5 STAR REVIEW *** THE RUMBLE AND THE GLORY *** by J.A. Huss

 

“The Rumble and the Glory” is quintessential Julie A. Huss, which means it is far from your typical romance. From the first sentence, the story hooks the reader (me) and gets more intense as it progresses. Set in a tri-city mountain area of West Virginia, the community thrives on its annual religious revivals while other similar regions of the state struggle financially.  The novel paints a vivid backdrop for a second-chance, small town romance with morally grey characters.

The protagonists, Colin Creed and Lowyn McBride were best friends and high school sweethearts twelve years ago. However, a traumatic event left such a deep scar on Colin that he abruptly enlisted in the Marines, leaving town without a word of farewell. The narrative picks up twelve years later, unraveling the events that transpired and exploring whether old wounds can heal and love can be rekindled.

What I love about this story is everything. The characters are alive in my heart. Lowyn is a strong woman who found a way to move on from her young heartbreak to become the successful business owner she is today.  Colin is back in the area with his best friend Amon and a group of military buddies to start their security firm.  Both characters have secrets that unfold gradually and realistically over the novel’s length. 

The small town setting is beautifully painted and becomes as necessary to the story as the characters. The narrators are the perfect storytellers for this tale. As I listened, I often thought of friends sitting around the table rehashing their day. Julie has a way of picking the perfect narrators for each of her stories. 

JA Huss knows how to blend emotions, settings, characters, and events to make a gripping storyline, making “The Rumble and the Glory” a compelling read. The complex characters are developed with their intricate pasts, adding layers of genuineness to their journey. Another big plus for me is that the characters act their age. 

One reason I take breaks from romance stories is because so many authors make secrets ridiculously trite, making me wonder why two people who love each other can’t have a simple conversation.  I never felt frustrated with Colin or Lowyn in this story.  It is a realistic journey of two people working around and through their hurdles. 

You must read this story if you are looking for a new, fun, and engaging romance. You won’t regret it. Now I'm ready to start the next book in this series.

 

5 Stars