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Wish You Were Here #1
Wish You Were Here
Kissing the wrong guy days before her wedding leads Allison to become a runaway bride. But can it also lead to happily ever after?Allison Denman is supposed to get married in five days, but everything is all wrong. The huge wedding. The frothy dress. And the groom. Still, kissing the groom’s brother, Daniel, in an unguarded moment is decidedly not the right thing to do. How could she have made such a mistake? It seems Allison’s life is nothing but mistakes at this point. Daniel’s adventures—chronicled through a collection of postcards—have always appealed to Allison’s well-hidden desire for something more. But how can betraying her fiancé’s trust lead to a true happily ever after? Can Allison find her way out of this mess? Recognizing she doesn’t have all the answers won’t be easy because she’s used to being in control. To find her way again, she will have to believe that God has a plan for her—one outside her carefully defined comfort zone—and find the strength to let Him lead.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2012
10 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Beth K. Vogt
23 books869 followersBeth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an Air Force family physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. Now Beth believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” The Best We’ve Been, the final book in Beth’s Thatcher Sisters Series with Tyndale House Publishers, releases May 2020. Other books in the series include Things I Never Told You, which one the 2019 AWSA Award for Contemporary Novel of the Year, and Moments We Forget.
Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. Her 2014 novel, Somebody Like You, was one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2014. A November Bride was part of the Year of Wedding Series by Zondervan. Having authored nine contemporary romance novels or novellas, Beth believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us.
An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at bethvogt.com.
Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. Her 2014 novel, Somebody Like You, was one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2014. A November Bride was part of the Year of Wedding Series by Zondervan. Having authored nine contemporary romance novels or novellas, Beth believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us.
An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at bethvogt.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
December 10, 2015
This was most definitely not the next book I planned to finish reading. I got the message that my library had bought the ebook per my request, and I downloaded it and just wanted to peek at a few pages. Next thing I knew, I was being teased by a coworker for "texting and walking" and almost forgetting I was waiting for a take-out meal at the restaurant and (whispering) looking forward to stoplights.
For some reason these characters really clicked for me. And I loved the detail...Allison's favorite books and movies and authors (which in many instances are mine), the mention of NCIS's Gibbs and the comment about "how does he ever get the boats out of his basement?", at which I actually chuckled aloud, since I've often wondered the exact same thing. This book also reminded me of how much I love the Colorado landscape, and how badly I need to plan for my next feast of Colorado-blue skies and hiking where the air feels so clean. It's been way too many years since I glimpsed Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Estes Park. And I could almost expect to see these people when I go, they seem so real!
The only thing that bothered me about the book was the phrase about frothing a Frappuchino. Um..??? I've made my fair share of cafe drinks, and it doesn't work that way. But can you tell I liked it if I'm picking at only three words?
For some reason these characters really clicked for me. And I loved the detail...Allison's favorite books and movies and authors (which in many instances are mine), the mention of NCIS's Gibbs and the comment about "how does he ever get the boats out of his basement?", at which I actually chuckled aloud, since I've often wondered the exact same thing. This book also reminded me of how much I love the Colorado landscape, and how badly I need to plan for my next feast of Colorado-blue skies and hiking where the air feels so clean. It's been way too many years since I glimpsed Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Estes Park. And I could almost expect to see these people when I go, they seem so real!
The only thing that bothered me about the book was the phrase about frothing a Frappuchino. Um..??? I've made my fair share of cafe drinks, and it doesn't work that way. But can you tell I liked it if I'm picking at only three words?
July 30, 2016
I LOVED this book, I could not put it down. For some reason I thought it was about wishing her father was at her wedding, I dont' know why but it was actually about postcards being sent to the main character Allison Wishing she Was There with him (Daniel).... I loved how the theme carried throughout! I loved all of the characters the main characters and the secondary characters. I could picture how they looked, how they acted and loved each one. It had some raw and real parts, adventuresome parts, intense parts, and romance where you wish they would be on the same page at the same time which made you frustrated at times and some laugh out loud parts. I loved the setting in Colorado and the outdoorsyness(is that a word?) of it all. And boy oh boy Daniel *sigh* you will have to read it to know why. I loved Beth Vogt as an author and have loved everything I have read by her so far and was completely surprised that this was her debut novel! No wonder she has done so well, I am a definite fan.
December 26, 2017
This novel had a strong start and finish. My interest rose and fell as I was reading. There were parts in the middle that didn't keep me as engaged in the story.
I've enjoyed other Beth Vogt novels and look forward to reading others.
I've enjoyed other Beth Vogt novels and look forward to reading others.
May 8, 2012
Wow, this was deep and at the same time it made me laugh out loud numerous times! I read this story in two days. While the premise sounds a bit crazy (which I admit is what drew me to wanting to read the novel) it worked very well in this situation. Every emotion Allison went through seemed very real to me. I also felt bad for the men in her life. So many women have a bad feeling that tells them they shouldn't get married after agreeing to it, but they'll follow through anyway so they won't let down family, friends, or embarrass/hurt anyone. That's a terrible reason to get married.
I loved how the author took elements from Allie's childhood to provide a motive that made sense regarding her insecurity. It showed how easily things can be misinterpreted when we are children and how as adults, sometimes we need to revisit those painful issues but look at them from an adult's perspective rather than a child's. That was a healthy theme in this book. I also loved how the author showed that sometimes young women replace their close relationship with God and turn their focus on the love and admiration from a man, and then they wonder why they don't feel close to God anymore.
Anyway, I loved how this story ended. The resolution was fantastic and sigh-worthy. But I loved how the message for both of them was they needed to get tight with God first, then let Him direct their steps. That's a great message and it was sprinkled throughout the novel, but was never heavy handed. I can see this novel helping some very misguided women make a better choice, and maybe even lead them to faith in God.
While there weren't many kisses in this book, the ones that did occur left me a bit breathless. The romantic tension throughout the novel was perfect, IMHO, and had the right balance between longing and denial. I couldn't help feeling proud of the growth that occurred in Seth's life by the story's end. Oh, and every woman needs a Daniel in their lives. If you don't believe me, read the book. I'd love to be stuck in a snow cave with a guy like him if I were single. He was so tender and sweet. Sigh. Anyway, this story is making my favorite fiction list because I absolutely adored it. This author has made a new fan today. :)
I loved how the author took elements from Allie's childhood to provide a motive that made sense regarding her insecurity. It showed how easily things can be misinterpreted when we are children and how as adults, sometimes we need to revisit those painful issues but look at them from an adult's perspective rather than a child's. That was a healthy theme in this book. I also loved how the author showed that sometimes young women replace their close relationship with God and turn their focus on the love and admiration from a man, and then they wonder why they don't feel close to God anymore.
Anyway, I loved how this story ended. The resolution was fantastic and sigh-worthy. But I loved how the message for both of them was they needed to get tight with God first, then let Him direct their steps. That's a great message and it was sprinkled throughout the novel, but was never heavy handed. I can see this novel helping some very misguided women make a better choice, and maybe even lead them to faith in God.
