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Return of the Runaway Bride
Once upon a time...
There lived a lovely young woman named Savanna who was engaged to Daniel, a handsome law student. Theirs was to be a fairy-tale wedding. But Savanna's second thoughts were too big to be ignored, so the would-be bride ran away.
As the years passed...
Daniel's heart turned to ice. It was this unfeeling man that Savanna faced upon her return. The love of her youth was now a stranger. Could Savanna ever make Daniel understand why she abandoned him? And could she convince the man of her dreams he would always be her Prince Charming?
There lived a lovely young woman named Savanna who was engaged to Daniel, a handsome law student. Theirs was to be a fairy-tale wedding. But Savanna's second thoughts were too big to be ignored, so the would-be bride ran away.
As the years passed...
Daniel's heart turned to ice. It was this unfeeling man that Savanna faced upon her return. The love of her youth was now a stranger. Could Savanna ever make Daniel understand why she abandoned him? And could she convince the man of her dreams he would always be her Prince Charming?
186 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 1994
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535 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 6, 2012
I was sitting in the living room watching TV the other day when this ridiculous commercial for Dr. Pepper 10 comes on. “This is a MAN’s drink!” it spouted as some slightly less than average looking man jumped a canyon in a dune-buggy. (*eye roll*) Anyways, at the end of this commercial he charges the TV camera, drink in fist and throws out the phrase, “So you can keep your romantic comedies and lady drinks…” because blah ditty blah blah. Now, normally I would pay absolutely no attention to this AT ALL, but when the screen faded to black and something infinitely more ridiculous came on the screen I heard my husband chuckle. (*insert raised eyebrow*)
“What’s so funny?” I asked glaring at the man to my right.
“You are soooo not a girl.” He says.
“WTH are you talking about?” I spit back. “The last time I checked homey…I had boobs.”
“Romantic comedies and lady drinks (chuckle) You…my lovely bride are so not a girl.”
“Am so!” Sticks tongue out in true 2-year-old fashion.
“Hand me your phone.”
(I have to admit, this is the part where I started to get a little concerned.)
“What do you need my phone for?” I ask.
“I’m going to prove something to you.”
(Chuckle.)
(Glare.)
“Look…right here. Look at the movies you have on your phone.”
I (of course) took the phone in a huge huff about to disprove my arrogant husband. Yeah…no such luck. As it turns out, I am indeed a dude. (In case you were wonder the movies were “28 Days Later” “Daybreakers” “Legion” “Zombieland” and “Avatar”)
Well…all of this got me thinking. I don’t read enough romance. Yes…I read my fair share of “I’m a warewolf…aren’t I hot” but true unadulterated romance? Not so much. Then I realized (smacks forehead) that most of my followers are women and (unlike me) they are probably really into the whole “swooning” thing, (aka “romantic comedies and girly drinks.”) So…I decided enough was enough. I would read a girl book. It’s not like I’ve never done it before, hell…I used to be addicted to Nora Roberts and (hangs head) Danielle Steele. I would dissect my TBR, I WOULD find a damn lady book, and dag nabbit…I was going to present this damn book to the masses.
Here is what I found, (cue indignant smile) “Return of the Runaway Bride” by Donna Fasano.
Once upon a time…
There lived a lovely young woman named Savanna who was engaged to Daniel, a handsome law student. Theirs was to be a fairy-tale wedding. But Savanna’s second thoughts were too big to be ignored, so the would-be bride ran away.
As the years passed…
Daniel’s heart turned to ice. It was this unfeeling man that Savanna faced upon her return. The love of her youth was now a stranger. Could Savanna ever make Daniel understand why she abandoned him? And could she convince the man of her dreams he would always be her Prince Charming?
So what did I actually think about my lady-venture when it was all said and done? Not to shabby. I will admit, the whole “I’m running from my perfect life” had me a little baffled at first, but once the concept was fully formed it made perfect sense. This what not a book about a girl who made a mistake and then came back 6 years later to grovel at the feet of her “perfect” Prince Charming, this was about a girl who needed to get her hands dirty to realize what life is really all about. ( <–wow, that was very Yoda like of me. *takes a bow*)
If I’m to break it down further…the story wasn’t really about Savanna running away at all, (Ok, that’s only partially true) but more about the characters that eventually surround her “new” life and the changes she has made to make amends. So what did I think about these characters? Spot-on!
