Shiloh always has the perfect blend of faith, romance, swoon, life lessons, relatability and humor. The Christmas Catch is not only a fantastic holidaShiloh always has the perfect blend of faith, romance, swoon, life lessons, relatability and humor. The Christmas Catch is not only a fantastic holiday read that will have you reaching for some hot cocoa and your Christmas decorations, it's a wonderful read for any time of year!
Let's start with the faith element. I have to say, I really found myself being a part of the church family underneath Pastor Walker. I don't want to get into the particulars, but it really made me reconsider my point of view on a certain person in my own life. It made me see a perspective that I never really thought about before. And while I know this is not the main point of the story, or even close to it, it really spoke to my heart. And the moment when Pastor Walker had a talk with Jahleel, (sorry not spoilers) I was moved to tears. His journey really touched me in ways I wasn't expecting.
Ok, let's move on to the romance. SWOONY. Full of laughter, banter, nervousness, and so much more. I loved Bebe and Jahleel. I also loved the way Jahleel instantly connected with Hope. My goodness there is nothing more attractive than a man who is good with children. I eat it up every single time! The chemistry was there, but more importantly there were lots of thought provoking conversations and situations. Again, I don't want to get into spoilers, but Shiloh handled everything perfectly.
This isn't your normal Christmas story and I am totally on board with that. It focuses on so much more than romance - something I think we need to see more of! I highly recommend Shiloh's latest release. It is well worth your time. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Here's the thing. Mandi Blake writes amazing characters. She keeps them real, doesn't force faith or circumstances on them. Makes them relatable, endeHere's the thing. Mandi Blake writes amazing characters. She keeps them real, doesn't force faith or circumstances on them. Makes them relatable, endearing, lovable, and sometimes even not lovable. She doesn't hide from certain "jobs" that her characters have because they are sinful, wrong, or anywhere in between. I love that about her, because it reminds me of a very important truth. God can save anyone right where they are. It doesn't matter what they've done - He still loves them.
For awhile, Gage was probably my least favorite character of hers. Why? Because I didn't like what he did. And ya know? Blake certainly turned my view on him around, which in turn made me think differently about people in my own life. I was concentrating on the bad, and not seeing the potential. But Blake.....she just writes in a way that you see things in a different perspective. You see the why Gage did things, and the struggle he had internally. I so appreciate that because I think I need that wake up call every now and then.
Of course, I can't not talk about the romance. My oh my it's good. The chemistry is on point, and there were several heart pounding moments that had me smiling and reaching for my fan all at the same time. Another thing I love about Blake's stories. They are full of good romance!!
If you're looking for a good redemption story with a swoony romance, Love in the Wild is the book for you. I promise you won't regret diving in! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
What a delightful, funny, and wonderfully written romance! That kiss! Oh that kiss! I may have forgot to breathe, just for a moment. But that's how goWhat a delightful, funny, and wonderfully written romance! That kiss! Oh that kiss! I may have forgot to breathe, just for a moment. But that's how good it is. Pax and Isley....um yeah. The chemistry is there. The banter is there. The faith thread is there. The swooning is there. That's all you really need to know. Romance fans are in for a treat with Sure About You! Weaver shows just how amazing she can write, not just romance but humor as well. Big smile as I read the entire story :)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"If you're always planning every step and coming up with contingency plans, are you really trusting in the Lord?"
A Run at Love is another winner from "If you're always planning every step and coming up with contingency plans, are you really trusting in the Lord?"
A Run at Love is another winner from the amazingly talented Toni Shiloh. If this book were in the Kentucky Derby, it would beat out all the others just like Secretariat did years ago. Yep, it's that good. Full of romance, kissing, faith, conviction (yes the Lord can convict you through your reading!), and so much more. Forgiveness, second chances, relatable characters, horses, sweet and funny goats, and bro texting (ummmm give me all the bro texting please!). Have I talked you into reading it yet?
I'm always a little hesitant about the friends to more romances. I just feel like sometimes they can be dry with little to no chemistry. That is NOT the case here thankfully. Shiloh brings Piper and Tuck together with playful banter, tough conversations, love, devotion, honesty, and oh that chemistry. Let's just say the first kiss - yeah I was fanning. But there were also tears. Especially when Tuck bared his heart. Oh he was so sweet, and the way he talked about who Piper was on the inside as being important - yeah if I were her I probably would have fell to my knees.
