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The Little Things
A decade ago, Rochelle Delany made a decision that changed her life forever.
Wanting more than just football games and potluck suppers, she boarded a bus for California and didn't look back. But instead of a glamorous life, she became trapped in a nightmare of labor trafficking. Now, she's made a daring escape and returns home to Ohio.
Sandy Fairbrother has a problem with trust.
Twice betrayed, he now puts his faith only in God. He' s a single dad doing his best to grow his construction business and raise his young son. But haunted by an impulsive kiss Rochelle gave him fifteen years ago, her unexpected return has him rethinking things. He' s been given a second chance to win her heart. And this time, he plans to succeed.
Rochelle barely remembers Sandy, but she's drawn to his goodness. But just when she thinks she's found peace, her past catches up with her, and she finds herself in danger of losing the only safe haven she' s ever known.
Wanting more than just football games and potluck suppers, she boarded a bus for California and didn't look back. But instead of a glamorous life, she became trapped in a nightmare of labor trafficking. Now, she's made a daring escape and returns home to Ohio.
Sandy Fairbrother has a problem with trust.
Twice betrayed, he now puts his faith only in God. He' s a single dad doing his best to grow his construction business and raise his young son. But haunted by an impulsive kiss Rochelle gave him fifteen years ago, her unexpected return has him rethinking things. He' s been given a second chance to win her heart. And this time, he plans to succeed.
Rochelle barely remembers Sandy, but she's drawn to his goodness. But just when she thinks she's found peace, her past catches up with her, and she finds herself in danger of losing the only safe haven she' s ever known.
- GenresChristian Fiction
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2023
3 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
M. Jean Pike
21 books41 followersChanging seasons. Unexpected blessings. Love that lasts forever. These are a few of M. Jean Pike's favorite things. With a writing career that has spanned two decades, Jean combines an insatiable curiosity about humans and why they do what they do with a keen interest in the quirky and offbeat things in life to bring readers unforgettable tales of life, love, and the inner workings of the human heart. Her short works have been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Whispers From Heaven, The Lutheran Digest and others. Her latest novella, The Key to Christmas, is available now at Amazon and Pelican Book Group!
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
July 31, 2023
“You’ll find, my darling girl, that sometimes, God’s most glorious answers are to the prayers you never even prayed.”
The Little Things is my first introduction to author M. Jean Pike, and I think it’s definitely a good one to start with if you’re wanting to get a feel for her writing voice & style. This contemporary romance also has a touch of suspense – just the right amount to add a different kind of tension to the mix and make romantic suspense fans (like me!) happy without being too much for people who just want the romance.
Rochelle Delany is a compelling heroine right from the start. While she holds her secrets close (even from readers), you can tell that there’s much more to her story than even her family has assumed. We get the sense right away that there was more to her continued refusal to come home than a cold heart or grand aspirations, even though her brother – all the family she has left now that their foster mother has passed away – seems to believe the opposite. In fact, she really is the embodiment of the concept that we should be slow to assume because we likely don’t know the whole story. As Pike gradually reveals the layers to Rochelle’s past few years, I became very sympathetic toward her plight and began rooting in earnest for her to find a safe haven.
Enter Sandy Fairbrother and his adorable son Jace. Swoony house-builder/restorer Sandy heart may have been broken by his ex-wife, the mother of his son who he now raises alone, but he’s also been carrying a torch for Rochelle since their school days. His close friendship with her foster mother kept Rochelle in the forefront of his mind over the last few years, as well as joining Bessie in praying for Rochelle’s well-being. I appreciated this foundation that the author established to keep Sandy’s heart tender toward the town’s prodigal daughter, even when her own brother seems mostly frustrated with her sudden reappearance. Certain decisions on Sandy’s part made more sense in light of this deep affection for Rochelle (though I do think their relationship still advanced at warp speed toward the end), and I really loved the two of them together. For his own part, Jace is a little boy with a big heart who quickly wriggles his way past Rochelle’s defenses and into her heart – and mine! And then there’s Gus, the diapered dog who I could easily picture, much to my amusement.
