens other characters are carrying. One of Kate’s friends deals with single motherhood and the stigma of being married to a man who ended up murdered. Kate’s brother and Aaron Kelly are both processing major trauma from the time they served in the military. The story has an overall theme of everyone having skeletons in their closets, but being able to overcome their pasts with the help of a supportive community.
Subscribe to our Newsletter & Get Weekly Catholic Books for as little as $1
I would recommend this novel for fans of Lifetime movie dramas as well as Hallmark Channel’s romantic comedies. Kate starts out not being a religious person, but finds comfort in the local Catholic community. This novel also handles themes of past trauma in a very relatable way.
Join Here for FREE to Never Miss a Deal
Find new favorites & Support Catholic Authors
The Gift Counselor By Sheila M. Cronin
If you’re a fan of Hallmark Channel’s cozy lineup of holiday Rom-coms, this book is definitely for you.
The Carpenter’s Son by John Gray
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to meet Jesus face-to-face in your ordinary life, this contemporary fiction novel provides a scenario filled with hope, faith, and uplifting human connection.
Rightfully Ours by Carolyn Asfalk
When Paul & Rachel discover a hidden treasure they wrestle with the responsibility of it– even as they face similar questions in their relationship.
The City Mother By Maya Sinha
She didn’t believe in good and evil, until she became a mother…
The Boy Who Knew (Friends in High Places: Carlo Acutis) by Corinna Turner
Faced with his death, a fifteen-year-old learns how to live through the wisdom of Blessed Carlo Acutis.
For Eden’s Sake by T.M. Gaouette
Life is precious whether it’s planned or not.
Unclaimed, Nameless, & Vanished by Erin McCole Cupp
Jane Eyre re-imaginged in a world where cloning, and genetic manipulation have returned us to a class system.
The Grace Crasher by Mara Faro
The Grace Crasher is the ecumenical romantic dramedy that everyone who has ever had family members in split churches needs to read.
Summer at West Castle By Theresa Linden
Is God really leading Caitlyn to bad boy Jarret?
Cinderella by Charles Perrault
The true story of the Catholic saint who inspired the myth of Cinderella
Shadow of the Bear by Regina Doman
An intriguing story that will enchant with a sweet romance and take you on a thrill ride through the Gothic version of modern-day New York City.
A Life Decision by Laurie M. Lamb
When Joe and Peyton find out that their unborn baby may have Down Syndrome, they are faced with a devastating decision.
Honor at Stake by Declan Finn
If you’re looking for a vampire-romance with a truly unique twist look no further.
Someday by Corinna Turner
Ordinary schoolgirls face a terrible fate: abuse, forced marriages, and even death at the hands of Islamic extremists.
The Wistful and the Good by G. M. Baker
Two weeks after the sacking of Lindisfarne, Norse traders aren’t welcome in Northumbria. But they’re here. Does a Viking really have a chance with an English noblewoman?
Best of 2020
Yes some good things DID happen this year- Catholic creators have not let turmoil stop their mission.
Finding Grace by Laura Pearl
Amidst the Free-love Women’s-lib culture of the 70’s how can one young girl find her path to sainthood?
Hold Fast By Spencer K.M. Brown
Will a small rowboat on Lake Superior awaken the stalled lives of a father and son?
A World Such As Heaven Intended
Amara didn’t intend to fall in love with a Union soldier. Is love even possible in her war-torn world?
Misshelved Magic by S.R. Crickard
A non-magical librarian and a student mage discover the secrets of a magical library.
