Review: Room on the Porch Swing by Amy Clipston

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Ever since her best friend died six months ago, Laura Reihl has vowed to make each day count. And that means she should probably break off her relationship with Rudy. They’ve been together for so many years, and his friendship means the world to her. But she knows friendship doesn’t come close to the fireworks of true love, and she’s not really feeling the fireworks.

So when Savilla’s widower, Allen, asks her to help him take care of the baby Savilla left behind, Laura jumps at the chance. Maybe the change of scenery will help her gain perspective on her relationship with Rudy. And she’d do anything to help Allen out—he’s always been a good friend to her, and he’s Rudy’s best friend as well.

When she arrives at Allen’s house, though, she finds a man she barely recognizes. Allen is distraught over his wife’s death, blaming himself for not taking her to the doctor soon enough.

As Laura helps Allen work through his grief, she remembers just how easy he is to talk to. And she discovers an attraction she’s never felt with Rudy. She can’t be falling for Allen, can she? It would be a betrayal to the two people she’s care most about, Savilla and Rudy. But if she denies her feelings, is she betraying herself?

My Review

Laura is such a sweetheart, and loves taking care of baby Mollie. She and Allen grieve Savilla together and focus on the care of Mollie, who requires extra comfort as she is going through teething. Contrary to the book synopsis, Laura is not thinking about breaking up with Rudy, and they make extra attempts throughout the book to stay connected despite Rudy's frustrations that she is spending too much time at Allen's home. They have all been friends for years, and Laura finds comfort in her friendships. 

 

Laura finds joy and purpose in her job caring for Mollie and making sure Allen takes care of himself. It's a natural progression as they begin to be attracted to one another, connecting on a deeper level and understanding the changes in each other. I didn't understand why she kept trying to make things work with Rudy when she knew that they didn't have anything in common anymore and didn't act like a caring couple. After some conflict and drama, it was good to see them finally come to terms with the inevitable.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.