I just realized that I had forgotten to review Jill Weatherholt's second book. I had read and reviewed Second Chance Romance, and although I was not used to reading Christian Romance, I loved the book. The question for me was "can Jill pull it off again?"
Yes, she did. A Father to Bella pits a young widow against a handsome realtor when they both want (no, need) to buy the old inn that Faith manages. Faith's young daughter Bella knows a good man when she sees one, but it will take Faith much longer--through plot twists and turns. I enjoyed the read enormously and am hoping for the TV movie version SOON! Loved this book! ( )

When Joshua Carlson comes to stay at the Black Bear Inn for an entire month Faith is surprised. Most guests only stay for a quick weekend of skiing. That name, Carlson, sounds familiar to Faith, but Joshua isn’t saying much about who he is or why he’s there. She won’t press. After all, he did help her out in a tremendous way respecting her young daughter, Bella, as soon as he’d arrived.

Eventually, Faith finds out about Joshua’s real intentions and she’s heartbroken. Presently, living in the little cottage on the Inn’s property has been home for Faith and Bella. Thinking about having to say goodbye to the property is overwhelming. But focusing on that while trying to manage the Inn’s restaurant is counterproductive, so instead Faith pours her energy into finding a way to keep her home.

Bella is getting attached to Joshua, and Faith is getting worried. But is she concerned about little Bella’s feelings for “Mr. Joshua,” or her own?

There’s so much to love about A Father for Bella. The wintry setting drew me in with its ski resort and cozy inn. Little Bella was adorable, and Faith’s reluctance to let go of the memory of her deceased husband while also fighting her attraction to Joshua kept me engaged in the story until the end. Add to that an accident, a calamity and a bit of mystery, and you’ve got a story that will keep you guessing and entertained until the final page.

If you enjoy a sweet read with a HEA that will leave you feeling relieved and fully content, then A Father for Bella is for you. ( )