Rekindled

Tamera Alexander does it again—this book was another one of hers that I just could not put down until I finished it! The characters, as always, are almost tangible and I found myself drawn in to their specific struggles and nearly feeling their hurts. (and joy!) The plot tension was excruciatingly drawn out and she takes you on such an extensive journey through the pains and valleys of despair before igniting a brilliant light of hope that draws you in and keeps you hungry for more. The romantic elements were subtle compared to some of her books, but the moments were sweet—although I had hoped for a few more “fireworks” after so much hurt leading up to the HEA moment. There aren’t nearly enough romance stories involving already married couples, so I was delighted to come across this one, as it appealed more deeply to my current season of life as a not-so-newlywed woman. Beautifully written, as I’ve come to expect from my new favorite author!

I doubt that I've EVER read a romance book with such a unique main male character! Tamera is a very gifted author, who not only has continual twists and turns within her story but also describes things, whether about nature, the way of life back in those days or what her characters are feeling, making the reader feel as though they were there, walking in their shoes. I LOVED this book, which is the first of hers that I've read, and can't wait to delve into the book that follows it! I also read it to my husband out loud, who enjoyed it as well as I did. Great writing, Tamera!!!

What a heartwarming story that brims with tenderness, forgiveness, love, redemption, and a trust in the Lord that surpasses all understanding.

This story is amazing. I rank it up there with Francine Rivers (and for me, that says a lot). In fact, Rivers' recommendation is what led me to try Tamera Alexander out. Be prepared, you will not want to put this book down once you begin reading it. I was a little confused at the beginning because the prologue is from the middle of the story, then chapter 1 begins about 6 months earlier in the story. The beginning is really sad, but I pressed through it and I'm glad I did. I love the main characters, they are so complex. I felt like I was reading about real people. I like how the main romance of this story focuses on a married couple instead of the typical man meets woman and they fall in love theme. In this story the couple has been married for ten years. They love each other, but they don't really understand or appreciate each other. They both experience very difficult circumstances through which they learn to trust God and His will for their lives. I could really relate to them and their struggles. One of the best parts of the book is seeing how all the struggles and pain they experience works together for their good and God's glory. Mrs. Alexander also does a great job of weaving scripture and God's truth throughout the story without it sounding preachy. She uses imagery and biblical parallels to get the messages across. I highly recommend this book.