While there weren't many kisses in this book, the ones that did occur left me a bit breathless. The romantic tension throughout the novel was perfect, IMHO, and had the right balance between longing and denial. I couldn't help feeling proud of the growth that occurred in Seth's life by the story's end. Oh, and every woman needs a Daniel in their lives. If you don't believe me, read the book. I'd love to be stuck in a snow cave with a guy like him if I were single. He was so tender and sweet. Sigh. Anyway, this story is making my favorite fiction list because I absolutely adored it. This author has made a new fan today. :)
April 18, 2017
Wow. Loved it. Double love that I've just driven thru Colorado & the Rockies and can picture the mountains exactly!
This is Beth's debut novel but the 4th I've read. Couldn't put this down! Fantastic gripping story.
This is Beth's debut novel but the 4th I've read. Couldn't put this down! Fantastic gripping story.
April 8, 2013
From a writer’s standpoint, Wish You Were Here is a wonderful study in character development. For example: one of the main characters didn’t even appear on-scene until page 21 and yet, by then I knew that he was controlling, manipulative and obsessed with perfection. And that’s how Vogt excels: by showing character traits through other’s actions and reactions.
The heroine, Allison, was a very complex character, like all of us. As she grew and changed, I grew to love her more and more. And there were so many twists and turns in the plot that revealed so many layers of Allison’s life.
I guess my favorite part of the book (besides the love story, of course) was the postcards at the beginning of some of the chapters. It foreshadowed a little of what was going on in the background. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but when a postcard mentions Class 5 rapids, things are about to get bumpy!
Wish You Were Here was a wonderful story of forgiveness and redemption – a reminder that we have to forgive others in order to be forgiven. Loved it!
The heroine, Allison, was a very complex character, like all of us. As she grew and changed, I grew to love her more and more. And there were so many twists and turns in the plot that revealed so many layers of Allison’s life.
I guess my favorite part of the book (besides the love story, of course) was the postcards at the beginning of some of the chapters. It foreshadowed a little of what was going on in the background. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but when a postcard mentions Class 5 rapids, things are about to get bumpy!
Wish You Were Here was a wonderful story of forgiveness and redemption – a reminder that we have to forgive others in order to be forgiven. Loved it!
May 7, 2012
So fun. So delightful. Such a great new voice to watch! A perfect weekend read and oh, so much more.
“Wish You Were Here” has got so much to love! A kiss within the first ten pages? Yes, please! Conflict, love triangles, just a *wee* bit of drama (because what romance wouldn’t be good without it?), llamas, some LOL dialogue, but yet a depth to the characters that was well crafted. Awesome.
I love Allison Denman. You can read some much of this character in her actions and she wants her happily-ever-after so badly, but it seems life isn’t going to give her one lying down.
Sigh. Daniel is an easy-on-the-eyes hero. He has a great heart, but don’t let his outdoorsman exterior fool you. He’s got his own share of problems. Only one being the fact that he kissed his brother’s fiancée - five days before the wedding. Yeah. I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes.
I loved the depth to the characters. I felt Allison was really well rounded and played wonderfully upon the page. Don’t let the cute cover fool you, the novel has its moments of hilarity, but also some serious undertones that compliment it really well.
I’d love to see Allison and Daniel get their cameo part two. Maybe a short story, please?
An excellent new voice in Christian Fiction to watch, this novel does its genre proud!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher and author for my copy to review/influence.
“Wish You Were Here” has got so much to love! A kiss within the first ten pages? Yes, please! Conflict, love triangles, just a *wee* bit of drama (because what romance wouldn’t be good without it?), llamas, some LOL dialogue, but yet a depth to the characters that was well crafted. Awesome.
I love Allison Denman. You can read some much of this character in her actions and she wants her happily-ever-after so badly, but it seems life isn’t going to give her one lying down.
Sigh. Daniel is an easy-on-the-eyes hero. He has a great heart, but don’t let his outdoorsman exterior fool you. He’s got his own share of problems. Only one being the fact that he kissed his brother’s fiancée - five days before the wedding. Yeah. I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes.
I loved the depth to the characters. I felt Allison was really well rounded and played wonderfully upon the page. Don’t let the cute cover fool you, the novel has its moments of hilarity, but also some serious undertones that compliment it really well.
I’d love to see Allison and Daniel get their cameo part two. Maybe a short story, please?
An excellent new voice in Christian Fiction to watch, this novel does its genre proud!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher and author for my copy to review/influence.
November 15, 2011
I was swept away to the splendor of the Rockies in Wish You Were Here, a lovely debut by Beth K. Vogt. This perfectly paced love triangle has endearing characters and plot twists that kept me turning the pages deep into the night. I loved it!
December 11, 2017
For my first ever Christian fiction I really enjoyed reading this story. It was quirky but also approached some very difficult subjects that kept me wanting to read to the end. Although I have tried I have never managed to complete a Christian fiction book before as I find that they are either over done or too cheesy. This book was recommended to overcome my misconception and I have to say Vogt has found the balance beautifully. I have overcome!! The humour had me laughing out loud several times and was an added bonus.
Overall I throughly enjoyed this story would definitely recommend and will definitely be reading more of Vogt in the near future :).
Overall I throughly enjoyed this story would definitely recommend and will definitely be reading more of Vogt in the near future :).
February 15, 2017
Spring 2012, I bought Beth K. Vogt's debut novel, Wish You Were Here, and discovered a spunky, fun, creative story with a fresh voice. The unusual plotline apparently gave Beth buckets of inspiration for her first dip into the world of fiction. I say this because, within the pages of this book, I found a great release for laughter and tears as I enjoyed the unexpected plot twists, unforgettable characters with real-life issues, and important life messages for the reader to glean. This book was a pleasant surprise with a bit of adventure thrown into the mix.
In Wish You Were Here, Allison Denman accidentally kisses her soon-to-be brother-in-law a mere five days before her wedding to the guy's brother. This mistake causes her to doubt her decisions and plans for the future and become a runaway bride. She struggles to confront the trauma of her past and the whirlwind of her present, all the while resisting God's plans for her future. Will she figure out all the pieces of the puzzle of her life and give God a chance to guide her into the safety of His arms?
As you'll see, Alli is a lady trying to do the right thing but finds herself making mistake after mistake that alter the course of her life. As the chapters go by, it seems like her mistakes pile higher and higher until they threaten to topple and bury her alive. Sorting through the mess her life has become is quite difficult, especially when faced with the choice between Seth Rayner--her fiance who has things planned out and in control--and Daniel Rayner--Seth's adventuresome older brother who has sent Alli 'Wish You Were Here' postcards for years. It's a tough decision that gets even harder with every turn of the page. I stayed awake long into the night to cheer Alli Denman on in this unusual love triangle, and I'm guessing you will too!
Earlier this year, I reread Wish You Were Here in eager anticipation of Beth K. Vogt's second novel, entitled Catch a Falling Star (also a really great book). No doubt, Beth will have a great career writing Christian fiction with the talent God has bestowed upon her. In her debut novel, she easily laced complex backstories and multiple heart-gripping themes into the plotline of her sweet tale of finding the right kind of love. I was thrilled to see the literary tricks she used in her next book, and I'm looking forward to next spring when her third book will reach bookstores nationwide.
In Wish You Were Here, Allison Denman accidentally kisses her soon-to-be brother-in-law a mere five days before her wedding to the guy's brother. This mistake causes her to doubt her decisions and plans for the future and become a runaway bride. She struggles to confront the trauma of her past and the whirlwind of her present, all the while resisting God's plans for her future. Will she figure out all the pieces of the puzzle of her life and give God a chance to guide her into the safety of His arms?
