I couldn’t think of a better title for this book than The Long Road Home. Carol Webb tells the tale of one woman’s struggle to accept what life has dealt her and gain the confidence in herself she needs in order to open her heart. But truly this is a very tender love story of two very stubborn people who struggle to hide their feelings from themselves and each other.

Can you imagine being a model who suddenly can’t model anymore? The plane crash instantly destroyed that part of her life and caused Clarisse to pull into herself. She broke off all off her relationship with the man she loved without any explanation, and pretty much disappeared from the world. It would have been so easy to stay hidden if only she still didn’t love him. It is also complicated by the fact that she needs to get across country to her sister’s wedding and she has no other way to get there than to accept a ride from him. Too bad her friend conspired behind her back to arrange it without either Clarisse or John knowing about it.

John didn’t understand how Clarisse could just break it off with him through a letter. Never giving him a full explanation or even talking to him. So when he finds out that the person he’s driving across country is none other than Clarisse the sparks fly all over the place. Neither one of them wants to be anywhere near the other one. The trip is further aggravated by the presence of John’s new girlfriend, Vivian. Although how he could care for such a conniving witch I’ll never understand.

The Long Road Home tells the story of Clarisse’s road back to living and loving. The book is a quick read and very moving. I could feel her pain, and it made sense to me that she wanted to keep the secret of her injury from everyone. John in his own way is just as damaged as a result of their breakup. His entire life changed and he never knew why. Ms. Webb has written a very powerful story and shows us how important it is to trust the ones we love and that everyone deserves a second chance. I definitely recommend giving this love story its own chance.