"LETTERS TO MY FUTURE HUSBAND," by Lisa McKendrick, Bonneville Books, $15.99, 240 pages (f)

When Sophie was 5 years old, she decided she was going to marry her father because he was the only man she loved. Wisely, her dad offered an alternate possibility. While waiting for the right guy to come along, why not write letters to him, describing why she loves him so when he shows up she will recognize him.

With that small challenge, a little girl’s dream of a future companion began to take shape in a beautiful leather-bound book given by her dad in “Letters to My Future Husband.”

Author Lisa McKendrick, who is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, weaves a fascinating tale of finding, losing and eventually celebrating love in her tale of a Mormon young woman searching for the right young man.

As Sophie grows up and writes her letters, she thinks she has found the one guy who could truly make her happy: her brother’s best friend, Hanno. He’s tall, handsome and athletic, and every time he’s around her heart pounds. Unfortunately, Sophie finds that he isn’t interested in her because she’s his friend’s sister.

Sophie’s high school graduation gift from her grandmother is a trip to Europe with her friends. She has high hopes for adventure and romance, but nothing can prepare her for the confrontations she will have when she gets to Italy. It’s her dream come true. She serendipitously bumps into Hanno, and his eyes are opened to see her in a different light. The problem is Sophie realizes she isn’t ready for his kind of light. And it’s only a chance encounter with a handsome young stranger that allows her to escape with her dignity intact.

Ten years after Italy, Sophia is convinced she has finally found Mr. Right. Griffin is smart, wealthy, loves native Australian music and seems willing to make a commitment. Then the dreams of her daughter begin, and all the teenager in the dream wants is for Sophie to marry the right guy, and she says it’s not Griffin.

Filled with humor, love, adventure and compassion, “Letters to My Future Husband” is an entertaining read for those who enjoy lively romance stories.

The novel doesn't have any swearing or violence, and romance doesn't go beyond flirting and some kissing.

Mike Whitmer lives in West Valley City and blogs at mtwhitmer.blogspot.com. He can be reached at grundelwalken@gmail.com.