THE OUTER EDGE OF HEAVEN, A Love Story written by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

Charlie Evans agrees to spend the summer in Montana with her best friend Fo at his uncle’s ranch in order to strategically avoid her parents and their insistence that she attend law school and marry a man they handpicked—divorce attorney Christopher Elroy. Who marries a divorce attorney?

THE OUTER EDGE OF HEAVEN, A Love Story written by Jaclyn M. Hawkes caught my attention from the very first paragraph. It’s full of fun, friendship, family drama, romance, and even a dash of suspense.

Under the big skies of Montana, Charlie finds a home with the Langston family. Working as their nanny, Charlie is able to do things with the younger Langston children that she always wished her mother would have done with her—plant and tend a garden, watch Charlotte’s Web etc. Even though she also teaches them to clean up after themselves and be respectful, the children adore her.

Not only does Charlie love the children, she develops a special relationship with Luke, the second oldest son. He loves her too, but that doesn’t mean they’ll end up together. Luke is used to sacrificing what he wants for what he feels is best for others. And he is sure that Charlie wants to go to Utah and attend law school. He is also sure that his asking her to stay is another form of manipulation and he knows that Charlie is tired of people (her parents) trying to manipulate her.

Charlie’s parents are always on the fight trying to get their daughter to do what they feel is best for her. All through the book, I wondered if Charlie would go to law school for her parents, or if she would finally be firm with them. (She’s a return missionary, and has a bachelor’s degree.)

It’s here in Montana where the locals seldom think to lock a door that Charlie is attacked and barely escapes with her virtue. The man is caught and sent to jail, but as is often the case, he makes bail the next day and is released. Charlie gets a restraining order, but her stalker doesn’t back off.

Hawkes portrays beautifully dysfunctional families—first with Charlie and her parents—and again with the Langstons. That’s one of the endearing qualities of this story. Although the characters are all members of the Mormon Church, their lives are far from perfect.

This is one story that I’d highly recommend if you want a fun and relaxing getaway.
Go here to get your copy: http://www.amazon.com/Outer-Edge-Heaven-Jaclyn-Hawkes/dp/0615517773/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1316547646&sr=1-1