Tatlock presents real life, when romance isn't there and life goes on where love is one sided. You can feel the struggle of all, yet know the answer won't be instantly found at the end of the book.

Her scenes suggesting a fall from grace are not described only implied. They allow the reader to know sin happened without delving into all the details. Thank you.

Billy, their child with Down Syndrome, becomes my hero from the beginning. He seeks to make others happy even when he can feel their sadness. He easily worms into everyones heart and brings a side to life that reminds that today is a gift.

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The Returning by Ann Tatlock
A man returns home to the place his wife and three kids moved to when he went to prison. It's ideal for them, the kids play on the water and there are jobs for the teens.
He tries to fit in with them all. There is a boy who has autism and he's open to hugs. The others are very hesitant to show their love.
The father also was an alcoholic. Now they find out the oldest daughter, Rebecca has been out drinking at nights after escaping from her bedroom window. They have a lot to deal with
amont the problems he has, his job cleaning up dishes at a restuarant. He hopes to move back to Rochester where the job opportunities are better with better pay. His wife and kids
want to stay put til they are out of high school at least.
He has also found faith in religion again.
Most couples don't stay together when one gets out and he knows it will be a struggle. ( )

NCLA Review - A mother of three children waited faithfully for five years for the husband and father to return from prison. Although he had a spiritual awakening while in prison, he found many trials and temptations waiting to test his faith on returning home. He desperately wanted a second chance and struggled to be a good father to his children and to overcome the stigma of being an alcoholic who had been responsible for a man’s death in an auto accident. He was discouraged when he had to take a job he felt was demeaning. Also the relationship between husband and wife had been strained for years because of alcoholism and infidelity. His only comfort was his children and he was determined to repair his relationship with them. Eventually the loving innocence and compassionate understanding of their Down syndrome son help to heal the family. Rating: 3 —DM ( )

This book was dismally written and I could bring myself only to read the first few chapters. If in the future I find myself book-less and decide to finish the book; and if I am proven wrong and it is amazing or even readable, I will revise my review.

A slow starter, but altogether not too bad. It needs to be read until the end to appreciate. ( )