Nicholas Sparks has a history of writing tender romance with twists of fate, unforgettable characters, and surprise endings. The Rescue is his most personal novel as the developmental issues of the protagonist’s child in the story were inspired by experiences he had with his own son.

Readers will find the first few chapters brisk and heart-wrenching when an adorably described 4-year-old is missing after an accident, leaving his mother distressed and in a daze. A single mother of a speech-delayed son; Denise makes ends meet by moving to a small town and working the late shift as a waitress.  WhenTaylor McAden, a fearless volunteer fireman emerges on to the scene after rescuing her son ,things in her life seem to start getting better. However Taylor is reluctant to be involved with Denise beyond the initial rescue of her son Kyle.

The relationship that develops between Denise and Taylor is slowly formed but intense. The two of them discover a sweet bond and a magical chemistry that pulls them closer to each other. Though Taylor fits perfectly into Denise’s family, he’s unable to open his heart to being loved by her. And as Taylor struggles to understand his conflicting desires, Denise questions the wisdom of gambling with Kyle’s and her own emotions.

This book is a real eye opener in a very quiet but persistent way. It shows how men, women and children all deal with relationships in different ways. Sparks continues to provide consistency and feeling into his writing with an unpredictable ending. The family element of the story is something readers will find meaningful and the manner in which it is illustrated will create room for introspection. The descriptions of characters display Nicholas’ linguistic dexterity and ultimate mastery in writing. The story is not at all slow neither is it narrated in a rapid manner, but at a pace such that you enjoy every word like drink for the soul.

Rent, purchase or gift a copy of The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks available at the INDIAreads Online Library.