Written in the Sand

by D.B. James

Writing your wishes in the sand and believing in the magic of them coming true is for children. Tenley Grace stopped believing in the enchantment of them the day she lost her husband of twelve years. Left with an obliterated heart, she struggles to find the woman she once was.
Stumbling upon sexy tattoo artist, Case Ballantyne, could be the perfect distraction she needs to help her pick up the pieces again. His time in town is temporary which is exactly what Tenley is looking for.
Fate keeps bringing them together even when life should keep them apart.
Can a wish Written in the Sand by Case withstand the storms life throws at them or will it forever be washed away with the tide?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

282 pages, Paperback

First published May 9, 2018

About the author

D.B. James is an indie author of new adult romance and romantic suspense. In her spare time, she’s an avid reader. Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher, KA Tucker, Linda Kage, Renee Carlino, Jennifer Armentrout, Sarah J Maas, and Samantha Young are a few of her obsessions. She is a mother to one spoiled rotten fur baby named Frasier. He’s a bicolored Persian cat who thinks he’s royalty and can’t be told otherwise. She’s a Michigan girl through and through but currently resides in sunny Florida. Sarcasm, Supernatural (team Sam!), Harry Potter, Riverdale and coffee are among her favorite things.

Reviews

[Porch Swing Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been a fan of D.B. James for a while now and watching her writing progress and grow has been such a joy. It seems no matter what type of romance book she is crafting, James excels. Written in the Sand is no exception. This book was definitely different than her other releases, but it was still wonderful. The story was real and the characters were honest and relatable.

Tenley's story is completely raw and honest about the struggle of loss and depression. I think James did an outstanding job conveying Tenley's pain and struggle. She didn't gloss over the anger or frustration or sadness that Tenley felt while trying to heal. I especially loved that James included how difficult the smallest steps can be for someone struggling with depression or anxiety.

Written in the Sand is a sweet powerful story about overcoming the darkness and pain in life and learning to live and love again. Overall, Written in the Sand is a solid read and a great choice to enjoy while lying next to the water this summer.

I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[LLS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good story. Tenley is suffering from a loss that seems to be too much for her to over come. She is struggling and this is her journey back from the edge. I enjoyed the fact the the process was the main story line and that Case was patient and understanding. This was my first time reading this author and it won't be the last.

Thank you for the privilege of reading this book! Well done ❤️

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Written in the Sand by D.B James is a wonderful second chances story with struggle, loss, grief, emotion, drama, friendship, and romance. It’s a raw, honest, realistic, and believable story that took me on an emotional journey from cover to cover. I loved D.B James “Secrets” series and was curious by what she had in store for us in this book. I wasn’t disappointed, this story is every bit as good as the other books of hers that I have read.
Tenley Grace lost her husband in a tragic accident. Her world shattered, and she hasn’t really been living, just making the motions of her life. She really wants to move on, to rediscover the person she used to be before tragedy struck. Through the process of trying to reclaim her life she chances upon Case Ballantyne, a sexy tattooed charmer who ends up turning her world upside down.
I loved the meaning behind ‘written in the sand’- it added a little something extra to the story and gave it a sentimental quality. The wishes are something I did with my mother and grandmother (when I was a little girl) whenever we went to the beach, so this aspect of the story really resonated with me.
A wonderful story!

Thank you, Ms. James!

[Elena · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book I read from D.B and really touched my soul. The emotions and feelings that our heroine is trying to overcome are raw and so real that can't let you indifferent.

To say that I haven't cried will be an understatement. Michae'l memory is still alive within the pages of this story and I can say that I would have liked him as a a character but Case stole the show by just being him and being wonderful and patient to our Tenley.

A story about finding yourself, accepting to let go of past loves and fining love again. I really enjoyed it!!

[Coco.V]

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[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tenley and Case are the perfect couple. This book was beautiful and so touching, but broke my heart. Case is the perfect guy to help Tenley heal and they are true soul mates in every way!

