"Engaging characters and storyline"

Eight years earlier, Kim Luchetti left her past and family and headed for uncharted waters in Savannah. Now she is returning to visit her ailing father and will come face to face with Brian Riley,the boyfriend she left behind.

Learning that Brian's parents had passed away in her absence made Kim decide to go to him and offer her condolences. When she arrives Brian is on a barn roof making repairs. He is so stunned to see her he slips and falls off the roof, breaking both wrists. Kim feels responsible for his accident so after seeking medical treatment for him, she decides to move in. Of course, it will only be for several weeks until he is able to manage on his own.

Brian and Kim had a traumatic experience in their relationship that left them with open wounds. Kim couldn't handle the guilt and felt responsible for their situation's outcome. Therefore, she left town all those years ago. She also felt she wasn't cut out to be a farmer's wife and wanted so much more out of life.

Brian was crushed when Kim left. He thought that no matter what came their way, they could handle it together. He had survived the years of loneliness by throwing himself into his ranch work.

It is a strain for both of them, living under the same roof. Trying to keep their physical, as well as emotional, distance was getting harder and taking its toll. Kim tries to tell herself that she is only staying with him because she feels guilty about his accident. Brian tells himself not to try and get close, after all she ran once, so she will run again.

As they began to open up to one another, they finally realize how each felt about the heartwretching stituation they had faced. Brian learns the reason why Kim left and they both try to find closure.

Although the central story focuses on Brian and Kim, her family makes up the majority of secondary characters. Her parents have marriage struggles and they evolve with a renewal of their relationship. Kim has five brothers who are all different and would make wonderful stories of their own.

THE FARMER'S WIFE IS a tale about hope, faith and unconditional love. Flawed characters and personal stuggles make this a realistic read. Lori Handeland pens a highly reccommended read.

Reviewed by Tami Sutton
Posted December 2, 2002