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Jewel #2
Emerald Fire
A terrifying past imprisoned Maxine Bartlett all her adult life, shackling her with fear anytime a man even touched her.
In a spontaneous weekend, she unintentionally elopes with an unlikely groom. After a magical wedding night filled with love and passion, "Maxi" finally discards her dreadful chains.
She doesn't know that her new husband has turned his back on God. Worried over how the world might see the completely unexpected – and some would certainly say inappropriate – marriage, in his pride he promises Maxine a quiet annulment.
Unwilling to let their marriage disappear as if it never happened, Maxine refuses to cooperate. Seeking God's will, she moves in with him and informs him that when he decides to act like her husband again, he will find his loving wife waiting for him right there in their home. As the days stretch into weeks, the newlyweds slowly begin to trust and even love each other.
Then, just as they begin to live the "happily ever after" love story that neither of them ever dreamed could come true, a sudden and nightmarish catastrophe strikes that could wreck everything. Will her husband realize that he must trust God once more? Can he find peace and strength enough to carry them through the flames?
In a spontaneous weekend, she unintentionally elopes with an unlikely groom. After a magical wedding night filled with love and passion, "Maxi" finally discards her dreadful chains.
She doesn't know that her new husband has turned his back on God. Worried over how the world might see the completely unexpected – and some would certainly say inappropriate – marriage, in his pride he promises Maxine a quiet annulment.
Unwilling to let their marriage disappear as if it never happened, Maxine refuses to cooperate. Seeking God's will, she moves in with him and informs him that when he decides to act like her husband again, he will find his loving wife waiting for him right there in their home. As the days stretch into weeks, the newlyweds slowly begin to trust and even love each other.
Then, just as they begin to live the "happily ever after" love story that neither of them ever dreamed could come true, a sudden and nightmarish catastrophe strikes that could wreck everything. Will her husband realize that he must trust God once more? Can he find peace and strength enough to carry them through the flames?
269 pages, ebook
First published April 22, 2012
179 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
About the author
Hallee Bridgeman
64 books1,012 followersWith nearly a million book sales, USA Today bestselling author Hallee Bridgeman writes action-packed romantic suspense focusing on realistic characters who face real-world problems. Her work has been described as everything from refreshing to heart-stopping exciting and edgy.
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee and her husband finally settled in central Kentucky so they could enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Hallee’s oldest daughter is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, her middle son struggles as a hexagonal “autism spectrum” peg in this round world, and her youngest son fills the house with wooshes and bangs as he fights imaginary bad guys while wearing a Spiderman costume and wielding a Ninja sword.
When she’s not penning novels, you will find her in the kitchen, which she considers the ‘heart of the home’. Her passion for cooking spurred her to launch a whole food, real food “Parody” cookbook series. In addition to nutritious, Biblically grounded recipes, readers will find that each cookbook also confronts some controversial aspect of secular pop culture.
Hallee has served as the Director of the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, President of the Faith-Hope-Love chapter of the Romance Writers of America, is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and the American Christian Writers (ACW), and Novelists, Inc. (NINC). An accomplished speaker, Hallee has taught and inspired writers around the globe, from Sydney, Australia, to Dallas, Texas, to Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., and all places in between.
Hallee loves coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. Above all else, she loves God with all of her heart, soul, mind, and strength; has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; and relies on the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide her. She prays her work here on earth is a blessing to you and would love to hear from you. You can reach Hallee at hallee@halleebridgeman.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 19, 2012
Robin, Maxine, and Sarah are introduced in Sapphire Ice as three young women working hard to overcome a background of fear, deprivation, and neglect, raised by a drug addicted mother. Robin's sense of responsibility pushes her to work two jobs, both in the food industry, to put her sisters through college. Maxine has graduated and is a very successful advertising executive but Robin refuses her help paying for Sarah's nursing degree.
These women, while coping with the fallout of their pasts, have landed on their feet with some real hang-ups about any long term relationship with a man. Robin does not entertain any relationship but comes face to face with a man just as determined to win her heart in Sapphire Ice. Tony, a born again believer with a street gang background appears to be the one person who might change her mind about the opposite sex.
