Shadows of Hope

Shadows of Hope captured me from the beginning. The story is told from three points of view; the main character, Marissa, her husband, Colin, and a college student, Katilyn.

Marissa runs a crisis pregnancy center. This is a dream of hers and she pours her heart into it. After a miscarriage and subsequent problems getting pregnant, she fears she will never have a child of her own. Problems in her marriage arise, and she does everything to fight for it. Her best friend for years, who is also her co-worker, helps her through everything. (I think he’s secretly in love with her and I hope the author pairs them together in another book.)

Katilyn, Marissa’s favorite barista, becomes pregnant—by Marissa’s husband. To Katilyn’s defense, she doesn’t know he’s married. In addition, Marissa doesn’t know who the baby’s father is. What a mess! It sure kept me turning the pages wanting to know what happened next.

When Katilyn comes to the clinic, Marissa offers a lot of support, care and friendship. The self-growth Katilyn goes through in this story is simultaneously heartbreaking and blissful. I ended up very proud of her.

Now for Colin. the college professor, father of the baby, and cheating husband.  I will try to set aside my disdain for this character. To his credit, he stepped up and took responsibility--after being irresponsible in the first place. He was there for Katilyn during her pregnancy—sporadically and when it suited him. He did his best to be a good father—in the process, stabbing Marissa in her weakest place. Okay, I give up. I can’t stand this despicable, self-centered character. The author tried to redeem him, I give her that.

All the characters are amazingly well-developed. I could picture their quirks, grins and tears.

I’m glad I discovered this author. She writes a great story.

You’re going to love this book!

 5 Stars

I received a complimentary copy from Net Galley. All opinions are my own.