I don’t know about the rest of you but I grew up in a painfully tiny town, and can contest to the amount of nosy-ness they possess. In regards to this particular aspect, I think Fasano captured it perfectly. As for the leads themselves, (Savanna and Daniel) I think their internal turmoil led to some fascinating encounters and their inability to trust one another created fantastic doors for Fasano to navigate their “less than normal” relationship through.
The writing? It was pleasant. There were no major editing issues, there was just enough push and pull to keep you fully engaged in the relationship and there were no obvious plot lulls (which I have to admit..is a nice change of pace.)
So where exactly does this leave me overall?
Well, beside the fact that I need to find a new word for “so” (what was that, like 50 times in 4 paragraphs?) It was a nice pleasant read, with a nice pleasant story, that wasn’t too long or too short. Perfect for those of you who like easy reads or beachy type romantic romps.
Was it the best dip into “Girl World” I’ve ever had? No, but well worth the $1 if you are clean romance fan.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: Never trust a mother who uses your head as a pin cushion.
“What’s so funny?” I asked glaring at the man to my right.
“You are soooo not a girl.” He says.
“WTH are you talking about?” I spit back. “The last time I checked homey…I had boobs.”
“Romantic comedies and lady drinks (chuckle) You…my lovely bride are so not a girl.”
“Am so!” Sticks tongue out in true 2-year-old fashion.
“Hand me your phone.”
(I have to admit, this is the part where I started to get a little concerned.)
“What do you need my phone for?” I ask.
“I’m going to prove something to you.”
(Chuckle.)
(Glare.)
“Look…right here. Look at the movies you have on your phone.”
I (of course) took the phone in a huge huff about to disprove my arrogant husband. Yeah…no such luck. As it turns out, I am indeed a dude. (In case you were wonder the movies were “28 Days Later” “Daybreakers” “Legion” “Zombieland” and “Avatar”)
Well…all of this got me thinking. I don’t read enough romance. Yes…I read my fair share of “I’m a warewolf…aren’t I hot” but true unadulterated romance? Not so much. Then I realized (smacks forehead) that most of my followers are women and (unlike me) they are probably really into the whole “swooning” thing, (aka “romantic comedies and girly drinks.”) So…I decided enough was enough. I would read a girl book. It’s not like I’ve never done it before, hell…I used to be addicted to Nora Roberts and (hangs head) Danielle Steele. I would dissect my TBR, I WOULD find a damn lady book, and dag nabbit…I was going to present this damn book to the masses.
Here is what I found, (cue indignant smile) “Return of the Runaway Bride” by Donna Fasano.
Once upon a time…
There lived a lovely young woman named Savanna who was engaged to Daniel, a handsome law student. Theirs was to be a fairy-tale wedding. But Savanna’s second thoughts were too big to be ignored, so the would-be bride ran away.
As the years passed…
Daniel’s heart turned to ice. It was this unfeeling man that Savanna faced upon her return. The love of her youth was now a stranger. Could Savanna ever make Daniel understand why she abandoned him? And could she convince the man of her dreams he would always be her Prince Charming?
So what did I actually think about my lady-venture when it was all said and done? Not to shabby. I will admit, the whole “I’m running from my perfect life” had me a little baffled at first, but once the concept was fully formed it made perfect sense. This what not a book about a girl who made a mistake and then came back 6 years later to grovel at the feet of her “perfect” Prince Charming, this was about a girl who needed to get her hands dirty to realize what life is really all about. ( <–wow, that was very Yoda like of me. *takes a bow*)
If I’m to break it down further…the story wasn’t really about Savanna running away at all, (Ok, that’s only partially true) but more about the characters that eventually surround her “new” life and the changes she has made to make amends. So what did I think about these characters? Spot-on!
I don’t know about the rest of you but I grew up in a painfully tiny town, and can contest to the amount of nosy-ness they possess. In regards to this particular aspect, I think Fasano captured it perfectly. As for the leads themselves, (Savanna and Daniel) I think their internal turmoil led to some fascinating encounters and their inability to trust one another created fantastic doors for Fasano to navigate their “less than normal” relationship through.
