Perry brings depth to Lydia and Simon's emotional struggles, both individually and collectively. Love the way I felt like I knew them right from the start -- not everything, the author still holds back some pertinent stuff -- but enough to cement that alluring reader/hero/heroine bond that makes reading a story so special. I cared about these people (and yes, I should have said characters, but they are that real to me.)
There are light-hearted moments, achingly sweet ones too, especially with Simon's little girl. But Perry managed to get my dander up too, often courtesy of Simon. :-) Ach, but that man can be grouchy as a bear with a sore paw at times and, just like an injured animal, he lashes out. He's always contrite afterwards, though not always unbending. Think emotionally contained and stoic. Until he's not.
And Lydia is a breath of fresh air -- a nice blend of pragmatic and fanciful -- and secure enough in herself that she's not worried about sharing an opinion or two. You can imagine how much that thrills Simon.
Their love story is set in a quaint Amish/Englischer community that's facing some perilous times. Love the way the author weaves the two tumultuous plots together to deliver a breathtaking, sigh-worthy read.