If Truth Be Told
by Lynda Fitzgerald
Published by Five Star
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Reviewed by Terry South
WOW, I loved this book. This is an emotional story that touched me so deeply. What a great read.
The story is told through Christie's eyes. The story begins in August of 1961 and takes place between Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach, Florida. Christie is the youngest of the three O'Kelly sisters, and is 14 years old when she meets the boy of her dreams. His name is Todd, soon to be her step cousin. Her Uncle Jack is marrying Carly, Todd's mother. After falling for Todd she decides to put away her teddy bear, which she takes back out of her closet from time to time for comfort. After four years of dreaming about her future with Todd, she is devastated from a letter to her aunt and uncle revealing that Todd is married.
The story progresses through eight years. Christie comes home to find that Todd had been to her place looking for her. Todd is determined to win Christie back, but Christie wants no part of being hurt and lied to again. Todd offers to be there for her as a friend due to her uncle's illness. She does not believe him and calls her uncle, and learns it is true that he is sick.
They are thrown together time and again due to her uncle's series of medical conditions. Todd is persistent and they become engaged. Then suddenly her uncle dies.
Christie is confused as she thought he was doing better, and Carly's behavior and actions around her are very different, almost as if she feels guilty about something. Christie is determined to find out the truth, as she does not believe her uncle's death was natural. So she begins asking questions, prodding for the truth, but is afraid this will be the end to her relationship with the man of her dreams.
The author mixes romance and a touch of mystery. The plot is intriguing, the characters are believable, and the story has vivid details. The story will tug at your heart and will bring tears to your eyes.
A fascinating read, I could not put this one down--highly recommended,
Armchair Interviews says: A definite 5-star read.