I can’t believe at my age, I’ve never been the least bit interested in sailing. Until reading Elizabeth Goddard‘s new book, Love in the Wind. This book is such a peaceful read after the intense suspense stories that I’ve been indulging in. Love in the Wind is like a breath of fresh sea air. (Or breezy lake air as the case may be.)
I’m so grateful to the author for sending me a reviewer copy! Here’s the initial info on this book:
SAILING IS MADDIE CRAMER’S ESCAPE
Now she’s counting on it to bring her closer to the biological father she’s just met. But her chances of winning the regatta—and his approval—are in jeopardy unless she can find a new crewmate. Enter Grady Stone, a perfect fit for Maddie’s crew in more ways than one.
Maddie and Grady grow close as they spend time together on the water. But Maddie, wary of emotional entanglement, guards her heart closely. And Grady’s here only to help Maddie win the race, then he’s off to a new job. The day of the race will test their ability to sail together—and the trueness of their love.
Perfect Pacing for a Romance
This book maintains a steady clip. No sections race ahead. But then, there are also no dragging areas to the story either. And this romance holds its own. No need for quirks, mysteries, or suspense. Its tension lies in the heroine’s resolve to impress, and the obstacles that cascade into her path.
The love story begins early in the book. The main characters fight growing feelings. That scenario works perfectly for a woman who focuses on controlling every aspect of her life. Her failure is quite sweet!
Character Observations
The hero in this story is super. He views his honor as his only remaining attribute and has the archetype of a Best Friend. He is a perfect mix of charm, fun, and focus. But sees regular failure from his first appearance in the story. Oh, he is good!
The heroine is equally as strong. She isn’t a typical Boss archetype, because her job puts her happily under someone else’s authority. Not that Bosses can’t take orders, but they don’t usually like it. Control is her goal. I don’t have to tell you that the author has fun with that trait! Maddie isn’t the type of character I would like as a person, but her troubles and brokenness draw me in.
The romance between the two feels natural. The attraction is there. They both consider it beyond physical – almost in so many words. And the romantic ending more than satisfies. I can’t give any spoilers here, but I particularly like the way this romance resolves. It is exactly right for the story and the theme.
Recommendation
Keep reading. As I mentioned, this story maintains a steady course, so it doesn’t start with a blast of gun-powder. After a quick introduction to the characters, the plot kicks in. And true to the nature of Elizabeth Goddard romances, once started, that plot continues it’s propulsion to the end of the story. No roller coaster ride of brief thrills followed by sagging interludes. The writing is tight and engaging throughout.
If you need some quiet time, Love in the Wind is a perfect, relaxing read. Especially if you’re a fan of solid romance and Christian values. This story offers both. In fact, the theme of the story is summed up in the words of the heroine’s voice of reason character: “God wants control of your life. He wants to be Savior AND Lord.” Without preaching, this story offers sprinkles of godly wisdom. The best of fiction and Truth mixed together.
Your turn: What was the last RELAXING book you read? (And how many years ago was that? LOL!)
Marji Laine 