Love's Journey Home

by Julie Coulter Bellon

[sstaley]

I was so excited to head back to the small town of Lincoln, Utah. I loved the first book in the series and the love story of Drew and Tori. I was glad that characters from the first book would be in this second book. Even though Mick was a smooth talker in the first book, I became a cheerleader for him quite soon in this story. I loved the way the author unfolded Mick's background and the hard a life he'd been living. You truly develop so much empathy for him and can see why his heart went to out to little Will. I'll admit I struggled to like Olivia at first. She came across tough as nails and not backing down in her job as a lawyer in the DA's office. Then it was refreshing to see how Olivia slowly opened up and became a new person and able to allow herself to love.

I felt this novel had a beautiful message about not judging from outside appearances, but giving people a chance getting to know who they are inside too. Olivia and Mick both had to grow and change, open up their hearts and let down their barriers. It's beautiful how they come together in the long run. I also appreciated the love written in the story for the foster care program and adoption. Even though Mick had a terrible experience in the system growing up, fostering was redeemed in his eyes with a family he met who took care of a little boy that he loved.

This book flows so well and could easily be read in an afternoon or evening. As a reader, you become so invested in the lives of these characters, especially wanting the best outcome for young Will. I didn't want to put the book down and I couldn't wait to keep reading this novel.

I'm hoping that there will be more books in this series. So far, the Lincoln Love Stories Series has had two wonderful Romances that are unforgettable.