Bottom Line: The Little Things by M. Jean Pike is a sweet romance with a redemptive faith thread, small town setting, and layered characters you’ll enjoy meeting. The dash of suspense fleshed out the various dimensions to Rochelle’s story and also allowed the author to spotlight something that’s not talked about a whole lot – in fiction or otherwise. I enjoy novels that make me smarter and more aware of issues that aren’t part of my own experience. I especially loved little Jace and Gus the dog… not to mention the thoughtful way everything comes full circle in the end. A quick & engaging read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
The Little Things is my first introduction to author M. Jean Pike, and I think it’s definitely a good one to start with if you’re wanting to get a feel for her writing voice & style. This contemporary romance also has a touch of suspense – just the right amount to add a different kind of tension to the mix and make romantic suspense fans (like me!) happy without being too much for people who just want the romance.
Rochelle Delany is a compelling heroine right from the start. While she holds her secrets close (even from readers), you can tell that there’s much more to her story than even her family has assumed. We get the sense right away that there was more to her continued refusal to come home than a cold heart or grand aspirations, even though her brother – all the family she has left now that their foster mother has passed away – seems to believe the opposite. In fact, she really is the embodiment of the concept that we should be slow to assume because we likely don’t know the whole story. As Pike gradually reveals the layers to Rochelle’s past few years, I became very sympathetic toward her plight and began rooting in earnest for her to find a safe haven.
Enter Sandy Fairbrother and his adorable son Jace. Swoony house-builder/restorer Sandy heart may have been broken by his ex-wife, the mother of his son who he now raises alone, but he’s also been carrying a torch for Rochelle since their school days. His close friendship with her foster mother kept Rochelle in the forefront of his mind over the last few years, as well as joining Bessie in praying for Rochelle’s well-being. I appreciated this foundation that the author established to keep Sandy’s heart tender toward the town’s prodigal daughter, even when her own brother seems mostly frustrated with her sudden reappearance. Certain decisions on Sandy’s part made more sense in light of this deep affection for Rochelle (though I do think their relationship still advanced at warp speed toward the end), and I really loved the two of them together. For his own part, Jace is a little boy with a big heart who quickly wriggles his way past Rochelle’s defenses and into her heart – and mine! And then there’s Gus, the diapered dog who I could easily picture, much to my amusement.
Bottom Line: The Little Things by M. Jean Pike is a sweet romance with a redemptive faith thread, small town setting, and layered characters you’ll enjoy meeting. The dash of suspense fleshed out the various dimensions to Rochelle’s story and also allowed the author to spotlight something that’s not talked about a whole lot – in fiction or otherwise. I enjoy novels that make me smarter and more aware of issues that aren’t part of my own experience. I especially loved little Jace and Gus the dog… not to mention the thoughtful way everything comes full circle in the end. A quick & engaging read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 3, 2024
*I received an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
This one is a little different from my normal read. It deals with labor trafficking, but tells the story in a unique way. I also enjoyed that overall it's a small-town second chance romance, but with Ro's past we also get an interesting dose of suspense thrown in, and I love how it all works together!
I also really enjoyed Sandy and Jace! Their relationship is precious, and I loved seeing Sandy include Jace in his plans for the future, knowing that the child was old enough to have questions he encouraged Jace to ask those questions, allowing him to ask without fear so that he was able to understand his thought and feelings on the matters as well. While our children shouldn't dictate relationships and our choices, they should also be able to voice their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way without fear. I loved that was something Sandy cared about in the story. I also adored seeing Jace with Gus! Speaking of Gus, I don't recall ever seeing 'doggie diapers' mentioned in a book before! I know my mom used to have a pug who wore them before I was old enough to remember, but it's something I haven't seen in a book until now. I loved it! It made for some funny scenes and conversations, and also made this story that much more special! Lol!
This one is a little different from my normal read. It deals with labor trafficking, but tells the story in a unique way. I also enjoyed that overall it's a small-town second chance romance, but with Ro's past we also get an interesting dose of suspense thrown in, and I love how it all works together!
I also really enjoyed Sandy and Jace! Their relationship is precious, and I loved seeing Sandy include Jace in his plans for the future, knowing that the child was old enough to have questions he encouraged Jace to ask those questions, allowing him to ask without fear so that he was able to understand his thought and feelings on the matters as well. While our children shouldn't dictate relationships and our choices, they should also be able to voice their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way without fear. I loved that was something Sandy cared about in the story. I also adored seeing Jace with Gus! Speaking of Gus, I don't recall ever seeing 'doggie diapers' mentioned in a book before! I know my mom used to have a pug who wore them before I was old enough to remember, but it's something I haven't seen in a book until now. I loved it! It made for some funny scenes and conversations, and also made this story that much more special! Lol!
