Synopsis:
Being a single dad was never on Michael Young’s agenda. Yet with the sudden loss of his wife, that’s exactly the role he has. On his best days, he thinks he can handle it. On his worst… Luckily, family friend Angie Bartlett has his back, easily stepping in to help out.
Lately, though, something has changed.
Michael is noticing exactly how gorgeous Angie is, and how single she is. She’s constantly in his thoughts and he feels an attraction he never expected. Does he dare disrupt the very good thing they have going? If they have a fling that goes nowhere, he stands to lose everything – including her. But if they make it work, he stands to gain everything!
This review was originally posted on Goodreads.
Within Reach by Sarah Mayberry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved her handling of such a touchy subject. I can see how the people involved might consider it a betrayal, but I’m of the opinion that its more of a betrayal to the memory of the dead to stop living. Guilt is just the devil. Forgot where I heard that, but I believe it.
I can’t really speak from the POV of a dead wife, but I’d want my spouse to move on – in an appropriate time, of course – and a year seems about right. But, can you really put a timeframe on healing or love?
And why not a best friend, someone you loved and trusted most in life. Someone you know will take care of him/her.
This was beautiful and bittersweet; I even teared up a little at parts. Though the ending could’ve been slowed down a little. Maybe instead of a week to come to grips with his feelings, a month apart might have been better. I found myself wanting more from the goodbye scene at the cemetery. Maybe some dialogue. And I’m very happy it didn’t end with a marriage proposal. Made it more authentic. I’ll definitely check out more of this author’s works.
