Lean On Me by Beth Moran #Review #PublicationDay

 Happy Publication Day to Beth Moran for her latest novek, Lean on Me which is published by Boldwod Books today.

From No. 1 bestselling author Beth Moran comes a story about family, friendship and community.

As Faith tries on her future mother-in-law’s wedding dress in preparation for her own wedding, her tears are not of joy. The hideous frock is nicknamed ‘The Ghost Web’ by Faith’s best friend Marilyn, who can’t understand why Faith would even consider wearing it. But there’s a lot Marilyn doesn’t know about Faith – not the least of which is that Faith is just the latest of the names she has called herself.

Faith and her brother Sam survived a traumatic childhood which included having to change their names to hide from the past, but surviving has left scars. Faith’s generous fiancé Perry doesn’t just promise to be a partner, he offers freedom and security, and enough kindness to keep Faith squashing down any doubts on what ‘being in love’ really means.

It’s not until she meets an extraordinary group of women at the Grace Chapel choir, that things start to become crystal clear. As choir-leader extraordinaire, the indomitable Hester, holds a mirror up to her ragtag group of singers, all with their own burdens and insecurities, and teaches them to see how magnificent they are, so Faith can dare to dream of a future where she and Sam can stop running and she might even be ready to accept the love that she deserves.

Number 1 bestselling author Beth Moran is back with her trademark ingredients of wisdom and warmth, heartbreak and hearts soaring. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Philippa Ashley and Jenny Colgan.

 My Thoughts

Faith is an arresting central character. Full of insecurities, she also has a streak of courage which runs through her and you appreciate how difficult some situations are for her. Her childhood experiences are still impacting on her decisions and you sense that she is yearning to belong. Her brother is the most important person in her life, for complicated reasons, and looking out for him has become part of her everyday life. There are some dark issues in the backdrop of this story but the friendships Faith makes at her Singing group light up the narrative.

    Community and friendship are very important in the story and offer Faith another way of living. This is an enjoyable read and one where you are rooting for Faith and hoping that she will make the right decisions. The romance is a slow burn but there is no denying the chemistry. In the background, there is a menacing presence which puts Faith's peace of mind at risk. You feel throughout that she is looking for somewhere to belong and doubting that she will find that in her imminent marriage.

In short: friendship. family, community 

About the Author

Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women’s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family.

 

You can read my review of Christmas Every Day here

 and How not to be a Loser here and Take a Chance on Me here and We Belong Together here and Let it Snow  here  and Because You Loved Me here.

You can follow Beth here: Website   |  Boldwood Books Profile Page   |  Facebook   |  Twitter  |  Bookbub  |  Newsletter Sign Up Link

 

  Purchase links 

 

 

Thanks to Beth Moran and Boldwood Books for a copy of the book and a place on the tour. 

                                                       Check out the rest of the tour!