The writing? It was pleasant. There were no major editing issues, there was just enough push and pull to keep you fully engaged in the relationship and there were no obvious plot lulls (which I have to admit..is a nice change of pace.)
So where exactly does this leave me overall?
Well, beside the fact that I need to find a new word for “so” (what was that, like 50 times in 4 paragraphs?) It was a nice pleasant read, with a nice pleasant story, that wasn’t too long or too short. Perfect for those of you who like easy reads or beachy type romantic romps.
Was it the best dip into “Girl World” I’ve ever had? No, but well worth the $1 if you are clean romance fan.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: Never trust a mother who uses your head as a pin cushion.
February 10, 2015
I only had one problem with this book and unfortunately it's a major one - the heroine.
At nineteen Savanna decided on her wedding day that she couldn't marry her perfect fiancee because her life was too perfect and would keep being too perfect, so instead of talking to anyone about her concerns she just ups and runs away leaving Danny at the altar.
Six years later she returns and apologises to him and a few others, offers to help save the local hospital and then can't understand why Danny doesn't trust her to stick around.
All through the book she is selfish, self absorbed and self satisfied (it may be quite ovious I had a few issues with her character).
I liked the small town, the hero and the supporting characters - they all fitted together to make a lovely setting for the book.
The book itself was well written, easy to read and if it wasn't for the heroine I would have enjoyed it.
At nineteen Savanna decided on her wedding day that she couldn't marry her perfect fiancee because her life was too perfect and would keep being too perfect, so instead of talking to anyone about her concerns she just ups and runs away leaving Danny at the altar.
Six years later she returns and apologises to him and a few others, offers to help save the local hospital and then can't understand why Danny doesn't trust her to stick around.
All through the book she is selfish, self absorbed and self satisfied (it may be quite ovious I had a few issues with her character).
I liked the small town, the hero and the supporting characters - they all fitted together to make a lovely setting for the book.
The book itself was well written, easy to read and if it wasn't for the heroine I would have enjoyed it.
November 14, 2013
Story. Return of the Runaway Bride starts with minutes away from Daniel Walsh III and Savanna Langford’s wedding. And Savanna was fidgety, doubting everything, realizing shit and all. Her mom tells her that it must be just cold feet about the wedding. But in her heart, Savanna knows that it’s more than that. She comes to realize how her life have been perfectly planned and orchestrated her parents. It’s not that she doesn’t love Daniel but it’s a now or never situation for her life. It’s now for her to decide if she’ll make this life changing decision or never have the chance to make a decision for her own life.
Savanna decides NOW and she ended up leaving her own wedding.
Six years later … accomplished in life, Savanna makes a decision to go back to their town and re-establish their family house. How will the people in their town react to her return? Most importantly, how will Daniel Walsh III react? Will they still be able to rekindle their relationship? What will Savanna do to earn Daniel’s trust and heart? I’m sure she needs to do some explanation for her actions in the past…
Overall. For me, the story lacks some back story to Savanna’s life after she left their town. I’m really shocked when I saw that “after six years” thing appeared in the book after the part wherein she left. I expected that the book will at least show how she started her life alone for it could’ve been a very prevailing element for the entire book. Yes, stuff was mentioned about her past but readers weren’t treated to get a glimpse on how Savanna worked her ass off to graduate in college and all. So yeah, I was disappointed about that. Though, I like everything that happened to Daniel and Savanna's story.
If you’re curious enough as to what happens to Savannah and Daniel after six years, then you should read this book. Plus point for this book for being a short read.
Bye x
Savanna decides NOW and she ended up leaving her own wedding.
Six years later … accomplished in life, Savanna makes a decision to go back to their town and re-establish their family house. How will the people in their town react to her return? Most importantly, how will Daniel Walsh III react? Will they still be able to rekindle their relationship? What will Savanna do to earn Daniel’s trust and heart? I’m sure she needs to do some explanation for her actions in the past…
Overall. For me, the story lacks some back story to Savanna’s life after she left their town. I’m really shocked when I saw that “after six years” thing appeared in the book after the part wherein she left. I expected that the book will at least show how she started her life alone for it could’ve been a very prevailing element for the entire book. Yes, stuff was mentioned about her past but readers weren’t treated to get a glimpse on how Savanna worked her ass off to graduate in college and all. So yeah, I was disappointed about that. Though, I like everything that happened to Daniel and Savanna's story.
