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
Misshelved Magic by S.R. Crickard
A non-magical librarian and a student mage discover the secrets of a magical library.
The Poppy and The Rose by Ashlee Cowles
While abroad in England, Taylor discovers a mystery linking her to an heiress and passenger aboard The Titanic.
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.
Honor at Stake by Declan Finn
If you’re looking for a vampire-romance with a truly unique twist look no further.
Four Catholic Philosophers: Rejoicing in the Truth By: Richard A. Spinello
The rigors of philosophical thought can inspire remarkable physical courage.
Demons are Forever by Declan Finn
Marco flees from his fears of hurting Amanda by taking a job to train Vampire Hunters in San Francisco. Should be a quiet job right?
Ornamental Graces by Carolyn Astfalk
A great romantic drama about how authentic love can restore life to two people who have been hurt in the past.
The River of Life by Diana González Tabbaa
The death of little Anthony’s father shakes his faith until a heaven-sent friend helps him find his way back to God.
A Good Girl by Johnnie Bernhard
When an old man dies his daughter must trace her family tree to find the ability to forgive him.
Messina: Book 1, The Casa Bella Chronicles By Liz Galvano
Romance blossoms in the midst of chaos. A historical romance set in 1901 Italy as a young American doctor proves herself to the haughty Italian lord who has forgotten his faith.
The Table by Dennis Lambert
A table built by the grandfather of Jesus Christ survives the darkest moment in history to bring peace to a widowed musician
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.
Making a Better World By Michael Lacoy
Can Oscar be the man he wants to be to his family and friends?
Live and Let Bite Review by Declan Finn
The battle with the demons of San Francisco left Marco broken and now Amanda isn’t answering his messages.
Rachel’s Contrition by Michelle Buckman
After the loss of her child, Rachel goes insane but she must pull her mind back together to solve a murder and save her own life.
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.
In Pieces by Rhonda Ortiz
Is a marriage without love the only way to save Molly Chase’s reputation?
Stay with Me by Carolyn Astfalk
Can Rebecca get out from under her domineering father and find love with the forbidden Catholic boy determined to win her heart?
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.
Julia’s Gifts by Ellen Gable
A story of love and God’s providence in times of war.
