The Exception to the Rule

Read from February 16 to 17, 2013

A beautiful story of lost love, painful events and secrets but also of sweet love and feeling so deep even the years can't dull them.

Description:

When Katrina “Kat” Vallia, an idealistic if somewhat naive 20-something American pediatrician travels halfway across the globe to volunteer in a poor African village, she looks at it as a means of closure. Following a bitter breakup with her unfaithful boyfriend, she decides to throw herself into her work without any distractions from a man. That’s until she encounters Dr. Julian Kiron, a handsome, career driven pediatric oncologist. Even though she tries to fight it, Kat finds herself falling deeply for him; until she painfully realizes that they both want totally different things from life. Not willing to compromise for the other, they sadly say goodbye, cutting all ties.

Five years later, Kat’s happy world is turned upside down when she is given devastating news. She must now confront her past and the secret she’s harbored for years. But will saving the one she loves most also rekindle the love she let slip away?

My Thoughts:

There is lots about this book that I absolutely loved but also things that interrupted the reading flow for me. As I started the book I felt that the writing was awkward and stilted it didn't flow easily for me and was slightly uncomfortable. (view spoiler). Oh and last criticism ..hated the cover if Bookie hadn't recommended it to me I would not have picked it up.

However, the story was touching and the relationship she had with her father and close friends was wonderful. The family she chose stood by her through thick and thin and really showed their love. The story was crafted in a way that had Kat growing with each emotional hurdle she had to jump. The tragedies that struck were heart wrenching,I felt Kat's bravery as she experienced each one. Julian's anger jumped off the pages and I could feel his frustration. The last several chapters of the book were my favorites and almost pushed the book into the 5 star range. I don't want to say too much because then my whole review would be a spoiler I just want to say that the book itself was excellent. Great story, good characters,minimal editing issues...I think the problems I had with the book is purely personal taste. I would encourage those who love a nice heart wrenching but also heart warming story to read this novel - I know you will love it. In some ways the book reminded me of something Nicholas Sparks would write.

A solid 4 star read for me and I know the readers who enjoy a sentimental, emotional yet romantic read will adore this book.