As you'll see, Alli is a lady trying to do the right thing but finds herself making mistake after mistake that alter the course of her life. As the chapters go by, it seems like her mistakes pile higher and higher until they threaten to topple and bury her alive. Sorting through the mess her life has become is quite difficult, especially when faced with the choice between Seth Rayner--her fiance who has things planned out and in control--and Daniel Rayner--Seth's adventuresome older brother who has sent Alli 'Wish You Were Here' postcards for years. It's a tough decision that gets even harder with every turn of the page. I stayed awake long into the night to cheer Alli Denman on in this unusual love triangle, and I'm guessing you will too!
Earlier this year, I reread Wish You Were Here in eager anticipation of Beth K. Vogt's second novel, entitled Catch a Falling Star (also a really great book). No doubt, Beth will have a great career writing Christian fiction with the talent God has bestowed upon her. In her debut novel, she easily laced complex backstories and multiple heart-gripping themes into the plotline of her sweet tale of finding the right kind of love. I was thrilled to see the literary tricks she used in her next book, and I'm looking forward to next spring when her third book will reach bookstores nationwide.
June 17, 2015
sAllison Denman is about to reach happily ever after. Her wedding is just days away, and she's marrying the guy she's dated since high school. So why is she suddenly full of doubts that this is the right thing to do?
Beth K. Vogt brings us a quirky and interesting runaway bride story, as Allison's uncertainties override her longing for security, and she skips town while leaving her groom at the altar. Unable to unbutton the back of her dress, she's stuck in the silk and lace monstrosity - which wasn't what she wanted in the first place - until she can buy new clothes and find a helpful stranger to assist her. She doesn't want to go back to her apartment or answer the calls and texts from family and friends; she just wants to hide out and sort through her muddled emotions.
Fiance Seth is determined to win Allison back. So maybe he was too pushy getting the wedding he wanted instead of the quiet setting that Allison desired, but he's known her for so long that he believes he knows what is best.
Meanwhile Seth's brother Daniel is trying to push away the guilt that he feels for having kissed Allison five days before the doomed wedding. He's slowly fallen for her while sending her dozens of postcards from his adventures over the years. Allison deserves stability and his job requires him to travel all over the world - but he meant every word of those Wish You Were Here cards.
I enjoyed this contemporary romance. The themes were thought-provoking and while this could have been a very predictable story, it never stopped surprising me by going deeper at every turn. Allison's past struggle with cutting herself and current temptation to relieve her stress by going back to self-harm was something that I have never personally seen addressed in Christian fiction, and I thought it was masterfully handled. I look forward to reading more books by this author!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Beth K. Vogt brings us a quirky and interesting runaway bride story, as Allison's uncertainties override her longing for security, and she skips town while leaving her groom at the altar. Unable to unbutton the back of her dress, she's stuck in the silk and lace monstrosity - which wasn't what she wanted in the first place - until she can buy new clothes and find a helpful stranger to assist her. She doesn't want to go back to her apartment or answer the calls and texts from family and friends; she just wants to hide out and sort through her muddled emotions.
Fiance Seth is determined to win Allison back. So maybe he was too pushy getting the wedding he wanted instead of the quiet setting that Allison desired, but he's known her for so long that he believes he knows what is best.
Meanwhile Seth's brother Daniel is trying to push away the guilt that he feels for having kissed Allison five days before the doomed wedding. He's slowly fallen for her while sending her dozens of postcards from his adventures over the years. Allison deserves stability and his job requires him to travel all over the world - but he meant every word of those Wish You Were Here cards.
I enjoyed this contemporary romance. The themes were thought-provoking and while this could have been a very predictable story, it never stopped surprising me by going deeper at every turn. Allison's past struggle with cutting herself and current temptation to relieve her stress by going back to self-harm was something that I have never personally seen addressed in Christian fiction, and I thought it was masterfully handled. I look forward to reading more books by this author!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
March 1, 2022
My 2015 review:
3.5 stars
Just read the back cover of this one, and I think you’ll want to read it. I did. I mean, there’s a kiss in the first chapter. CHAPTER ONE, PEOPLE! That rarely happens, so I was hooked.
This book has the cutest premise, although it is so much more than that. Huge complications arise (this is definitely an understatement), as Allison is getting married in a few days when she kisses her fiancé’s brother.
Allison has been with her fiancé Seth for several years now. She is comfortable with Seth because it is the constant, stable relationship in her life. But is comfortable enough?
Enter Daniel, Seth’s older brother, who thrives on travel and adventure. Quite different from his brother, but I instantly loved him. Daniel is the best.
The book goes much deeper than a romance. It discusses difficult issues, including self-harming, picking up the pieces of a life that goes off-course, and listening to God’s voice (sometimes the right decision is the scary one).
But my FAVORITE part of this novel was the friendship between Allison and Meghan. They were two best friends who tell each other everything. And it made me miss my friends from college. It’s so hard to stay in touch when you don’t live on campus and go to classes together. Allison and Meghan reminded me of a few close friends I don’t see often enough anymore. Hello, nostalgia!
And the cute postcards Daniel always sends Alli on his trips are the cutest chapter markers, lending a down-to-earth touch to this novel.
P.S. Was it just me, or did Seth come off a little stalker-ish? Just wondering what everyone else thought…
3.5 stars
Just read the back cover of this one, and I think you’ll want to read it. I did. I mean, there’s a kiss in the first chapter. CHAPTER ONE, PEOPLE! That rarely happens, so I was hooked.
This book has the cutest premise, although it is so much more than that. Huge complications arise (this is definitely an understatement), as Allison is getting married in a few days when she kisses her fiancé’s brother.
Allison has been with her fiancé Seth for several years now. She is comfortable with Seth because it is the constant, stable relationship in her life. But is comfortable enough?
Enter Daniel, Seth’s older brother, who thrives on travel and adventure. Quite different from his brother, but I instantly loved him. Daniel is the best.
The book goes much deeper than a romance. It discusses difficult issues, including self-harming, picking up the pieces of a life that goes off-course, and listening to God’s voice (sometimes the right decision is the scary one).
But my FAVORITE part of this novel was the friendship between Allison and Meghan. They were two best friends who tell each other everything. And it made me miss my friends from college. It’s so hard to stay in touch when you don’t live on campus and go to classes together. Allison and Meghan reminded me of a few close friends I don’t see often enough anymore. Hello, nostalgia!
And the cute postcards Daniel always sends Alli on his trips are the cutest chapter markers, lending a down-to-earth touch to this novel.
P.S. Was it just me, or did Seth come off a little stalker-ish? Just wondering what everyone else thought…
June 3, 2012
I won't sugarcoat the truth here...I almost marked this book as a DNF (did not finish). I made it to the 100-page mark and thought to myself, "If this book doesn't pick up the pace reeeeeeally soon, I don't think I can go on." Well, nothing like a little perseverance, ya know? :o) I went another few pages, then a few more, and then, there was no getting around it...I was hooked.
