
Richard has high hope for Maria, once she finished school and goes to University to study design, but Maria is less enthused on the prospect. Once they are in a committed relationship, marriage seems the next obvious step and despite the age difference it is a step both want, both believe in, and both are committed to. Marriage, however proves not the panacea first thought as the pair embark on a series of adventures and calamities that threaten to imperil and derail their entire relationship.
Stuart has always had the ability, in her work, to take what is often seen as unacceptable social relationships and somehow make them not only acceptable, but also desirable. This is a real fillip both to her and her writing ability. Despite the age-gap and the years spent in a father-daughter relationship, the author manages to convince us, as readers, that we should not only accept their relationship, but actively root for its success. This is a rare talent in an author and Stuart always had that, in spades.
Two Face the World is a wonderful, easy-to-read, story that is impossible to put down. As with Stuart's earlier work, the characters are relatable and likeable, but more especially as each book is produced, the strength and depth of Stuart's prose is noticeable. All authors develop and grow as they progress and one of the best parts of being a professional reviewer is being able to see that happen before your very eyes.
You don't have to have read the first book in the series to enjoy the second, because the author drops subtle hints throughout to bring the reader up to speed. However, personally, I think you should read them in order, simply because they are so damn good.
I highly recommend this read - another winner from Sarah Stuart.
