MY REVIEW:
“The Two of Us” is a contemporary romance with multiple related story lines. Although Jake and Mia are the primary characters, the reader will also get to know Mia’s younger sister Lucy and her new husband Sam. Jake’s parents are also major players in the plot.
Mia has had two broken engagements and has pretty much given up on finding love. In fact, she is strongly pursuing a job in out-of-country medical missions. Jake’s dream of opening a center for boys who have lost parents is challenged from all sides, especially by a particular grouchy neighbor. When brought together by their relationship to Lucy and Sam, Mia and Jake seem to be attracted to each other but is there any hope at all for a relationship?
I really liked Jake and how he handled his disability and managed to take care of everyone he cared for. Mia was a bit more difficult to like. I grew frustrated with her determination to continue the pursuit of foreign missions when her talents would have been perfect to help Jake with his center. It was gratifying to see how God stepped in and changed all their plans for His own purposes.
A sweet romance (or two) that nevertheless introduces real life problems such as a premarital high-risk pregnancy, Alzheimer’s disease, PTSD, hearing loss, etc., “The Two of Us” moved at a steady pace and had a satisfying conclusion. The author has a way with words that makes me want to keep turning those pages. I always enjoy her books and hope others will give them a try.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After two broken engagements, Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she’s focusing on God and her goal to join an international aid organization as a nurse practitioner. But when her 18-year-old sister, Lucy, calls with an invitation to her Vegas wedding, it throws a wrench into Mia’s plans.
Jake Tanner has recovered from the injuries he sustained as a police officer–on the outside. Inside, he’s yet to heal from losing his partner in the tragedy, but finds some solace in keeping an eye on her young adult son, Sam, who’s asked him to be best man at his wedding.
Mia expects a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn’t expecting Jake, who views the marriage a little differently. As Jake’s and Mia’s lives slowly become more intertwined, could his courage and her caring heart be enough to bring them a lifetime of healing?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo Credit: © Scott Walz
Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky. Visit her website at www.victoriabylin.com to find out more.
