Books & Spoons Review THE MARINE'S EMBRACE by Beth Andrews

If only he had something to give her…besides love 
​
He's only looking for a room and a fresh start, but Zach finds more than he'd bargained for when he checks into Fay Lindemuth's bed-and-breakfast.
​
The single mom intrigues him with her quiet strength and gentle beauty. He knows he should keep his distance from Fay and her young sons.

​Not only is she still hung up on her ex-husband, but as an ex-marine, Zach Castro has no idea what he can offer them. No matter how much he begins to feel for her…

---

Refreshingly real, strikingly honest, brutally beautiful, a study of a human mind, of depression and how it can affect a person, on all the aspects of their life.
The story got so real, it was impossible not to get emotionally involved. The actions, thoughts, and behavior of the characters got me irritated, made me laugh, made me furious, had me in tears. It was like I had to go through the same process as the characters did, of acceptance, forgiveness, learning to love again, not others, but ourselves. 
And I am not saying the journey with the characters was easy, entertaining, or fun. It was amusing at times, alluring at others, but mostly it was harsh look into the deep inside, to question and to understand the reasons, motivations, and the expectations we have when we behave in certain ways. 
The story took some time to get into, I was highly irritated with Fay, until more of her history was unveiled.  Her best friend I never warmed up to, I just wished her manipulating ways to vanish away. I loved the kids, they were the reason for many laughs and smiles, with their authentic curiosity, loving hearts, and brave souls. 
After the scene was set and the story got flowing, I gushed the rest of wishing there would have been more. After the bit slow start, the ending felt rushed, wrapped up too fast. But still, the story was complete, and the ending satisfactory, I just wished for a little picture towards the future, confirming that they made it. 
There are some stories that stay with you, they manage to open up a new window in your mind, and give you a new view of the scenery.  This story with its raw beauty did that for me, given lot to ponder and wonder for the days to come.
~ Four Spoons and a teaspoon on the side

---