September 3, 2023
Returning home to a small down in Ohio isn’t Rochelle’s first choice, and things quickly take a surprise turn!
I loved reading Ro and Sandy’s story! They live in a small town, giving the story that fun small-town charm, while keeping me glued to the pages with plenty of surprises! Sandy is a great character, and a wonderful father. I adored seeing him with Jace his young son, and seeing Jace with Gus! Gus is a bulldog and the bond Jace shares with him in this story is precious!
While this is a fun small town read, it does deal with the tough topics, include labor trafficking and broken families. I enjoyed seeing how the author wove these difficult yet daily issues into the story. It worked well in this one, and as Ro’s story unfolds I found myself drawn into the story more with each new twist! Author M. Jean Pike does a good job of talking about difficult issues with finesse and tact, keeping it subtle and with minimal detail will still alerting readers to the situation. I appreciated her efforts to both bring awareness to these issues while still providing readers with a clean and delightful read!
The romance was also wholesome and heartwarming in this one! It isn’t easy for either of them to trust after the bad hand life has dealt them, so seeing Sandy and Rochelle both overcome there past mistakes and betrayals, learning to work together. Their relationship is sort of a second chance romance, paired with the ‘girl-who-got-away’, so I enjoyed seeing them reunite early on the the story, and loved getting Sandy’s side of things, and especially loved seeing how he regarded his feelings for Jace when considering pursuing a relationship, wanting to be sure Jace has a good life as well. The blooming relationship in the story is a sweet one, and I enjoyed getting to meet these characters!
I loved reading Ro and Sandy’s story! They live in a small town, giving the story that fun small-town charm, while keeping me glued to the pages with plenty of surprises! Sandy is a great character, and a wonderful father. I adored seeing him with Jace his young son, and seeing Jace with Gus! Gus is a bulldog and the bond Jace shares with him in this story is precious!
While this is a fun small town read, it does deal with the tough topics, include labor trafficking and broken families. I enjoyed seeing how the author wove these difficult yet daily issues into the story. It worked well in this one, and as Ro’s story unfolds I found myself drawn into the story more with each new twist! Author M. Jean Pike does a good job of talking about difficult issues with finesse and tact, keeping it subtle and with minimal detail will still alerting readers to the situation. I appreciated her efforts to both bring awareness to these issues while still providing readers with a clean and delightful read!
The romance was also wholesome and heartwarming in this one! It isn’t easy for either of them to trust after the bad hand life has dealt them, so seeing Sandy and Rochelle both overcome there past mistakes and betrayals, learning to work together. Their relationship is sort of a second chance romance, paired with the ‘girl-who-got-away’, so I enjoyed seeing them reunite early on the the story, and loved getting Sandy’s side of things, and especially loved seeing how he regarded his feelings for Jace when considering pursuing a relationship, wanting to be sure Jace has a good life as well. The blooming relationship in the story is a sweet one, and I enjoyed getting to meet these characters!
October 18, 2025
Disclosure: I received this book as a giveaway prize and was in no way obligated to leave a review. Opinions expressed are my own.
Recommendation Status: Recommended
Scripture Connection
Before they call, I will answer. While they are still speaking, I will hear.
Isaiah 65:24
Spiritual Themes
The Little Things conveys sweet messages of hope and repentance, including a beautiful moment of character transformation. While the narrative does a solid job of presenting Jesus’ kindness and nearness to those who call on Him, from wherever they are, I especially appreciated Pike’s heartfelt Author’s Note at the end of the book. In it, Pike shares the beautiful encouragement that we are never too late nor too far from Jesus, and she even includes a prayer that readers can pray. I appreciate the typed prayer, and it is truly heartwarming to see Pike’s heart shine through in this conclusion.
The book also communicates a solid measure of compassion, as we walk with Rochelle from a place of guilt to a place of freedom. I appreciate the nuance with which Pike approaches Rochelle’s history. To be honest, at the start of the story, I was just as prepared to accuse Rochelle as she and the other characters were. As the story unfolded, though, I learned the truth about Rochelle’s backstory. She did make a mistake when she didn’t listen to the wisdom of her guardian, but her naivety did not merit the horrible things that happened to her. Rochelle’s portrayal as a nuanced character is, for me, a lesson about judgement, as it was easy to pass judgement without knowing what was really going on. And, her backstory offers a meaningful lens into some of the abuses of labor trafficking, with a strong emphasis: the abuses she endured were not her fault.
