handicapped

This book reminded me how lucky I was to be married to the same guy for over 30 yrs and still have all my kids alive and healthy. It's the story of Rianne Worth, widow and survivor of spousal abuse. She's trying to make a new life for herself and her 2 kids without having to live with daily violence. And it's the story of divorced ex-cop Jon Tucker, who's already attended the funeral of his son and could be losing his daughter. The last thing he wants is to start up a relationship with next-door Rianne and her 2 kids.

But he looks over the fence and longs for the family-life. Especially someone to fill his lonely arms. Likewise, Rianne looks over at the house he's nurturing back to glory and she sees a solid, dependable man who would be the father that her kids never had.

I bought this book because Derrick, the hero, is a C & W singer. I mean, who wouldn't fall for a guy who not only sings romantic songs to you, but writes them for you as well. But Kara Tillman is still deeply in love with her dead husband and goes on a guilt trip when she finds herself attracted to Derrick.

How long does grief last? How long do we bow to public pressure and not enjoy life because someone we love has died?