Now, I don't want to give any spoilers, but I did enjoy the secondary storyline for Piper's parents. That's all I can really say, except I enjoyed what Toni did with it. It shows they too were Christian, yet human. Prone to make mistakes. In fact that was a big takeaway/reminder from this story - Christian's are not perfect. Not even close. We shouldn't judge or assume things about others, and we certainly shouldn't put them on a perfect pedestal.
But perhaps the biggest take away for me was what Tuck needed to learn as well. God's plans are best. His timing is best. We can make all the plans we want, but if it doesn't fall in line with what God wants, then there's really no point. We're wasting time and will end up frustrating if it doesn't follow our plan to a t, which by the way it never does. Shiloh did a great job of showing Tuck's emotions and thoughts as he struggled and tried to find his way around this concept.
Another bonus? We get a peek at what's coming next in the series and let me tell you - I am here for it! I need Chris to get a gal. He's so funny, and I think I would enjoy his story very much. Release day can't come fast enough lol. But until then, make sure you get your hands on this book. Then carve out a good pocket of time to read. Derby hats not required, but they do make it more fun. ;)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Here’s what I learned from this book - if you want to meet a swoony hero who can sweep you off your feet, go get stuck on a mountain so he 4.5 stars!!
Here’s what I learned from this book - if you want to meet a swoony hero who can sweep you off your feet, go get stuck on a mountain so he has to come help you. Then paraglide away like you’ll never see him again. LOL. Just kidding, but what an amazing start to a book don’t you think?
Oh Warren had me from page one and I didn’t stop until I reached the end. Jonas and Sibba had great chemistry, lessons to learn, and a romance to burn. And burn it did! This story is packed with action and danger, leaving readers hanging on the edge of their chairs and probably biting their nails. At least I was! Goodness I just can’t get enough. I mean who knew a weather nerd had what it takes to be a swoony and manly hero!? Jonas was so much more than I expected, all thanks to Warren and her perfectly crafted writing style. I’m pretty sure she could make a septic tank cleaner into a swoony hero.
Sibba and Jonas had wonderful chemistry, not that I expected anything less. And once again her story had just the right amount of tension, faith and romance. I do recommend reading book one in this series first. You probably could get away with not, but trust me when I say you want to - it’s that good. I highly recommend Jonas (and Fraser for that matter). Just get ready to carve out a big chunk of reading time because you’re not going to want to put the book down!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
This story has so many things going for it. A princess, a former SEAL, romance, action, danger, mystery and so much more. And in true Susan4.5 Stars!!
This story has so many things going for it. A princess, a former SEAL, romance, action, danger, mystery and so much more. And in true Susan May Warren fashion, we get a glimpse at multiple storylines that though they work together, feel like they are separate (in a good way). This fast paced novel is a great start to a new series! Swoons heroes aside, it’s got tension, drama, and all the feels.
I thought it was comical how Fraser was “stuck” at the winery, a place I just couldn’t see a character like him at. But ya know, sometimes we all need to be in that spot. A spot that is uncomfortable and gives us the time to think, dwell, and hopefully grow. But when he got that call from Creed - oh I was ready for the action!
There was also some fun twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I thought I had the whodunnit all figured out and oh how wrong I was. I like to be wrong about that because it meant the author did a great job of putting the clues together in a sneaky way to make me think I was hot on the trail, even though I wasn’t lol.
Somehow Warren always manages to have the perfect blend of action, suspense, romance, kisses, swoony moments, and faith. It always keeps me coming back for more! I highly recommend this new series.
Once again Deibel has penned a novel that not only touches your heart, it takes you on a journey back in time to a place you never want to l4.5 stars!
Once again Deibel has penned a novel that not only touches your heart, it takes you on a journey back in time to a place you never want to leave. Ballymacool is full of secrets, mystery, intrigue, fantastic characters (primary and secondary), and so much more.
