The Bridge Between

Low Country #2

by Lindsey P. Brackett

Louisa Coultrie Halloway has returned home as caretaker for the family home on Edisto Island, but years before she left this world behind. Now she flounders to find her place. When Liam Whiting, a local professor studying tidal creek preservation, invites Lou to join his research team, she welcomes the opportunity for purpose.

David, her ex-husband, has followed Lou and their children to Edisto. As he finds his footing in this new life, their once strained relationship eases into a familiar rhythm--and he hopes for more.

But the past still has a hold on them all, especially in the presence of Grace Watson, whose son intends to marry Lou and David's daughter. Somehow, Grace and Lou must let the past of a shared love settle between them.

In this idyllic setting, relationships deepen and shift. And once more, Lou finds herself caught between the life she's chosen--and the love that might be meant to be.

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance

299 pages, Paperback

First published July 31, 2019

About the author

Lindsey P. Brackett writes southern fiction infused with her rural Georgia upbringing and Lowcountry roots. Her debut novel, Still Waters, inspired by family summers at Edisto Beach, released in 2017. Called “a brilliant debut” with “exquisite writing,” Still Waters was named an INSPY finalist and the 2018 Selah Book of the Year. Her second novel, The Bridge Between, released in 2019. Magnolia Mistletoe, an Edisto Christmas novella, is now available.

A member of ACFW and the Atlanta Writers Club, Lindsey mentors writers, and is a speaker on the lifelong value of reading and writing for conferences, schools, and libraries. Recently, she returned to full-time teaching as a middle school drama teacher. Her syndicated column "Just Write Life" appears in several North Georgia newspapers.

Download her a short story collection with newsletter signup at lindseypbrackett.com or on Instagram and Facebook: @lindseypbrackett.

Reviews

[Lauren Denton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bridge Between is a rich and satisfying follow-up to Brackett's debut novel, Still Waters, but it could also be read as a stand-alone novel. I loved this story! Brackett writes beautifully and creates characters who are so real, you'd think they're in your own family or living down the street from you. Just like with Still Waters, the deep family and relational dynamics pulled me in, as did the gorgeous setting and lowcountry details. I'll read anything Lindsey Brackett writes!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bridge Between is a lovely story of reconciliation and the beauty of a second chance. Though at first I missed the characters that the previous story revolved around, soon I was captured by Louisa and David as compelling characters in their own right. Cora Anne and Tennessee are featured in this story, so the reader does still keep up with them a bit, but more than that, it delves into the past and lays the foundation for the present day story line. I really enjoyed the use of the flashback scenes and how they made the present day more poignant and meaningful.

The setting is so well done, too. Edisto Island seems like such a warm, welcoming place. Louisa moves back there and must confront memories that she'd rather ignore. David wants to be closer to his family and perhaps fix the broken mess of their marriage, but it takes two people to do that. There are a lot of layers going on in this story, and seeing everything unravel and stitched back up, was a delight for me. And Grace, who I thought was just going to be a peripheral character, is such a sweet addition, and I loved getting her perspective in the story.

I would read Still Waters before reading this one because I really think the deep connections between the characters are better served knowing the events of that story as well. I recommend both novels to fans of Denise Hunter, Meg Moseley, and even Liz Johnson.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel and was not required to post a review. This review is my honest opinion.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lindsey P. Brackett brings readers back to Edisto, SC with a story built around broken relationships. While The Bridge Between can be read on its own, readers will get so much more out of this book if they’ve read Brackett’s debut novel, Still Waters, first.

Through the eyes of three characters and the here and now mixed with their earlier lives, Louisa, David, and Grace are granted second chances in friendships, families, and love. This story about people is beautifully set against the Edisto setting that gives readers an insider’s view of the town—both the positives and the negatives.

The triplets are a great addition to the book, and I loved catching up with Cora Ann and Tennessee. The three-generations of family represented give The Bridge Between wonderful depth as each of the characters determine what’s worth holding onto and fighting for in their lives.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that I just wanted to keep reading. There are a lot of emotions in this book and I felt like I was right there with each of these characters. The story or stories of these folks are so entwined and you can’t hear one without wanting to hear the others. It’s true that we sometimes think we know what we want, but until other options are presented, just maybe we have a change of heart. I think it’s also true that we often hurt those closest to us, sometimes without realizing it. I think that’s a growing process that many of us have to go through and hopefully fix before it’s too late. I love the characters in this book. I think you will too. I would love to go hang out with them on Edisto Island. I know we would have good food and good times. I received an ARC of this book, but my opinion is my own.