If you’re curious enough as to what happens to Savannah and Daniel after six years, then you should read this book. Plus point for this book for being a short read.
Bye x
June 19, 2016
So proud of myself this month for reading (or trying to read) so many of those old crazy freebie one clicks!
I've owned this one since 2012, and since I felt up to something cute and simple picked this up.
This was a very average read. It wasn't bad or anything but I'm fairly certain I'll remember nothing of this book next month.
I was a bit on the fence with the main romance because Daniel kept having douche moments and mistrusting Savanna and I didn't quite get their budding love (mostly because we're TOLD they have great, fun conversations, but most of the ones we're privy to end in small arguments and include snide remarks, or apologizing).
I also thought it was slightly unbalanced because 95% of the novel tells Savanna's story, 4% suddenly jumps to Daniel's thoughts and one scene showed just him, and then 1% is for suddenly saying something through Sheila's head which was odd.
I've owned this one since 2012, and since I felt up to something cute and simple picked this up.
This was a very average read. It wasn't bad or anything but I'm fairly certain I'll remember nothing of this book next month.
I was a bit on the fence with the main romance because Daniel kept having douche moments and mistrusting Savanna and I didn't quite get their budding love (mostly because we're TOLD they have great, fun conversations, but most of the ones we're privy to end in small arguments and include snide remarks, or apologizing).
I also thought it was slightly unbalanced because 95% of the novel tells Savanna's story, 4% suddenly jumps to Daniel's thoughts and one scene showed just him, and then 1% is for suddenly saying something through Sheila's head which was odd.
July 9, 2013
Savannah returns to her childhood home 6 years after running out of town on her wedding day. While she knows making amends with Daniel and the townspeople will not be easy, she did not expect to still care so much for Daniel.
The author does a good job keeping the story moving and not always where you would expect – and this is good. I was surprised how easy Daniel’s mother accepts Savannah back into her home. Things are not so easy to patch up with Daniel and it was refreshing to see that they both did not just immediately fall back in love and live happily ever after. I am not saying they didn’t, just that their journey was realistic.
This was a good story that I really enjoyed.
The author does a good job keeping the story moving and not always where you would expect – and this is good. I was surprised how easy Daniel’s mother accepts Savannah back into her home. Things are not so easy to patch up with Daniel and it was refreshing to see that they both did not just immediately fall back in love and live happily ever after. I am not saying they didn’t, just that their journey was realistic.
This was a good story that I really enjoyed.
March 11, 2012
A fairly consistent female lead with an interesting back story was marred by the utter inconsistency of the male lead, paired with a story line with basically no conflict except some token arguments between the male and female leads.
March 23, 2019
Return of the Runaway Bride by Donna Fasano
Story starts with Savanna and she can't go through with the wedding. Her whole life has been planned out for her and she rebels...
Story also follows Daniel who was left at the altar. Six years later she comes back to town and is hoping to redo the house and sell it.
She purchased it from her parents when they moved to the city. There is so much she has no idea about in her absence.
Others also have not heard about her and what she's done over the years. She felt like she had to prove herself.
Love the idea of her career and how it can help the hospital raise money. Daniel is now the laywer in town and heads up many committees.
They are forced to work together on the fund raiser with others and spend a lot of time together where they open up to one another about the past.
Like how the whole community is there for everybody else, similar to the town we live in.
Good story but a bit predictable. About the author is included at the end.
Free from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Story starts with Savanna and she can't go through with the wedding. Her whole life has been planned out for her and she rebels...
Story also follows Daniel who was left at the altar. Six years later she comes back to town and is hoping to redo the house and sell it.
She purchased it from her parents when they moved to the city. There is so much she has no idea about in her absence.
Others also have not heard about her and what she's done over the years. She felt like she had to prove herself.
Love the idea of her career and how it can help the hospital raise money. Daniel is now the laywer in town and heads up many committees.
They are forced to work together on the fund raiser with others and spend a lot of time together where they open up to one another about the past.
