Back to You by Priscilla Glenn

[therhinofam]

Lauren is an intelligent and confidant woman looking to continue her work with children. She has recently left her job as a successful Kindergarten teacher in order to continue her education and obtain a Master's degree in Child Psychology. Still in need of job, Lauren applies and is given a position as a teacher in a preschool. On her first day, Lauren is greeting students only to be stunned when she looks into the dark eyes of her past, Michael Delaney. Michael is dropping off his delightful daughter, Erin who is in Lauren's class.

The book flashes back to Lauren's freshman year of high school where she encounters a mysterious and troubled boy named Michael. Rumors swirl around him and the causes of his delinquent behaviors. Lauren ignores the rumors and decides that the best approach would be to make a decision based upon her encounters with Michael. While studying together for science and having class together, the two begin a friendship. Michael protects Lauren physically, fighting any boy who dare harm her, and Lauren protects Michael emotionally, trying to help him not turn to alcohol to solve his problems. Michael has suffered emotional abuse and deep loss during his childhood, but has not shared the extent of it with Lauren, who never attempts to pry the information from him. Lauren begins to fall in love with Michael but he refuses to reciprocate the love because he believes himself to be too damaged and too unworthy of her love. Their final fateful encounter, 8 years prior to meeting in the preschool, leaves a lasting impact of hurt and anger on Lauren.

After seeing Micael again, Lauren has decided to keep him at an arm's length and gear all conversation toward Erin and her schooling. Lauren begins to date a doctor and is very happy with her new career and school. Erin is a joy and begins to bring down the wall Lauren has placed between her and Michael. Lauren still remains confused and angry and Michael still holds onto his unworthiness. Will the two be able to work through their hindrances and rekindle what they once had or should they continue in their separate lives and start fresh leaving all their hurts behind them.

This novel transitions from the past to the present and between each of the two main characters, weaving a storyline that is well developed and deep. All of the characters had great likability and I especially loved little Erin. Lauren was painted in such a way that she was strong but tender, confident but kind, independent but relational. I found this to be very refreshing as so many women in romance novels are not crafted in the best light. Her character was one that you would want to be a friend with and were hoping that she received all she wanted. I will highly recommend this book!