Emerald Fire opens with Maxine and Barry on a collision course to a lasting relationship. Barry, best friend to Tony Viscolli and his corporate lawyer, discovers his estranged wife is pregnant with another man's child. His faith in a faithful God is tested when she dies in a skiing accident after Barry prayed for God to mend his marriage. Maxine comes to the rescue but before their relationship blossoms, Maxine is involved in a life threatening accident. Barry comes to her rescue while sister's Robin and Sarah look on.
In Topaz Heat, Sarah takes center stage as OB/GYN nurse in the large Boston Hospital. Her nemesis, Derrick, uses every opportunity to gain her attention after returning to Boston to run one of Tony Viscolli's hotels. Sarah has no memory of her early childhood. She was the only sister who was adopted out of her circumstances as a child and raised by loving Christian parents. Sarah cannot relate to Derrick's street wise background.
These women, while coping with the fallout of their pasts, have landed on their feet with some real hang-ups about any long term relationship with a man. Robin does not entertain any relationship but comes face to face with a man just as determined to win her heart in Sapphire Ice. Tony, a born again believer with a street gang background appears to be the one person who might change her mind about the opposite sex.
Emerald Fire opens with Maxine and Barry on a collision course to a lasting relationship. Barry, best friend to Tony Viscolli and his corporate lawyer, discovers his estranged wife is pregnant with another man's child. His faith in a faithful God is tested when she dies in a skiing accident after Barry prayed for God to mend his marriage. Maxine comes to the rescue but before their relationship blossoms, Maxine is involved in a life threatening accident. Barry comes to her rescue while sister's Robin and Sarah look on.
In Topaz Heat, Sarah takes center stage as OB/GYN nurse in the large Boston Hospital. Her nemesis, Derrick, uses every opportunity to gain her attention after returning to Boston to run one of Tony Viscolli's hotels. Sarah has no memory of her early childhood. She was the only sister who was adopted out of her circumstances as a child and raised by loving Christian parents. Sarah cannot relate to Derrick's street wise background.
April 30, 2012
Loved this book! It was a great follow-up to Sapphire Ice, but still stands on it's own as a great book. Hallee makes the characters so realistic, so human, that even when they make mistakes and don't act the way they should, I still liked them and rooted for them. Just like the first book, I got sucked into the story from the start and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book!
February 16, 2013
An amazing sequel to Sapphire Ice, can't wait to read the third book - read this in two days because I just couldn't put it down. Love the way she shows how trusting God and having deep faith can bring us through any trial.
May 30, 2012
Emerald Fire is book #2 of the Jewel series. Once again Hallee drew me in and got me hooked while reading this Christian Romance book.
June 14, 2013
Emerald Fire is the second book in the Jewel Trilogy by Hallee Bridgeman. The Jewel Trilogy is made up of three books about three sisters. Sapphire Ice covers Robin's story. Emerald Fire covers Maxine's story. Topaz Heat covers Sarah's story. There is also an accompanying novella to Sapphire Ice that covers Robin's engagement and wedding. That story is called Greater Than Rubies. I definitely suggest reading Sapphire Ice first, then Greater Than Rubies. Follow those two stories with Emerald Fire and then Topaz Heat.
I do not want to give away the plot and all of its twists and turns. But suffice it to say, it was a great read! This books just grabbed me right from the first and didn't let go! I had to know how it was going to work out. This is the third book that I have read from this series and I have loved them all. I am looking forward to reading Topaz Heat.
I do not want to give away the plot and all of its twists and turns. But suffice it to say, it was a great read! This books just grabbed me right from the first and didn't let go! I had to know how it was going to work out. This is the third book that I have read from this series and I have loved them all. I am looking forward to reading Topaz Heat.
July 25, 2013
This is the second in 'The Jewel Trilogy' by Halle Bridgeman, a series which follows the lives of three half-sisters who rise from a traumatic childhood of poverty and abuse to be strong, independent women of faith. Emerald Fire is Maxine’s story. This was my favorite of the series, probably because I like Maxine’s character the best. She is fun and feisty, despite her traumatic childhood. The book starts off when she jumps into an unplanned Vegas wedding and the ride continues from there. With lots of complications, and plenty of disapproval from friends and family, can she and her new hubby make a real marriage out of this impulsive act?
October 13, 2013
Two wonderful stories of redemption and transformation!
I received a free copy of this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
This Bundle contains books 2 and 3 from the trilogy written by Hallee Bridgeman. The trilogy is about 3 adult half-sisters that are trying to make their way in life after a very harsh upbringing.