[Dacia Hawkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.B. James has done it again. Learning to live and love again after a tragic accident is a hardship that seems impossible to overcome. She was able to bring the darkness of depression through her words so you feel the story as you're reading it. Finding one's self after being lost for so long is a journey in itself and to find love while doing it makes it that much sweeter. Another great job D.B. James.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! DB James took me on a journey of tears and hope in this novel, Written In The Sand. I have not had the pleasure of reading James’s works before but now that I have devoured this gem I will be going to add all of her novels to my TBR pile and slowly enjoying each one available. Every once in awhile, when I least expect it to, a novel will completely suck me in and take my breath away. It will leave me speechless a lot of the time, and haunt my emotions long after I read the last page. This book was one of those rare and special occasions for me.

Tenley has suffered a great loss with her husband's untimely death. She never figured she would find herself standing at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico and wondering where her husband lays somewhere out there. She never expected to be mourning what was, both with her past self and her now uprooted love story. For the last few years she has been a shell of herself in the sand of life.

“Nearly two years ago my life imploded before my eyes, sweeping the proverbial rug swept right out from under my feet.”

Her family and friends never give up on her, or trying to convince her that she can move past this tragedy and become more than just a grieving widow. Eventually she comes to realize that there is still life left to be lived even without her husband around. She begins to just experience each day and what it brings to her. Starting with seeking help from a doctor that is determined to help her overcome the medical aspects that are now a part of her. She discovers the small things that once brought her joy are still there to discover.

“Honestly, I’ve never known how to truly live without Michael. He was the other half of my heart. When he died, it didn’t only feel like my soul was split in two, I felt a part of myself died with him. Its effects have caused me to spiral into the deepest depression I’ve ever known. It’s time to save myself. It’s time to find Tenley. It’s time to find me.”

One afternoon in a bookstore brings the handsome tattoo artist, Case, into her life like a tidal wave. Her emotions soar the peaks and lows with the temptation of a new man on the horizon. At first she is hesitant to let her heart feel anything for another man. She doesn’t feel as if she is worthy of his attention or love. She also struggles with feeling like she will ever be ready to love another man.

Chase never expected that someone like Tenley would steal his heart. He knew that all was missing in his successful life was a woman to share it with, or his mo ghaol. It was his grandma that taught him to believe in the wishes that one writes in the sand will come true. He just never thought that Tenley would be the answer to his wish. Luckily he is determined to not let her give up on them before they have a chance to make it work.

“Before you object, let me explain. I’ve stated a few times about lonely recognizing lonely, and I firmly believe it. We’re made of the same fabric, you and I. But I also believe there’s something more between us. I felt it when I walked into the bookstore and heard you murdering the Adele song. Don’t deny you didn’t feel it, too. I know you did. Your reactions to me give you away. The day on the beach only proved to me yet again what I felt in the store. I felt it again last night in the shop. I doubt I need to state this, but I felt it again when I walked into the salon. It’s my needing to be more. So. Much. More. I’m beating myself up inside now because I told you I didn’t want or need anything more from you but friendship. I’m beginning to see how hard it’s going to be. We can move past this… we will move past this.”

The two take a journey together in this novel that reminds them what it is like to be young and free of past hurts and internal demons. One that the reader can connect with and enjoy right along with Case and Tenley. You will not be disappointed that you picked up this book. You may find yourself another author to stalk and love!

“For two years I lived life in an internal endless winter, never breaking free of the ice encasing my heart or running through my veins. Not until a tattooed stranger waltzed into Bookmark It! And p***ed me off for no apparent reason. My ice started melting the day Case came swaggering into my life. He chased away the winter by bringing the sunshine back.”

[Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Cranky Stars


I just finished this amazing journey of self discovery and finding your happy place and I still don’t know how to put my thoughts into words. It hit home in a lot of ways. I suffer from anxiety and a myriad of health issues myself. One that does set me back and took away the me before but yet this isn’t my story. This story belongs to Tenley Grace and essentially Case who was a guiding light in many ways.


