The Emma Effect

After suffering a traumatic experience at the hands of two beautiful students during his school days at Widmark College, Mitch Lavin gladly accepts an offer to work as an overseas mining expert with Mining Consortium International. However, his new boss—General Creighton Wheeler—warns him that he will be required to perform an “extremely challenging and dangerous” mission that involves traveling to the northern tier of Afghanistan to search for the rare elements that are needed for national defense.

After accepting the perilous mission, Mitch finds himself falling for a charming girl at work, Emma Waterson. Emma, who is a calm and graceful lady, happens to admire the handsome and tough man at her workplace. As Mitch battles the ashes of his traumatic past, he falls deeper for Emma the closer he gets to her. Will Mitch find true, lasting happiness and love, despite his traumatic past?

The Emma Effect tells an adorable young adult tale rife with daunting challenges, profound biblical messages and values, and several intriguing developments that will keep readers glued to the pages and salivating for more. I enjoyed reading about the differences between the two daughters who have the same father—one is more of a tomboy than the other, and they were brought up with different religious values. The book’s vivid description brings the story to life, like a virtual reality experience. Christina, one of the girls, is described as “a blond, blue-eyed beauty” with a long hair that “fell well past her waist.”

I fell in love with the main characters as their warmth radiates through the pages, and I felt a sense of happiness and calmness the more I read about their thoughtful and kind interactions with one another. That Mitch was advised by his boss to seek a trusted professional’s help to heal from his trauma is quite touching and inspiring. This kind of display of compassion would make the world a much better place if practiced by all.

The Emma Effect is skillfully woven around the themes of romance, forgiveness, abuse, empathy, Catholicism, war, career, diligence, psychology, and parenthood. Readers who enjoy romantic stories that portray daunting, lifelike challenges should make sure to read The Emma Effect. The sex scenes will appeal to romance fans who like such sensual storylines.

Gordon’s captivating narrative is a flawless combination of breathtaking action, heartwarming love and kindness, and deep psychological struggles. The Emma Effect inspires readers to heal from pain and remain hopeful for better days, no matter one’s present challenges. I can’t wait to explore more of Gordon Bocher’s books, since The Emma Effect has completely won me over!