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Leslie Vandekeere, a Seattle ER nurse, and her family move from the city to her husband's family farm in Montana with the agreement they'll be there one year to help his mother get on her feet. Leslie's dysfunctional childhood doesn't prepare her for the Vandekeere clan and their constant involvement in her life. She is overwhelmed and feels unappreciated, especially when she's expected to attend church. The return to Seattle countdown is on.
Dan's transition is smooth. He loves the farm and extended family. His desire to stay drives a deeper wedge in his marriage. He can't understand Leslie's need to return to work after she accepts a position at the nearby hospital.
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Finances, interfering in-laws, and Dan's rekindled faith cause the pair to drift farther and farther apart. It takes a near-death experience to refocus the couple's priorities and learn to love again.
Carolyne Aarsen has nailed a story about selfishness. Self comes first in society, and the characters she's so skillfully woven fall for that lie. Learning to give up what you want for the good of another is a hard lesson; but as this family learns, it's one well worth the cost. Excellent read!
Reviewed by Eileen Key
for The Road to Romance
August 17, 2006
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