Tenley has been a shadow for two years having moved back home after suffering a tragedy with her husband. She is a shell just going through the motions spending her time in the dark not living just existing. Her parents are trying to push her out into the world. Baby steps is how she lives until one day she takes a giant leap and seeks help from a doctor. It’s this doctor that helps her take the necessary steps to reclaiming her life. On this journey she meets Case. A tattooed hottie with a heart of gold. She keeps him at arms length because she doesn’t feel worthy and ready. While she sets out to find herself she discovers so much more with Case and renews friendships along the way.


Case has always believed there is a one for him. His mo ghaol. His grandmother told him if you write wishes in the sand they’ll come true. He didn’t expect to fall for Tenley and her brash ways. He’s very patient and waited and guided Tenley on her path. He runs a successful tattoo business and now all he needs is his mo ghaol to feel complete. He finds her singing Adele off key in a book store and he never looked back.


First off the thing that threw me for a loop was how close Tenleys Micheal is to my husband Michael. They share the same birthdate and both have the Gulf of Mexico in common. I was almost scared to continue thinking I was putting bad out into the universe. Such an odd coincidence.


I loved the story of Tenley. It was real it was honest and sweet puppies it made me cry. Seriously Michaels letter will rip your heart out but Case will patch it back better than before. I love that there is so much of D.B. James in this book. It’s like a cleansing of the soul. She poured herself into these pages. You’ll find yourself cheering Tenley on wanting nothing but the best for her. Grief is a tricky mistress. I’ve experienced things that have happened in this book. Written in the Sand is a book of hope and redemption. Finding and loving the best version of yourself but It’s also about taking chances and stepping outside the box. I’m so glad this story is out in the world I think everyone should read it and savor it. You might even notice a familiar face or three.

[Rachel Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s hard to pick up the pieces after your life has been thrown off balance. Tenley Grace, the young and once vibrant author, spends much of the first part of Written in the Sand, doing just that—picking up the pieces of herself that she misplaced when her husband was killed in a tragic accident. Piece by piece, step by step, Tenley goes from a depressed, shell of a woman back towards the woman she was before. Before she says quite often. Time is measured in the before’s but the only way to heal is to measure them in the now’s.

The story ebbs and flows just as the emotions that Tenley expresses go in and out with her healing. Just when you think that she’s getting her life back on track, a bomb is released and she’s forced to go back to square one, trying to grasp onto the things that she thought she once knew to be true. The emotions of D.B. James comes through in the thoughts of Tenely. If you’ve ever lost someone, whether it be through death, divorce or anything else, those emotions will come flooding back to you as you read. Tenley’s voice will carry you through the grief and will leave you wondering, just as she did. Will the hits stop coming or will Tenely’s despair grow so big that she can’t find her way out?

Through the relationship with her parents, the friends that just wouldn't let her be, her doctor and a chance meeting with a well-spoken, attractive man, gives way to feelings she’s been distant from for some time. Tenley’s frozen heart finally begins to thaw. It takes love to find forgiveness. It takes love to heal. And it takes love to thaw out the frozen heart of someone whose depression was so deep that drowning seemed to be the only thing left to do.