What I Liked
Bessie
I have to commend authors who are able to integrate absent characters into the story in a meaningful way. In The Little Things, Rochelle’s beautiful foster mother has just passed away, and she leaves her mark on the narrative. Throughout, Rochelle remembers Bessie’s acts of love and generosity, and Sandy also has stories to share about how Bessie’s warmth spread across the community.
Sandy
Sandy, the male romantic lead, is a stand-out character who shines in the realm of selflessness. One scene, in particular, caught my attention, as he quickly made a sacrificial decision. It wasn’t a heat-of-the-moment jumping in front of someone to save them, and it was the sort of decision that would have been commendable, even if he had taken some time to think it over, first. But he didn’t. He immediately changed his course for the good of someone else, even when that person had been accusing him of wrongdoing.
There’s also a really neat revelation, concerning this same character, that he has been demonstrating an unexpected degree of love in his day-to-day life. What I love here is that, not only does Sandy not brag about this– it doesn’t even enter his own thoughts. We only learn about what he’s doing through another character, even though half of the story is through Sandy’s eyes.
Jace
On the note of male characters, Jace is a delight. I reveled in the shock of when he was sitting in the backseat and started screaming for a milkshake. I was a bit surprised by this behavior, given his age, but I found this scene to be quite humorous, as well as humanizing. The moment stood out because Jace tends to be such a well-behaved kid. And, he’s adorable. I don’t always connect with child characters in books for and about adults, but I found Jace to be quite lovable.
Gus
And since I am talking favorite male characters, I cannot omit Gus… the dog. I think I have an even greater appreciation for dogs in Pike’s work because I follow her blog, where she often mentions her own special fur-someone, Miss Emma. (On that note, Pike is releasing a Christmas story this year prominently featuring a dog named Chester, who is based on a real dog. I’m intrigued!). Plus, I can’t help but feel for Gus as his owner has passed away.
He’s also, indirectly, a source of comic relief, as Sandy expresses horror at the idea that Gus may have been bequeathed to Jace. Poor darling! Gus wears diapers, which must be very hard to deal with– but they make him all the more lovable from the safety of the page.
Romance
The romance is delightfully sweet and gentle. Most notable to me, kissing content is light and non-descriptive. It’s so nice to read a book where the romance fosters emotional resonance, rather than focusing on physicality.
Content Notes / Respectful Discussion
Sandy uses the phrase “Good L—” colloquially, so it appears several times. Semi-spoiler-that’s-on-the-cover: During her time in California, Rochelle was roped into the dangerous world of labor-trafficking. While Pike is generally light on the details, there are some brief flashback scenes outlining some of the abuses Rachelle either witnessed or experienced.
A discussion note… I certainly enjoyed the angle that Sandy had liked Rochelle since high school, but what wasn’t entirely clear to me is why. I’m not sure if it was more about her beauty and popularity or some character trait that he admired.
Recommendation Status
The Little Things is the third work I’ve read by M. Jean Pike, and I think it’s my favorite, so far. Pike does a fantastic job of creating nuanced, believable characters who offer lenses into different life experiences, and Sandy is a great romantic lead. Recommended for readers who enjoy sweet romance with small town settings.
Recommendation Status: Recommended
Scripture Connection
Before they call, I will answer. While they are still speaking, I will hear.
Isaiah 65:24
Spiritual Themes
The Little Things conveys sweet messages of hope and repentance, including a beautiful moment of character transformation. While the narrative does a solid job of presenting Jesus’ kindness and nearness to those who call on Him, from wherever they are, I especially appreciated Pike’s heartfelt Author’s Note at the end of the book. In it, Pike shares the beautiful encouragement that we are never too late nor too far from Jesus, and she even includes a prayer that readers can pray. I appreciate the typed prayer, and it is truly heartwarming to see Pike’s heart shine through in this conclusion.
The book also communicates a solid measure of compassion, as we walk with Rochelle from a place of guilt to a place of freedom. I appreciate the nuance with which Pike approaches Rochelle’s history. To be honest, at the start of the story, I was just as prepared to accuse Rochelle as she and the other characters were. As the story unfolded, though, I learned the truth about Rochelle’s backstory. She did make a mistake when she didn’t listen to the wisdom of her guardian, but her naivety did not merit the horrible things that happened to her. Rochelle’s portrayal as a nuanced character is, for me, a lesson about judgement, as it was easy to pass judgement without knowing what was really going on. And, her backstory offers a meaningful lens into some of the abuses of labor trafficking, with a strong emphasis: the abuses she endured were not her fault.
