Book 3 of the Lake Manawa Summer trilogy was similar to the others only this one evolves around roller coasters instead of sailing or baseball. In this one Lilly is widowed and is raising her son Levi on her own. She is very self sufficient. However, her former in-laws don't think she should be raising their grandson and go about trying to take Levi from her so they can send him to boarding school. Enter Nick who is at Lake Manawa to design and build a roller coaster for the park that was put up on the lake. Seilstad has this book set in 1906 in my home state of Iowa. She throws in good Christian messages as she tells her tale. Marguerite and Emily make appearances from the other two books. I saw a bit of the stubborn do-it-on-my-own characteristic in Lilly which I am afraid is in me at times too. Instead of giving it to God and trusting Him with it I try to do it all on my own with predictable results. The implications behind this book, I could so relate with. Considering the highs and lows, twist and turns of life, a roller coaster is a fantastic analog for life. Life can be a thrill ride just like a coaster. Some people don't like the unexpected in a ride nor in life. Some people are always trying to climb to the top, just to suffer the plunge into a valley below. However, if you lean on Him, he will see you through. He will carry you safely in His hands if you will look to Him with the faith, trust, love and the desire to do His will. It's is tough, But the Lord will get you through. Anyway, back to the book. Third in the Lake Manawa Series by Lorna Seilstad, The Ride of Her Life.Lilly, a widow, is trying her best to make the most of life for her little boy Levi. This young little man lost his dad at a young age. A kid that likes, snakes, worms, bugs, all things boy. Lilly is working as a cook in a diner stashing away her wages in hopes to buy a house of their own. Contracted with the diner is a work crew that is building the new roller coaster in town. A sweet man, Nick, has is eye on Lilly. He has a way with kids, loves Levi, and then falls in love with Lilly. But can she trust heart to him? Should she make room in her heart for him?On the flip side, the In-Laws of Mrs Lilly Hart are causing some issues. The Grandparents are demanding, conniving, and deceitful people. What will they do to get there way?I really liked this book and the other two in this series. I look forward to see what else Lorna Seilstad has in store.
What do You think about The Ride Of Her Life (2012)?
The final book in the Lake Manawa trilogy. This book was another fun read.
—H00drattt
Building roller coasters and dealing with ex in laws. Great book
—NadineS