If you’re looking for a story filled with emotion. This is it. If you want to read a book that’s thought-provoking, well written, about a brave woman who finds her strength once again. Pick this up. Want a book filled with love? You’ll find it within the pages of Written in the Sand.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by DB James is a contemporary romance story that pulled me in right from the beginning. This is not my first book by this author but it has just become my favorite. I enjoyed this author's books and this one is no different. Her writing skills are creative and engaging. Her stories are easy flowing and fast reading. Her characters are both connectable and lovable. This is a story of second chances and discovery of life after loss. This is a story about a woman, Tenley who has lost her husband. She stopped believing in wishes written in the sand and the magic that makes them come true that sad day. Now she is left struggling to find the woman she once was. Then she meets him, Case the sexy tattoo artist. He is staying in town only for a small amount of time but she thinks this could be just what she needs to move forward with her life. Life keeps throwing them back into each others lives. Can one wish with stand the storm fate is about to throw at them? I enjoyed both of these characters. They fit well together even though something kept saying that they shouldn't be together. Their chemistry together is strong and great. I found myself hoping they would find their HEA. I felt compassion for her and everything that she has gone through. She truly just needs to try to move forward. I enjoyed how she grew throughout this story and become a strong character. Case brings out the best in her and he is determined to do what is right with her. They are just sweet together. The secondary characters are supportive and just as lovable as the two main characters. They help make this story flow. I highly recommend this book. Find out if Tenley gets a second chance at love and what she discovers about herself.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I own all of her books, this is actually my first read from DB James. The cover is gorgeous and the blurb definitely intrigued me, so I knew I had to read it.

I loved Tenley. She was suffering from a huge loss, and it affected every aspect of her life. While I've never experienced this type of loss before, I could feel her pain and completely understood why her life was spiraling. She was a shell of her former self, and even though she wanted out, she kept digging a hole deeper into her depression. With the help of her mom, a few friends, and her therapist, Tenley was able to make her way toward healing herself.

Case was your typical BBF. And I don't mean that in a bad way. He was tattooed, scruffy, and hot as hell. What made him so hot, aside from the tats and panty-dropping scruff? He was understanding of Tenley's loss, he was kind and caring toward her, and he was patient with her. Even when all she needed and wanted was a friend, he was there for her.

I'm not gonna lie, this book was an emotional read (there's a twist I didnt see coming, at all). I had to send a message to DB to yell at her for making it hard to read through all the tears. But she also made me laugh. And she made me swoon. And she had me rooting for Tenley to become the strong woman I knew she was.

Through loss, love, self-discovery, and laughter, Tenley overcomes her grief, and it was an absolutely beautiful story to see unfold.

[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand is a standalone second chances story by D.B. James. I had read couple of her other books before picking up Written in the Sand so my hopes were high and she did not disappoint me! It was so different from what I had read by her before but there is no doubt that she is a writer that you can always go back to knowing that whatever you pick up, it will be memorable…
Written in the Sand is Tenley’s story, her journey to finding herself when her life has been smashed into pieces and she has lost herself after the death of her husband who was her whole world … she has sunk into the darkness and she knows that she needs to do something or else … I loved how the writer did not shy back from giving us a harsh reality of what people who have experienced tremendous loss go through … every single day … and how hard it is to even do the simplest tasks and how difficult it is to take the first real step towards healing …
The writer has given us a story that we will remember for a while, it gives hope to us who suffer from anxiety and depression … it helps us to balance our scales that we struggle with every single day … Thank you and I will be looking for your next masterpiece!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand
By D.B. James

If you are after a highly emotional read, you need to read this book, if you believe in being happily ever after you aren’t going to find it here. If you were on the beach what would your message in the sand be? Tenley has lost her husband and since then she has no clue who she is, she has no purpose left in her life. Then comes along the wonderful Case, Tenley thinks after meeting him things are great as he is only going to be around for a while. But as we all know the more time you spend with someone you even think you have feelings for your thoughts about relationships change. This could be the place where Tenley gets with Case. Does she want to find love again? When reading this book, you really want this couple to fall in love and never be apart. This book is a highly emotional book and it will take you on a roller coaster ride, so do yourself a favour and get a tissue. I felt this book emotional wise was heavy in some places, but then it had to be to feel what the author was writing about. A well written yet sad story, loved every page of it. I am betting you will have trouble putting this book down, and some will be able to understand what Tenley had gone through when she lost her husband.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand
By D B James
5 stars

