The Songs That Could Have Been is the poignant sequel to Amanda Wen’s Roots of Wood and Stone.
Book Blurb
Two couples in love. Two sets of impossible circumstances. One powerful God of grace.
After a tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson’s life is finally back on track. Her battle with bulimia is under control, her career is taking off, and she’s surrounded by a loving family. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, leads to old feelings returning with new strength. And suddenly her well-balanced world is thrown off kilter.
Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But the reasons they broke up aren’t lost–and those old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. He isn’t sure he’s courageous enough to make a different choice this time around.
When Lauren’s elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim–a name her family has never heard before–a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie’s past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives–and Rosie’s–forever. Along the way they’ll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.
My Thoughts
After meeting Lauren in Roots of Wood and Stone, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on The Songs That Could Have Been. Wen says in her acknowledgements that she hopes this story meets her readers’ expectations.
For me, it exceeded them.
If I didn’t already love Lauren, this book made me love her even more. She and Carter both have fleshed out backstories that touched a chord with me and tugged at my heartstrings as they battled their own personal demons.
Rosie’s story line was deftly written, diving into issues and asking questions that few stories I’ve read address. I loved getting a glimpse into the spunky woman from Roots of Wood and Stone, and Wen did an amazing job characterizing Rosie. The woman practically leapt off the page.
Overall, The Songs That Could Have Been is a story both historical and contemporary readers will adore. Wen has knocked it out of the park once again.
(Note: I received a complimentary copy for review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to post a positive review.)
For more on Amanda Wen, check out her website or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Giveaway
Click the picture below to win a copy of The Songs That Could Have Been. The giveaway ends 7/19.