[Jessica Shrader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such an amazing read. It was so well thought out and written. The author did such a great job with the characters and I could visualize everything like I was there. I really like the double timeline and it was easy to follow. This book moved me to feel so many emotions. I laughed, cried, cheered, and smiled. It contained real life family dynamics and there is something for each reader to relate to. I could not put this book down. The author is truly talented with her storytelling and drawing the reader in. I also read her debut novel, Still Waters, and her novella, Magnolia Mistletoe, that is available by subscribing to her newsletter. All three stories relate with each other, but can also be read as a stand alone. I encourage you to read everything she has written. I can't wait for her to write more.

[Deon]

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[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bridge Between takes us back to beautiful Edisto Island in South Carolina. The descriptions are so real that you can almost smell the salt air and the pluff mud while you are reading this later life coming of age novel. NOTE: Even though this book is a continuation of the 2017 book Still Waters, it can be read as a stand alone.

Louisa lives in her old family home on Edisto Island with her triplet sons. Her daughter lives nearby as does her ex-husband David. Lou and David have shared custody of the three boys which often brings them in uneasy contact with each other. Even though they have divorced, there is a lot of strong feelings between them. Lou grew up on Edisto and when she graduated from high school, she couldn't wait to get away to the 'real world' and continue her education. Yet, here she was back on the island, still unsure of the direction she wanted her life to go. Should she get a job or go back to school? She is not happy with her life but is unsure of where she'll find happiness. The book deals with lots of problems that we all face - in-laws, jealousy and trying to find your place in the world. As Lou struggles, her relationship with her ex-husband continues to grow stronger which causes even more problems for Lou. Will she find out what she wants in life and be able to reach for it without hurting those who love her?

I really liked the main characters of Lou and David. Even though they were divorced, they worked together to provide a good family for their children. Neither was sure what the future held for them but they were both willing to take a chance with their careers and their futures. I hope that this isn't the last we read about these characters on Edisto Island - I hate to say goodbye to them.

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review and author q&a on FaithfullyBookish.com

With genuine characters and sometimes painful authenticity, Brackett explores and exposes the human condition and our soul-deep need for forgiveness and unconditional love.

The Bridge Between does not shy away from the nitty-gritty of life and complicated relationships. The tangled webs of love and loss in this story had my emotions tied up in knots, effectively holding me captive to the end! Fortunately, the calming ambiance of idyllic Edisto Island soothed my nerves as the characters worked through their numerous issues, past and present, to make way for a brighter future.

Readers of women’s fiction or contemporary romance, ready your heartstrings! I especially recommend this story to fans of Catherine West, Karen Kingsbury, Katherine Reay, and Lindsay Harrel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marriage and family relationships can be hard, messy, challenging, and frustrating, but they can also be rewarding, emotionally bonding, fun, and beautiful. Relatiomships not always what a person expects, they can be broken, but they can also be mended. Author Lindsey P. Brackett once again brings to life the world of Edisto, capturing the love and heart of her readers. This story is about friendships, families, love and second chances. It’s about overcoming obstacles in life and moving forward and making a good life. The multiple storylines will keep readers enthralled and interested in this emotional and inspiring story.

Series: Edisto
Genre: contemporary, southern, romance
Publisher: Firefly Southern Fiction
Publication date: July 31, 2019
Number of pages: 300

Other books in the series:
Still Waters

A print review copy of this book was provided by the author and an ecopy purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Velma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to be able to read an advanced reader copy of Lindsey Brackett's latest novel. This story focuses on the relationship between Lou and David, who are Cora Anne's (from the first novel in the series, Still Waters) divorced parents. This story beautifully weaves together both the past and present and how choices we make have lasting effects, but with time and love there is always hope for a new beginning as the Lord can make all things new. Lindsey's rich descriptions of the setting left me longing to visit Edisto, South Carolina and stay for the summer in a cottage by the beach. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hated to see it end. Lindsey Brackett has become one of my favorite authors.

[Amanda Hash · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was breathtakingly beautiful. Weaving together themes of family, forgiveness, and unrelenting, unwavering love -- it will make you laugh, and weep, and believe in something wonderful. Brackett eloquently reminds us that even when everything seems broken, it "doesn't mean things aren't working together for good. Just takes a while, sometimes, to see it." The Bridge Between is an absolute treasure, filled with heart and sweet Southern wisdom.

