Another good one from Diane chamberlain. Read Before the Storm first; this is an excellent sequel. ( )

I had read this before but for some reason didnt add it to my shelf. I reread it after reading Before the Storm which was the first part to this book. Before the Storm deals with a fire in a church that injures children and kills 2 children and an adult. It was arson and the plot deals with figuring out who did it and how many within the community are affected. This book also continues the story while giving a deeper understaning of the main characters past and what lead them up to where they are today. I did enjoy the book more the 2nd time since I had the background story from the first book. ( )

I had read this before but for some reason didnt add it to my shelf. I reread it after reading Before the Storm which was the first part to this book. Before the Storm deals with a fire in a church that injures children and kills 2 children and an adult. It was arson and the plot deals with figuring out who did it and how many within the community are affected. This book also continues the story while giving a deeper understaning of the main characters past and what lead them up to where they are today. I did enjoy the book more the 2nd time since I had the background story from the first book. ( )

Sequel to Before the Storm - and definitely read the first book before this one. Although it will stand alone, you'll miss a lot without the backstory. This book is told in journal letters by Sara, who has gone missing. The other chapters are mostly narrated by her teen son, Keith, who was burned in the fire that Maggie set, Andy - Maggie's teen disabled brother and Maggie herself, who is just released from prison for her role in the fire that killed three people and severly injured Keith. Interesting injecting "Jen" in the story, who befriends both Keith and Maggie, and has her own agenda. And it holds together the background of how Keith copes with his life changing injuries, and how Maggie reintegrates into society. How do you live with yourself, even if it was an accident, when you've destroyed so many lives with your actions? ( )

(Storm #2 series) This was an excellent follow up to the Before the Storm. Diane is a brilliant writer, as she gives you just enough general overview in her first book and then explains in more detail in her second books, to complete the story. I was dying to hear more about the letter Sara left during the entire book, as Diane has a way to keep the twists and turns going throughout the book with the suspense building throughout. I also like the way she allows each character to speak, unfolding their true, raw feelings and character.

There were so many characters you grow to love during the book. (this series is definitely movie worthy as in your mind you picture the main characters and the setting)! As usual, Chamberlain grabs you from page one until the end. I would love to see a third book (as follow up with Maggie, Andy, and Keith).

Sara was my favorite character –a woman who gives so much of herself and to her son and deeply in love with Jamie who no longer lives and the life she could not attain. Maggie who learns how to forgive herself and grow in love and maturity. Andy (loved author’s dialogue with this character – which was very realistic and always put a smile on your face with his funny thoughts. Keith, a wonderful character who suffered so much and met so many challenges – learning to love his family and finally depend on them. Marcus – (you have to love)another one who grew so much since book one, taking care of his family and his love for Andy, Sara, and Maggie, and the special bond with Keith, his brother’s son-taking him under his wing. Also the added character of Jen was excellent and the mystery she created. A book of love, joy, forgiveness, pain, and acceptance! Another winner!!!

I have read most of Diane’s new books and going back to her older books which I missed. As with all my favorite authors – start with new ones and then you want to read everything the writer has written – you will not be disappointed! Be sure and read the Before the Storm first as it will make it more enjoyable to know the history of the characters.
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