The Unexpected Sequel

When I checked this book out from the library, I did so because I knew it was the sequel to another book I read recently. However, sometime between checking it out and actually reading it, I forgot that little fact. It took a few chapters of reading, I realized that some of the side characters sounded familiar.I know, I know. I'm a total genius. Haha.One of the things that My Unexpected Hope author Tammy L. Gray does well is write real-world characters who have had hard lives or made bad choices, but they're working their way toward hope and redemption. When this book picks up, Laila and Chad are both struggling with the consequences of his addiction to drugs and alcohol, namely how it destroyed their marriage. Laila is trying to move on and looking for a fresh start, which is nearly impossible in the small town where she and Chad grew up. Meanwhile, Chad has been fighting to get sober in hopes of winning her back, but he'll have to return to the town he left behind and face his demons first. If they want another chance at a relationship, they'll have to find a way to break old habits and build something new.Much like the first book in this series, My Unexpected Hope has a lot of highs and lows, making it a bit of an emotional roller coaster (I cried more than once), but it's also a realistic and encouragingread. I would definitely recommend reading it, but I would also say that you need to read the first book, My Hope Next Door, before this one. There's a lot of history between the characters that won't make a ton of sense if you haven't read the first one.If you're looking for an inspiring read that isn't a light, fluffy romance, Tammy L Gray is definitely the author to read. You should check her out.