|
This is our introduction to the delightful journey into the lives and love of one widow, Joan Horton, and one widower, Gerrit Appeldoorn.
Joan Horton is on sabbatical to a small town in Washington State where she plans to give piano lessons. She’s well qualified as she once taught at a New York music academy. Joan’s daughter has just made her a grandma for the first time and Joan is elated. But, Joan has troubles, too. Her son Randy fights what seems to be a downhill battle with depression, he can’t get his life together, even though Joan does everything she can to help her son succeed.
Gerrit Appeldoorn is one stubborn man. (He reminds me of so many men who touch my life). Years of hard work have taken its toll on Gerrit. He’s rough around the edges. Now that his son officially owns the dairy farm, Gerrit is retired. He wants to help still, but he has heart trouble and his son won’t let him do anything. Gerrit’s religion teaches that when a person’s time comes to die, nothings going to stop it, so he doesn’t take care of himself. Garrit is very fond of his granddaughter, Mallory, and wants her to do well in every endeavor. From raising a prize winner cow to mastering piano, he’ll do everything in his power to ensure her success.
Mallory is one of Joan’s piano students. Soon, Joan and Gerrit are exchanging romantic glances as well as challenges about each others religions. Clearly the two are drawn to each other, but coming from such different areas not just in life – she’s refined – he’s not - but also religion, will the two be able to overcome and see what God has in store for them?
The Duet is the first romance by Robert Elmer and it is a winner. Literally. I’m awarding the Road to Romance Reviewers Award. I loved the older characters, and the country setting. The unique voice, kind of a –come on in and set awhile with me – makes you not want to leave the company of these loveable characters.
If you like a gentle read with a unique voice, humor and page turning writing, you can’t miss with The Duet.
Reviewed by Linda Mae Baldwin
for The Road to Romance
March 24, 2004 |
