Book Description:
In Wells Landing, Oklahoma’s warm and welcoming Amish community, there’s always hope for a new beginning—and a second chance…
Five tumultuous years have changed Titus Lambert in every way. Back then, Titus was preparing to marry his longtime sweetheart, Mandy Yoder. Then came the unthinkable—a tragic car wreck that left Titus serving time for vehicular manslaughter.
Titus isn’t sure he belongs in this peaceful place anymore, but he must make amends. When he goes to visit the Kings, whose son, Alvin, died that terrible night, he’s shocked to see that their farm has fallen into disrepair. Alvin’s sister, Abbie, resents Titus’s reappearance, but there’s no denying she needs his help. Honest toil—and their evolving friendship—slowly help his soul to heal. But with his feelings for Mandy still strong, Titus must choose between two very different futures, and find the strength and faith to claim the surprising gift of a fresh start.
Author Biography:
I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son-a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels-not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I love to write inspirational romances. The two go hand-in-hand for me.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)
Favorite movies-(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.
My Thoughts:
A Story of Romance…Forgiveness…
Titus Lambert has just spent the last five years in prison, which is an unusual situation for a young man of his background. However, an unfortunate incident had landed him there. While in prison, Titus suffered through and experienced many things that were outside of his background of experience, and they had a major impact on him. Thus, upon his release, Titus is not sure exactly what he is going to do. He is constantly warring with himself, reliving the incident that changed his life, and pretty much beating himself up. He feels the punishment was his to take, and now, he’s not quite sure what his future will hold. One thing he does know is that he needs to do something to make amends with the Kings, family of his friend Alvin, who lost his life on that fateful day.
Shortly after his return to the community, Titus finds himself at the King farm. He notices how much work the farm needs and proceeds to help the family rebuild the farm. The Kings are appreciative of Titus’ help, well, all except for Abbie.
Abbie King can’t believe Titus has the nerve to come to her family’s home. He is, after all, the reason for their current situation. How can she possibly forget that and forgive him? As time goes on, and as Titus continues to help her family, Abbie finds herself not only forgiving Titus, but realizing he has captivated a very special place in her heart. At the same time, Titus makes a discovery of his own in that Abbie has made a way into his heart.
As Titus and Abbie’s relationship takes a turn, they each find themselves facing a variety of situations, including alcoholism, PTSD, depression, and much more. All of this combined makes Titus Returns a story of romance, a story of forgiveness, a story of overcoming obstacles, and a story of new beginnings and second chances.
Titus Returns is a great addition to Amy Lillard’s Well’s Landing Romance series. The stories are all based in Oklahoma, which is a rare setting for Amish romances. The series gives a glimpse into what life is like in that community which includes their use of tractors. Although Titus Returns is part of this series, there are no cliff hangers, and it can be read as a stand alone. However, I highly recommend reading the entire Wells Landing series as well as the rest of Amy Lillard’s books. You won’t be disappointed.
***** I received a copy of this book for review with no requirement of a positive review or compensation. This review reflects my honest opinions and viewpoints.