Like how the whole community is there for everybody else, similar to the town we live in.
Good story but a bit predictable. About the author is included at the end.
Free from the author and this is my honest opinion.
February 6, 2017
Sweet love story of a young girl who loves her Fiancé very much but realizes that she must be true to herself before she can commit to someone else. At 19 Savanna is engaged to a wonderful young man whom is older, he has graduated college and heading to Law School. Savanna's parents have given her a great life, protected her from life's twist and turns and now her future looks like it will also be perfect. On her wedding day Savanna realizes she has not really done anything that she wanted, she has always done what her parents wanted and now she feels she will always be doing what Daniel wants not necessarily what she would choose. So she runs. She returns for the first time after six years to her home town which she loved and missed. In this story her choice to run turns out to be the best choice that she made for herself and in the end for the town of Fulton.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2023
what did I just read?
So a 19 year old woman is going to marry a 3 year law student, so he’s 24. And they’ve been dating for awhile. That’s gross.
And her family thinks it’s a good idea in the modern world that their 19 year old daughter becomes a stay at home wife to a 3 year law student? And become a mother as soon as possible after that?
And after I read all that, the run away bride is sorry?
She is the one who deserves the apology. What they put her through is awful.
That was bad enough but she comes back after 6 years. She put herself through college and has a huge career in only 2 years?
The whole thing was ridiculous
So a 19 year old woman is going to marry a 3 year law student, so he’s 24. And they’ve been dating for awhile. That’s gross.
And her family thinks it’s a good idea in the modern world that their 19 year old daughter becomes a stay at home wife to a 3 year law student? And become a mother as soon as possible after that?
And after I read all that, the run away bride is sorry?
She is the one who deserves the apology. What they put her through is awful.
That was bad enough but she comes back after 6 years. She put herself through college and has a huge career in only 2 years?
The whole thing was ridiculous
March 20, 2017
A nicely written short novel, a romantic story. Savannah’s life was all mapped out for her by her parents but savannah can’t go through with the perfect wedding. She jilts her fiancé on their wedding day.
She returns to the small town she grew up in six years later having made her way in the world. Her parents have now retired to a sunnier climate and she buys their family home to renovate. Daniel still lives and works in town, the flame is still there for her first love and she feels she needs to explain her reasons for leaving.
I DOWNLOADED THIS BOOK AS A FREE OFFER
She returns to the small town she grew up in six years later having made her way in the world. Her parents have now retired to a sunnier climate and she buys their family home to renovate. Daniel still lives and works in town, the flame is still there for her first love and she feels she needs to explain her reasons for leaving.
I DOWNLOADED THIS BOOK AS A FREE OFFER
August 19, 2018
4 stars
I purchased Return Of The Runaway Bride by Donna Fasano and this review was given freely.
Savanna listen to her doubts regarding moving from the protection of her parents to a cosseted relationship with Daniel. Savanna returns 6 years later to save buy her family home, save the town hospital and reunite with Daniel. A clean but rocky second chance at love full length romance with realistic small town characters and dramas, cute kids, attraction and hints that some steamy moments occurred but without being graphic.
I purchased Return Of The Runaway Bride by Donna Fasano and this review was given freely.
Savanna listen to her doubts regarding moving from the protection of her parents to a cosseted relationship with Daniel. Savanna returns 6 years later to save buy her family home, save the town hospital and reunite with Daniel. A clean but rocky second chance at love full length romance with realistic small town characters and dramas, cute kids, attraction and hints that some steamy moments occurred but without being graphic.
December 5, 2017
Ma io mi chiedo: come si fa? Durante un matrimonio (il proprio) la sposa scappa in abito nuziale e non si fa vedere né sentire per sei anni. Sei anni. Torna improvvisamente al paesello e vuole parlare col promesso sposo senza che lui si arrabbi. Lo amava, ma è partita perché doveva provare a farsi una carriera e a imparare a contare su se stessa. Eh? E pensarci prima? E l’amore? Boh. Rilettura giusta per far spazio in libreria.
March 17, 2019
Wonderful second chance book
Savanna and Daniel's story was a very emotional rollercoaster. They meet back up when she gets back to town after being away 6 years. The struggles at the beginning to even talk together turn up and down when the past issues come up. Love the way the story flows. Love it.
