Margins
An Unexpected Woman book cover
An Unexpected Woman
2009
First Published
4.53
Average Rating
156
Number of Pages

“Put a bow around the woman you want for me, so I’ll know.” Associate Pastor Dr. Mark Countryman is a recent transplant to North Fort Myers, Florida. Although it’s a paradise for some, Dr. Countryman has never felt more alone. As his fortieth birthday approaches, he reevaluates his past relationships and prays that God will guard his heart so it will not be broken again. If only there was a way he could be sure of God’s will. “God says that a man is not meant to live alone always.” As a child, Shelley watched her mother lose the battle against breast cancer. In her late teens, she survived a major hurricane with her father while living in Southwest Florida. Now twenty-five, Shelley Roberts is a furniture repairwoman who believes in being prepared for every contingency while enjoying life and seizing the moment. A random encounter throws these two people into each other’s lives. Soon after, Shelley is assigned to do some work at Mark’s church. As they spend more time together, a relationship slowly begins to blossom, though whether they’re “friends” or “more” is something neither of them is certain of. While growing closer to Mark, Shelley encourages him to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season—something she had to learn to do some years before. Though a woman of faith, her life’s experiences have taught her that preparation is necessary. She is enthusiastic in this belief, even when Mark tries to get her to relax and have faith in God’s protection. Their beliefs will be tested when hurricane season begins in earnest and a storm grows in strength as it nears the Florida Peninsula.

Avg Rating
4.53
Number of Ratings
32
5 STARS
66%
4 STARS
22%
3 STARS
13%
2 STARS
0%
1 STARS
0%
goodreads

Author

Sandi Layne
Sandi Layne
Author · 5 books

Sandi Layne has been writing for more than twenty years, publishing works of contemporary Christian romance, historical fiction, and posting columns on writing and publishing for various sites at one time or another. Her stories are noted for their attention to detail and striking heroines, and she enjoys bringing her readers through stories that surprise, entertain, and edify. Married for more than a quarter of a century, she, her husband, and their two sons currently reside in Maryland. She was born and raised in California, where she worked as an educator, a minister, and a secretary, as well as in retail and department store security. Writing was never her planned vocation, but with varied experiences to draw from, she brings authenticity to her words and worlds. Her interests include reading, autism, theology, reading, medieval history, and daydreaming. Did she mention reading? She is also the sheepish subscriber to at least three streaming services at home for entertainment and is a fan of podcasts on a variety of subjects. Her favorite hours are before the sun rises and her favorite day of the week is Monday. Yes, she’s serious.

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