There's really just one thing I want to highlight from this fabulous debut novel, and that was the balance between Allison and Seth's relationship failing and the new relationship forming between her and Daniel. I mean, honestly...in real life, how many of us would have screwed that up so badly? I'll be the first to admit that it would be me because, like Seth, I have always had this innate need to be in control (or at least, convince myself that I'm in control even if I'm not). But wow, how many times have I jumped the gun ahead of God's plan? More times than I care to count. I was so impressed that when it came to decision time for both Allison and Daniel that things were allowed to take their natural course, and both really allowed God to direct their steps.
Beth Vogt joins a fabulous crop of new fiction writers this year...seriously, they're sprouting up all over the place! I'd love to see a spin-off from this novel featuring either Meghan or Hadleigh (well, a story for both characters wouldn't disappoint me, either). :o)
There's really just one thing I want to highlight from this fabulous debut novel, and that was the balance between Allison and Seth's relationship failing and the new relationship forming between her and Daniel. I mean, honestly...in real life, how many of us would have screwed that up so badly? I'll be the first to admit that it would be me because, like Seth, I have always had this innate need to be in control (or at least, convince myself that I'm in control even if I'm not). But wow, how many times have I jumped the gun ahead of God's plan? More times than I care to count. I was so impressed that when it came to decision time for both Allison and Daniel that things were allowed to take their natural course, and both really allowed God to direct their steps.
Beth Vogt joins a fabulous crop of new fiction writers this year...seriously, they're sprouting up all over the place! I'd love to see a spin-off from this novel featuring either Meghan or Hadleigh (well, a story for both characters wouldn't disappoint me, either). :o)
May 1, 2012
Beth K. Vogt’s writing is so visual and immediate that I felt like I was watching a classic romantic comedy as I read Wish You Were Here.
It’s easy to like heroine Allison Denman despite, or because of, her disastrous faux pas at the beginning of the novel. Engaged to the perfect man, Allison finds herself kissing his brother, Daniel, five days before the wedding! As her carefully planned life unravels, we catch glimpses of the secrets Allison hides as well as the longing for adventure she’s stifled.
Daniel is all about adventure, but his on-the-go lifestyle as well as friction with his family has made romantic relationships difficult. Vogt does an incredible job of revealing tidbits of Daniel’s character through his postcards to Allison as well as their interactions. With his mismatched eyes, cargo pants and backpack, and easy-going attitude, Daniel practically hollers, “Come have fun with me.” Readers will be cheering Allison with “You go girl” by the end of this delightful novel.
It’s easy to like heroine Allison Denman despite, or because of, her disastrous faux pas at the beginning of the novel. Engaged to the perfect man, Allison finds herself kissing his brother, Daniel, five days before the wedding! As her carefully planned life unravels, we catch glimpses of the secrets Allison hides as well as the longing for adventure she’s stifled.
Daniel is all about adventure, but his on-the-go lifestyle as well as friction with his family has made romantic relationships difficult. Vogt does an incredible job of revealing tidbits of Daniel’s character through his postcards to Allison as well as their interactions. With his mismatched eyes, cargo pants and backpack, and easy-going attitude, Daniel practically hollers, “Come have fun with me.” Readers will be cheering Allison with “You go girl” by the end of this delightful novel.
April 11, 2012
You never know what you'll get when you read a debut novel. I happen to love a good contemporary romance with plenty of tension and swooning moments. I prefer my pages sprinkled with humor, witty dialogue and in between all of that--a powerful message.
Beth K. Vogt, delivered. She breathed life into the pages by making her characters believable, genuine, fun, and even quirky. Plenty of obstacles stood in the way, but it made for great page turning and a sigh of satisfaction at the end,not to mention some literal LOL moments.
If you're not a fan of inspirational fiction, I'd still say give this a try because it isn't what you would call "preachy" but it does have a message of forgiveness and unconditional love. Who doesn't want that whether you're a Christian or not?
I'll be waiting in anticipation for her next book. Hope she writes fast!
Beth K. Vogt, delivered. She breathed life into the pages by making her characters believable, genuine, fun, and even quirky. Plenty of obstacles stood in the way, but it made for great page turning and a sigh of satisfaction at the end,not to mention some literal LOL moments.
If you're not a fan of inspirational fiction, I'd still say give this a try because it isn't what you would call "preachy" but it does have a message of forgiveness and unconditional love. Who doesn't want that whether you're a Christian or not?
I'll be waiting in anticipation for her next book. Hope she writes fast!
May 6, 2012
This was a book I could not put done.
If I had thought about it enough I knew how I thought it would end but that dind't stop me from reading it in less than 2 days.
The main character kisses her future brother in law a few days before her wedding, this leads to her leaving her finance at the alter and running away.
The book is what happens to her following this.
Does Seth (her finance) forgive her? Did you like Seth?
Does she run away?
Are there Llama's in this book?
Are there more than one medical accidents is this book?
Who is Bisquick?
Did it end the way your thought?
What do postcards have to do with this story?
So many good questions and for the most part a great story, would I change a few things? Yes. Will it stop me from reading her next book? NO!
One thing I loved about this book is the other Christian authors that were mentioned.
If I had thought about it enough I knew how I thought it would end but that dind't stop me from reading it in less than 2 days.
The main character kisses her future brother in law a few days before her wedding, this leads to her leaving her finance at the alter and running away.
The book is what happens to her following this.
Does Seth (her finance) forgive her? Did you like Seth?
Does she run away?
Are there Llama's in this book?
Are there more than one medical accidents is this book?
Who is Bisquick?
Did it end the way your thought?
What do postcards have to do with this story?
So many good questions and for the most part a great story, would I change a few things? Yes. Will it stop me from reading her next book? NO!
One thing I loved about this book is the other Christian authors that were mentioned.
April 29, 2012
I. loved. this. story. A fantastic debut novel that left me wanting more.
Wish You Were Here starts with such a good hook and the rest of the story absolutely delivers. I loved what Beth Vogt did with the hero and heroine...both had wounds in their past which creep up and impact their present. The story includes light-hearted and downright hilarious elements, but it also delves below the surface...the emotional layering is superb. I also loved the spiritual theme woven throughout.
P.S. And you just can't get better than llamas in rehabilitation!
Wish You Were Here starts with such a good hook and the rest of the story absolutely delivers. I loved what Beth Vogt did with the hero and heroine...both had wounds in their past which creep up and impact their present. The story includes light-hearted and downright hilarious elements, but it also delves below the surface...the emotional layering is superb. I also loved the spiritual theme woven throughout.
P.S. And you just can't get better than llamas in rehabilitation!
December 30, 2022
I was looking for a lighter ( but not shallow) read while we are battling sickness and this one was perfect. This rom com also deals with some weightier, real life challenges, and I was drawn into the story immediately. There is a little more physical touch/kissing than my preference, however, there was nothing I found that would be inappropriate—definitely a clean read. *without spoiling the story, I am listing some potential triggers and content below, but these were very tastefully presented!*
Though a “runaway” bride isn’t a novel idea, I did find the story fresh, unpredictable, but also realistic. I did enjoy watching Alli grow to trust the Lord. Daniel’s spiritual journey was less specific and I would have loved to have seen a little more depth there (or tied up loose ends). See I was definitely invested in the story and the characters—which is a point in its favor!
The llamas threw me at first, but they were a nice touch. 😉.
