Review: In Search of Forever by Patricia Lee

 

                                

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First impression: In Search of forever is a heartwarming family saga with romance. If you’re a crying sort, grab tissues, for you will weep for the wounded children, women, soldiers and animals.

 Action: The scene in Afghanistan where Jayden is injured. Motorcycle rides take the reader to pretty places and to visit Baylie’s grandmother. The men discover apparent break-ins on the property and reconnaissance to capture the culprit. Baylie walks in on the intruder and is threatened. Jayden has a run-in with an abusive stepfather who is his mom’s ex-husband, which brings episodes of PTSD.  

Adventure: Jayden overcomes appreciation from returning to the place and people who sheltered and protected his life as a boy. Arriving on his roaring Harley with Parker, his commanding officer and friend, Jayden embraces his mom, who is now the cook at the facility. His foster dad, Kurt, is happy to embrace the war hero.

Baylie’s grandparents were always supporting her in her life’s decisions. Her grandfather lands in the hospital and Baylies arrives in time to see him before he dies. This is one of those heart-wrenching events that brought tears. Her love for her grandmother creates deep feelings of obligation to help her grandmother, especially now that she is alone. They had always been there for her, and she wanted to reciprocate. The distance between the two homes causes her to miss work. Her grandmother doesn’t want to rely on Baylie and wants the young woman to live her own life and not worry about her.   

Romance: At the first meeting, sparks of attraction between Parker and Melanie, Jayden’s mom, fly. This surprises Jayden, who came to rebuild his relationship with his mom, wants all his mom’s focus. To Jayden’s delight, Baylie, his best friend from High School, is also working at the Rescue ranch. His attraction is building. Can she see past his injuries to his heart? Two romances might get complicated.

Baylie also grew up in foster care after her parents were killed in a car accident and her grandparents felt they couldn’t adequately care for her. Her aunt fostered other kids and brought Baylie into her fold. Baylie always secretly loved Jayden and hoped they might get together. Spending time with Jayden is amazing for Baylie.

Religion: Prayer and Church are important to both young people. Although something in Baylies college years has stifled her prayer life. Learning to let go and forgive is the main issue in her heart.

Final Thoughts: There is a tiny bit of a war scene in Afghanistan where Jayden is injured and gets PTSD. Also mention of physical abuse and alcohol.

I love the simplicity of the straightforward prayer Baylie prays over the children she tucks in at night—"May God’s angels watch over you through the night, and love’s promises wake you in the morning.” This is a well-written story that captures themes of relationships, faith, prayer, and overcoming huge obstacles with a splash of romance.

4 strong stars

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