(And though this novel is a sequel, it's a perfect stand-alone read as well)

[Salena · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this beautifully written sequel, author Lindsey Brackett evokes a variety of emotions as she continues the story of a beloved family on Edisto Island who will never quite get over the loss of the family's matriarch...not that they want to. It's a story of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings. It will not disappoint.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book that holds your attention. It is a wonderful story about forgiveness and second chances. It is full of emotions and make you laugh, cry and cheer. I received an ARC copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book I truly loved and enjoyed from beginning to end! I was routing for Lou the whole time and loved the ending! I read this in a single sitting and loved the authors way of speaking to me. I can not wait to read more from her as I read as a stand-alone I still really enjoyed it ! A must read book!

[Deborah Sprinkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by Lindsey Brackett! She transports us to the low country world of South Carolina with such skill, and we feel like we’ve known her characters all our lives. Warning: once you open this book, you won’t want to put it down until you’ve read the very last word!

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa "Lou" Coultrie Halloway returns home to Edisto Island. Liam Whiting, a professor, invites Lou to join his research team studying tidal creek preservation. David, her ex-husband, has followed Lou and their children to Edisto. He wants their relationship to continue. She, not so much.

This story follows two timelines. Present and the past. I found myself enjoying each timeline, reading to get to the other. Lindsey did a great job weaving the past and the present, which in itself creates conflict. It made me appreciate what I have now, because tomorrow it may not be here. And. We are the product of our yesterday, but we don't have to be its prisoner.

I found myself caught up in this story. The southern food made me hungry. The setting made me want to go on vacation. And. The characters gave me that down-home feeling.

One of my favorite lines: "There's no such thing as letting go. There's just forgiveness, plain and simple." Well said.

I didn't expect to read this book in a day but once I got into it, I couldn't stop. It's really good. The characters are ones you'd like to be around, at least I would. The setting is a real place - Edisto Island, South Carolina. Hopefully, one day I will be able to visit it. Since I've experienced it in this book. Great read, one I highly recommend.

It would be great if there were more stories like this in real life.

[Amy Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable summer read!! This book had such descriptive settings and I could almost feel like I was on Edisto Island! For anyone who has lived in a small town, the interconnectedness of the people in your life and the way families spiral through generations will be familiar to you! The themes of forgiveness, letting go of the past and moving forward can resonate with anyone anywhere, though. The characters are fully developed and relatable. Lou and David, with their relationship ups and downs are familiar to many of us in long-term relationships with kids. The question of how much to sacrifice of ourselves for the happiness of others, and the reality that connections and relationships happen through our acts of kindness have a realistic feel. This book was a solid read and it is well written!

[Jill K Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect beach read! I could hear the gulls, feel the sand between my toes and sniff the scent of a low country boil. The story of Lou and David’s insecurities tore my heart open, even prompting me to cry in a few places. This is the first book I've read about a divorced couple considering reconciliation. The author did an admirable job bringing the characters' true feelings to the page. The only thing she could have done better would have been to print Grace's Southern recipes in the back. Maybe she'll post a few on her website.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Lindsey P. Brackett for an ARC of The Bridge Between in exchange for an honest review. This was the first novel I read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. It is a tale of forgiveness, love, and starting over. There are a few storylines running through the book. One thing that would have made this book better for me is to have read the other”Edisto” novels, so I could have a better understanding of the characters and their lives up to now.
This story follows Louisa and David as they struggle with their divorce, and whether they should trust each other again, and forgive each other for past hurts. It also follows Grace, widow of Patrick, and Lou’s first love.
This is a heartwarming book, with a sweet and touching moment or two. At one point, I cried over the visual of a scene in the waiting room of the hospital. Very touching.
I will look for this author’s other books, so I can read more about these families.
#bridgebetweenbook #edisto #lindseypbrackett

[Denise Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW

The Bridge Between by Author, Lindsey P. Brackett

Welcome to Low-Country on Edisto Island, South Carolina- where emotions run deep- a story of family history, painful memories, second chances, insecurities, love, loss and Southern Charm.

I feel for me personally, I feel that reading the previous story in the series, the authors debut novel, "Still Waters", may have helped me a bit more in understanding the "story behind the story" of Louisa, David and others included within the story line.

With that being said, I did find this to be a well written narrative with descriptive settings, interesting characters, unique twists, with a variety of emotional tugs that kept me interested- all which made for an engaging and enjoyable read.

I thank the author for my personal copy of The Bridge Between in order that I may read and review.