This was such a beautiful story! This is the third book that I have read by this author so I knew to expect nothing less than a story that’s well written but the emotion that she poured into this story was immense. My heart literally felt like it was breaking for these characters. The story flowed so seamlessly that I never wanted it to end. It truly was an amazing read. The writing in this story was so raw that I just wanted to be there with the characters, especially Tenley. I cried so much with her character and I really felt like I could feel her pain. When she met Case I became so wrapped in their story and wanting Tenley to find her happy place that I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and I certainly never wanted the story to end. I was completely captivated by this book and cannot recommend it enough. It’s beautifully written with characters you cannot help but fall in love with. It more than deserves the 5 stars that I give it!

[Himanish Prabhakar · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is 4 stars.

I have not read DB James before. This is the first book I'm reading by her. And I would definitely like to say that she's a very good writer. The choice of words, phrases used by her shows that her vocabulary is nice.

Now coming back to this book, characters are good. I felt little scared in between the book that the book is not going in the way I thought and the characters are feeling distant to me. To be exact, there were 4 moments where I thought the characters lost me but then again they found me. That is a good thing if those moments didn't happen then I could say the characters were more good.

I liked the plot and the way plot evolved in the book, it was awesome and incredible. The plot was kinda new to me, I've not read a book on a plot like this, therefore, I found it interesting and it never let me down on the plot & the story factor. I felt a connection to the story and it made me feel all the emotions that I found very much incredible as a reader.

I definitely would like to recommend this book as a beautiful, flavourful story with a different kind of plot.

[Candida Furbush · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by D. B. James

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I find myself asking why didn't I know about this amazing author before?!?! I was drawn into this story as soon as I started reading. This was a very emotional read and a very thought provoking story. Tenley has suffered tremendous loss when she tragically lost her husband and is having a really difficult time dealing with it. She is depressed and existing, not really living her life. I can't even imagine how I would deal with losing my husband like that. She has family and friends who keep trying to help her find herself again. Case is an attractive tattoo artist and could be the right person to bring her out of this, and since he is only staying temporary she can keep him at arm's length. Just as you think that things are looking up, it's like the other shoe drops. You can feel the emotions jumping off every page as you read this story.I fell in love with both of these characters and found myself rooting for both of their happiness. This story is about loss, love, second chances, and hope. The author did an amazing job writing this easy flowing well written story. I can't say enough wonderful things about this book, this story will stay with me for a very long time, it touched my heart and soul. I highly recommend this story!!

[Sunday · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by D.B. James
Four Stars

Written In the Sand is a contemporary romance by D.B. James. This is the first book I have read by this author, but definitely won’t be the last. This story is filled with emotions that will have you feeling good as you read. It is a second chance at love when Tenley give up all of her hope after the loss of her husband. She no longer believes in the magic of love. Until she meets Case, the sexy new tattoo artist just passing a little time in her town. Their chemistry is off the chart and Tenley believe that this is just what she needs, because he won’t be around long. However, live has bigger plans for them. Will they be able to throw caution to the wind or will reality come crashing down around them. This story flowed from beginning to end and I couldn’t put it down. The characters were easily relatable. I highly recommend this book and will be adding Ms.James to my TBR list.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star
Written in the Sand by DB James is a contemporary romance story.This isn't my first Book by this author and won't be my last. I had a hard time putting it down once I started reading. This author's style of writing grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps it till the end. I absolutely love her characters they are all loveable and made me feel like I was right along side them through the whole book.This is a story about second chances and finding yourself again after loss.Tenley lost her husband, and stopped believing in wishes written in the sand aling with the magic that makes them come true.She's know struggling to find the person she once was..when she meets Case who is a sexy tattoo artist who is just in town for a short while. Can he be what she needs to move on? Can one wish with stand the big storm fates about to toss their way?These two have chemistry that’s for sure. Find out if these to get their HEA I highly recommend reading this Book. I look forward to reading more from this author.

