Sherry K. reviewed on 3/2/2013 + 188 more book reviews

Brooke Holloway lives in the cozy little town of Smithville, Texas. She lost her husband to a drunk driver two years ago but she's happy running the family hardware store, raising her two kids and looking after her mother. Owen Saunders only bought the old Hadley mansion to spite his cheating ex-wife because she always wanted to fix-up an old mansion in Smithville. He's bitter and vows never to love or trust another woman. Then he meets Brooke at the hardware store and they both find themselves intrigued with each other. Brooke tells Owen about the mystery surrounding the mansion. As they spend time together, trying to figure out the mystery, fixing up the house and getting to know each other, Brooke feels like she might be betraying her husband and Owen doesn't want to walk down 'lovers lane' again. As if things weren't complicated enough, they're also dealing with a troubled teen, a scaredy black cat, a traveling uncle, Brooke's mom and even Owens ex. But the old mansion that was known by it's first owner as 'the house that love built', just might live up to it's name. Can God use fixing up an old mansion to fix the hearts of those involved in the project?

What a thoroughly enjoyable story. It was loaded with charm yet covered some pretty tough subjects with it's root in forgiveness. Lets face it, we all can struggle with that so it was interesting to watch how each one dealt with their situation. I appreciate how the author so deftly brings to light how God can use us even when we're struggling. That was encouraging. Most of us are familiar with the verse 'love covers a multitude of sins' but you really see that verse brought to light in this story in a beautiful way. Love is a powerful thing! Though this is not a fast-paced story, it's one that certainly keeps you involved all the way through. The whole mystery surrounding the mansion was like hunting for lost treasure and I think it added a great element to the story. The relationship between all of the characters and their emotions felt true to life and spot on! You'll find yourself rooting for each one as you're reading along. These are folks that will linger with you long after you turn the last page. And I must say, I not only loved the ending but there was a twist I did not expect that just beautifully brought everything together. I loved the cover, loved the story and loved the message! Great job, Beth Wiseman! I would love to see more of these type stories from this author.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (April 2, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1595548890
ISBN-13: 978-1595548894

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