Night Road

For eighteen years, Jude Farraday has put her children's needs above her own, and it shows-her twins, Mia and Zach-are bright and happy teenagers. When Lexi Baill moves into their small, close knit community, no one is more welcoming than Jude. Lexi, a former foster child with a dark past, quickly becomes Mia's best friend. Then Zach falls in love with Lexi and the three become inseparable.

Jude does everything to keep her kids on track for college and out of harm's way. It has always been easy-- until senior year of high school. Suddenly she is at a loss. Nothing feels safe anymore; every time her kids leave the house, she worries about them.

On a hot summer's night her worst fears come true. One decision will change the course of their lives. In the blink of an eye, the Farraday family will be torn apart and Lexi will lose everything. In the years that follow, each must face the consequences of that single night and find a way to forget...or the courage to forgive.

Kristin Hannah does family relationship fiction very well. As a mother whose youngest graduated high school last June, I related to this book immediately as it address every mother's struggle between being a guiding force but letting go - trying to prevent their worst fears from happening. Some may find what happens a bit melodramatic and the ending wrapping up too neatly, but I was riveted and could not put it down. If you are a fan of Kristin's books, you will like this one.

Author: Kristin Hannah
Published: March 2011
Pages: 385 (ARC)
Genre: Fiction/Women's Fiction
Source: Librarything Early Reviewers (Thank you for this review copy)
3 Bears