Book Review: Travis (Pelion Lake, #2) by Mia Sheridan
There’s something undeniably magnetic about the way Mia Sheridan pulls readers into her world, and Travis is no exception. The moment I saw the quirky bumper stickers on Haven’s car proclaiming “Friends Not Food” and “You’re Never Too Old to Play in the Dirt,” I knew I was in for a delightful ride filled with rich characters, humor, and emotional depth. Having loved Archer’s Voice, I was eager to see how Sheridan would redeem Travis Hale, the complex chief of police whose past was anything but perfect.
In Travis, we delve into the lives of Haven Torres and Travis Hale, two individuals molded by their personal histories. Haven is a free spirit, a nomad exploring the country with her brother, while Travis’s past is deeply rooted in his feelings of inadequacy—stemming from childhood experiences of abandonment. The beauty of their connection lies in their vulnerabilities and the grace they extend toward each other. As Haven reflects, “we get to reinvent ourselves,” and through their friendship, both characters embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Sheridan’s writing is as engaging as ever; her prose flows effortlessly, drawing you into the quaint yet eccentric setting of Calliope & Pelion, Maine. The pacing—though at times slow—mirrors the often unhurried, thoughtful nature of personal growth. I appreciated the honest interactions between Haven and Travis, especially how Travis confronts his past and learns from it, often contemplating, “Weren’t all of us a compilation of the versions of ourselves we’d once been?” This reflective quality resonated with me, sparking thoughts about my own journey of growth and acceptance.
The supporting characters are wonderfully quirky, especially the eclectic misfits at The Yellow Trellis Inn, whose presence adds depth and humor to the story. The “Shame Manifesto” gathering had me chuckling, a testament to Sheridan’s ability to weave humor seamlessly into serious narratives. And who could forget the hilarity of an APB for stolen house plants? As Travis navigates these absurdities, his character’s endearing qualities shine—his gentle heart, self-assured nature, and willingness to confront his past made me swoon more than once.
One of the most moving moments in the book is a deeply emotional letter Travis writes to his father—a scene that tugged at my heartstrings. It’s through these reflective moments that the book truly captures the essence of love and loss, reminding us of the holes left by those who are no longer in our lives.
While the pacing was a touch uneven—especially in the middle where the angst was low—it ultimately didn’t detract from my enjoyment. Those moments of heartfelt connection and humorous escapades overshadowed any fleeting dullness.
In conclusion, Travis is a beautifully crafted story of redemption, friendship, and love that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt second best or longed for a place to call home. Fans of Mia Sheridan will appreciate the depth she brings to her characters, and newcomers will find themselves swept away by the warmth of her storytelling. This book is sure to leave a mark on your heart, making it perfect for those who love character-driven romances with a healthy dose of humor and reflection. So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and let Travis and Haven guide you through their heartfelt journey—you won’t regret it!
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