The Patient One (Walnut Creek #1) by Shelley Shepard Gray

About the book

Seven former best friends reunite and struggle to heal after the tragic death of one of their own in this evocative and heartrending novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Gift and Her Secret. 

When word had gotten out that Andy Warner had committed suicide, everyone in Walnut Creek, Ohio, had been shocked. For seven men and women in their twenties, some Amish, some Mennonite, and some English, each of whom had once counted his or herself as one of Andy’s best friends, it had been extremely painful.

And, maybe, a source of guilt.

Years have passed since they’d all been together last. Some of them got into trouble. A couple got into arguments. Eventually they all drifted apart. But even though none of them really saw each other anymore, there was a steadfast certainty that they’d always have each other’s backs—even when no one else did. Their bond was that strong…until Andy did the unthinkable.

Now the seven remaining friends, still reeling from Andy’s death, have vowed to look after each other again. As far as they’re concerned, it doesn’t matter that they’re now in their twenties and have drifted far apart. 

They need to connect again…for Andy.

My thoughts:

I have been a fan of this authors work for many years and yet I am always impressed by her writing.  In the first book in the Walnut Creek series she tells the story of seven best friends who are reunited by a tragic event in their lives.  

The bond they shared is a wonderful one and they have never allowed the differences in their backgrounds and beliefs stand in the way of friendship.  Some are Amish, some Mennonite, some are English and as I was reading this book, it occurred to me how wonderful the world would be if we could all live our lives and be more accepting of people of all faiths and backgrounds.  There are obviously heavy moments but there are lighthearted ones, too.

We get to know Andy through his friends sharing stories about him which brought a smile to my face.  I have to say that I didn't have a favorite character because I found them all likable, so I'm curious to see what the author has in store for them.   This is an emotional and heartfelt story and one  I recommend.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.