ARA Review by Eva Tillman of Sheltered from Love

[Eva Tillman]

[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, Sheltered from Love.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Sheltered from Love is a wholesome, well-written, romance novel that is able to maintain a reader's attention from beginning to end. Although it is a short read, it does an amazing job at including the character development, conflict, and relationship growth that you would find in a 300 page novel. For that reason, I rate it a solid 5 out of 5.

Georgia is a widow who feels somewhat responsible for her husband's death, because she didn't act quickly enough to save him. Because of that, she doesn't feel like she should be trusted with any living thing. And marriage is definitely not on her radar. She volunteers at an animal shelter which allows her to safely fill her need for companionship.

Romel is divorced and, although not necessarily skittish about women, is focused on "completing" the task of making sure his 18-year-old daughter knows she comes first in his life, and that she needs to become a productive member of society. That focus fades immediately when he sets his eyes on Georgia. And since he has volunteered to do some painting at the shelter, it won't be easy to ignore his feelings.

Georgia eventually notices Romel, but she's still afraid. They ease into a friendship. But the two agree that want their children's approval before they fully establish a committed relationship. That is a dangerous shot to take, especially considering the fact that one of the children is only 18! Their emotions change like the weather.

I love how the author, from the beginning, introduces Georgia's private thoughts about her deceased husband, William. Knowing her regrets helps the reader to both understand and empathize with her. She has a huge heart, full of love, but severely limited by her fear of not being able to respond well to a crisis. Her friend Lani is a big help, both in helping her to work through her feelings about William and to encourage her to give Romel a chance. Not just that, to give herself a chance to live again.

Another great thing is Romel's portrayal as patient yet imperfect. There is just enough drama to keep your eyes glued to this book until your questions are answered.

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