Listen To Your Heart by Irene Brand NEW

Laurel Cooper was too busy planning her only daughter's wedding to make time for romance. But the forty-something widow couldn't ignore the rugged photojournalist who'd appeared on her doorstep to photograph her antebellum home-turned-boarding house. Especially not when they spent so much time together as she gave him tours of other local historic homes. Micah Davidson made himself indispensable, even covering the wedding as a favor for his lovely new landlady. Yet just as Micah was about to propose, a shocking photograph surfaced, turning Laurel's world upside down. Could their love outlast the long-buried secrets from Laurel's past?

It's so refreshing to read a mature romance between protagonists in their 40's who find themselves at a crossroads in their lives.

Laurel had lived most of her life for other people: her grandparents who raised her when she was orphaned at an early age, her daughter who she raised alone following her husband's death when Debbie was just an infant, her controlling in-laws who never accepted their son's death. She felt obligated to keep up family's historic house, even though it was draining her financially, because it was her daughter's heritage. Now that Debbie was getting married and moving to Colorado, Lauren was facing empty-nest syndrome. For the first time in her life, she can follow her heart and live for her dreams, if only she could figure out in what direction to go.

As Micah was approaching 50, he began to re-evalute his vagabond lifestyle as a world-renouned photojournalist. He felt it was time to settle down and make a permanent home for himself, but the prospect of no longer being free to roam the earth at will frightened him. Testing the waters, he takes on a smaller, less adventurous, project photographing antebellum homes as he considers accepting professorship at the local College.

There is definite chemistry between the two, and it is refreshing that they address the issues and conflicts that separate them in a loving, caring and spiritual way. Detailed descriptions of Micah's travels, the historic homes and churches involved in his project, Laurel's restoration of her home, and preparations for Debbie's wedding add depth and color to the story.

There is a suspenseful subplot, as Laurel receives threatening messages by someone who is trying to spook her out of the house. As well, the man who supposedly died with her husband 20 years ago resurfaces, and Micah and Laurel go on an adventure to Venezuela to investigate whether or not her husband is also still alive.

Lauren is a woman of great faith, and her supportive church family and prayer are important parts of the story. Although a believer, Micah makes a deeper spiritual journey and commitment as his relationship with Laurel unfolds and he becomes more involved in the church community. The inspirational message is presented gently and is not at all intrusive or preachy. Very well written, with impeccible attention to plot development and descriptive details.