When Love Arrives by Johnnie Alexander

Alexander has given us a story of God's grace and second chances. The novel opens with Dani Prescott is stalking Brett Somers. His parents died in an airplane crash in which Dani's mother, the pilot, also died. He had said some pretty harsh things about the pilot, claiming the fatal accident was all her fault. Dani is out to cause him the same amount of hurt he has caused her.

Brett sees her across a street and the two meet. He is immediately attracted to her and they start spending time together. She might believe he is a nice man and a budding romance seems in the future.

One aspect of the novel I found a little disconcerting was reading so much about Brett's previous self. He is a wealthy man and has bedded many women. He even belongs to group of men who get together to compare their conquering behavior. Brett has been shocked to find out he has a son and that seems to set him on a more moral course. There is a time, later in the book, when he is presented with the forgiving and saving grace of God. I just felt there was too much about his philandering past included in the story.

Dani is a deceptive character. She keeps her real motive for being in the city to herself, lying to Brett. She keeps thinking she needs to tell him the truth but never does. I didn't have much respect for her character because of that.

I found the plot a bit confusing. I have not read the first book in the series and it seems what happened in it is essential to know to understand this novel. I would recommend you read the first in the series before this one.

I like to learn something when I read a novel and there was a little about the underground railroad in this one. I wish there had been more.

Those who enjoy a somewhat predictable romance and won't be bothered by the many references to Brett's unsavory past may like this one.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Johnnie Alexander is an award-winning author, an accomplished essayist and poet. She lives near Memphis, Tennessee. You can find out more at http://johnnie-alexander.com/.

Revell, 368 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.