What I Liked
Bessie
I have to commend authors who are able to integrate absent characters into the story in a meaningful way. In The Little Things, Rochelle’s beautiful foster mother has just passed away, and she leaves her mark on the narrative. Throughout, Rochelle remembers Bessie’s acts of love and generosity, and Sandy also has stories to share about how Bessie’s warmth spread across the community.
Sandy
Sandy, the male romantic lead, is a stand-out character who shines in the realm of selflessness. One scene, in particular, caught my attention, as he quickly made a sacrificial decision. It wasn’t a heat-of-the-moment jumping in front of someone to save them, and it was the sort of decision that would have been commendable, even if he had taken some time to think it over, first. But he didn’t. He immediately changed his course for the good of someone else, even when that person had been accusing him of wrongdoing.
There’s also a really neat revelation, concerning this same character, that he has been demonstrating an unexpected degree of love in his day-to-day life. What I love here is that, not only does Sandy not brag about this– it doesn’t even enter his own thoughts. We only learn about what he’s doing through another character, even though half of the story is through Sandy’s eyes.
Jace
On the note of male characters, Jace is a delight. I reveled in the shock of when he was sitting in the backseat and started screaming for a milkshake. I was a bit surprised by this behavior, given his age, but I found this scene to be quite humorous, as well as humanizing. The moment stood out because Jace tends to be such a well-behaved kid. And, he’s adorable. I don’t always connect with child characters in books for and about adults, but I found Jace to be quite lovable.
Gus
And since I am talking favorite male characters, I cannot omit Gus… the dog. I think I have an even greater appreciation for dogs in Pike’s work because I follow her blog, where she often mentions her own special fur-someone, Miss Emma. (On that note, Pike is releasing a Christmas story this year prominently featuring a dog named Chester, who is based on a real dog. I’m intrigued!). Plus, I can’t help but feel for Gus as his owner has passed away.
He’s also, indirectly, a source of comic relief, as Sandy expresses horror at the idea that Gus may have been bequeathed to Jace. Poor darling! Gus wears diapers, which must be very hard to deal with– but they make him all the more lovable from the safety of the page.
Romance
The romance is delightfully sweet and gentle. Most notable to me, kissing content is light and non-descriptive. It’s so nice to read a book where the romance fosters emotional resonance, rather than focusing on physicality.
Content Notes / Respectful Discussion
Sandy uses the phrase “Good L—” colloquially, so it appears several times. Semi-spoiler-that’s-on-the-cover: During her time in California, Rochelle was roped into the dangerous world of labor-trafficking. While Pike is generally light on the details, there are some brief flashback scenes outlining some of the abuses Rachelle either witnessed or experienced.
A discussion note… I certainly enjoyed the angle that Sandy had liked Rochelle since high school, but what wasn’t entirely clear to me is why. I’m not sure if it was more about her beauty and popularity or some character trait that he admired.
Recommendation Status
The Little Things is the third work I’ve read by M. Jean Pike, and I think it’s my favorite, so far. Pike does a fantastic job of creating nuanced, believable characters who offer lenses into different life experiences, and Sandy is a great romantic lead. Recommended for readers who enjoy sweet romance with small town settings.
May 10, 2023
Yep it was that good I read it in one sitting. Rochelle is running away and goes home to the small town she grew up in. But everything has changed. Sandy loved her from afar in school but now has trust issues and Rochelle isn’t exactly forthcoming. Throw in a cute kid and a dog and it’s an amazing and absorbing read. It made me laugh, catch my breath and not put the book down until it was finished.
I received an ARC and it’s going back into the TBR pile and on my buy list.
I received an ARC and it’s going back into the TBR pile and on my buy list.
May 28, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. With just enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat, The Little Things is a sweet romance and redemption story. I couldn’t help wishing to spend time in this quaint small town, complete with a single dad with an adorable son who will steal your heart. I read it all in one weekend, although I probably shouldn’t have! If you enjoy Christian romance, you won’t want to miss this one. This was the first book I’ve read by M. Jean Pike, and I look forward to reading more.
February 7, 2024
Lovely Christian Romance with a suspenseful twist.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews