Book Review: "Jonathan's Vows" By Mark Lages

First and foremost I must say, "Thank you" to Mark Lages and Author House for this exclusive copy.

I'm always so impressed with Mark's novels as each one really takes me for a ride down memory lane and this one was an emotionally packed and riveting novel.

It's probably not a great idea for a mom of three teens with a soon to be 21 year old named Jonathan to be reading a book about his pending wedding vows (unless you enjoy triggers with anxiety) but this one was beautifully written.

It didn't begin as I had expected, it wasn't all about Jonathan's vows, instead it revolved around the conquest of dating, serendipity, love, romance, marital affairs, wedded bliss, divorce, lust, STD's, prostitutes, and relationships of friends and family that could offer helpful advice.

It spoke from a perspective of 'inquiring minds want to know' rather than a tell-all feel which allowed room to feel every emotion and process each individual story that's relatable for everyone.

The reason these individual stories told in this book are relatable is because they are real. Nothing lasts forever. Love begins with fireworks and ends with sparklers or duds -either way- it's a hell of a ride.

Yet, it's not just about the love, the sex, the romance, the partnerships but rather the growth, the development, the child rearing, the parenting, the milestones, the heartbreaks, the accomplishments, and your own personal legacy.

What will you leave behind?
Will you write a book? Will you ever finish it? Will it be a hit?
Will your death be in vain?
What sacrifices did you make that went beyond selfishness to form a more perfect union with your spouse and your family?
How do two families unite to form a cohesive partnerships and not have trials and tribulations along the winding road?
Will you feel successful in the end?
Will your child(ren) look up to you for moral support and or guidance?
Jonathan goes through all of this in his mind. He imagines his own future.
Age is such a weird thing isn't it?
There's so many various forces at work, different roads to take, numerous things vying for your constant undivided attention.
Which way will you go to make your dreams a reality?
Will you fight for your marriage as much as you'll fight for your career, your reputation, your sense of character?
Will you hold your head high or walk in the valley of shame as Kate's spouse?
What will you do?...
Now, about those vows we need to talk...

We all make mistakes, we all have regrets, we all have blessings but those who are truly living life would never change one darn thing!

Thank you Mark Lages and Author House for this fantastic read!

Life is what you make of it. Dream big!