Bittersweet

Title: Bittersweet

Series: California Historical #2

Author: Cathy Marie Hake

Publisher: Bethany House

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance

Source: own

My Review:

Bittersweet by Cathy Marie Hake lives up to its title. 

I knew when I was reading Letter Perfect, the first book in the series, when we met the Grubbs family, specifically Ivy, that she would play a prominent role in this story. However, it did not go like I had anticipated, yet in some ways it did.

I love Laney; she is so sweet and has her heart set on Galen. However, Galen only sees her as his best friend's little sister. Once that changes, we think Laney and Galen are going to get together and live happily ever after, yet all that changes in the blink of an eye.

I was SO angry with Ivy! She annoyed me to no extent with what she did (trying to be careful not to give spoilers in my rant). She did not think of anyone but herself. She didn't think through how her decision would affect others (I think we've all been there). I can't blame her twin, Ishmael, in the role he played; he was truly doing what he thought was right and best. It was so out of character for the laid-back young man.

I was also annoyed with quite a few characters and how they treated Laney and kept pushing men her way. I understand things were different back then (1860), but give her time to grieve what she has lost before trying to force her into a loveless marriage. 

I spent quite a bit of time aggravated during the middle of the story, but a story that makes you feel so much is a sign of a good story. I highly recommend both books of this series, and recommend starting with the first. I think the author was wise in not making a third book in the series, although I am sure it would have been good as well.

★★★★/5

Synopsis (Goodreads): 

Laney McCain has unabashedly had her sights set on Galen O'Sullivan for years. And though Galen has treated her as nothing more than his best friend's pesky tag-along sister, Laney dares hope that now is the time he will open his eyes and truly recognize the woman she's become.

But the arrival of Ishmael and Ivy Grubb, squatters on the O'Sullivans' land, diverts Galen's attention. Though the Grubbs are crass and uneducated, Galen shows mercy and allows them to stay in exchange for help around the farm. But it becomes a decision he lives to regret....

Sometimes the Journey to Love Is Truly Bittersweet