Working as a ranch hand isn’t Reno Espinoza’s dream job, but it lets him keep his lifelong secret hidden. Until an accident on the ranch leads him to unintentionally reveal his learning disability to his childhood crush, Lyrissa Martinez. Teaching Reno to read is no trouble for the special ed teacher, but his carefree attitude reminds her of a past she’s trying to move on from. As the two spend more time together, can they help each other heal old wounds for a chance at forever?
Living in the Texas Hill Country, with her four children, Jolene’s life, much like the stories she writes, is filled with faith, family, football, art, laughter, dirty dishes and all of life's wonderful messiness.
Jolene knows that, as much as the world changes, people stay the same. Good and evil. Vow-keepers and heart-breakers. Jolene married a vow-keeper who showed her that long kisses and dancing in the rain never gets old.
This is the first Jolene Navarro book I have read, but it will not be the last. In this story, the author doesn't just write about some real-life topics but also realistically deals with how these topics affect all of those involved. The descriptive writing had me connecting with Lyrissa and Reno, as well as with the secondary characters. I was deeply drawn into Lyrissa and Reno's struggles, pain, and emotions and could feel all they were going through. This wonderful and heartfelt inspirational story is full of faith, overcoming, forgiveness, and love, and although it can be read as a standalone, I will definitely be reading the rest of the series and more of the author's works.
Book Quotes:
"God has a plan and purpose for each of us." Her father believed what he just said--she knew he did--but she was having a hard time coming to grips with God's plan for her.
"Sweetheart. It's all going to be okay. ---- Right now, you don't see it, but I promise God has the perfect path that is just for you if you stay faithful and open to His will."
This is a touching, heartwarming story. It sheds light on several issues that one could face in everyday life. Reno Espinoza has a secret that he carefully guarded all of his life. An accident sends Reno to the hospital where painkillers loosens his tongue and ALL of his secrets are revealed! Lyrissa Martinez, a special ed teacher, has returned home to Port Del Mar, Tx with two little brothers in tow. Their mother is an addict and not the best mother. She is coming to introduce the boys to their father, Mundo, then she is planning to get out of town and head back to her job in Missouri. Reno is trying to pass the first responder test to become a firefighter and leave his “happy go lucky” past behind. Can Reno and Lyrissa discover how they can help each other?
Ms. Navarro sheds some insights into dyslexia and alcoholism and their effect a on those closest to them. There are some funny moments and some serious ones! Just how I like my books!
I enjoyed The Texan's Journey Home by Jolene Navarro. This is her twelfth book set in Port Del Mar, Texas. This book deals with real-life experiences of dysgraphia and addiction. Lyrissa is bringing her much younger brothers (that her addicted mother dumped on her) home to live with her father and her Mew-Maw. The first familiar person she sees is her best friend's younger brother Reno. Reno has a helper, hero, "wants to make everything better" personality. He supports Lyrissa throughout the book. Larissa supports her family and helps Reno to deal with his secret. There are 2 main characters, 5 main secondary characters of Lyrissa family, and lots of other secondary characters of Reno's family.
I love reading books about disabilities and overcoming the stigmas.
Reno is Lyrissa's best friend's little brother. He has had a crush on Lyrissa since childhood. An unfortunate misunderstanding leads to Lyrissa leaving town and she is a No Show for their first date.
Years later Lyrissa, a special ed teacher, returns to town and uncovers Reno's reading struggles.
Both characters are involved in issues from the past but are always drawn to each other. I could not wait for their HEA.
Never give up - lose hope - on anyone - right? There were so many real life applications that brought renewal to so many in this family/community! I love that you put God first! Everyone will be uplifted from this "overcomer", "dream come true", "restoration" story. Keep writing!