Joanna Gordon made a promise that she thought she would never have to make. After moving to the small conservative town of Rome, Georgia with her father and new step-mother, he asked her to lie low about her sexuality at least until she’s done school. Being a radio evangelist in a new town and having new in-laws with strict views, he thought this would help with settling into their new lives. Everything was going to plan until she met Mary Carlson. She would never break a promise to her father but what if it means breaking her own heart?
This book was so sweet. It was the perfect choice after having read two darker books the last few months. I loved how the story revolved around Christianity as well and how even though so many people have strict views based on sexuality and the LGBT community, their views might not always be right. I loved Joanna’s plan with the radio show and believed it was the perfect idea to help others who are going through similar hardships. Though Joanna didn’t start out in this book as a closeted person, we saw the struggle that Mary Carlson had with having so many people around that would look down upon those who were gay. Someone at book club even mentioned how honest the writing was. He had gone through similar situations when he was younger and “the author did a really good job encompassing the thoughts and feelings and even situations that someone would go through.” During book club today, we also talked about how we loved that their romance wasn’t the cliché kind where they meet, fall in love and live happily ever after. It was an honest romance where choices were made and risks were taken. You really don’t know how they will end up, especially with what Jo promised her father. Relationships don’t always start out perfect but sometimes the rocky paths along the way make it an unforgettable journey worth every risk.
We all absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it!
We give it a 4.5 out of 5 rating!
P.S. We are really looking forward to our next book pick! We love the Christmas season and thought of the perfect novel that would be great to read over the Holidays.
Stay peachy! 🍑
Mel.