Return to Me by Robin Lee Hatcher

In this prodigal daughter story, Roxy Burke, leaves her hometown for the country music capital of the world, Nashville, Tennessee, with the talent and financial resources to make it big. Seven years on, Roxy is a burned out shell of a women who failed to invest in her music or make friends wisely and she has no choice but to return to her father and plead for his forgiveness.

Just as Roxy is making the decision to return home, her sister Elena's dreams are coming true, newly engaged, treasured by her father as a daughter and valued partner in the family business. Elena's peace is shattered when her beloved sister returns and Elena fears she will soak up all their father's love and win back her former boyfriend, Elena's fiancee, Wyatt Baldini.

Robin Lee Hatcher's beautiful writing reintroduces the reader to this wonderful story of redemption. Roxy is an interesting character whose journey is not simplified as her struggles continue even after she returns home to her father's welcoming arms. However, the highlight for me is Elena's story. I have always felt sympathy for the devoted older son in the Biblical story so Elena's reality is what impacted me most. Her insecurities regarding her sister's charismatic personality and penchant for getting more than she deserved war with her deep love for Roxy and her innate desire to protect her little sister. Return to Me gives the reader a renewed appreciation of God's love for us all and a compelling and poignant read.

Look for Return to Me in bookstores (US) June, 2007 from Zondervan.