[Dori cousley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by D. B, James is a second chance story that deals with loss,drama, romance and friendship. This is the story about Tenley, who lost her husband. She stopped believing in all the good things. She wants to find that woman she was before his death. Case, is a sexy tattoo artist Tenley meets. Could this be the person that Tenley needs in her life and make her believe again? Written in the Sand will take you on a very bumpy, emotional roller coaster ride, but it is well worth it. Be sure to have your tissues ready, they will be needed. D. B. James has a way with words that pulls you in from the first page and you will not be able to put the book down. The characters are well developed, believable and easy to relate with. You will feel all the emotions that they go through, that is due to the writing D. B. James. The writing flows and is very engaging. I definitely recommend Written in the Sand, a great second chance romance story.

[Krystal gaston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by DB James is that book that you think you know what it’s about until you don’t. I was getting into it imaging all the things that I thought were going to happen or could happen and I wasn’t prepared. I cried. Tenley is a great character and anyone who has experienced loss can relate to the way she behaves, speaks and her feelings in one way or another. What Michael did leaves a lot of mixed feeling towards his character. And Case, oh Case. What can I say about him. He’s unique and just what Tenley needs in a friend. He tells her once that Lonely knows Lonely and he’s right to an extent. The storyline pulls you in right from the beginning and keeps you questioning the story and where it’s going the entire time. At first your wondering about Michael, then Tenley, then Case.
Overall I loved this story and Written in the Sand is a great read that you won’t regret.

[BookNerd13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book other than WOW! There is a verse in the Bible (yes I am going there so hush it!) that speaks about beauty from ashes, and it strongly comes to mind when I read Tenley’s story. Not only does the author cue right in on what depression really feels like, I can tell she has actually been there herself to write it so well. This book is a beautiful testimony written with a gentle hand into what the ugly pit really feels like, and the baby steps you feel like you have to repeat some days just to overcome the gripping fear that can be so crippling at times. Bravo D.B. James for being the Phoenix in your own story, for overcoming, and for reminding us all with this beautiful book that we can rise from the ashes too.

[Lucy Berson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand by D.B. James. This is a new to me author.
Tenley Grace is just barely surviving. She lost her husband of twelve years, just about 2 years ago. Since the day, she got the news, she has been depressed and heartbroken. When she decides to move back with her parents, she knows that she might be on her way to healing. When she meets Case Ballantyne, a sexy tattooed hottie, she realizes that he might just be the distraction that she needs. It should be the perfect scenario, his time in town is limited so things shouldn’t get too serious. I loved this book from the beginning. My heart broke for Tenley, especially when she was reading Michael’s letter. This book is highly recommended.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written In The Sand by DB James is a highly emotional story of second chances and moving on.
Tenley is lost. After losing her husband she doesn’t know who she is anymore. Struggling through life she has no purpose or direction. And then she meets Case. He his the gorgeous tattoo artist that could be the distraction she is looking for. Even better he is only staying in town for a short time. It couldn’t be any more perfect.
But the more time they spend together the more their feelings grow. Could it be that Case is more than just a distraction? Could he be the exact thing Tenley needs to find the magic in her life again.

I found this to be an easy book to read. The emotions pull you and don’t let up. My heart absolutely bled for Tenley and all that she went through. When she met Case I had such hope for her that everything would work out. The writing style of this author was one that is easy to sink into. A very good book.

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand
By: D.B. James
5 out of 5 stars

The story Written in the Sand by D.B. James is a contemporary romance book. This is a story had a loved reading. My emotions when reading went from having tears in my eyes to a smile on my face. It is a story of a woman who is trying to find herself again after the death of her husband. It is the story of Tenley Grace. She is a woman whose life has been shattered and now finds herself depressed and having a hard time coping with the emotions and pain that she is feeling. Things begin to change for her when she meets Case Ballantyne. From the first time that they meet Case feels a connection to Tenley. Tenley is attracted to Case, however, doesn’t feel that she can offer anything else other than friendship. Tenley is starting a healing process and also facing her fears. Will the friendship that she has started with Case lead to something more? Will he be the one that melts the ice that has formed around her heart? Will Tenley find a second chance at love? I loved the characters of Case and Tenley. When reading this story I could feel the attraction/feelings that they have for each other and wanted them to find an HEA together. I also enjoyed reading about the other characters that you are introduced to. They support Tenley and only wish for her to be happy. This story had me hooked and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the last page. It is a book that I got lost in. It is the first book that I have read by the author and I truly enjoyed it.

[Joy Novel Thoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in the Sand is an inspiring story about finding life after a devastating loss. You will be put through the emotional wringer but you'll be left with a full heart.

I usually struggle to connect to depressed characters or characters that have lost someone close to them, because I personally haven't ever dealt with these issues. This is going to sound harsh, but I'm just not good with empathy. I'm more of one of those, you just got to get over it people.

BUT.

I felt such real, raw emotions throughout Tenley's journey. I went through the blinding rage with her, the disbelief, the healing and love. There is so much more to Written in the sand than her depression. It doesn't define anymore. She was was on a journey back to discovering herself before she was married.

And what a beautiful journey it was. Finding herself, her friends and her words. Written in the sand is a story of triumph and over coming even the most challenging obstacles and falling in love.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to say Case is totally your next book boyfriend, oh my! Second, not only did this book inspire me to write my fears downs and try some, it had me cheering on Tenley. I really felt like her friend and was encouraging her on her journey. She is so similar to me when finding love, I too wasn't looking for it and he just walked into my life. I love how Starbucks makes her happy no matter what, if the drink is made correctly... Also, the buffalo ranch chicken is out, you only know this if your in Texas!!!! I want to go visit Henley and Case in Austin. I loved this book, I will be thinking of this for a long time to come. I definitely think it's worth a re-read. The k you so much for this book D.B. James.

[Mary Mccormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is deep. Life isn’t always pretty, happy, or easy to live day to day. Sometimes it is really really hard to forgive those you love the most since they are ones who truly have the ability to hurt you the most. Sometimes that hurt is caused by loving you to much and at the same time taking away your decisions by taking “the cowards way out.” This story is truly eye opening for those who have never dealt with depression. Depression isn’t just sadness.... it hits so much deeper that sometimes it is hard to even want to breath. This is definitely a story of a phoenix rising from her depression and the friendships, loves, and possible future she finds along the way. The journey isn’t always a smooth one, but being on the journey means you are still alive for the sunrise the next day.

[Maura · Rating 4 out of 5]

WRITTEN IN THE SAND is the first book that I've read by this author (weird, right??? I thought so also).

This is a story that had all the feels. For a lot of the book, I had tears shimmering just below the surface. One of my favorite lines is "loneliness recognizes loneliness" ~sigh~. I'm so glad that if a feeling or emotion has a name, it's because someone else has experienced it also.

Characters are well developed and the writing is extremely detailed. I did get the feeling that this book contains secondary characters who have been featured in other books. There is a disconnect that took me out of the hook for a minute, but I was able to still enjoy the story.

I read this story cover to cover in 1 long afternoon and found it to be very enjoyable.

[Tracy Wilkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the Sand is a standalone second chance romance by D. B. James. This is my first time reading work by this author, and I was thoroughly surprised by the complexity of the characters and the way the story unfolded. It was an emotional story, but one that was deep and memorable. I won't forget Tenley and Case anytime soon. These two have left a lasting impression.

Many things happen in this story. Wishes written in sand, hitting rock bottom, learning new and exciting things about themselves, attraction and new beginnings. Tenley had a big hurdle to overcome, but with a new love and acceptance, anything is possible. Their connection was instant and evolved naturally. I could not help but be instantly enamoured by these characters. 5 stars