I have been reading Debbie Macomber books for many years. They are like an addiction. As soon as you know when a new one is coming out, it goes on your-must read list. When I get the chance to review an upcoming release, I still get excited. The good news is, there is a new one on the way!
I have to say this story surprised me just a bit. But in a good way. Here are my thoughts on this book.
Any Dream Will Do by Debbie Macomber
Publisher: Ballantine Books (August 8, 2017)
ISBN-13: 978-0399181191
Beloved bestselling author Debbie Macomber returns with a powerful standalone novel about a woman forced to start her life anew, embarking on the most courageous journey of all—to a place where she learns what love and trust really mean.
Shay Benson adored her younger brother, Caden, and that got her into trouble. When he owed money, Shay realized she would do anything to help him avoid the men who were threatening him, and she crossed lines she never should have crossed. Now, determined to start fresh, she finds herself in search of a place to stay and wanders into a church to escape from the cold.
Pastor Drew Douglas adored his wife. But when he lost her, it was all he could do to focus on his two beautiful kids, and his flock came in a distant third. Now, as he too is thinking about a fresh start, he walks through his sanctuary and finds Shay sitting in a pew.
The pair strike up a friendship—Drew helps Shay get back on her feet, and she reignites his sense of purpose—that, over time, turns into something deeper, something soulful, spiritual, and possibly romantic. Even Drew’s two children are taken with this woman who has brought light back into their lives. Perhaps most important, Shay learns to trust again as she, in turn, proves herself trustworthy to her adopted community.
But Caden’s return to town and a disastrous secret threaten to undo the life Shay has tried so hard to rebuild. It will take the utmost courage and faith if she and Drew hope to find healing and open their hearts to a brighter future.
Review of Any Dream Will Do by Debbie Macomber
Debbie Macomber is known for her stories of overcoming mistakes and regrets. Of people changing and finding new paths. And also, connecting with those that are seemingly opposite’s in every way. But this story seems to take that theme to a different level.
I’m not sure what it is that made this book different for me. Two completely opposite people that are struggling to find an answer to what is missing in their lives? To find happiness? Or maybe it’s the fact that it is an unacceptable relationship for many?
The fact of the matter is, and as the author poignantly points out, is that recognizing and feeling a connection between two people is God’s will and not our will. The only thing we have to do is be open and excepting of that relationship, as long as it is healthy.
This story is rich with deep emotion and intense feelings. We get to know these two people on an intimate level. I am not talking physically, but emotionally. Choices can be difficult – right or wrong and everyone involved in the story had something to learn and deal with. It was a powerful read for me.
While I think some of the background on Shay could have been explored more intensely so we could connect with her better, there is only so much an author can pack in without overwhelming the reader. The author chose to focus on the present and not too much from the past. It was enough for me.
Overall, this book is brought to us from a Christian point of view and is a lovely romance for all ages. Another winner with Any Dream Will Do by Debbie Macomber. Don’t miss it!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.