Title: Exodus

Author: Kate Stewart

Rating: ★★★★☆1/2

Kate Stewart's "Exodus" is an emotional rollercoaster that captivated with its raw intensity and heartfelt story. This second book in the "Ravenhood" series takes you on a journey of love, loss, and self-discovery that will leave you breathless and teary-eyed.

Returning to the ghost town of Triple Falls, Cecelia Horner seeks to confront the memories and secrets that have haunted her. The place that once shaped her is now a landscape of regret and reflection. As Cecelia grapples with the weight of her past, she recalls the "boys of summer" who once filled her life with love and turmoil.

Despite sensing the danger, Cecelia allowed herself to be swept away by passion and reckless abandon. Her time in Triple Falls was marked by choices that seemed indestructible in their youth, only to unravel with devastating consequences. Now, she returns to these hills and valleys, hoping to find peace and acceptance amidst the memories that refuse to fade.

Cecelia's journey is one of making amends with her fate. She seeks to heal the part of herself that was left behind, to grieve enough to move on, and to come to terms with the way she was built and the men who built her. It's a story of confronting one's inner demons and finding the strength to live authentically, no matter the outcome.

What I Loved:

1. Complex Characters: Cecelia's evolution into a strong, self-aware woman is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Her journey of self-discovery and acceptance is deeply moving. The men who shaped her life are equally complex, each contributing to her growth in unexpected ways.
2. Emotional Depth: This book delves into intense emotions, from love and passion to regret and sorrow… oh so much sorrow! Stewart masterfully captures the essence of these feelings, making the reader experience every high and low alongside Cecelia.
3. Engaging Narrative: The story is a compelling blend of romance and drama, with enough suspense to keep you hooked. Cecelia's reflections and confessions are thought-provoking, adding layers of depth to the story.
4. Beautiful Writing: Kate Stewart's prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of Triple Falls and the emotional landscapes within Cecelia's heart. Her writing style enhances the immersive experience of the story. I truly felt immersed and didn’t want to leave.
5. Powerful Themes: Themes of love, loss, redemption, and self-acceptance are woven throughout the book. The exploration of how past choices impact the present and the quest for inner peace resonates deeply.

"Exodus" by Kate Stewart is a gripping and emotional tale that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Cecelia's journey from a haunted past to a place of acceptance is both heartbreaking and inspiring. This book will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your own experiences of love and loss. You will feel things that you never thought you would when reading a book, and this I highly recommend everyone to try.

For those who love stories that tug at the heartstrings and leave you feeling deeply connected to the characters, "Exodus" is a must-read!

Just be prepared for an emotional ride that might require a box of tissues by your side….. maybe more than one box!

Thank you to The Publisher Kensington Publishing | Kensington ,The Author Kate Stewart & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.