4 Stars

#TheBridgeBetween
#LindseyPBreackett

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Novels N Latte Book Club

[Beckie Burnham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lindsey Brackett is definitely an author to watch and read! My book club read her debut novel, Still Waters, last year and loved it. It was a great blend of Southern, romance, and women’s fiction that appealed to the varying ages of my group. So when Brackett released a book that takes the reader back to Edisto Island, I knew I needed to make the trip. The Bridge Between has some of the same elements of the first book in the series — wonderful setting, characters that capture your heart, and emotional issues that resonate with the reader — yet it has a more mature feeling. And that is a good thing! The characters are not twenty-somethings, but have a few years on them and the baggage to go along with a longer life. And while I believe The Bridge Between will still appeal to all ages, I found more common ground with the characters that filled the pages. This one is definitely a recommended read.

Lou is back in her childhood home after years of being away. She returned to Edisto with triplet middle school-aged boys, a ton of regrets, lost dreams, and some bitterness she can’t seem to let go of. Her life is definitely not what she thought it would look like when she left. Things have changed on the island as well, but familiar people and landmarks make her come to terms with events and choices from the past. Add wedding plans for her older daughter, an ex-huband who won’t go away, and reminders of what could have been, and you have a complex novel of life and love. As I said, the main characters — Lou, David, and Grace — are a bit older than many you see in contemporary fiction. They have insight from the many mistakes made along the way. I liked that they didn’t have it all together (very realistic), yet they didn’t settle for what had always been. The Bridge Between is a novel of beginnings and endings and beginning again. Its portrayal of marriage is refreshing. Often books end with the mains heading into the sunset for their HEA. This novel looks at what is on the other side when the newness and the excitement dissipate and hurt feelings and rash actions and words take over. I won’t spoil the ending for you, but I think you will love how Brackett brings all things together.

The Bridge Between starts where Still Waters leaves off and can be read as a standalone. But why would you want to? LOL! Pick up both and settle in for a glorious trip to the world of Edisto Island.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dear Reader, if you have time, please read Still Waters, before diving into this second marvelous novel, The Bridge Between! Pull up a beach chair, a cold drink, feel the breeze, smell the pluff mud and listen to the rolling waves. It isn’t necessary that you do so, but the family you will fall in love with in Still Waters continues in this newest work. Having read both books, I feel I know the characters so well that I am surprised they are not neighbors of mine.

The Bridge Between opens where Still Waters ends. On Edisto Beach at Still Waters. In this latest novel, we look deeper into the events exposed in Still Waters offering context to life on Edisto after Nan’s death. Lou and her rambunctious triplets have moved into Still Waters. Lou’s ex-husband, David Halloway has moved onto the island with the hopes of a second chance. Cora Ann and Tennessee are still in a budding romance. And the triplets are still wreaking havoc in everyone’s daily lives as they rumble through the plot.

“Standing back from the porch eaves… Louise Coultrie Halloway warmed her hands around her coffee…Things were left in the house just as they had been when Mama passed. Lou spied a green shoe box on the side table… Her own cache of secrets…”

If you are meeting the Halloway family and their extended relatives and neighbors for the first time, it will take you a few chapters to come up to speed. Think of it as the first time you met your future-in-laws at holiday time. Perhaps it reminds you of returning home after a long time away to find that everyone’s life has moved on just like your own; circumstances and chance have intervened. You are faced with the fact that people make choices; and choices have consequences – both good and bad.

But deep down, at heart of things, that which drove people away hold seeds of better times and the potential to rekindle new memories and forgiveness. The Bridge Between is filled with emotions and feelings – hope, suspicion, anger, love, understanding, repentance, resolution, acceptance and deep convictions of faith.

Highly recommended for readers of women’s and Christian-centered fiction. A request to the author, please take us back to the island. Let us follow the triplets into adulthood and deeper into the futures of all our new family and friends.

I want to thank the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Hope Welborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bridge Between is a beautiful story of family, forgiveness, and second chances. The two main characters are divorced parents of four children, so not the typical hero and heroine like most romances. It was refreshing to see love from the other side of "I do." The story includes flashbacks to how the characters met and how their marriage began to fall apart, and all the chapters flowed together seamlessly. The family ties and complicated relationships create tension and conflict as well as joy and recognition of your own family. This book had me laughing out loud and wiping away tears at various times. Each of the characters was well-developed, realistic, and relatable. Every woman can identify with Lou, the mother trying to be everything to everyone, and holding it all in while holding it all together. Even the secondary characters are so well done. These are characters who will stay with you for a while. I relished each and every beautiful word and hated to close the book at the end because I wanted to live with these characters a while longer. Lindsey Brackett has woven a soul-stirring tale that you will think about long after you finish, and her portrayal of Edisto Island brings to setting to glorious life. I felt, smelled, tasted, heard, and saw everything. I highly recommend this book!

