This is a heart-warming romance firmly set in the Black American culture in Orlando, Florida. Family bonds feature strongly throughout, and also the h...moreThis is a heart-warming romance firmly set in the Black American culture in Orlando, Florida. Family bonds feature strongly throughout, and also the honest battle to live the Christian life. Daria meets her new neighbor under somewhat unusual circumstances, sure to bring a laugh or two. The story follows them both as Michael leaves behind his past and Daria is faced with a new future. A number of unexpected developments reveal a connection the two never imagined they had, and a person they both know who changes their lives without having to be present. Gifts from this old friend bring the mysterious circumstance to light, but at first it just makes things harder for all concerned. Daria and Michael must struggle with the truth, with each other, and with their well-meaning yet meddlesome aunts if they want to get to their happy ending.
I particularly liked the portrayal of the couple’s struggle to remain pure while dating. Guys ‘n’ gals, there is a lot of wisdom hidden in these pages about the responsibility given in equal yet different measures to both partners. It’s easy to see just how hard it really is – don’t we all know it! – and how just one person deciding to say “Stop!” is enough to defuse the situation. Well done! I wish unmarried Christians everywhere would take this message to heart – whether single or dating.
I also enjoyed the multilayered aspects of supportive friends, relatives, and the church. These people talk straight to each other, and although mistakes are made and trust is broken, with God’s help they muster the courage to make things right again. Michael’s return to faith is shown as the end of a journey he’s been on for some time already. The author never shies away from tough issues or the harshness of real life, yet there’s always hope at the end of the tunnel. The conclusion of the story is very satisfying to a romantic heart, but also from practical points of view.
Romance with a difference – a unique perspective and memorable characters make this a very worthwhile read. Do yourself a favor and get it, particularly if you’re unmarried...(less)
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