SECRETS

Author: Kristen Heitzmann ISBN: 0764228277 10/2004 CONTEMPORARY Publisher: Bethany House

Antonia stared out the Studebaker's rear window as it sped away from her grandfather Quillan's Sonoma villa, leaving behind the vineyard that had been life to her family -- a life now lost.... The old villa needed what Rese Barrett could do as well as any man on the crew. Trained by the best, she had honed her skills with a passion for quality, an eye for detail, and no room for compromise. Renovation was her joy--taking something old and making it new without changing the heart if it. But this time the inn she restored was hers, and this time she worked alone.... The answers were there if he could find them, and the commission from his grandmother Antonia compelled him to do so.  Brash and impulsive, Lance Michelli arrived at the inn sure of his quest and sensing his right. After all, it was part of his heritage. Chef, musician, and spellbinder, Lance talked his way into her plans before she'd even made them and had Rese telling secrets she'd never before revealed.  He spoke of faith as if he could touch it, but how much more was left unsaid?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

I have to say that this book caught me by surprise. Before I even opened the book, I had expected just another ' have faith in God' novel. Not that I have anything against that kind of book - they just aren't my usual reading preference. And this book did have a message to put your faith in God. The surprise was that it was done so skillfully and subtly.

The story caught my interest from the first pages and held me to the very last. Kristen Heitzmann's style of writing and insight make the characters come to life. Their frustrations, indecision, and emotions are tangible. One is secure in his faith, and the other has none.

Lance Michelli is trying to fill what may be his grandmother's last request before she dies. The problem is he's not really sure what it is she wants him to do, since she has had a stroke and cannot speak. Following what clues he's gotten, Lance finds himself in Sonoma, CA. He knows the answers are here and all should be well. The only problem is that a new challenge has found him that may hamper all of his plans—Rese Barrett. He knows she needs him, even if she doesn't realize it, and he knows he wants her.

Rese Barret is facing her own challenges. Renovating the old house she has bought is going to be her new start; a way to put her troubles to rest. She's spent her life proving herself and becoming a master of self-control, of her emotions. It may have worked just as Rese planned if she hadn't hired Lance to be her cook in the bed and breakfast inn.

Aside from emotions and challenges the two must face, there are 'Secrets' to be revealed and mysteries to be solved. This was a very good book. It was very easy to become immersed in the story. I wouldn't hesitate to read the sequel that is to be released in the future.

Sue Cloud