Shattered Guild by Kathleen J. Robinson is the first book in the Bay Town series. It is a contemporary story that focuses on Melanie and the struggles she has with starting a new business, the loss of her parents and being a single parent. This is such a good story. It covers topics such as death, divorce, murder and human trafficking. This is a well written story with caring main characters. The story has action and suspense with a touch of romance. One of the things that stands out to me the most in the book is Melanie’s ex-husband has so little to do with her and their daughter and only comes into their lives when he wants to and does nothing to help support his daughter. Yet he gets upset when he does not get notified of events. And Melanie’s pride in supporting herself and her daughter without his help, even when she is faced with losing their home.

I received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review. ( )

Kathleen J. Robison creates a powerful and moving story revolving around a single mom, Melanie, and her daughter Lacey. The story focuses on Melanie’s struggle to trust the Lord with her daughter, her business, and other girls caught up in the web of human trafficking centered in New Orleans. Chris, Melanie’s ex-husband, and Lacey’s father become caught up in a sinister plot revolving around Melanie and her daughter.

My heart broke for Lacey’s friend Virginia but rejoiced in Pastor Desmond’s focus on doing the right thing even if it means giving up on a second chance at love after the death of his first wife, for Melanie and Lacey. Other members of the community and the church help bring this story to life. So if you want a heart-moving, powerful testimony of God’s love and faithfulness even when we possibly struggle with our faith during tough times, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

I never expected this book to be so powerful but it really packs a punch. The author doesn’t hold back and exposes the sins that lay just below the surface in the small town. Melanie believed her move to a quaint little town would be perfect for her, her daughter and her business. I liked Melanie but she seemed a bit unsettled at times. It bothered me that she was flaky about her ex-husband and her business. I know Chris isn’t the best dad and certainly wasn’t a good husband, but the anger Melanie has needs to be taken to God.

I did like Pastor Desmond Brooks and how he wanted to help others. Now I did have a problem with the attraction between Melanie and Desmond. The reason is it happened too soon and Melanie is kind of stringing him along. When her ex shows up she seems to push Desmond away. This part of the story is really about letting go of your past and learning to forgive.

The real meat of the story is about human trafficking. It happens everywhere and has now come to Melanie’s town. When her daughter is in trouble the town really comes together to help find her. I loved how Desmond was there to be someone Melanie could lean on , but Chris being there also does make things uncomfortable for all three. The story is quite intriguing and there were some parts that were hard to read. The author delivers a story that shines the truth on a horrific crime against young girls and how quickly they can disappear.

The characters each have issues they need to face and I liked how faith was blended in the story to show how God was right there to comfort them and help them find peace. The ending was a big shock and I’m not sure the author explained what happened to a certain character, so I’m wondering if I overlooked something that explained the tragedy. Overall a good story that emphasizes the importance to never give up, give your burdens to God and to learn to forgive quickly.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion ( )