I’ll be reading more by this author in the future! This being her debut novel from a few years ago, I was impressed!
Content warning for younger readers or triggers: pornography mentioned, mentions of wedding night/honeymoon (though nothing too specific), abandonment, self harm.
Though a “runaway” bride isn’t a novel idea, I did find the story fresh, unpredictable, but also realistic. I did enjoy watching Alli grow to trust the Lord. Daniel’s spiritual journey was less specific and I would have loved to have seen a little more depth there (or tied up loose ends). See I was definitely invested in the story and the characters—which is a point in its favor!
The llamas threw me at first, but they were a nice touch. 😉.
I’ll be reading more by this author in the future! This being her debut novel from a few years ago, I was impressed!
Content warning for younger readers or triggers: pornography mentioned, mentions of wedding night/honeymoon (though nothing too specific), abandonment, self harm.
July 24, 2020
A book featuring a Runaway Bride was exactly the fun read that I needed. Except there was more to it. The main heroine needed to discover who she was. The former groom needed to grow up again. Add the groom's brother into the mix, and you have an interesting storyline. I liked the fact that the pacing and the romance was not in a hurry. Allison had to learn that God loved her first. I really enjoyed the characters (including the llamas). I was quite surprised that this was a debut novel as it did not read as if it was written by an amateur. I had already read and enjoyed several of Beth's wedding novels, and I am definitely glad that I read this one!
July 14, 2018
Instead of there...
This book is unique for Christian fiction. It looks realistically at messy life. Love in unexpected places, pain caused by pasts that shape the future, and unconditional love are all wrapped up in this book. It will challenge you and make you think...in all the good ways...
This book is unique for Christian fiction. It looks realistically at messy life. Love in unexpected places, pain caused by pasts that shape the future, and unconditional love are all wrapped up in this book. It will challenge you and make you think...in all the good ways...
January 10, 2022
An interesting look at a runaway bride and how she and her ex fiance deal with their relationship going forward. Throw in the fiances' brother who is in love with his brother's ex and it makes for a can't-put-it-down story. Lots of adventure and ultimately, getting their hearts and their faith in God in the right place. A great debut novel.
May 9, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters, the setting, the llamas, and the distress of loving two brothers. I could hardly wait to see how everything would be resolved. I have most of Beth Vogt’s books and have high expectations they’ll be every bit as excellent.
August 8, 2018
I love love stories. I love real stories about life. I love stories about people wrestling with their understanding of and relationship with God. I love happy endings.
This book has it all.
This book has it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2019
Hmm
I usually log all he books but this one was tough to get through...I didn’t like the main character that much hard to connect with—-
I usually log all he books but this one was tough to get through...I didn’t like the main character that much hard to connect with—-
March 3, 2023
A book with a lot of twists and turns.
August 7, 2025
Thank you, Beth Vogt, for another great read. You never disappoint. 🥰
May 9, 2012
So, I should always start a review with my biases, right? The degree to which I enjoy a book is inevitably related to various factors, whether or not I choose to acknowledge such. And the degree to which any reader would choose to agree or relate with my opinion must in some way relate to our commonality on these presumptions, right?
So let me be clear up front.
1. I really do enjoy Christian fiction. I'm not at really bothered by "preachy" stories as long as they are not wishy-washy or written in a dialogue that feels forced and unnatural.
2. I'm not a huge fan of the romance genre. I'm particularly skeptical of insta-love and overly happy endings.
3. I did receive this book for free for review. However, I do believe my past reviews are pretty indicative of the fact that I'm not afraid to bash a free book. (Don't make me name titles, right?)
As always, I'll start with plot.
Allison has the perfect wedding scheduled with the perfect man in just five days. He's neat and orderly and he loves to take control of the situation, something that seems to benefit Allison, a woman who can lean toward the passive side of life when the situation permits. Alison and Seth were on the path to happily ever after ....
That is, of course, until Allison did the unthinkable ... and kissed Seth's brother.
But a kiss doesn't necessarily mean anything, right? Perhaps Allison did tend to wonder if she was making the right decision in marrying Seth, and maybe did she always admire Daniel's spontaneous personality and his inclination to pack up and travel as the mood seemed right. But to kiss him? It was just the nerves or a crazy mistake or pre-wedding jitters.
Except, maybe it's not. Can Allison really go through with the perfect marriage, if it's really what seems like the right thing to do? Will she find forgiveness with either brother if they find out what happened? If she follows her heart and performs a runaway bride act, is she strong enough to finally step out of Seth's shadow and seek a new path for her life?
Okay, despite the fact that I'm really not a huge fan of romance novels, I really did find myself not only enjoying the story but also connecting with the main character, Allison. WISH YOU WERE HERE really does delve a bit deeper than the surface level questions behind the questions surrounding the impending marriage, as Allison struggles to overcome serious personal issues from her past that cloud her vision of the future. For example, (and this isn't a huge spoiler -- it's mentioned pretty early in the novel) we learn that Allison cuts herself to release negative emotion. Many Christian shy away from tackling this type of issue, so I was pleasantly surprised with the way the author addressed some of life's tougher situations. For this reason, the characters were relatable to me as a reader, despite the fact that I'll never find myself in the unlikely situation of two brothers vying for my undying affection. It's those questions on forgiveness and acceptance and control that really let the reader see herself in the character's shoes, making the story interesting even to those who may not necessarily love a good love story.
As far as the romance goes, everything is pretty safe when it comes to overt mushiness and gushiness. Nobody is really sitting around pining away for the sparkly-eyed male lead or spending hours devoting life to waiting for that next phone call. Allison has a real life with real issues -- AND she also has a bit of a love story on the side, juicy enough to draw in the romance reader but subdued enough to satisfy those of us who are really reading for the contemporary fiction aspect of things.
I really did enjoy this novel and I wouldn't hesitate to check out another selection from Vogt in the future. She does a great job of maintaining a realistic storyline that stays interesting, fresh, and inspirational -- without being cheesy. Now, I did warn you up front that I'm not always a sucker for the perfect ending, so I might have enjoyed something a bit more --- complicated? --- with the closing of the story, but it definitely wasn't enough to detract from the novel or its overall message.
I would definitely recommend WISH YOU WERE HERE to any fans of contemporary Christian fiction or "clean" romance novels. There's definitely more depth here than I would expect and I'm glad I gave this one a chance, for sure!
So let me be clear up front.
1. I really do enjoy Christian fiction. I'm not at really bothered by "preachy" stories as long as they are not wishy-washy or written in a dialogue that feels forced and unnatural.
2. I'm not a huge fan of the romance genre. I'm particularly skeptical of insta-love and overly happy endings.
3. I did receive this book for free for review. However, I do believe my past reviews are pretty indicative of the fact that I'm not afraid to bash a free book. (Don't make me name titles, right?)
As always, I'll start with plot.
Allison has the perfect wedding scheduled with the perfect man in just five days. He's neat and orderly and he loves to take control of the situation, something that seems to benefit Allison, a woman who can lean toward the passive side of life when the situation permits. Alison and Seth were on the path to happily ever after ....
That is, of course, until Allison did the unthinkable ... and kissed Seth's brother.
