Title: Meant to Be
Author: Terri Osburn
First published May 21, 2013
348 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781612183084 (ISBN10: 1612183085)
Rating: 4.04
Overview
When it comes to pleasing others, Beth Chandler is a pro. She did everything she could to make her grandparents happy, including going to law school.
She agreed to marry her workaholic boyfriend, Lucas, even though deep down she wasn’t sure. And when Lucas’s parents invited them for a visit, she swallowed her fear of boats and boarded the ferry.
That’s when she meets a tall, handsome stranger who helps her through a panic attack. The man with the dazzling blue eyes happens to be Lucas’s brother, Joe, and suddenly Beth finds herself torn between the two.
Lucas is more concerned with his career than their relationship, while Joe seems to be everything she never knew she wanted. Could she really leave Lucas for his own brother?
Terri Osburn’s Meant to Be is a heartwarming story about finding true love in unexpected places.
About the Author
Terri Osburn is an acclaimed author who writes contemporary romance novels filled with heart, humor, and hope. Her love for the written word began at a young age, and she discovered her passion for romance during her teenage years.
Since her debut in 2013, her books have been translated into five languages and have sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide. Terri currently lives in Pittsburgh, PA, with her collection of high-maintenance pets.
To find out more about this bestselling author, visit her website.
Editoral Review
In her heartwarming novel Meant to Be, Terri Osburn touches upon contemporary issues with a masterful blend of romance, humor, and slice-of-life narrative. Aided by her graceful writing style and well-developed characters, Terri turns the age-old tale of love into a modern fairy tale that leaves readers spellbound long after they put the book down.
Set in the charming town of Anchor Island, Meant to Be tells the story of Sarah, a divorced single mother, who moves to the island in search of a fresh start. However, her plans are upended when she meets James, the handsome local businessman who sweeps her off her feet.
Despite their undeniable connection, Sarah is hesitant to start a new relationship, wary of the consequences it may have on her daughter and the emotional baggage she carries from her past marriage. Terris refreshing approach to romance is evident from the very beginning, and one can’t help but root for the protagonists throughout the journey.
The narrative flows languidly, evoking the feeling of being on a rejuvenating vacation on a serene island. Terri’s vivid descriptions of the idyllic setting make readers feel as though they are transported to the quaint island, enjoying the slow pace of life.
However, it’s not just the picturesque setting that makes the book a must-read. Terri uses the story to address important themes such as overcoming past traumas, embracing new beginnings, and finding true love in unexpected places.
Through Sarah’s character, Terri touches upon the poignant reality of single motherhood and the struggles that come with it. While Terris writing style deftly balances humor and heart, the novel could have benefited from more subtle character development for some of the minor characters.
Some of the secondary characters come off as caricatures, lacking depth and realism. Moreover, the plot structure, while well-crafted, tends to veer into predictable territory at certain points.
Overall, Meant to Be is a delightful read that will undoubtedly appeal to romance lovers. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and heartfelt narrative, Terri has written a book that leaves readers feeling content and hopeful.
It’s the perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life or a boost to one’s spirits during difficult times. Rating: 4/5 stars.