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Brackett’s second book, and while it’s technically part of a series, the book can easily stand alone.

The author crafts well-developed characters that have depth, are realistic, and are easy to root for. Their struggles are relatable. Second chances is a key theme. Vivid descriptions make the reader feel a part of Edisto Island. I’m from a small town, so I always enjoy them as a setting. I was happy to see a dual timeline used in this emotional read, which contains moment that will have the reader laughing, crying, and even cheering on the characters. There is a romance angle, but it’s not overwhelming. Lou questions what she wants in life, and that’s likely a question that will resonate with many readers. And, as is common in Southern fiction … the food references may leave them hungry.

Favorite quotes (which happen to be great reminders):

“We can’t carry past despair into the future.”
“There’s no such thing as letting go. There’s just forgiveness, plain and simple.”

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a review.

[Haley Resseguie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In The Bridge Between, Lindsey Brackett takes us back to Edisto Island and the slow life of the Lowcountry. I highly recommend reading Still Waters first so you can fully understand and appreciate the connections between the Halloway and the Watson families. Getting to see Lou and David again in this book was wonderful as well as learning all the history of their relationship. Lou and David divorced 5 years ago when the past, their own desires, and the harsh realities that come with life became more than they could handle as a couple. Yet, this book shows that there is life after divorce. Sometimes that life leads to a relationship restored and stronger for having been broken. I love how Brackett takes Lou's character and slowly but surely opens her up to a vulnerable, yet more joyful place. We aren't meant to walk this journey alone and this book shows how God, family, friends and community can change a broken and grieving heart.

[Kristen Parnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This southern fiction sequel to Still Waters follows Cora Anne's mother and her own unraveled romance. The story opens with Lou pursuing a dream career that refuses to launch while juggling work and raising her three triplet sons, with the help of her ex-husband David.

David's character was my favorite. Sure, he made his share of mistakes that contributed to their divorce, but he is so much more likable than Lou. I just wanted to smack that woman sometimes. She clearly doesn't see how much he's trying to help with the boys and trying to show her that he still loves her. Adding to the confusing mix is another potential suitor, the family drama surrounding her daughter's upcoming marriage, and all the baggage Lou struggles to let go from her past.

The satisfying, though imperfect, ending is so much like life. There will always be unanswered questions. Who we choose to have by our side as we face the challenges of life is what matters.

[Heather Iseminger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ocean breezes and southern charm. Author Lindsey Brackett weaves a lovely narrative of redemption and forgiveness with the difficult questions we often ask ourselves when life doesn’t look like we dream it should. Set deep in the heart of low country South Caroline on the sandy shores of Edisto, readers of The Bridge Between will yearn for toes dipped in salty waves and glasses of ice-cold lemonade as they are immersed in this authentic, moving story. Brackett is seamless in her ability to compose moving narratives interlaced with beautiful language and imagery. This second novel by Brackett does not disappoint.

[Emily Yager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get swept away to the beautiful Edisto Island off the shore of South Carolina. A sweet second chance romance that covers the power of forgiveness.

There are a lot of characters in this story, it took me a bit to get them all straighten out. The dynamics and chemistry between Lou and David was very interesting and I loved seeing that despite everything they still tried to make things better for their family.

I really enjoyed this story. When I started this I didn’t know it was part fo a series, but this one stand well on its own. Now I really want to go read more about the characters on Edisto Island.

[Christina Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down.
Or more to the point, the emotional connections and explorations in this book grabbed me, pulled me in and I didn't want to put it down so I didn't.
The descriptions are delightful and make you feel fully present without subjecting you to long slogs through paragraphs of landscaping. I rooted for these characters --- even the ones who weren't like me. Brackett overlays family history, stories in letters, memories (told as flashbacks and reminiscences), Edisto lore, tradition and genealogy until generations of hurt, love and family fuse into a seamless story.

[Alice Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

After spending summers at Pawley's Island, S.C. when I was growing up, the Lowcountry setting for Brackett's book drew me in initially. But the struggling, vulnerable humans living there in Brackett's book hooked me. Regardless of the setting, readers can relate to issues of unfilled dreams/goals, life throwing curveballs at you, jealously, and family tension. The Bridge Between is an artfully woven tale of love gained, love lost, love withheld, loved hoped for, love renewed, and love remembered. It is a book you will LOVE reading.