"A Bride at Last" by Melissa Jagears is the last full novel (not including the unofficial novella, "Blinded by Love" in the "Convenient Bride Collection") of the Unexpected Bride series.  To be honest, I have not read any of the previous novels in the series, and didn't realize there was a series.  At least it was not noted in the cover or description of the book.  With that said, "A Bride at Last" can be read as a standalone novel.  Back to "A Bride at Last".  This is a story about rising above the brokenness and not let your past or your fears of the past get in the way of the love God has in store for you.  It is about broken individuals coming together to be a family.

Kate Dawson is a "runner". She runs from her past and what she deems unacceptable in relationships and lands as a teacher to nine year old Anthony, who's dying mother's last wish was for Kate to take care of Anthony.  Then comes Silas, who was married to Anthony's mother 10 years ago, and may or may not be Anthony's biological father (it will be revealed during the story).  Three individuals, Silas, repentant, but still hurt by his past and swears off women, Kate, considered an "old maid", doesn't want to be disappointed again, and Anthony, never loved by the adults in his life (until Kate), comes together through God's grace.  Will it be an easy journey or one that will heal all three's broken heart?

Overall, this is a good story with a captivating premise of healing.  However, there were moments that I was bored with what I was reading. I believe certain aspects of the plot didn't flow as nicely as one would hoped, especially since Kate traveled to Kansas.  Even for the boring parts, I did enjoy Ms. Jagears expressive use of words to illustrate Kate and Silas' wounds and what and how their pain reflected on who they are today.  You can tell from this book that Ms. Jaegars is brilliant in her descriptions and her development of her characters.  With that said, I liked "A Bride at Last."

To Purchase a Copy: Amazon

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House for an honest review.