As usual, I loved this one by the wonderful, fun and talented author, Sherryl Woods. 'Waking Up In Charleston' is the final book in "The Lowcountry Trilogy" This series begins with 'The Backup Plan', followed by 'Flirting With Disaster' and now 'Waking Up In Charleston'.
This is the story of Amanda O'Leary, widowed with 3 children and barely a dime to her name. She is a strong willed woman and would do anything for her children.
Caleb Webb is a well liked and respected Preacher, who helped to organize a group to build a house for Amanda and her children. Seeing Amanda with her children and spending much of his time with them, he not only has a deep respect for her, but his heart is beginning to belong solely to her. However, Caleb has a secret from his past that he is afraid to tell Amanda for fear of losing her.
Amanda's father, Big Max, more or less disowned her when she married a man that he thought was not worthy of her. After many failed attempts at a reconciliation with her father, Amanda decides it is a lost cause and wants nothing to do with her him. When she finds out that Caleb has befriended Max, she becomes furious and views it as an ultimate betrayal. It is not long after, however, Amanda finds out that her father is ill and there may not be much time to let forgiveness for him into her life, before it is to late.
There are also secondary characters within the story that have a story of their own. Mary Louise, not yet nineteen, finds herself pregnant with her long time love, Danny. They struggle to find peace and the ability to do what is right for one another and for their baby.
I found myself to be quickly engulfed within 'Waking Up In Charleston' each and everytime that I would pick it up. It was very difficult to put down, once I did get started. The characters are wonderful and I loved each and everyone one of them - even Big Max. This was a great story and one that I would recommend for a great fun read. Though this part of a trilogy, I think that it could be read as a stand alone and not leave the reader lost or feeling as though they missed something. ( )