LONGING - DEFINED
BY: Danelle Townsend
LONGING is defined in many ways throughout this novel and that is what makes it multidimensional and beautiful. There is Bailey's story, Cody's story, Brandon's story and Cheyenne's story; but they all are just part of the deeper story. The true story that Karen writes is the story of our God longing for us. We are pursued by God "like a dying man in a desert" because there is no real life without Him.
Bailey Flanigan wants an undivided heart. There are two men in her life, one embodies mostly her past and one her present. . .but which one should accompany her in her future days? She is LONGING to figure out the path to take. . . .and knows that only by prayer and time will that answer become clear.
Brandon Paul. How beautiful has it been to watch him grow from a party boy to a honest man of God? He loves Bailey. His character grows in amazing ways throughout this book. He begins to understand that there is so much more than this small vapor of a life. He doesn't just talk it, he walks it. You want to cheer for him and cry for him all at once.
Cody Coleman continues to tug your heartstrings. He loves Bailey too. Cody walks through a time in this book that is both challenging and heartbreaking. Yet it is through the slices of the broken that Light shines best. God in all circumstances. Romans 8:28 is exemplified. How can you not want this military hero, motivating coach and rehabilitated child of God to end up with Bailey?
Sweet Cheyenne shows beauty and bravery that left me speechless. She speaks wisdom and loves deeply. You may be surprised by where this story takes her. . . . .
As I read this book I continued to fall more deeply in love with these wonderful characters. I also realized that what causes my heart to soar and break the most is the desire to see those pursued by love to return it. We don't want anyone to love and end up empty handed. We are made in His image. . pursuers that are constantly being pursued. God desperately desiring us to say, "Yes, I pick you! You are the love of my life." And so I somehow want Cody and Brandon to "win" Bailey's heart. I want Cheyenne to "win" too.
But even more than that God is working in all of these characters' lives to bring others to Him. They shine brightly. They are living lives that point to Him.
God pursuing each character and each character answering the call.
So this book is so much more than you think. More than the romance, the walks, the talks.
It is Him in all.
"First. . come here.. . . God is with us. Whatever this is, whatever's coming. . He's already gone before us. He won't leave us now. " -LONGING
The future uncertain. The present the gift.
And I am so blessed to be given the gift of reviewing this beautiful book. God's hand guiding Karen's with every word.
A love story that won't disappoint. It is a love story within THE love story.
Yes indeed, you will love it.
I promise.
**this made me cry!! haha I'm such a sap! Cant imagine how the actual book will make me feel!! :)
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