Let’s start with the romance. I love the scenes with Michael and Brianna. I felt they had such wonderful chemistry, even better than Prince Charming the Cinderella (Brianna reminds me of Cinderella, but more on that later). Michael sees Brianna as a person, not a maid, and I love that about him. Of course, there needs to be a slightly slower build of their romance, and Deibel penned it perfectly. When we finally get to the kiss – phew! I loved it. The thing is that Michael made Brianna feel seen, loved, appreciated, and like she was a person. Girls – this is what you want in a man.
I couldn’t help but giggle everytime we have Michael conversing with who I call Miss Trunchbull, even though her name in the book was Mistress Magee. I mean, she is the epitome of the evil step-mother vibe in a wicked character (she’s not Brianna’s step mother, I’m just using that as a reference). I couldn’t stand her character! But what I appreciated was how Deibel gives you little glimpses into her story with her POV. At first I wasn’t sure if I liked it or not, but it grew on me, and I found myself understanding her character the more I learned about her. And it added such an interesting layer to the story!
And Brianna. Oh make my princess loving heart grow! Life had certainly not been fair to her, with her Cinderella-esque back story. I kind of wanted there to be mice that she talked to. Ha! Anyways, she was so sweet. Put up with so much from Mistress Magee – much more than our Cinderella every thought of. And yet, she still had a glimmer of hope inside of her that seemed to come to the forefront once Michael arrived on the scene. I enjoyed watching her character blossom, as well as solving the mystery surrounding her parents (I figured it out pretty early on, however that didn’t stop me from loving the process that it took her to figure it out). And, though I can’t say specifics because of spoilers, I LOVED the ending her character got.
With everything going on in this book, Deibel also weaves a gorgeous faith thread. Most of the quotes I highlighted back that up. The gospel truly does shine, encourages, and speaks straight to your heart. I can’t tell you the number of times I stopped while I was reading to ponder a quote or conversation about faith. To put it simply – it was exquisite.
The Maid of Ballymacool is a book that will take you back to historic Ireland, with beauty and charm. The characters will inspire you, and welcome you like a warm hug. Trust me when I say you want to carve out a big chunk of reading time so you don’t have to close the pages until you reach the end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Crystal Caudill can write. She is a historical fiction boss, and this is only her second book. Her plot line is intriguing and keeps you reading into Crystal Caudill can write. She is a historical fiction boss, and this is only her second book. Her plot line is intriguing and keeps you reading into the late night hours. Her characters are all over the place in a good way. Some are dangerous and keep you guessing. Some are sincere, sweet, warm and inviting. And yet others make you second guess what you think of them throughout the entire book. Caudill doesn’t stop there. She adds plot twists at the perfect spots. She has sparks of romance sprinkled throughout, again at just the right moments. And her faith thread? Oh my goodness it was good. Probably my favorite out of my recent reads. I’m telling you – Caudill can write. And while this seems like a book that might be going in fifty different directions, I promise you it isn’t. Caudill brings every single aspect together flawlessly.
Andrew is such a wonderful hero. He’s got everything you want – faith, loyalty to the right people, strength, patience, and more. There were so many times I was on the edge of my seat wondering how he would handle situations, and he handled them with such grace and ease. He sacrificed himself in order to make the world a better place. SWOON. And the way he was with Lu? Oh boy. Patience doesn’t even begin to describe it. But in true Hosea fashion, he was willing to follow the Lord’s lead. Let me tell you – that in itself makes him swoony.
And then there’s Lu. Her character surprised me so many times during this story, all in good ways. She was so much more then people gave her credit for. The things she had to deal with, I can’t even imagine it. (Also – please make sure you read the very first page before diving into this book. Caudill gives some trigger warnings for those with reading sensitivities) And Caudill never makes it “come alive” on the pages so to speak. She handles each situation poetically, and only gives enough so the reader knows what is going on.
Caudill has really outdone herself with this novel. It surpassed my expectations, and then some. Her faith thread has touched me in ways I never imagined, and Lu’s story is going to stay with me for a very long time. I highly recommend not only this novel, but Counterfeit Love as well. Carve out some reading time, because you are going to need it. And get those sticky flags ready, because you are going to note a LOT of great quotes!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
I have met my new favorite Toni Shiloh book. I mean, I love all her books. My favorites have always been the Maple Run Series – every single one of thI have met my new favorite Toni Shiloh book. I mean, I love all her books. My favorites have always been the Maple Run Series – every single one of them. But this book? My goodness it must have been so difficult and yet rewarding to write because you can see all the time, effort and possibly tears that she put into it. This book blew me away.