Savanna and Daniel's story was a very emotional rollercoaster. They meet back up when she gets back to town after being away 6 years. The struggles at the beginning to even talk together turn up and down when the past issues come up. Love the way the story flows. Love it.
March 9, 2018
Donna Fasano/Clayton was a new author to me, but this book was a good start to me. She showed the reader the side of the bride Savanna, but also the side of the groom. I spent a couple of hours reading this lovely book.
July 24, 2018
It was overdone with unnecessary details and is a bit predictable. then there was more analysis of the characters' behavior and inner thoughts than the actual scenes. Not a page turner and nothing special here, but it wasn't too bad either.
March 1, 2019
Good story.
I enjoyed this story. It would have been 5 stars but I personally had a little trouble the first chapter. But I am so glad I kept reading because I truly enjoyed the rest of the book.
I enjoyed this story. It would have been 5 stars but I personally had a little trouble the first chapter. But I am so glad I kept reading because I truly enjoyed the rest of the book.
July 4, 2017
A page turner
I could not help myself. I finished the book in one day. Luckily I had the day off, so could do as I pleased. I sat on my backyard swing & read the afternoon away.
I could not help myself. I finished the book in one day. Luckily I had the day off, so could do as I pleased. I sat on my backyard swing & read the afternoon away.
September 24, 2017
This is a nice second chance romance.
December 18, 2018
Another light read but kept my interest
February 10, 2019
I enjoyed it. Light hearted. Added in southern charm.
March 13, 2019
Heartwarming
Great follow-up to the runaway bride book. Grown up love overcomes the hurt and embarrassment of changing her mind as a too young bride.
Great follow-up to the runaway bride book. Grown up love overcomes the hurt and embarrassment of changing her mind as a too young bride.
March 19, 2019
Second chance romance.
April 27, 2021
It was a predictable plot. So a little boring and the interaction between the two main characters was odd to me.
May 7, 2023
3.5 stars
January 6, 2024
Quick, enjoyable read.
This was a quick read. The sweet story was somewhat predictable as i find most that follow the "romance formula" to be.
This was a quick read. The sweet story was somewhat predictable as i find most that follow the "romance formula" to be.
January 23, 2024
Book is slow to start but cute ending, would say it's a good plane ride book. Or something with not too complicated a story.
October 31, 2016
I enjoyed this short but sweet romance novel. Can't wait to read others by this author.
December 30, 2016
Interesting YA romance.
August 3, 2014
Return of the Runaway Bride by Donna Fasano is a quick read romance. It is one of the books in the boxed set Ten Brides for Ten Heros. The books all have the same plot which is very simple-boy meets girl, have problems, make up and get married. They are good for mindless reading and they are simply fun.
Savanna is getting married. Her mother leaves her alone for a few minutes and when she returns, she tries to put Savanna’s veil on so the ceremony can start. Savanna realizes she does not want to get married right now. She has always been a perfect child and has always done whatever she is told. She has never had to depend on herself or find out her capabilities. Marrying Daniel will simply be more of the same. She is unable to put her feelings into words for her Mother or Daniel to understand. She takes her already packed suitcase and runs away to find out who she really is.
Daniel has wanted to marry Savanna for a long time. He believes he can take care of her and make sure she is safe and happy even with a year of college ahead of him and then law school. He comes to see her at her request when she is having second thoughts. His presence does calm her but when he goes to tell them the wedding will be a hour late and to get some refreshments so he and Savanna can talk, she runs away. He is devastated, embarrassed, and humiliated. He returns to college, gets his law degree, and returns home to work with his father and take his place in the community. He is angry at Savanna for not talking to him or letting him know she is all right or anything.
Savanna returns to Fulton to set her family home to rights and see what she wants to do with it. She also needs to make amends to the town and to Daniel and his parents. To her horror, she finds Daniel’s father has died and his mother has left for Richmond to help his sister who had cancer. Daniel barely speaks to her and acts like she never told him a thing. She did, she sent him a letter explaining her actions as best she could and telling him she really loved him. She also finds the hospital is in dire straits. They need an infusion of money or they will close. She works with the community to fundraise for the hospital. She is a professional fundraiser so does know what she is doing. However, will she stay in Fulton long enough to raise those funds or will she run again? Can Daniel work with her?
