A Passion Denied by Julie Lessman

Has she fallen in love with a man who cannot love her back?

Young Elizabeth O'Connor is the little sister John Brady always longed for. But she wants much more than that from her spiritual mentor. As she blossoms into a beautiful young woman intent on loving John, he must push back the very real attraction he feels for her. His past just won't let him go there. Unfortunately, Lizzie won't let him go anywhere else--until she discovers he is not all that he seems. Can true love survive such revelations?

My Review

Lots going on in this story! I loved visiting the O'Conner family again. Each character from the two previous novels once again face struggles in a new phase of life. Ultimately, the story is about Lizzie and Brady, but all the lessons blend perfectly together in the end. Twists and turns in every chapter had me reading long into the night, unable to sleep until I found out how it all ended. A Passion Denied is a beautiful picture of God's redeeming love and how once forgiven from sin, we sometimes struggle to forgive ourselves. This story clearly lays out how we should handle hurt and bitterness according to the Bible and was a perfect example of making God the foundation of romantic relationship. A stellar story to wrap up the Daughters of Boston series.

Some reviewers felt the book was too "preachy" for their tastes because of the use of scripture throughout. I feel to write the story any other way would've robbed Brady and Lizzie's true characters. From the beginning (book 1, A Passion Most Pure), they've been very open with their faith and dedicated to follow God in all areas of their lives. Beautifully and perfectly written!

I gave this book 5 stars!