First of all, I need to talk about the friendship between Lamont, Tuck and Chris. Not only are these guys hilarious (I giggled many times), but they are genuine and offer sound advice to each other. I love how Shiloh added their text messages throughout the book. Let’s face it, that’s how we communicate with each other these days. Plus, there was a scene where they were literally all sitting at the same table, and still texting. Yeah, I giggled a LOT when I read that scene. Anyways, you don’t often see male friendships like this in novels, at least not as much as I would like, and I honestly couldn’t get enough of it.
Then let’s talk about Lamont’s sweet mother. I love the spiritual honesty she brought throughout the book. Most of my favorite parts were when she was passing on her spiritual wisdom to either Lamont or Neveah. She reminds me of one of the ladies at my church (who has passed on) that was just someone you could do to with anything and know that she was praying and that she would always give sound advice, even when it was tough to hear. I hope to be like that when I’m older.
Of course we can’t forget the romantic thread. Perfect. Brilliant. Lamont and Naveah are my favorite couple of the year. They are not afraid to share their faith, and stick to the morals and rules that they have set in place. I think they are such an inspiration for young couples today. In fact, I think all young adults should read this book! I cannot praise Shiloh enough for writing their story. They were not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, however they showed how young couples can date, be happy, and set limitations. They were joyful, playful, flirty, tender, and so much more.
I cannot talk about this book without mentioning the faith thread. Not only was it brilliantly and beautifully written, but it was bold. Not once was it in your face, however it was across the entire story, and you could tell it was important to these characters, especially Lamont and his mother. The special thing though was how much it convicted me, and spoke straight to my heart. So many good points and life lessons sprinkled throughout the book that point to the Lord and how He alone deserves our praise, trust, and attention. So many different reminders I needed, and will need for the rest of my life. This is a book that will stay with me for a long time, and will be reread probably a million times.
The Love Script is a combination of rom-com, fake relationship, strong faith, and fun. With characters to adore, lessons to learn, and laughs that have you crying, The Love Script is a book that needs to be in homes and libraries everywhere. I highly recommend this book. More than that, I plead with you to go get a copy and start reading. Then tell me how much you enjoyed it afterwards!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Oh how I have been waiting to read this book. First of all, I read the first book of the series and was immediately smitten. With the characters, withOh how I have been waiting to read this book. First of all, I read the first book of the series and was immediately smitten. With the characters, with the writing, everything. Second, I have heard a log of readers talk about how amazing it is, and while I expected that to be the case, I guess I needed to find out for myself. Third, Matthews can write a swoony hero y'all. And boy did she ever.
Jasper Blunt. If for no other reason, read this book for him. He is everything I wanted him to be a more. For a guy who has a reputation of being harsh, cruel and more, he sure did surprise me. The chemistry between him and Julia is perfectly executed. Their discussion of all things bookish was such a joy to read. It was just a historic man saying that it's ok for girls to read books, he actually talked about all the books with Julia because he had read them. I mean what more can a bookish girl want?
How about love, compassion, the way he saves her in one scene (I mean total swoon moment there). Oh goodness I could go on and on. Their relationship may have been about convenience on the outside, but you could see both of their hearts - they were smitten from the beginning. And so was I.
I enjoyed that we got to see them in the "courting" stage (even though they weren't truly courting each other), and adjusting to life as a married couple. Not only did it make it a more well rounded story, it just made it that much more enjoyable. I honestly didn't want it to end. The tension. The romance. The kisses. More tension. More chemistry. I want more!!
And then Matthews hits you with not one, but two plot twists! Ok, so the one I figured out pretty early on in the storyline, and the other I figured out after some time, but it didn't make it any less enjoyable when I found out with the rest of the characters. It explained so much about the characters it affected (sorry no spoilers!), and boy did it make me love them even more.
