Mercy Come Morning by Lisa Tawn Bergren

When I first started reading this book I was pretty sure what to expect. The back cover synopsis went something like this-a woman looking to re-connect with her alzheimers ridden mother, a man from her past she hadn't forgotten, second chances, etc. Perhaps, like me, you're thinking "cliche" or I know what's going to happen already. And you may be right. But...

The good news is, the author's talent actually makes the journey seem fresh and believable. We see everything through the eyes of Krista, daughter of Charlotte, who is suffering through her last days of alzheimers. Krista receives a phone call from Dane, owner of Cimmaron, the facility where Charlotte lives, to come see her mother before it's too late. Fighting back her past/present hurt and anger, Krista drives to Taos Mexico, dreading the return to her childhood home and Dane, the man she's left behind more than once...

Each of the characters in this novel was interesting, full of depth and dimension, plus the setting was described so vividly, I wished I were there touching the snowflakes or feeling the crisp winter air on my skin. The mexican culture and dance scenes were an added bonus which also brought some extra warmth to the plot. I found the tid bits about alzheimers as well as the flashbacks from Krista's past, to be subtly woven in to the storyline without merely being thrown there as obvious add-ons. The build up to the finale was well nuanced, keeping my interest throughout, until I breathed a small sigh and felt a smile on my face at the outcome. The relationship between Krista and Charlotte was relatable on many levels, not just to those dealing with the horrors of disease, but every day life. Who hasn't felt anger, frustration, jealousy, bitterness or some strong emotion in a mother/daughter relationship; or any other, for that matter? But as this story shows us, a lot has to do with perspective. Not just ours, but those around us. Krista realizes, she's not the only one who has suffered over the years, but by refusing to acknowledge this, she has shut out those closest to her. Will she let down her walls and be open to finding the truth or continue on her path of self destruction? And what about Dane, her childhood sweetheart, who still has feelings for Krista despite everything? I ended up thoroughly enjoying this book...and if you are a fan of well written, engaging, emotionally satisfying stories, I'm betting you will too!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Waterbrook/Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.