While I’m not one of those readers who refuses to read a series until every book has been released, saying good-bye to a good one is like saying good-bye to friends. And after following the Christiansen clan through six books, letting go is a little bit sad.
Prodigal son Owen Christiansen has traveled across the country trying to escape his poor choices and the disappointment he knows he’s been to his family. Now in Alaska working on a crabbing boat, he’s drawn to First Mate—who happens to be his captain’s daughter—Scotty McFlynn.
Scotty has grown up with only her gruff father and his rough and rugged fishing crews. Determined to prove herself among them, she has no room in her life for dresses, makeup, or anything girlie. And especially not a romance with one of the guys on the crew. Owen Christiansen will lead to nothing but trouble. At least she keeps trying to convince herself of that fact.
After a rough—and life-threatening—experience at sea, Owen’s brother, Casper, arrives to drag him home, confirming Scotty should not get involved. But when she goes to start her new job as an Anchorage police officer, she ends up with the assignment to escort Owen and Casper—who is wanted for questioning in a crime in his hometown—back to Minnesota. There she finds a family she never had (but always longed for).
The journeys both Scotty and Owen take to faith is well-documented through this beautiful and poignant story. Owen is trying to let go of his past failures and become a man God can use—one of faith and not fear—but the past continues to crowd the present. Scotty is determined to be self-sufficient, to not rely on anyone but herself, especially not Owen’s God. Add in Casper Christiansen—the perfect jealous brother to Owen’s prodigal—an you’ve got yourself a story with not only a little bit of intrigue but with several memorable spiritual lessons.
You’re the One that I Want will be available in stores and online February 1, 2016. Don’t miss how author Susan May Warren effortlessly brings the Christiansen story full-circle. And if you’re one of those people I mentioned in the first sentence, now is the time to introduce yourselves to Derek, Eden, Casper, Grace, Amelia, Owen, and the rest of the Christiansen family.
***Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest and fair review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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