Balanced Heart

Martha Ryan and Phil Russell have been divorced for ten years. Both of them have moved on to other spouses and new lives. Martha has spent the last year recovering from a terrible car accident that left her seriously injured, the same accident that killed her abusive husband, Rick. After his death, Martha realizes that Rick has stolen money from clients of the business that she has struggled to start. When these clients demand their money back and threaten to press charges, Martha is forced to accept a loan from Phil's family in order to keep herself out of prison. His family has been very supportive; the Russells also gave Martha a job when she was recovering from her accident. Martha now finds herself the accountant for her ex-husband, Phil.

When Martha left him ten years ago, Phil's life went from bad to worse. Broken-hearted, he fell deeper into a life of booze and women. Twice since the divorce, he has married women he didn't really love, having gotten them pregnant by having unprotected sex. When Martha walks back into his life as his accountant, he sees this as his second chance at true happiness. But can he convince her to take a leap of faith with him? Phil isn't above using their 15-year-old son and his other two children to break down her defenses.

Balanced Heart is a completely entertaining and delightful tale. The characters of Martha and Phil are endearing, and will worm their way into the reader's heart. Martha is a strong woman who has found her backbone and is determined to make a life for herself. When she was married to Phil, she was a doormat, but that woman has vanished. Phil can't help but love the woman she has become. He always wished she would come back into his life and now that she has, he has grown to respect and admire all that she is.
Fabulously written, this story will keep you turning the pages from start to finish. Author Betty Hanawa exhibits a gifted pen as she writes this tale. This story comes to a satisfying conclusion with ever a dull moment. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the lives of Martha and Phil. You won't be disappointed.

Reviewed by: Penny