But a kiss doesn't necessarily mean anything, right? Perhaps Allison did tend to wonder if she was making the right decision in marrying Seth, and maybe did she always admire Daniel's spontaneous personality and his inclination to pack up and travel as the mood seemed right. But to kiss him? It was just the nerves or a crazy mistake or pre-wedding jitters.
Except, maybe it's not. Can Allison really go through with the perfect marriage, if it's really what seems like the right thing to do? Will she find forgiveness with either brother if they find out what happened? If she follows her heart and performs a runaway bride act, is she strong enough to finally step out of Seth's shadow and seek a new path for her life?
Okay, despite the fact that I'm really not a huge fan of romance novels, I really did find myself not only enjoying the story but also connecting with the main character, Allison. WISH YOU WERE HERE really does delve a bit deeper than the surface level questions behind the questions surrounding the impending marriage, as Allison struggles to overcome serious personal issues from her past that cloud her vision of the future. For example, (and this isn't a huge spoiler -- it's mentioned pretty early in the novel) we learn that Allison cuts herself to release negative emotion. Many Christian shy away from tackling this type of issue, so I was pleasantly surprised with the way the author addressed some of life's tougher situations. For this reason, the characters were relatable to me as a reader, despite the fact that I'll never find myself in the unlikely situation of two brothers vying for my undying affection. It's those questions on forgiveness and acceptance and control that really let the reader see herself in the character's shoes, making the story interesting even to those who may not necessarily love a good love story.
As far as the romance goes, everything is pretty safe when it comes to overt mushiness and gushiness. Nobody is really sitting around pining away for the sparkly-eyed male lead or spending hours devoting life to waiting for that next phone call. Allison has a real life with real issues -- AND she also has a bit of a love story on the side, juicy enough to draw in the romance reader but subdued enough to satisfy those of us who are really reading for the contemporary fiction aspect of things.
I really did enjoy this novel and I wouldn't hesitate to check out another selection from Vogt in the future. She does a great job of maintaining a realistic storyline that stays interesting, fresh, and inspirational -- without being cheesy. Now, I did warn you up front that I'm not always a sucker for the perfect ending, so I might have enjoyed something a bit more --- complicated? --- with the closing of the story, but it definitely wasn't enough to detract from the novel or its overall message.
I would definitely recommend WISH YOU WERE HERE to any fans of contemporary Christian fiction or "clean" romance novels. There's definitely more depth here than I would expect and I'm glad I gave this one a chance, for sure!
June 1, 2012
A sweet read that will take you through a gamut of emotions! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
In five days, Allison Denman is supposed to get married, but she is having a hard time getting anything done, like packing up her apartment so she can move in with her new husband after the wedding. She even allowed her friends, including her soon to be mother-in-law and her mom, to browbeat her into getting an expensive wedding gown that she doesn’t even like. Allison has dated Seth for the past six years, from the time they were still in school together. During that time, she has learned to give in, allowing others to make any decisions. But lately, that has not set well with her since she likes being in control. She has a secret from her past…one she keeps so closely guarded that not even Seth knows about it. However, her best friend Meghan knows and helps her stay on the straight and narrow. But she has another secret that no one knows about. She has a crush on Seth’s brother Daniel. Ever since high school, he has been sending her post cards from all of the exotic places he travels to and she has saved every one. She had been looking forward to having Daniel for a brother-in-law. But when he showed up five days before the wedding to pick up the boxes that she was supposed to have already filled and stayed to help her pack them, they ended up accidentally sharing a kiss. Devastated and feeling guilty, she did not know what to do. Mostly, she felt guilty because she had not wanted Daniel to stop kissing her.
Daniel travels all over the world, laying out and setting up resorts. He fell for Allison some time ago, but he has kept it secret. After all, he could not break his younger brother, Seth’s, heart by kissing his girl. Their kiss had been interrupted when Seth suddenly called him on his cell phone. Although Daniel had tried to talk to Allison about it, she had not wanted to discuss it. So he escaped for the next four days and went off backpacking, although it upset Seth. Daniel did not know how he would get through the wedding and seeing his brother wed the girl he was in love with. But he was determined to manage it.
On the day of the wedding, Daniel stood next to his brother at the altar and watched as Allison made her way down the aisle. Due to the veil, he could not see her expression. But when she reached the end of the aisle, he barely heard her tell Seth that she could not go through with it. Then she turned and bolted back down the aisle. But making her getaway, trapped in a wedding gown that she cannot get out of, in a car she had taken without her friend’s permission to an unknown destination does not sound like the acts of a rational person. Up until now her life has been filled with mistakes. But then she has always had to be in control, the plans were usually her plans, when she wasn’t letting Seth make plans for her. Perhaps she should take Meghan’s advice. Is it possible that God has a plan for her life? Can she find the strength to let go and let God lead?
A sweet read, WISH YOU WERE HERE, a debut novel by author Beth K. Vogt, is an inspiring, emotion-packed read that I found impossible to put down. Ms. Vogt draws you into the story with her realistic characters and their life-changing situations. Normally a nonfiction writer, author Beth K. Vogt dives into the waters of fiction with this debut novel and comes up a winner. This story will take you through a gamut of emotions. I found myself laughing at times and near tears at others. Allison has to deal with some difficult questions about her life, but with God’s help, she finds the answers, and finds love in the process. Adding even more charm to this story, each chapter begins with one of the postcards that Daniel sent Allison over the years from his exotic travels. This beautifully written story is filled with humor, clever dialogue, life-threatening situations, God, family dynamics, romance and love, making it an unforgettable novel. A definite keeper! I highly recommend this very intriguing story and look forward to more of Ms. Vogt’s works.
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
In five days, Allison Denman is supposed to get married, but she is having a hard time getting anything done, like packing up her apartment so she can move in with her new husband after the wedding. She even allowed her friends, including her soon to be mother-in-law and her mom, to browbeat her into getting an expensive wedding gown that she doesn’t even like. Allison has dated Seth for the past six years, from the time they were still in school together. During that time, she has learned to give in, allowing others to make any decisions. But lately, that has not set well with her since she likes being in control. She has a secret from her past…one she keeps so closely guarded that not even Seth knows about it. However, her best friend Meghan knows and helps her stay on the straight and narrow. But she has another secret that no one knows about. She has a crush on Seth’s brother Daniel. Ever since high school, he has been sending her post cards from all of the exotic places he travels to and she has saved every one. She had been looking forward to having Daniel for a brother-in-law. But when he showed up five days before the wedding to pick up the boxes that she was supposed to have already filled and stayed to help her pack them, they ended up accidentally sharing a kiss. Devastated and feeling guilty, she did not know what to do. Mostly, she felt guilty because she had not wanted Daniel to stop kissing her.
Daniel travels all over the world, laying out and setting up resorts. He fell for Allison some time ago, but he has kept it secret. After all, he could not break his younger brother, Seth’s, heart by kissing his girl. Their kiss had been interrupted when Seth suddenly called him on his cell phone. Although Daniel had tried to talk to Allison about it, she had not wanted to discuss it. So he escaped for the next four days and went off backpacking, although it upset Seth. Daniel did not know how he would get through the wedding and seeing his brother wed the girl he was in love with. But he was determined to manage it.
