Kristi Gold, Fall From Grace

Fall From Grace

Kristi Gold

Harlequin Everlasting, February 2007, $5.25

ISBN: 0373654049

Jack and Anne Morgan divorced one another, though they remained friends. They were especially careful when they split so that their beloved offspring would not be harmed.

When Jack suffers a stroke, Anne knows he will need nurturing until he fully recovers. She insists he move into the home he used to live in when they were married so that she can help him recuperate. Anne rationalizes her good natured offer as her daughter needs her father, and besides, she and Jack are friends. As he heals under the watchful eyes of the two females he loves, Jack wonders how to regain what he lost when he and Anne divorced.

This is a fascinating second chance at love tale, starring a likable lead couple and a worried child concerned for the health of her daddy. The story line focuses more on the relationships than on dealing with a family health issue. Based on first hand accounts from my husband and his two brothers (aside to Stephen - happy birthday) involving their dad's stroke on Jets Superbowl Sunday, the tale misses a graceful opportunity to go deep into the struggles of the victim and his loved ones with a debilitating illness. Still, this is a fine everlasting tale of the healing power of love.