Destined for You

Peterson (Forever by Your Side) delivers a touching tale of love built out of shared grief in this enjoyable first installment of the Ladies of the Lake series. In 1869 Duluth, Minn., Gloriana Womack cares for her father and brother after the death of her mother and other siblings from scarlet fever. After Gloriana’s best friend Sally’s husband dies in a fishing accident and then Sally dies in childbirth, Gloriana adds caring for her friend’s newborn baby, also named Sally, to her responsibilities. Meanwhile, Luke Carlson, Sally’s late husband’s brother, has been sent to Duluth to manage the construction of a new railroad. He arrives in time to see baby Sally’s birth and to comfort Gloriana, who is struggling with grief and anger at God. Luke supports Gloriana, Gloriana’s remaining brother, and Sally as much as he can, and as Luke and Gloriana get closer, a romance sparks—but Gloriana is reluctant since Luke is only in Duluth for a short time. Meanwhile, Luke must fight against his father, who wants to take Sally away from Gloriana. Peterson creates a memorable romance between Luke and Gloriana that’s rooted in mutual hardship and renewed faith. This series is off to a strong start. [em](Mar.) [/em]