The Hearts We Mend

Springer's second Banister Falls novel (after The Dandelion Field) is a sweet, compelling story%E2%80%94with sparkly moments of romance%E2%80%94that speaks to the longings of the reader's heart. As Evie Bennett, a widow whose firefighter husband died 13 years ago, watches her 19-year-old son prepare to marry, she tries to convince herself that her women's ministry work will be enough to fill her time and heart. Her life in Banister Falls, Wis., is familiar and comforting, if a trifle suffocating. The arrival of Jack Vale shakes Evie's notions of safety, and his tendency to notice and enter into the lives of the disadvantaged inspires her faith. The romantic tension between Jack and Evie lights up their every encounter, forcing both of them to wrestle with preconceived notions, misunderstandings, and self-doubts. Will Jack and Evie let the past rule their lives or trust God with the unknown future? Series fans will recognize the delightful supporting cast of Banister Falls and be left anticipating the next installment of the series. (Mar.)