For Good

One of the very first books that I’ve read by Karelia Stetz-Water, but definitely not the last. This author definitely has a way of pulling out tough emotions from her characters and placing them on paper. She has captured what so many LGBTQ people have struggled with in regards to acceptance from the community/family/workplace. Such a beautifully written book. I can’t wait to read more from her in the future.

So much of contemporary romance that I’ve read of late are all about the connection and a character unable to trust or forget their past. Karelia Stetz-Waters tosses those issues into the mix with society-imposed expectations and the bleak reality of prejudice and judgment. Far more than a simple romance, this story managed to explore close-minded attitudes, self-doubts, questionable choices and double standards and come out in the end with a lasting connection.

Tristess is a small town, full of dark secrets and hidden agendas, but desperately in need of a District Attorney. Kristen steps in to fill the position, and with a chance meeting with a waitress at the local diner, finds a room to let. Kristen is reserved and carefully following a path she believes will bring her success and happiness, this DA position is just one more square on the board.

Marydale the waitress is gentle, kindhearted, openly gay and a convict. Even with all of the negative heaped on her, she wouldn’t change any of her decisions or choices, and has managed to maintain a kindness and openness that is instantly apparent to everyone who meets her. She’s got a series of challenges that she attacks head-on, even if her choices aren’t great, her courage is.

These two have so many obstacles, with the town, Marydale’s choices and Kristen’s fears, the outlook for a positive (forget happy) ending is bleak. In fact, Stetz-Waters manages to write a story that has moments of joy and light which directly contrast with the sadness and pure meanness of the town, when it wasn’t mired in apathy. Hopeful despite the staggering weight of what was and the unknowns of what could be, the characters stand out, imperfect and flawed, but oh so very real.

Character driven with moments that jump on the roller coaster of emotions kept me glued to the pages, hoping for someone to just offer a kind word or gesture to Marydale, and for Kristen to take a chance and let down her guard, and truly see just what it was she desired. Beautifully written and plotted despite the greyer tones, everyone can relate to the tumult these characters face.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.