phyllish
Written on Jan 14, 2020
Jennifer Rodewald's stories always have such a strong message of redemption. When I Come Home Again was a powerful story about what happens when guilt is allowed to grow and fester and how it can erode a relationship.
Craig and Brenna were both so broken by the past. Brenna had been hurt so badly she couldn't even look at Craig without seething with anger! As their story unraveled, I was so surprised to find what had been the root issue for Brenna - and she was too.
I really loved Craig and Brenna. There were also so many amazing secondary characters deserving special mention. Here are just a few:
Trent and Ashton, Craig's and his mother's foster sons, were adorable! Their life had been so difficult and they had put on such a tough facade. Trent's efforts to be strong and to protect his little brother touched my heart. I loved the one speech therapy session with Brenna and the way he put on a fake British accent to sass her. And the one where they were telling stories. I would have loved to hear the one they came up with!
Miss Jane was such a dear lady. I loved the gentle, kind manner in which she imparted her wisdom with Brenna, not withholding the truth, yet sharing it with love. Another dear woman of faith was Janet, Craig's mother. Her strength in the face of sickness and pain could only come from a deep relationship with Jesus!
Scottie was dearly loved by everyone in the small town, and for good reason. Though many in our world would consider him not "normal", he had a deeper understanding of the things that are truly important and spread sunshine wherever he went. I loved the sweet gentle way that Craig treated him.
I would be remiss in not mentioning Grant in this list as well. Though he was quirky in his fastidiousness and strictness of diet, he had a heart of gold. I hope, seeing that this is the first book of the series, that Grant will find love in an upcoming story. I'm rooting for him!
Much of this story is about the grief and hurts Brenna and Craig dealt with and yet an undercurrent of hope keeps it from being dark or depressing. And the children of the story keep things light as well. There is a great balance of depth and light.
Readers of Christian fiction who enjoy stories rife with spiritual truths and changed lives will enjoy this beautiful story.
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.