The Prodigal's Return

by Kayla Lowe

A Crossroads of Mercy Novel

Roman Matthews built a life most people only dream of—corner office, tailored suits, and a reputation as one of the top attorneys in New York City. But when his estranged father dies, Roman is forced to return to the small Southern town he abandoned years ago… along with the woman he left behind.

Adria Turner has spent years stitching her heart back together through faith, music, and teaching. When Roman shows up at his father’s funeral, the pain resurfaces—but so does something she thought was long compassion.

As Roman navigates grief, guilt, and the ghosts of his past, he finds himself drawn to the quiet strength of a church community that welcomes him with unexpected grace. But it's not until he faces the truth about who he’s become—and who God always intended him to be—that real change begins.

This is a story of broken pride, healing love, and fierce redemption—a modern retelling of the prodigal son with a heart rooted in grace.

Sometimes the road home is the hardest to take…but it leads to the only place that matters.

Genres: Book Club

284 pages, Paperback

Published July 2, 2025

About the author

Award-winning author Kayla Lowe writes women's fiction that explores complex themes with sensitivity and depth. Kayla’s books delve into the intricacies of relationships, self-discovery, and resilience. From cozy love stories interspersed with a bit of faith to heartwarming tales of friendship and suspenseful novels of empowerment and heartbreak, her books illustrate the struggles specific to women.

When she’s not churning out her next novel, you can find her with her feet in the sand and a book in her hand or curled up on the couch with her dogs.

Go to www.authorkaylalowe.com for a free book!

Reviews

[Cara J Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me by pleasant surprise. I appreciated the fact that there was deep faith evident on each page, and not just a knowledge of God. The main character’s path back to a relationship with Him was supported by Bible verses and genuine spiritual encounters. Would recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Genesia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the book! In the first few chapters, I thought, "Where's the dialogue?" but then, as I read on, I started to realize why there was so little dialogue at the beginning. Roman's journey to faith is remarkably similar to the one I had, which brought tears to my eyes. The mistakes Roman made and the feelings that Adria had because of his choices are described in such a way that I could feel her pain and the remorse he felt. The characters are alive, the scriptures and the letters that Roman's dad wrote to him draw you closer to your faith. To me, this is a page-turner, and a book I'll remember for a long time. It's worth the time spent reading, and I recommend it to all fans of Christian fiction.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kayla Lowe brings the parable of the Prodigal Son to life as she tells the story of Roman Matthews' flea from small town faith to false security in big city success, and then his return to the faith he had abandoned. The characters in this story are real. I could feel their since of betrayal and hesitancy to embrace Roman back into the fold. I could relate to Roman's need to make amends and accept responsibility for his actions. I found encouragement as Kayla incorporated scripture throughout her book. However, I was left hanging in the end. Roman accepted his role in questionable ethics related to a case. But, the reader never finds out the outcome of the ethics committee's decision.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lilian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roman left his hometown, Riverdale, thirteen years ago searching for success and glory. He became a senior counsel in New York….but deep down, he feels empty.

When he finally returns to town due to his father’s death, he soon learns the love his father had for him never stopped, even after they lost touch. The letters were so touching and reminded me of the unconditional love God has for us as well, as our Father.

Indeed, there are no coincidences, just God’s purposeful incidents. The moment when Roman finally surrenders was so beautifully written. I also liked that we see how he puts his redemption into action.

[Marichus Real · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roman left his hometown years ago. Now he is back, full of remorse and regret because he couldn’t see his father again. Now he has to learn how to live with those feelings.
This story is about how we can be distracted by a good living, good money, good position, but feel empty. There was something that was missing, and he needed to recuperate it to feel whole again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful heartfelt, uplifting book Kayla has written right here. The characters Roman and Adria will bring a few tears to your eyes at times and has your heart swelling with sadness. This book really had me thinking about my own personal life experiences and decisions. One terrific book right here.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming journey of forgiveness, grace, hope and love for Roman. The storyline deals with honest, real life issues and you can feel the range of emotion page by page. I loved the character development and how faith and one small town can change everything. This was a wonderful, heartfelt, well written story that kept my interest from beginning to end. Very inspiring read!.

[G · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very poignant novel about redemption and second chances. This book has more Christian flavour than other books by Kayla Lowe. It does leave a strong message and is an interesting book to read. e.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story of brokenness and restoration. This was an absolutely beautiful retelling of the Prodigal Son in modern day. Roman has strayed far from his upbringing but grace can reach any distance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read in a very long time!

[Amy Roelant]

3rd book in the series. Prodigal son theme. Over and over 13 years.