Meant to Be by Jude Deveraux

Disclosure: I receive a free copy of this book to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

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I first discover Jude Deveraux as an author in my early teen years. I believe I was 15 the first time I pick up the book Velvet Promise. 

Book Description

An inspiring new family saga by New York Times bestselling author Jude Deveraux

Two headstrong sisters are bound by tradition but long to forge their own path.

It’s 1972 and times are changing. In the small farming community of Mason, Kansas, Vera and Kelly Exton are known for their ambitions. Vera is an activist who wants to join her boyfriend in the Peace Corps. But she is doing her duty caring for her widowed mother and younger sister until Kelly is firmly established. Kelly is studying to become a veterinarian. She plans to marry her childhood sweetheart and eventually take over his father’s veterinary practice.

But it’s a tumultuous time and neither sister is entirely happy with the path that’s been laid out for her. As each evaluates her options, everything shifts. Do you do what’s right for yourself or what others want? By having the courage to follow their hearts these women will change lives for the better and the effects will be felt by the generations that follow. Meant to Be delivers an emotional, smart, funny, and wise lesson about the importance of being true to yourself.

About Jude Deveraux

Jude Deveraux is the author of historical and contemporary women's fiction featuring women of strong character and gorgeous, exciting men. Jude has had more than thirty books on the New York Times bestsellers list, 60 million copies in print, and has been translated into 18 languages. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading murder mysteries, working in her garden, and in boxing class, she likes to show much younger males that she can throw a mean right cross.

My Thoughts

As a fan of Jude Deveraux's writing, I was so excited to get the chase to read this new book. I have been a fan of hers since I was 16 that was over 30+ years ago. My love of her writing has spanned decades.

So it was no surprise that I would love this book.

As I dived into this book I was immediately captivated by the main characters. They were complicated, strong, loving, and flawed. As I read I could see myself in each one a little. As Vera and Kelly tried to be who they thought people needed them to be their true selves started to breakthrough. Eventually, they found their true path.

Fast forward through time and the path the sister started on and the secrets they kept begin to find the light. The next generation feels the effects of the decisions that were made. As doe the generation after that.

What I loved about this book was how poignant it was and how clearly Jude puts into words how life choices can have a rippling effect on others. That if you don't live your life authentically you could lose out on true love, friendship, and more importantly on the life you truly want. 

This book left a huge impression on me and I loved every moment I was lost in it.