TWICE LOVED

Author: Lori Copeland ISBN: 9780061364914 8/2008 HISTORICAL/INSPIRATIONAL Publisher: AVON INSPIRE
Time Period: 1865 Texas

Texas, 1865 Willow Madison and her friends Copper and Audre taught school in neighboring Texas towns, until the Yankees rode in and burned them out. In the midst of fear and chaos, survivors banded together to fight for what remained of their homes. Then word reached the people that the terrible war was over. Now penniless but still hopeful, Willow vows she will take care of her friends, and her ailing uncle, in Thunder Ridge, Texas, even if it means having to marry wealthy Silas Sterling, a man thirty years her senior. But standing in her way is saw mill owner Tucker Gray, with his enticing eyes and infuriating headstrong manner—the man Willow cannot get out of her head ... or her heart. Even though her friends beg her not to give up her dream of happiness, Willow is determined to do the right thing for those who are dearest to her. But which path does God want Willow to take: a life of duty and commitment . . . or a life of everlasting love?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Lori Copeland's TWICE LOVED is the first book in her new Belles of Timber Creek series. It tells the story of Willow Madison, a young woman forced to endure more than anyone should have to. But the time and circumstances of the world she lives in leave no room for ladylike pursuits and Willow's strong will leads her to Thunder Ridge. She's set to do whatever it takes to bring peace and security to those she loves, even if it includes making a huge commitment and sacrifice.

The details filling the pages of this tale breathe life into the small, but perfect, cast of characters. While the town isn't big, every person in Thunder Ridge has a purpose and makes a contribution to the story. I loved every one of them; even a mischievous little boy and his "barnyard bombs" had a purpose and added dimension to this. While Willow is the primary focus, there are others whose stories beg to be told. I suspect they will be the main characters in the subsequent books in this series.

A story of faith and courage, TWICE LOVED is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It shows that although willows can bend, they rarely break, and even after a storm they find a way to stand upright. I loved TWICE LOVED and eagerly await the next installments in this series. Lori Copeland's writing style is smooth and flowing, and she pulled me right into the lives and times of the inhabitants of Thunder Ridge.

Kay James