I'm not sure how Matthews could do better then this. This is my new favorite of hers. Jasper is for sure my favorite hero of hers, and is probably top ten of all my heroes. Do yourself a favor and go get this book right now and start reading. Trust me when I say you will not regret it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
I think every girl needs a Blake in their lives. Someone who will listen. Pick them up when they are down. Stand aside while they reach for the stars.I think every girl needs a Blake in their lives. Someone who will listen. Pick them up when they are down. Stand aside while they reach for the stars. Watch them love another while their heart breaks. And then swoop in as a charming hero when it all falls apart. Ok, Blake really was patient and kind, and just oh so swoony. Maybe we need to talk about something else ;)
Here's the thing. While this may have a Hallmarky feel to it, it's really different. First, the faith thread is amazing. It's bold. It's non apologetic. It's exactly what I wanted. Second, Blake and Everly didn't just automatically get together and fall in love. No, there was good timing. There was things that got in the way, but not like cheesy or forced things. Just natural life. The flow was realistic. And Blake was dreamy. See there I go again lol.
Seriously guys. This contemporary romance is a must read. The series in fact. Who doesn't love a loyal, strong, faithful cowboy in their books? Yeah... I'll just leave it with that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
A drummer and a mechanic. I mean does it get any better then that!? To Belong Together is another wonderfully penned novel from Emily Conrad. And whilA drummer and a mechanic. I mean does it get any better then that!? To Belong Together is another wonderfully penned novel from Emily Conrad. And while it may seem to some that these two characters could only come together in a Hallmark way.....Conrad makes it more than that. It's more about two people (profession aside) that have some family issues, that happen to just let go when they are around each other. There's more to it then that of course, but you'll have to read to find out.
Erin and John just belong together - of course hence the title. But for real. They bring out good qualities in each other. It's kind of like when you meet the one who makes you act all goofy or different, you know they are the one. Hello Erin and John. I think it's part of the reason I liked their story so much. Erin was spunky, different, and her own person. Except even in that she allowed family to take advantage of her. John reminds her it shouldn't be like that. Then you have John, struggling with his own family dynamics and ability to communicate with others. And somehow Erin just gets him to open up (over time of course). It just really resonated with me how they brought their strengths to each other.
In addition to a great romance, Conrad writes a beautiful faith theme, and some great family dynamics. The storyline with Erin and her father really got the water works going. Grab a tissue. Or maybe three. And that's the other great part of Conrad's writing. She gives readers so many different emotions throughout the story, and I love going on emotional roller coaster rides like that. Sure, they can be tough lol, but they are so worth it!
Contemporary romance fans are sure to love To Belong Together. And while reading the first book in the series isn't necessarily required, I say it's a must anyways. It'll be great to get the back story on the band and some of the characters. Plus, it's just really good!! Highly recommend :)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
If ever there was a story for a "lowly" person to read, this is it. Now, I'm a firm believer that beauty is on the inside, and for me people are attraIf ever there was a story for a "lowly" person to read, this is it. Now, I'm a firm believer that beauty is on the inside, and for me people are attractive because of who they are, not what they look like. And Jagears displays that very thing perfectly with Marrying Mr. Wrong. Tim. he's such a good guy. Gentle, patient, strong, loving. He sees Gwen for who she really is, not the fake flirtatious persona she portrays. And isn't that what love should be like? Someone who sees our deepest fears, desires, likes and dislikes? If for no other reason, please read this book for that very lesson.
But trust me when I say there are other reasons! Jagears gives historical fiction fans a great story, and a western at that. There was danger, laughter, romance, and so much more. The character arcs are great - Gwen needs to learn that value isn't in money and possessions, while Tim needs to learn about self value, something he is severely lacking. Jagears somehow managed to grow them together, while remaining true to an individual character growth, and I loved it!
This sweet story is a must for your TBR pile. I highly recommend reading this entire series, but this installment at the very least! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
I read this book in one sitting if that is any inkling as to how much I enjoyed the story! Noah and Brooke were such happy fantastic characters. I tolI read this book in one sitting if that is any inkling as to how much I enjoyed the story! Noah and Brooke were such happy fantastic characters. I told my husband as I was reading that it was like I was reading an episode of FBI (a show I love). I couldn’t put it down!! Pettrey’s writing style is so good. She pulls you into the plot, adds twists and turns, and doesn’t let up until the very end. I also love that every so often she throws the bad guy’s POV into the mix. I love seeing both sides!! Again - just like watching an episode of FBI!!!
