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
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.
The Lion’s Heart by Dena Hunt
A deep, honest story of emotional struggle, temptation, and sacrifice.
Three Last Things or The Hounding of Carl Jarrold, Soulless Assassin by Corinna Turner
The last day of a convicted murderer’s life: Can he save his soul in time?
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?
Everything Old: Love in Anadauk Book 1 by Amanda Hamm
Two youth group leaders rekindle their friendship and find love with each other along the way.
Someday by Corinna Turner
Ordinary schoolgirls face a terrible fate: abuse, forced marriages, and even death at the hands of Islamic extremists.
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?
North Pacific: A Story of Life, Love, Suffering, and Grace by Michael Steffan
Joseph & Miku’s love was already illegal. Then WWII began. Now home, disabled, and questioning God’s love, he still searches for her.
A Changing of the Guard; Three Last Things Book 2 by Corinna Turner
A priest to Death Row inmates, Fr. Jacob must face the earthly consequences of ‘love thy enemy’
Earthquake Weather by Kevin Rush
The mist that settles over San Francisco hides the ugly parts of her world. Can Kristine find the courage to see with unclouded eyes?
Honor at Stake by Declan Finn
If you’re looking for a vampire-romance with a truly unique twist look no further.
Lying Awake by Mark Salzman
A cloistered nun confronts her faith when she realizes that the private revelations she has been given might be the product of epilepsy.
A Distant Prospect by Annette Young
Lucy has been broken by the horrors of polio and the war for Irish Independence. Can Australia offer her a new life and a new home?
Blink and We’ll Miss It by Ginny Kochis
Back amongst her estranged best friends and former love, Mae tries to hide her time-hopping secret.
Big in Heaven by Fr. Stephen Siniari
In this inner-city Orthodox parish, there are no easy answers—only the transformative power of God’s love.
A Hero for the People by Arthur Powers
Stories from the front lines of the Church’s mission to protect Brazilians farmers from theft and greed.
To Crown with Liberty by Karen Ullo
What must you do when nothing you can do will save those you love?
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.
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.
Life Changing Love by Theresa Linden
What do when your heart gets broken and your best friend gets an unplanned pregnancy?