Savanna is getting married. Her mother leaves her alone for a few minutes and when she returns, she tries to put Savanna’s veil on so the ceremony can start. Savanna realizes she does not want to get married right now. She has always been a perfect child and has always done whatever she is told. She has never had to depend on herself or find out her capabilities. Marrying Daniel will simply be more of the same. She is unable to put her feelings into words for her Mother or Daniel to understand. She takes her already packed suitcase and runs away to find out who she really is.
Daniel has wanted to marry Savanna for a long time. He believes he can take care of her and make sure she is safe and happy even with a year of college ahead of him and then law school. He comes to see her at her request when she is having second thoughts. His presence does calm her but when he goes to tell them the wedding will be a hour late and to get some refreshments so he and Savanna can talk, she runs away. He is devastated, embarrassed, and humiliated. He returns to college, gets his law degree, and returns home to work with his father and take his place in the community. He is angry at Savanna for not talking to him or letting him know she is all right or anything.
Savanna returns to Fulton to set her family home to rights and see what she wants to do with it. She also needs to make amends to the town and to Daniel and his parents. To her horror, she finds Daniel’s father has died and his mother has left for Richmond to help his sister who had cancer. Daniel barely speaks to her and acts like she never told him a thing. She did, she sent him a letter explaining her actions as best she could and telling him she really loved him. She also finds the hospital is in dire straits. They need an infusion of money or they will close. She works with the community to fundraise for the hospital. She is a professional fundraiser so does know what she is doing. However, will she stay in Fulton long enough to raise those funds or will she run again? Can Daniel work with her?
October 18, 2011
Nineteen-year-old Savanna Langford has everything she has ever wanted. Her childhood was perfect. Her parents are perfect; she is set to marry the perfect man. But, is it too much perfection? What has she ever done on her own? An hour before her perfect fairytale wedding, everything feels like a crushing weight. Savanna is suffocating. She feels like she has no choice. She abandons everything and everyone and runs away.
Life is messy and, sometimes, it takes more courage to face what you’ve run away from, and that’s exactly what Savanna has decided to do. She returns to her small hometown of Fulton after six years. In the interim, she has put herself through college and is the owner of a successful marketing/fundraising business. She’s not a sheltered teenager anymore, but a confident young woman. That is, until she meets her former flame, Daniel Walsh.
The book explores not only fears, but also, the consequences of ones actions and how they affect everyone around you. The author does a good job of portraying Savanna. I understood her reasons for what she has done and the need to confront her past, but I did not feel the same connection to Daniel. Here is a young man who was jilted at the altar, had some unexpected things thrown his way and struggles to get through one day at a time. Adding Savanna back into the mix certainly should have added some explosive sparks to the book. Unfortunately, that didn’t seem to happen. Daniel seemed to have only two emotions throughout the story: defensive or sweet, without much in-between.
The writing is clear and concise and has a nice flow to it. I read the story in two sittings, and I did enjoy it. It is a feel-good story with a satisfying ending that romance fans will love.
Life is messy and, sometimes, it takes more courage to face what you’ve run away from, and that’s exactly what Savanna has decided to do. She returns to her small hometown of Fulton after six years. In the interim, she has put herself through college and is the owner of a successful marketing/fundraising business. She’s not a sheltered teenager anymore, but a confident young woman. That is, until she meets her former flame, Daniel Walsh.
The book explores not only fears, but also, the consequences of ones actions and how they affect everyone around you. The author does a good job of portraying Savanna. I understood her reasons for what she has done and the need to confront her past, but I did not feel the same connection to Daniel. Here is a young man who was jilted at the altar, had some unexpected things thrown his way and struggles to get through one day at a time. Adding Savanna back into the mix certainly should have added some explosive sparks to the book. Unfortunately, that didn’t seem to happen. Daniel seemed to have only two emotions throughout the story: defensive or sweet, without much in-between.
The writing is clear and concise and has a nice flow to it. I read the story in two sittings, and I did enjoy it. It is a feel-good story with a satisfying ending that romance fans will love.
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