The Two of Us - Victoria Bylin

Sitting in a Las Vegas diner, watching a man in a cowboy hat, win one stuffed toy after another from a vending machine, Mia Robinson is fascinated at his skills. The last thing she expected was to talk to him.

After two failed engagements, the young, soon to be thirty, woman has sworn off relationships. Her focus is on God and forging a new career. So why is she in 'Sin City'? Because her 18-years-old sister is about to get married. To a man Mia hasn't met. And, to make things more problematic, she's pregnant.

Mia - steadfast, reliable, reluctant to show emotions - is worried about Lucy. Raising her, she knows Lucy is the sister who wears her heart on her sleeve, is driven by impulsive behavior. Should she be surprised that she's both with child and getting married so young?

Jake Tanner, solid, reliable and due to tragic circumstances resulting in a work injury, left the police force. He also left with a purpose. Although physically recovered, he has yet to placate his soul. Finding comfort in looking out for his partners son, Sam, he is more than happy to be there in Vegas to watch Sam marry Lucy. Although the wedding is on his mind, his determination to open a camp for boys who lost their parent in a police incident, is never far from his thoughts. But the small community of Echo Falls, is not so keen.

With differing opinions on the forthcoming marriage, Mia and Jake form an awkward friendship. Awkward because they soon realize that they have feelings for each other. But with Mia's reluctance and past hurts, plus her ambition to join a medical organization that would involve international travel, she knows it would be wrong to commit to anything or anyone. As for Jake, not only does he have concerns over the camp he wishes to start, but he is also worried about the decline of his mother due to Alzheimer's.

When her interview with Mission Medical causes her to reevaluate her life, she moves to Echo Falls. There, Jake and her lives entwine even further. Will they overcome the obstacles they have set up for themselves? Or will they allow God to show them the path they should follow, a path that will lead to love, harmony, peace and happiness?

As odd as it sounds, it's been a long time since I've read a Christian fiction novel with God and faith having a prominent position in the plot. Not overbearing in the slightest, but rather added lovely warmth and real depth that Mia, Jake and their families hold their faith in deep regard.

Bylin has created a compassionate, touching, and heartfelt story, whose narrative is honest and unapologetic. An excellent mix of characters and real-life situations, filled with funny and loving moments. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers as part of their blogger program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”