The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge by Christine Nolfi

It's a grand old oak tree that's famous for miles around. People believe that it's magic and lovers gather there in the full moon to receive it's blessing. What people don't know, is that the oak tree holds a dark secret or two.

Ourania is trying really hard to live up to the standards of her family. Getting her electrician business off the ground has come a long way. Her newest job, for the Fagan's, could lead her from residential to business prospects, so it's an important job. When her mother, head of child services, cons her into taking in a couple of emergency foster kids, Ourania might as well kiss her business good bye.

Troy Fagan is in charge of the remodeling of his large family home. It's a difficult task that pulls out a large amount of person pain. The demolition of his beloved dead brother's room is enough to make him dread it, but the presence of the electrician, Ourania, makes it doubly hard. Given her past with his brother, the poor man can barely look at her without wanting to weep.

Will Troy and Ourania be able to work out their differences or move past previous pains and guilt? Is there a happy ending lieing for them under the grand old oak tree? Or are they truely cursed as they believe?

From the second I began reading this book, I couldn't stop. The characters are incredible and lifelike. They're well created and from the first paragraph I felt as if I knew them intimately. Their stories intertwine in such a delicious way. The heartbreak and pain that each suffers is only made tolerable by the fierce love that each is surrounded by. This is a well-written, fascinating read. You'll find it fast-paced and not bogged down with a bunch of unnecessary description.

Though I expected this to be a romance book, it really wasn't. For me, it was more about each character's personal journey for peace. The horror of some of the characters is portrayed in such a way that we aren't forced to watch, but we still feel the sense of terror that each character feels. Peppered with a few giggles here and there, this is a wonderful read for anyone who wants some entertainment with a little hope and faith on the side.

 
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.