Begin Again by Crystal Walton

When I started reading Begin Again, it felt a lot like the first book. Drew was the reserved one trying to overcome past hurts while trying to save his father's heritage and Ti was the one pushing his boundaries. There was even the spunky senior, Grandma Jo.

However, the more I got into the book, the more I realized that it was its own story. I think that I love this one even more than Write Me Home. I could hear the New York sass pour out of Ti. She was be choice a superficial person, so that she could hide all the deep hurts started by her parents and perpetuated by every male relationship that followed; until Drew.

Drew reminds me of my husband. Someone who is thoughtful about his approach to life. He analysis and processes how to take care of the people in his life. Drew demonstrates a love and patience that is not often found. Despite the cost to himself, he continues to deliver what he feels the other person needs. He isn't perfect and some of his responses are quick and selfish. For those he loves, it is a steady love.

Ti battles issues of sexual abuse, forgiveness, belonging and love. While other characters also tackle neglect and love. Faith played a stronger role, as you will see characters battling with their understanding of a loving God.

This was definitely my kind of story and I am eager to read the next story, Just Maybe.

Write Me Home by Crystal Walton

Write Me Home centers around a run down summer camp. Cassidy is intent on repairing the damage to the facility so that she can sell the camp. The money from the sell of the camp will go to paying off the lien on her mother's business, which also contains her residence. She is unpleasantly surprised by some of the challenges she faces. One of them is a man named Ethan.

Ethan has spent the last several years as far away from his hometown as possible. He is burdened by his past and everyone in that small town knows his story. Yet, his grandmother's health draws him back. In an attempt to salvage his grandmother's pride, he makes a business deal with Cassidy that allows him to stay at the camp. Close enough to help his grandmother without making her feel like he was taking over.

It's hard not to fall in love with Ethan and Cassidy right away. Ethan turns out to be a hard working handyman who lends his strength and presence to all the projects at Cassidy's camp. There are many roadblocks that get in their way. I found myself rooting for my favorite characters every time the odds were against them.

I just finished reading Write Me Home and am a first time reader of Crystal Walton. This contemporary fiction is well written. I loved the clean romance and elements of mystery. There are elements of faith present, but not in a pushy way.  The characters were well thought. They have layers and personal flaws that make them feel like someone you might know. They struggle with issues that many people face. My favorite part of any book is an uplifting ending and Write Me Home didn't disappoint. It is always a good indication when I am sad that a story ended and thrilled that the next book is already written.   If you enjoy a good contemporary story, you should definitely read this one.