Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Madison's heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.


In the years since her twin brother's tragic drowning, Madison has struggled with her ability to trust God--or anyone else, for that matter. It was her brother's dream to win the annual River Sail Regatta in their small harbor town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. And Madison's determined to honor his legacy by making his dream her own. Maybe then she can finally find closure.

But learning to sail means learning to swim. And her instructor is Beckett O'Reilly, a man who already has two strikes against him in Madison's eyes. Being on the water terrifies Madison. But Beckett's calming presence and unwavering confidence eases her fear. And as much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying.

As her feelings for him grow, a fledging faith begins to take root in her soul, as well. With Beckett, Madison feels alive for the first time in years--carefree and confident she can win the regatta, maybe even find love.

But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their love and the depth of Madison's faith. Will their love survive summer's challenge? And will achieving her brother's dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks? 

My thoughts...

  

Madison lost her twin brother years ago and though her life is filled with her work and family she still has an empty place in her heart. Her brother had a dream of winning the town's annual regatta, Madison decides she is going to win it for him but first she needs to learn how to sail. 

Beckett O'Reilly is going to teach her and though there have been bad vibes between them things change over the course of the summer. He has a secret that could ruin the possibility of a relationship.

Denise has written such a beautiful story about how a misunderstanding can hurt someone terribly. A wonderful tale of forgiveness, tragedy and triumph. A fantastic book to read at the beach or curled up on the sofa on a rainy afternoon. 

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.