Alice J. Wisler has written a wonderful book of survival - not only of her wonderful character, Deena Livingston, the students she encounters, and the men in her life.

It is wonderful.

Deena Livingston was an Atlanta chef, engaged to 'Mr. Right' - as they were racing toward a concert at the Woodruff Center - wreck, and Deena is seriously injured. The jerk doesn't even visit Deena at the hospital, but does send roses - how caring!! Her girlfriends tell her he's been 'seeing' another woman.

Physically and mentally hurt, Deena needs a minor miracle. She has physical scars on her person as well as in her heart.

Deena's grandfather leaves her a cabin in the mountains of North Carolina, with some stipulations - she needs to teach cooking to a group of middle schoolers who have had problems after school in the community center.

Deena makes a very brave decision to accept her grandfather's cabin and assignment and leaves Atlanta behind. She has the courage to accept a new life and turn her back on the pain she has experienced.

After a shaky start with the kids, all having had more problems in their young lives than they ever should have had, Deena seizes a new life, and in doing so, betters others'.

There is kindness, romance and a gentleness that lovers of a true romance and need to read sometimes just to feel good.

This is Ms. Wisler's second book, and one hopes after reading the eloquently simple story one can easily embrace, there will be many more from her.

ellen george

How Sweet It IS by Alice J. Wisler, ISBN 10: 0764204785, Bethany House, review by ellen george