If Not for You: A Novel

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Debbie Macomber has written an emotionally stirring novel that shows how sometimes a choice can seem wrong even though its absolutely right. If not for her loving but controlling parents, Beth Prudhomme might never have taken charge of her life and moved from her native Chicago to Portland, Oregon, where shes reconnected with her spirited Aunt Sunshine and found a job as a high school music teacher. If not for her friend Nichole, Beth would never have met Sam Carney, although first impressions have left Beth with serious doubts. Sam is everything Beth is notand her parents worst nightmare: a tattooed auto mechanic whos rough around the edges. Reserved and smart as a whip, Beth isnt exactly Sams usual beer-drinking, pool-playing type of woman, either. But if not for an awkward setup one evening, Beth might never have left early and been involved in a car crash. And if not for Samwho witnessed the terrifying ordeal, rushed to her aid, and stayed with her until help arrivedBeth might have been all alone, or worse. Yet as events play out, Sam feels compelled to check on Beth almost daily at the hospitaleven bringing his guitar to play songs to lift her spirits. Soon their unlikely friendship evolves into an intense attraction that surprises them both. Before long, Beths strong-willed mother, Ellie, blows into town spouting harsh opinions, especially about Sam, and reopening old wounds with Sunshine. When shocking secrets from Sams past are revealed, Beth struggles to reconcile her feelings. But when Beth goes a step too far, she risks losing the man and the life shes come to love. Praise for If Not for You [An] uplifting and deliciously romantic tale with vibrant characters and a wide range of emotions.RT Book Reviews A heartwarming story of forgiveness and unexpected love.Harlequin Junkie A fun, sweet read.Publishers Weekly