No only is there tons of action, a fast paced plot line, and a sweet romance in these pages, there’s also a beautiful woven in faith theme. Pettrey just puts in into the story so effortlessly, and I am here for it! It’s not preachy, it’s just a natural part of conversation for these characters.
I highly recommend starting the series from the beginning. You see some recurring characters and it’s good to get everyone’s back story. But even if you just jump into this one, I don’t think you’d be lost. You’d just be missing out on some great stories ;)
Bottom line - this is a must read suspense novel that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend!! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
Oh my goodness. My heart was pounding while reading this book. There was so much to love - romance, wildlife, suspense, danger, family, faith, and so Oh my goodness. My heart was pounding while reading this book. There was so much to love - romance, wildlife, suspense, danger, family, faith, and so much more. It was such a good read. What a great way to end the year!!
Warren has such a talent for telling stories. Stories of heartbreak, restoration (not just romance but family issues as well), faith, and yes swoony heroes. There are several quotes that you could take from this book and apply them to everyday life. And they are woven into the storyline so perfectly, effortlessly, and beautifully. One in fact that made me stop in my tracks:
“But faith changes things. It gives you perspective. It allows you to breathe through the grief. And, if you let go of needing reasons to let God work his will through you, you might even see joy on this side of heaven.”
I mean talk about pricking my heart! I literally had to pause while reading this, and reread it about five times before sitting there to reflect on it. Breathtaking. Absolutely breathtaking.
And the romance. My goodness Warren writes the best male characters. Flawed, yes fierce, protective, loyal and just…..cue the heart eyes. Dodge had his own things to overcome for sure, but what person doesn’t? And I love how warden took him and Echo through their issues. She took her time with them. Didn’t rush things and make it seem unrealistic. It’s almost as if the characters worked it out for themselves, and Warren was simply retelling their story.
I highly recommend reading this new series. And that ending!! My goodness I’m already counting down the days for book two to come out. Get ready for a wild ride folks. Grab a drink, find a few hours of time, and get reading. Warren will have you transported to the wild terrain of Alaska and you won’t want to leave.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
My word this novel was extraordinary! There's really no other way to describe it. Deese has penned a story that spoke to my heart and then some. The bMy word this novel was extraordinary! There's really no other way to describe it. Deese has penned a story that spoke to my heart and then some. The beautifully written characters, their growth, the romance, the difficulties, I could go on and on.
The first thing that stood out was the way Deese wrote Val's character. I'm not sure if I would classify her as having a disability, however she definitely had some troubles. And while some people would sort of wallow in their sorrows, Val chose not to do so, although sometimes a bit stubborn about it in the wrong way. She was self conscious of course, but more so in an inspiring way. Her determination and dedication to her son were heart warming. And the courage she had not only in moving far away from her comfort zone, but reaching for her dream in the filmmaking world, all while raising a child and having some swoony chemistry with her landlord/neighbor. Um yeah, I was hooked.
Speaking of cute neighbors, Pastor Miles had his own character arc throughout the story, and I thought Deese did a wonderful job with it. He had so much to learn, mainly that we need to listen to where God wants us to be. It can be hard, and I sympathized with him several times. The thing is, sometimes we already have in our mind where God wants us, or what He wants us to be doing. And so we chase it. But here's the thing, that both Miles learned, and myself while reading - sometimes the thing that God wants us to do is right in front of our eyes, and we're missing it because we don't think it's enough, or it's too close to home, or whatever. We're trying to think big and grand and God says, hey - remember this little place over here? Yeah, that's where I want you to minister. It was a hard lesson for Miles, and it's a hard lesson for us. And Deese nailed it. Every single part.
I highly recommend this beautifully written, inspirational story. Not only will it lift your spirits, it will teach you something you never knew you needed! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
Oh Nick, you have my heart. From the cute online messages, to the way you are around friends, to even the way you treated Jae the first time you met hOh Nick, you have my heart. From the cute online messages, to the way you are around friends, to even the way you treated Jae the first time you met her (hilarious first in-person meet!). He was just this fun character that I LOVED getting to know. Being back in Deep Haven again was a dream, and I do not want it to end! But alas, all good series have to end at some point. That's why we have books to reread!
