Unexpected Bonds: A Story of Discovery, Forgiveness, and Redemption

by Edward Dreyfus

At seventy-five, Arnie Rapkin has built a full life — a successful career as a clinical psychologist, a loving circle of family and friends, and a peaceful retirement by the beach. But a single email upends everything he thought he knew about his past.

Natalie Brandlemann, a woman Arnie never knew existed, reaches out with stunning DNA tests have revealed that Arnie is her biological father. As memories of a long-forgotten affair resurface, Arnie must confront the consequences of choices made decades ago during the turbulent era of free love and social revolution.

As Arnie grapples with guilt, loyalty, and the hope for redemption, he turns to his lifelong friends for guidance. Meanwhile, Natalie, struggling with the loss of her family and loyalty to her late father, wrestles with conflicting emotions of anger, longing, and the need for connection.

What unfolds is a story of unexpected family ties, hidden motives, and the fragile bridges we build between past and present.
In the end, Unexpected Bonds Can the sins of the past ever be forgiven? And what defines a family — biology, loyalty, or the courage to open our hearts?

Perfect for readers who love emotionally layered fiction about second chances, family secrets, and the healing power of truth.

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 19, 2025

Reviews

[Cheryl Tabor · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sevent-four year old widower. Three children all grown, two sons and a daughter. Also suffering from Kidney issues. Has a full life with devoted friends. Set in his ways a writer now. His life was pretty much layer back. Till he recieved an E-Mail that would change his life and his children's. A woman claiming to have done a DNA test when she learned that the man who raised her was not her father, and was now deseased. Her mother in a home due to her Alzimers could not give her information. The DNA said that Arnie was 99.99% her father. Thus begins a relationship, but there was also a con between her, her partner and the half brother she grew up with. Something about a partnership between Arnie and her step-father that caused him to be broke a gambler and a drunk. Don't want to spoil it for you. This story proves how forgiveness, family, and unselfish gifts create an unbelievable bond. A heart warming story.

[Ashley Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and publisher for participating in the Goodreads giveaway that resulted in me receiving a Kindle copy of this wonderful book.
I found the book easy to read and full of relatable characters that you come to feel for. Even though the read was easy it traversed the depth of human emotions, love and family dynamics. This read keeps you interested and vested while proving life is not perfect and we all have issues but it is how you react/respond that will really impact your life.
I defiantly suggest this book to anyone who comes across it.

[Shari Tolson · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 interesting concept with ancestry DNA pulling up past indiscretions. It was a short read.

[Julie Conner · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heart warming story about learning g about what family means and the grace of overcoming expectations to find the gift of the reality.