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Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite
Most people are not interested in rekindling old romances, which frequently end for good reasons. But how about in the case of a crush that never developed into a romantic relationship? Would there be a possibility that one would still have a soft spot in their heart for their crush even after they had been apart for a long time? Suzanne McKenna Link's Saving Toby answers this concern in an exquisitely written romantic thriller. Toby moved out of town after graduating from school to escape the traumatic past he encountered growing up. But unavoidable events bring him back home. His brother is serving a lengthy sentence in prison for alleged murder. Julia, Toby's mother, has become ill, and as the only child left, Toby must return to assist his mother. However, Julia will require company when Toby is away at work. Claudia, Toby's long-time crush, coincidentally accepts the job to keep Julia company and assist her with light housekeeping. Claudia and Toby haven't seen each other in six years, but the love that fills their eyes when they meet is undeniably charming. You can't help but wish their romantic relationship will blossom into something beautiful.
After reading this beautiful love story, I can only say, "What is meant to be will be." I say this because challenges from all sides attacked Toby and Claudia's love, and at times I wondered if their union would last. Claudia's father did not want her to be close to Toby because of Toby's reputation in their small town. I thought Claudia would leave Toby. But I was glad she didn't allow Toby's past to define the man she was in love with and instead saw him for who he was. Suzanne McKenna Link made the story realistic from start to finish. She portrayed the scenes as seen through the characters' eyes and incorporated thoughtful, descriptive phrases that helped the reader imagine a realistic environment. I liked how the author included a quote from Nelson Mandela, one of my favorite activists. This not only gave Saving Toby a unique artistic elegance but also encouraged me to consider the author's true intent. This book was a beautiful work, and I look forward to reading more works by this author.
