This book was sent to me electronically for review by Netgalley…historical fiction that reads like true life…love and romance…farm life…friendship…caring for others…a quick fun read for a snowy afternoon…or by the beach…likable characters…this is written by an author who is talented and keeps the reader’s attention…

2.5 Stars This is a sweet book with a unique premise and an ongoing theme of rescuing and redemption. In some ways the Quincy character reminded me of Jean Valjean from Les Miserables. However, its sweetness was a bit too saccharine in my opinion. And there were a lot of scenes used to fill space: discussions between Norah and Alice, baseball games, internal dialogue that was unimportant to moving the story forward. The scene with the town felt like a sunny Hallmark movie ending. It just needed more highs and lows, more intimacy (not sexual) between Quincy and Norah, better character development, and that special something that I just didn’t see. Overall a light but inconsequential read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy.

Norah King, engaged to be married, living on her family's farm finds a man beaten up in the field, without a hope in the world. Nursed back to health, Quincy is given a second chance in life, and by the grace of God he takes it. His business becomes successful, and he uses the resources he has to help the broken that come his way start a new life, the same way Norah did for him.

An unexpected turn of events finds them together again, but secrets and threats will shake their world. Forgiveness and restoration are themes at the forefront of this story as the gospel shines through.

I really enjoyed this novel! It's the first one I've read by the author and highly recommend it!

Some things I enjoyed about this book were the themes of forgiveness, restoration and new beginnings. The story starts out with a meeting of Norah and Quincy then skips forward a few years. The storyline was strong with lots going on. Watching the characters go thru the hardships brought hope.

The range of characters added to the story. Quincy strives to make himself a better person and improve the world around him. Norah loves big and has a big heart. The side characters really add to the story and don’t hid in the background I enjoyed watching Nels and his relationship grow with the others as well as the sweet Mrs. Dover.

I have the lower stars because the mood of the book felt off. I’m not sure how to describe it. There was depth but felt stilted at the same time. The previous book I’ve read by this author felt so strong of feeling from her heart.

Each person in this book has disappointments, times of self-discovery, and depth of character that shows through their circumstances. Both Quincy and Norah lean on God for comfort and direction as they navigate life decisions separately and together.
I love how their relationship develops from the time she saves his life to the time he returns the favor while trying to make amends for something he feels he should have done differently, and the real struggles they face as they make choices that could affect their life together. I particularly like the way Quincy grows and must choose between truth and taking an easier path.
In the end this is a most satisfying love story that touches the heart and shows how God’s hand is present in circumstances we might never imagine.
I recommend this book.
I received a copy through NetGalley courtesy of Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group. This is my honest opinion.

Rachel Fordham's Where the Road Bends is a great piece of historical fiction. It is getting five stars from me.