‘A Journey by Chance’ by Sally John

Synopsis: Dr. Gina Philips leaves behind the big-city comforts in California to attend a family wedding with her mother in the small Illinois town her mother grew up in. Suffering from wounds that have yet to heal – both physically and emotionally, Gina just wants to escape her past for the extended period of time she will be residing at her great-aunts home. Her plan backfires when she instantly clashes with the town’s local (and only!) celebrity Brady – who is a well-known author. Just as Gina begins to feel somewhat at ease, a secret from her mother’s past asks more questions. 

A Journey By Chance, By Sally John | Book Review

Review: this is the only series I’ve read by John and while it’s a simple story-line, A Journey by Chance is still very touching. Oddly enough I did have a really difficult time getting into the story. Setting it in a rural Midwest town lends some charm although it also inevitably leads to a slower pace, clichéd sayings and out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere-small-town pleasures (like enjoying the great outdoors). Gina is aghast at the simplicity the residents of Valley Oaks go about their day. Where is the Starbucks? Or a restaurant that serves a decent meal? Add in the nuisance that nearly everyone knows everyone else’s business and Gina’s perception of the town isn’t kind. When she arrives, she is not a Christian and it’s the stay in Valley Oaks that ultimately not only changes her heart, but how she sees life.  

BOOK REVIEW | ‘After All These Years’ by Sally John

Her journey to Christianity is good, and the author effortlessly weaves humor and beautiful convictions into the story. The characters aren’t all that complicated, but the trials they go through sometimes are. Gina feels an unworthy equal of Brady, even as a new Christian because of her past. Similarly, although he is a Christian surrounded by a wonderful support system through family and friends who has deep-rooted beliefs, Brady discovers he has a lot to learn through Gina’s friendship. He too has past skeletons, none of which he shares when he should. By knowing her, he is able to open his heart again and although he experiences frustration at her guilt, he also cares so much for her, he steps back and lets her pursue her dream. Also woven into the mix is a subplot involving Gina’s parents who are also re-examining their marriage (the trials) and love for one another (or lack thereof). It too is approached with touching and caring sentiments.

A Journey by Chance is a story of four people looking into their hearts and examining what is most important in life. The results are special and unfold in a typical romantic-comedy dash to reunite the couple – and involving a police car, too! If you want to know how that plays out – check out the book.

About the book:

Publisher: Harvest House
Source: Purchase
Publish Date: 2008 (re-release), 2002 (first printing)
Author: Sally John
Series: The Other Way Home – Book 1
Shop the Book: Goodreads
Rating: 3.5 out of 5