On the day of the wedding, Daniel stood next to his brother at the altar and watched as Allison made her way down the aisle. Due to the veil, he could not see her expression. But when she reached the end of the aisle, he barely heard her tell Seth that she could not go through with it. Then she turned and bolted back down the aisle. But making her getaway, trapped in a wedding gown that she cannot get out of, in a car she had taken without her friend’s permission to an unknown destination does not sound like the acts of a rational person. Up until now her life has been filled with mistakes. But then she has always had to be in control, the plans were usually her plans, when she wasn’t letting Seth make plans for her. Perhaps she should take Meghan’s advice. Is it possible that God has a plan for her life? Can she find the strength to let go and let God lead?
A sweet read, WISH YOU WERE HERE, a debut novel by author Beth K. Vogt, is an inspiring, emotion-packed read that I found impossible to put down. Ms. Vogt draws you into the story with her realistic characters and their life-changing situations. Normally a nonfiction writer, author Beth K. Vogt dives into the waters of fiction with this debut novel and comes up a winner. This story will take you through a gamut of emotions. I found myself laughing at times and near tears at others. Allison has to deal with some difficult questions about her life, but with God’s help, she finds the answers, and finds love in the process. Adding even more charm to this story, each chapter begins with one of the postcards that Daniel sent Allison over the years from his exotic travels. This beautifully written story is filled with humor, clever dialogue, life-threatening situations, God, family dynamics, romance and love, making it an unforgettable novel. A definite keeper! I highly recommend this very intriguing story and look forward to more of Ms. Vogt’s works.
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
September 13, 2012
“Wish you were here” è un altro di quei libri che sono finiti per caso nelle cose da leggere, preso in un attimo di delirio quando effettivamente non mi rendevo conto di quello che mi succedeva. Si dovrei essere più accorta ma adoro andare a braccio, avventurarmi tra gli elenchi di libri e decidere di essere spericolata scegliendo a caso, come in questo caso. E incredibilmente non mi ha delusa.
Allison sta per sposare Seth, il ragazzo con cui sta fin da quando aveva sedici anni e che non ha mai lasciato. Ma quando il fratello di Seth, David, la bacia a pochi giorni dal matrimonio le sue certezze crollano e non sa più cosa fare. Abbandona Seth sull’altare e scappa dalla zia per aiutarla ad allevare tre lama. Nella speranza di ritrovare se stessa e la persona che è Allison deve capire chi ama e con chi vuole stare e fare i conti con il suo passato.
Il libro scritto in terza persona secondo i punti di vista dei tre protagonisti è una storia che procede molto lentamente, che non concede via di fughe, che devi seguire passo passo, perché inevitabilmente tutto ruota intorno ad Allison. I due fratelli Seth e David ne sono profondamente condizionati. Seth è lo sweetheart di Allison fin dal liceo e la ragazza non ha mai avuto altri ragazzi oltre lui. Seth è una di quelle persone che deve rimanere sempre in controllo della situazione, che deve essere al centro dell’attenzione, che deve piegare la volontà della sua ragazza alla sua. E se da ragazzina Allison era fragile, da adulta vuole scoprire da sola cosa fare e in puro stile Julia Roberts scappa dall’altare, dalla sua città per ritrovare se stessa e per scoprire cosa fare di se stessa. Allison in realtà mi è rimasta antipatica perché è una persona fragile, incapace di prendere una vera decisione e persa nei meandri delle possibilità. Per di più è una di quelle persone che scappano davanti ai problemi invece di affrontarli, che resta ancorata al passato anche quando lo interpreta male e che in qualche modo con la sua indecisione fa soffrire tutti. Certo è sempre meglio rendersi conto in tempo dei propri sbagli, ma dannazione, quando è troppo è troppo. Ho preferito molto di più Seth in tutta la sua arroganza e la sua presunzione che Allison, almeno lui sa quello che vuole ed è pronto a lottare per conquistarlo anche quando tutto va contro di lui e la ragazza che ama non esiste davvero.
David dei tre è quello più indipendente. È uno spirito libero, che coglie ogni occasione per prendere lo zaino in spalla e partire per esplorare posti nuovi, fare sport estremi o mettersi in situazioni pericolose, per puro spirito di avventura. In ogni momento in cui lui è coinvolto capita un incidente e qualcuno finisce all’ospedale. Ma David è fedele, dolce, appassionato e comprensivo e conosce la vera Allison non una forma stilizzata che si erge tra cumuli di macerie e scelte imposte. David è una ventata di aria fresca che non si arrende e capace di far vedere la retta via alla ragazza.
Voglio citare anche i lama, tenerissimi, capaci di strappare sempre un sorriso e fungono da parallelo per quello che succede tra i tre protagonisti, di cui sono in qualche modo le controfigure. Anche loro sono una coppia e poi si introduce un terzo elemento che va a distruggere gli equilibri della situazione e crea degli impicci.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Una collezione di cartoline.
In uscita nella prima metà dell’anno, il libro non ha nulla di particolarmente innovativo, un triangolo troncato sul nascere, un protagonista maschile super handsome, una protagonista femminile un po’ ingenua e il classica storia che si dipana con equivoci e sospetti. Interessante ma non particolarmente sconvolgente.
Buona lettura guys.
Ringrazio Netgalley e Simon & Schuster per avermi concesso di leggere questo libro in anteprima in cambio della mia onesta opinione.
Recensione anche sul mio blog:
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
Allison sta per sposare Seth, il ragazzo con cui sta fin da quando aveva sedici anni e che non ha mai lasciato. Ma quando il fratello di Seth, David, la bacia a pochi giorni dal matrimonio le sue certezze crollano e non sa più cosa fare. Abbandona Seth sull’altare e scappa dalla zia per aiutarla ad allevare tre lama. Nella speranza di ritrovare se stessa e la persona che è Allison deve capire chi ama e con chi vuole stare e fare i conti con il suo passato.
Il libro scritto in terza persona secondo i punti di vista dei tre protagonisti è una storia che procede molto lentamente, che non concede via di fughe, che devi seguire passo passo, perché inevitabilmente tutto ruota intorno ad Allison. I due fratelli Seth e David ne sono profondamente condizionati. Seth è lo sweetheart di Allison fin dal liceo e la ragazza non ha mai avuto altri ragazzi oltre lui. Seth è una di quelle persone che deve rimanere sempre in controllo della situazione, che deve essere al centro dell’attenzione, che deve piegare la volontà della sua ragazza alla sua. E se da ragazzina Allison era fragile, da adulta vuole scoprire da sola cosa fare e in puro stile Julia Roberts scappa dall’altare, dalla sua città per ritrovare se stessa e per scoprire cosa fare di se stessa. Allison in realtà mi è rimasta antipatica perché è una persona fragile, incapace di prendere una vera decisione e persa nei meandri delle possibilità. Per di più è una di quelle persone che scappano davanti ai problemi invece di affrontarli, che resta ancorata al passato anche quando lo interpreta male e che in qualche modo con la sua indecisione fa soffrire tutti. Certo è sempre meglio rendersi conto in tempo dei propri sbagli, ma dannazione, quando è troppo è troppo. Ho preferito molto di più Seth in tutta la sua arroganza e la sua presunzione che Allison, almeno lui sa quello che vuole ed è pronto a lottare per conquistarlo anche quando tutto va contro di lui e la ragazza che ama non esiste davvero.
