Looking for Leroy - by Melody Carlson

Most people have a “first love” they remember from their teen years. Few ever meet again. Leroy and Brynna were that exception. 30 years has passed a lot of life since they fell in love at a summer camp. After a short correspondence Brynna marries her ex-high school crush who turns out to be a total loser. After years of heartache and infidelity they divorce. Leroy marries, has 3 daughters and runs his family’s vineyard. His wife has passed away. Struggling to put her life back together, Brynna agrees impulsively to go on a camping vacation with a co-worker at the school where she teaches. Traveling through California and the area that fated summer camp is located, Brynna’s memories are triggered. She shares this with Jan during a relaxed campfire moment. Her friend comes up with the scathingly brilliant idea that they find Leroy! Brynna remembers his family owned a winery in the area and that sets Jan off on a search much against her friend’s will. They locate Leroy and his winery and that’s when a most unusual, complicated, and crazy reunion begins. I felt sorry for Brynna with who was already in emotional turmoil over her divorce and Jan pushing her into trying to arrange this reunion. I totally understood her reluctance and insecurity but also became frustrated with her indecisiveness with so many decisions. I have to admit I admired her adaptability in a very difficult situation! It was interesting to see how many changes were in both their personalities, yet their core qualities remained the same after all these years. I mean who wouldn’t change some after 30 years! One of my favorite parts of the book was the cottage Brynna stayed in, so beautiful and cozy. The descriptions of the décor made me feel as if I was walking through the door and seeing it myself. I think this is because the simplicity and comfort that was there. Something I want to have in my life at difficult times. My favorite character was Sophie, Leroy’s daughter. She was so down to earth and sweet. Her energy, juggling her family, helping her father, and still able to have compassion for Brynna warmed my heart. Be prepared, this story has many twists, turns, surprises and sweet moments. I stayed up until 2:00 a.m. because I couldn’t put it down. Insomnia alert! LOL Another amazing Melody Carlson book! I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.

Looking for Leroy by Melody Carlson is a delightful read. Brynna is a third grade teacher putting her life back together after her divorce who finds herself with her friend Jan driving down the west coast in a camper. The trip brings back memories of an old love. Leroy is widowed and works at the old world Vineyard his family has owned for the last 180 years. Both remember their first true love. The beautiful setting of the west coast and Sonoma wine country made the story almost magical. The author painted the sunsets and scenery in such a pleasing way, I felt as if I was there. The cast of characters were delightful and varied. I loved walking through life with Brynna as she discovered who she was and realized her worth. Leroy was a wonderful man who worked hard and was figuring out what was next in his life. Jan and Mike were comic relief and Leroy’s daughters were full of life. The author wove this story together in a beautiful way that spoke to themes of second chances, forgiveness, and opening yourself up to God's love and purpose for your life. I enjoyed the many layers of depth in the story and will forever be able to picture the Vineyard in my head. I loved the humor and wisdom sprinkled throughout the book. I highly recommend Looking for Leroy. I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a review.

Looking for Leroy by Melody Carlson is a sweet story. I count always count on Melody Carlson to provide a story that will engage me and distract me from reality. Brynna Phillips goes on a camping trip with co-worker, Jan Barton who has a new red travel trailer. When they stop at a campground that was formally a Christian camp that Brynna went to as a teen, she tells Jan about Leroy. Since they will be traveling through Sonoma Valley, Jan suggests they locate Leroy and their new camping companion, Mike agrees with her. Reluctantly, Brynna goes along with them. When they find the vineyard, Brynna is ready to run. She regrets how she ended things with Leroy thirty years ago and is not sure how he will react to her presence. Brynna is wandering around the property when she encounters Sophie, Leroy’s pregnant daughter. She mistakes Brynna for the woman coming to interview for the office manager position. Brynna gets the job, and her friends convince her to take it. Brynna wonders what Leroy will think when they encounter each other? I thoroughly enjoyed Looking for Leroy. It is a charming Christian romance. I started reading and did not want to put it down. I found Looking for Leroy to be well-written with developed, realistic characters. This is a character driven story. I liked getting to know Brynna, Leroy, and Leroy’s large family especially Sophie and Gina (two of Leroy’s daughters). I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of Sonoma Valley. It sounds like a lovely place to live. The Christian element was seamlessly woven into the story. There is humor as well. I found myself chuckling several times while reading Looking for Leroy. This was a delightful second chance romance. Looking for Leroy reminds me of Melody Carlson’s The Happy Camper (another fun story). Looking for Leroy is a delightful book to read on a lazy Saturday afternoon. I was sorry to see it end. Looking for Leroy is a captivating tale with a red travel trailer, a Christian Camp recollection, Motorcycle Mike, a vineyard vista, a massive misunderstanding, a wily woman, and a magic moment.