Strawberry Sundae Afternoon
By L. M. Gonzalez
Nothing worthwhile ever comes easy. School teacher, Ally is a single mother of an adorable seven year old, Jimmy. On the surface, their plans for the summer seem delightful. They are visiting Ally's hometown, staying with Ally's mother, and looking forward to sharing the fun of where his mother grew up and the memories she treasures. So why the reluctance to make this trip? Ally is returning to help her ill mother, but their relationship has always been rocky. Will they get along now? At least her ex had moved away after that one incredible summer together. At least she'd heard he'd moved. After an intense, romantic summer seven years ago he had never responded to her attempts to contact him. But if Henry had moved away, what was he doing right there at the park selling ice cream for his family's business? With her broken heart, how can she face him now? And, will he recognize his likeness in Jimmy, his son?
It's spellbinding and inspiring to read all that Ally faces, and her difficult choices. Her actions are not always the best, but her motives are pure and she is persistent about addressing consequences. She's a fascinating personality, and at the heart of all she does is what's best for her son. Jimmy is so wonderfully innocent and warms a reader's heart. Ally's beloved Henry has his own side to this story too, skillfully revealed by this author.
As this summer goes on, the memories of their past summer season together heat up emotions on both sides. They spar, and yet they're both drawn to each other. Those tender feelings surface, and even spark a graphic interlude, but then bitter tensions also simmer, and erupt. And standing before them, holding his mother's hand, and enjoying ice cream man Henry's company is Jimmy, who personifies a deep secret.
Author L. M. Gonzalez has created an enthralling situation and artfully entwined compelling characters.. You'll hope these characters can find their way to become a family. You'll cheer for them to overcome the hurdles thrown in their way, and the miscommunications that tear them apart. Can the summer season create its magic once again? Will the sweetness of the Strawberry Sundae Afternoon cool their divisions and captivate their hearts with what the future could be?
Thanks so much for the review, Wendy!
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