Let's talk for a moment about how Michelle Sass Aleckson was able to bring all these characters together that the authors of this series have brought to life, and kept them true to their character in their mannerisms and speech. Her ability to do this, and effortlessly (at least from my perspective), speaks volumes of her writing abilities. And the way she wrote not only the in-person back and forth between Jae and Nick, but the online messaging. Oh yes I am all about it. **sigh**
And don't forget the faith theme - another thing present in this book as well as the series that I have thoroughly enjoyed. It's not in your face at all, just a natural part of the storyline at just the perfect moments. It's inspiring to me to witness these characters have fears, doubts, needs, and watching them reach out to the Lord. A reminder that we need to do the same!
I highly recommend not only this book, but this entire series. It's been such a joy to read! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Readers will not be disappointed to read this installment of the Deep Haven Collection. I mean, please can we just stay in Deep Haven forever!? ChristReaders will not be disappointed to read this installment of the Deep Haven Collection. I mean, please can we just stay in Deep Haven forever!? Christenson has done such a wonderful job not only bringing us new characters, but incorporating some old favorites (Hello Swoon, I mean Boone). Not only that, she shows readers how important it is to look at ourselves the way God sees us, not the world or media. That is such a great lesson to learn. A big lesson. One that we need! So story aside, thank you Andrea Christenson for that.
Now, back to gushing. Jack (AKA Win) is such a great hero. He's flawed, unsure of himself, and really is way too hard on himself. I actually could connect with him on a deep level while reading, because I find that I have some of the same flaws as him. I think that's why the message of this book resonated so deeply with me. But he's also got some swoon worthy qualities - caring, willing to help, strong, and a good kisser (hehe there are some get your fan moments!). His growth and redemption throughout this book were a joy to read. And his chemistry with Colleen was at just the right temperature. Guys, you're not going to want to put this down. Trust me on this.
Something else Christenson brings to this story is action. I'm talking rescue, nail biting scenarios that you're not sure how they are going to turn out. There is one sequence near the end - um yeah. Make sure you carve out some time to read it all at once because WOW it was suspenseful, dangerous, exciting, nerve wracking, and intense. There's some medical stuff going on (great job on the research here!), and honestly I almost felt like I was watching Grey's Anatomy lol. And that's a good thing because I enjoy watching that show (for the medical stuff).
I highly recommend reading this book, well the series actually. You won't be lost if you start with this book, but the others are so good as well that you don't want to pass them up! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Put me in a time machine, because I'm pretty sure I need to stake my claim on Freddie. I mean, Grace is kind of overrated, don't you think!?
Just kiddPut me in a time machine, because I'm pretty sure I need to stake my claim on Freddie. I mean, Grace is kind of overrated, don't you think!?
Just kidding! Goodness I loved this story. First of all, this is unlike most marriage of convenience stories. Freddie and Grace had, shall we say, moments prior to their marriage that made the reader pause, smile, and just automatically root for their courtship. Grace has absolutely everything I want in a character. She's her own person, and is about as far away from the "proper" wife/woman as was wanted in that time period. But that's what made her so charming. And Freddie? Well he saw Grace for the perfectly wonderful human that she was.
Basham is a pro at writing kissing scenes. And yeah, there may have been a couple of scenes where I needed a fan, but they were married at that point, so it was totally allowed. And that's why I loved this. You see a married couple, acting like a married couple! Wooing, romance, intimacy (tactfully done I might add), playfulness, and so much more. There are so many stories of proposals or weddings at the end of the book, and we need more like this. Real life marriage does have intimacy. I want more of it in stories, written just like this.
Also, Freddie is just amazing lol. A man who will stand up to his mother because she is bad mouthing the woman he loves? Oh sign me up right away. He had so many other good qualities of course, but that's what did it for me! I mean the bottom line is Basham is an amazing writer. She knows how to write swoony book boyfriends that readers will sigh over. She knows how to write heroines that can stand on their own two feet, have hilarious quirks, and good hearts. She writes the best kissing scenes. And she includes faith themes that speak to your heart. And in this story we add a little mystery, and some fantastically written secondary characters. You cannot go wrong!
I highly recommend this story, and honestly for any time of year. Sure it looks a lot like a Christmas story (because it is), but it's a story for all year round. I know I'll be reading it again. Won't you join me?
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
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