Westward

Atlas and Lizzie (Elizabeth) were once young lovers who thought they would have a future together until reality forced them apart. His dreams of playing in the NHL came true. Those dreams not only took Atlas across the country, they put him on a pedestal and in the spotlight. Lizzie’s dream of being a teacher came true too, and though she loved Atlas, she couldn’t follow him across the country and look after her parents who had her very late in life and now needed her help. Truthfully, she was a small town girl who didn’t like to be the centre of attention, and Atlas’s life got plenty of attention. His family still lives in Ashford Creek and Atlas and Lizzie have managed to stay in touch and be friends in the decade since they split, but both still yearn for something more. Unfortunately, the townspeople never seem to let Lizzie forget that she and Atlas had once been more than friends.

Hearing that Atlas had been injured in attack sends shockwaves through Ashford Creek and all eyes are on Lizzie waiting to see what she knows and how she reacts. Atlas comes back to town to reassure his family and the woman he can’t stop thinking about or loving. With retirement from the NHL on the hirizon, he is thinking about his future and he wants that future to include Lizzie as his partner, not just his friend. Lizzie is hesitant to give Atlas another chance. He comes to her rescue during a couple of incidents involving her former student and then steps up to support her when her life falls apart. He sneaks under the guards she erected around her heart, but Lizzie wonders what will happen when he leaves to get back to his life across the country. Will his career come between them again or can they find a way to make things work between them?

These two characters drew my attention and touched my heart. Their connection, their insight into each other and their yearning for something more between them are evident throughout this book. They are both good people who love their families, their hometown and each other. Each tries to be of service to their community, Lizzie through teaching and mentoring her students, and Atlas through financial donations. Years ago, finding a way to make their relationship work seemed impossible. This time, they are older, have lived with the loss of each other, and are determined to make their lives mesh in order to be together. This heartwarming and captivating book has my heartfelt recommendation.

These two are so sweet but tragic. High school sweethearts that never stopped loving each other but time and distance get in the way of their happily ever after. He’s a star goalie for an NHL team. She’s a high school teacher in their hometown. Their careers keep them apart but their love brings them together as friends, longing for more. Loved this book