David dei tre è quello più indipendente. È uno spirito libero, che coglie ogni occasione per prendere lo zaino in spalla e partire per esplorare posti nuovi, fare sport estremi o mettersi in situazioni pericolose, per puro spirito di avventura. In ogni momento in cui lui è coinvolto capita un incidente e qualcuno finisce all’ospedale. Ma David è fedele, dolce, appassionato e comprensivo e conosce la vera Allison non una forma stilizzata che si erge tra cumuli di macerie e scelte imposte. David è una ventata di aria fresca che non si arrende e capace di far vedere la retta via alla ragazza.
Voglio citare anche i lama, tenerissimi, capaci di strappare sempre un sorriso e fungono da parallelo per quello che succede tra i tre protagonisti, di cui sono in qualche modo le controfigure. Anche loro sono una coppia e poi si introduce un terzo elemento che va a distruggere gli equilibri della situazione e crea degli impicci.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Una collezione di cartoline.
In uscita nella prima metà dell’anno, il libro non ha nulla di particolarmente innovativo, un triangolo troncato sul nascere, un protagonista maschile super handsome, una protagonista femminile un po’ ingenua e il classica storia che si dipana con equivoci e sospetti. Interessante ma non particolarmente sconvolgente.
Buona lettura guys.
Ringrazio Netgalley e Simon & Schuster per avermi concesso di leggere questo libro in anteprima in cambio della mia onesta opinione.
Recensione anche sul mio blog:
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
June 20, 2019
Broken-off weddings intrigue me. It is never pleasant for the people going through it, but I am curious about the complex emotions and motives behind it. That’s why I wanted to read this book.
The author was new to me. I believe this is a first fiction novel for Vogt and I was surprised. You’ve heard me complain many times about the state of Christian romance fiction. Why would I take a chance on another one? Because I don’t believe the problem lies in the genre as much as it is individual authors’ perspective and skill. No, I don’t enjoy the churned-out sugary novels. But I’m always hoping to find a book where I can trust the author, sink my teeth into a good plot.
I say I was surprised, because I liked this book: a good balance between comedy and seriousness. The characters and dialogue were interesting and it wasn’t cliché. I liked how the ending left you hanging a little. Not everyone’s woundedness was healed by the end. Not everything was completely wrapped up, though you had a good guess how things would turn out.
I liked the subtle presence of animals in the story. The llamas that stare at Allison’s suitors. The kitty named Bisquick (adorable name!). I enjoyed the setting for it all—the beautiful state of Colorado which I could picture very well in my mind, although I’ve never been.
Another word on the characters, though. I do wish that there was a little bit more development in Allison’s life after her breakup with Seth. I appreciate the complexity in that it was hard for Allison to form new ways of relating in her relationships (with Seth, parents, etc,) and sometimes she made mistakes going back to past habits. But I wish that she had become more fully aware of how her codependency was hurting herself and others, how it fed an unhealthy relationship, and what better ways she could learn from there on out. I wasn’t convinced she wouldn’t go repeating it in her next relationship.
Many Christian romance novels feature ‘the perfect guy’—the hunk who rescues kittens, volunteers at the homeless shelter, and sweats while chopping wood. I liked that Daniel, the hero of Wish You Were Here, didn’t have everything right in his life, made mistakes, and almost had some of the same control traits as his younger brother. But he faced those issues, made corrections, and made different choices. That made for a much more interesting character!
Another interesting character is Allison’s tried and true friend, Meghan. I loved this girl as she told the truth point blank to her best friend. She definitely had some good words of wisdom, especially as a confidant to Allison’s younger sister who was entering the dating scene. However, it is too bad that this BFF couldn’t have been more truthful with Allison sooner in her abusive relationship with Seth.
I wish that the characters were a little more mature in their Christian walk, but some attempt is made on both their parts to grow throughout the book. I wouldn’t consider it preachy, but perhaps the spiritual element didn’t feel completely at home, either. I don’t think that’s a reason to eliminate it, but something for authors to work on making sure things flow a bit better.
Some may be waiting for a series after this, but I don’t believe there will be. However, there is a short story sequel for fans, entitled “You Made Me Love You.” I don’t think I’ll be reading it because I don’t enjoy short stories, but the summary made me smile!
I don’t think this book will interest everyone, esp. those who abhor romance, but for those who do like I think this will be a pleasant, surprise read. It's clean, and I could even recommend it to teenage girls. It addresses some situations they face such as depression, cutting, and pornography.
The author was new to me. I believe this is a first fiction novel for Vogt and I was surprised. You’ve heard me complain many times about the state of Christian romance fiction. Why would I take a chance on another one? Because I don’t believe the problem lies in the genre as much as it is individual authors’ perspective and skill. No, I don’t enjoy the churned-out sugary novels. But I’m always hoping to find a book where I can trust the author, sink my teeth into a good plot.
I say I was surprised, because I liked this book: a good balance between comedy and seriousness. The characters and dialogue were interesting and it wasn’t cliché. I liked how the ending left you hanging a little. Not everyone’s woundedness was healed by the end. Not everything was completely wrapped up, though you had a good guess how things would turn out.
I liked the subtle presence of animals in the story. The llamas that stare at Allison’s suitors. The kitty named Bisquick (adorable name!). I enjoyed the setting for it all—the beautiful state of Colorado which I could picture very well in my mind, although I’ve never been.
Another word on the characters, though. I do wish that there was a little bit more development in Allison’s life after her breakup with Seth. I appreciate the complexity in that it was hard for Allison to form new ways of relating in her relationships (with Seth, parents, etc,) and sometimes she made mistakes going back to past habits. But I wish that she had become more fully aware of how her codependency was hurting herself and others, how it fed an unhealthy relationship, and what better ways she could learn from there on out. I wasn’t convinced she wouldn’t go repeating it in her next relationship.
Many Christian romance novels feature ‘the perfect guy’—the hunk who rescues kittens, volunteers at the homeless shelter, and sweats while chopping wood. I liked that Daniel, the hero of Wish You Were Here, didn’t have everything right in his life, made mistakes, and almost had some of the same control traits as his younger brother. But he faced those issues, made corrections, and made different choices. That made for a much more interesting character!
Another interesting character is Allison’s tried and true friend, Meghan. I loved this girl as she told the truth point blank to her best friend. She definitely had some good words of wisdom, especially as a confidant to Allison’s younger sister who was entering the dating scene. However, it is too bad that this BFF couldn’t have been more truthful with Allison sooner in her abusive relationship with Seth.
I wish that the characters were a little more mature in their Christian walk, but some attempt is made on both their parts to grow throughout the book. I wouldn’t consider it preachy, but perhaps the spiritual element didn’t feel completely at home, either. I don’t think that’s a reason to eliminate it, but something for authors to work on making sure things flow a bit better.
Some may be waiting for a series after this, but I don’t believe there will be. However, there is a short story sequel for fans, entitled “You Made Me Love You.” I don’t think I’ll be reading it because I don’t enjoy short stories, but the summary made me smile!
I don’t think this book will interest everyone, esp. those who abhor romance, but for those who do like I think this will be a pleasant, surprise read. It's clean, and I could even recommend it to teenage girls. It addresses some situations they face such as depression, cutting, and pornography.
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