This fourth installment of the A Miracle Girl series focuses on Riley’s challenges and dilemmas. Riley McGee is a high school senior who has been touring various college campuses. Even though she does not know which university she wants to go to and what she wants to study, one thing she is determined to do is to help her autistic brother Michael.
 
I have never read any of the previous Miracle Girl novels, but the authors do a very good job mentioning major past events of each girl (e.g. Christine’s mom died in a car accident) and describing their personalities (e.g. Ana is the leader type among the friends). There are references to Christianity and God throughout the book. However, since what each of the girls in the book faces and tackles is similar to what today’s teen girls most likely experience, the book did not give me the strong impression that this is solely a Christian novel.
 
To be honest, in the beginning Riley was the least appealing character to me. She has everything from looks and brains, to a supportive family and friends, is a cheerleader, and seems to have no problem to be accepted by any Ivy League school. I thought her only potential issue would be her ex-boyfriend returning to her hometown. However, the further I read into the story, the more likeable and admirable I found her courageous actions and strong personality to be. The book is certainly not mainly about who dates whom, or who the coolest girl in the school is. 
 
While the other three main characters also struggle with future planning and relationships, the most memorable part of the book is definitely when Michael speaks up and everyone listens to what he has to say. Even though it is not the book’s only focal point, Riley’s genuine concern for Michael and her readiness to be his future guardian may encourage awareness and acceptance of children with autism and other developmental disorders and disabilities. I learned a few things from Riley’s commitments and the assessments done by Michael’s doctor, Dr. Matt.
 
Love Will Keep Us Together is a good book that includes moral lessons and family values without sounding too preachy. It has enough drama and realistic situations, and shows young readers that there are some things in life, like friendship and family ties, that are priceless.