Titus Returns

In this melancholy but ultimately uplifting contemporary, Lillard (Just Plain Sadie) revisits the Amish town of Wells Landing, Okla., where Titus Lambert is haunted by his past. Life as Titus knew it ended when his car crashed while he was driving, killing two of his friends and permanently injuring a third. When he is released from five years in prison for vehicular manslaughter and returns to his Amish hometown, he’s not surprised that his affectionate family and community take him in, but he despairs of fitting in anywhere and fears that he has lost his religious faith. Mandy, the woman he once loved and who promised to wait for him, married another man while he was gone. In his mingled guilt and loneliness, Titus turns to Abbie King, the twin sister of his deceased friend Alvin. Abbie blames Titus for her brother’s death, but she reluctantly accepts his help with keeping the family farm going, as her parents have sunk deep into grief and depression. Abbie’s cautious forgiveness provides needed healing for the King family and may even allow Titus to absolve himself. Fans of inspirational romance will appreciate Lillard’s vivid characters and positive message. Agent: Mary Sue Seymour, Seymour Agency. (Jan.)