Emerald Fire is book 2 and it is about the second sister, Maxine Bartlett. After a peek into her childhood in the prologue we are introduced to her the morning after she marries. We are then taken on a journey to discover how they came to marry and to see how they proceed to find their way with God as their guide.
Topaz Heat is book 3 and it is about the youngest of the sisters. As a young girl Sarah Thomas was rescued from the horrors of her early childhood through adoption. She has no real memory of the horrors that she lived through though. Since her adoption she led a sheltered life with her Christian family. Derrick DeNunzio was a poor tough street kid. He was taken off the street and made into a billionaire’s protégé. When first Sarah and Derrick met Sarah simply saw the street kid. Now a decade after meeting Derrick DeNunzio they are suddenly back in each other’s lives through their family ties. Can Sarah set aside her prejudices and open her heart to true love?
Both of these books have fantastic characters that have been well developed and brought through journeys of redemption and transformation. Both of these books along with the two stories contained in Bundle 1 are very intricately woven so that the same characters flow throughout all of them. Each story is focusing on a different pair of main characters and yet they are all in each book. I loved the marvelous way that Hallee Bridgeman built their stories and carried this family through all three books in the trilogy as well as the novella.
I was very moved at many times while reading both of the books contained in this bundle. At a couple of times I was very happy that I had a box of tissues close by. God’s love is so freely given and He is so wonderful to see His children through the darkest of times. These books truly encouraged me to never lose sight of that.
I received a free copy of this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
This Bundle contains books 2 and 3 from the trilogy written by Hallee Bridgeman. The trilogy is about 3 adult half-sisters that are trying to make their way in life after a very harsh upbringing.
Emerald Fire is book 2 and it is about the second sister, Maxine Bartlett. After a peek into her childhood in the prologue we are introduced to her the morning after she marries. We are then taken on a journey to discover how they came to marry and to see how they proceed to find their way with God as their guide.
Topaz Heat is book 3 and it is about the youngest of the sisters. As a young girl Sarah Thomas was rescued from the horrors of her early childhood through adoption. She has no real memory of the horrors that she lived through though. Since her adoption she led a sheltered life with her Christian family. Derrick DeNunzio was a poor tough street kid. He was taken off the street and made into a billionaire’s protégé. When first Sarah and Derrick met Sarah simply saw the street kid. Now a decade after meeting Derrick DeNunzio they are suddenly back in each other’s lives through their family ties. Can Sarah set aside her prejudices and open her heart to true love?
Both of these books have fantastic characters that have been well developed and brought through journeys of redemption and transformation. Both of these books along with the two stories contained in Bundle 1 are very intricately woven so that the same characters flow throughout all of them. Each story is focusing on a different pair of main characters and yet they are all in each book. I loved the marvelous way that Hallee Bridgeman built their stories and carried this family through all three books in the trilogy as well as the novella.
I was very moved at many times while reading both of the books contained in this bundle. At a couple of times I was very happy that I had a box of tissues close by. God’s love is so freely given and He is so wonderful to see His children through the darkest of times. These books truly encouraged me to never lose sight of that.
July 25, 2013
Emerald Fire by Hallee Bridgeman
Emerald Fire is the second book in the Jewel Trilogy about three half sister that have overcome a heart wrenching childhood filled with drugs, abuse and murder. To the outside world Maxine Bartlett has overcome and risen above her childhood of abuse. She climbs to the top of the corporate latter and has made something for herself. But nightmares of her childhood still haunt her today and if any man gets to close or touches her she pull away. She has found a great friendship in Barry Anderson, ex pro football player now lawyer. Because he is married and off-limits she feels comfortable around him. Barry and his wife had a very strained marriage, he was always faithful but she stopped loving him and was unfaithful for many years. Things change when his wife of eighteen years is killed in an accident. Barry who has had a strong relationship with God is now filled with anger over his wife’s death and betrayal. While attending a football game in Las Vegas with friends he some how finds himself married to Maxi. He wants an annulment but she wants to work thing out. After seeking God’s will in prayer she takes a bold step by moving into Barry’s home and challenging him to make their marriage work. Just when things are looking up Maxi is in a terrible car accident that changes everything. Can Barry somehow find his faith in God again and the strength to stand by Maxi in her darkest days. The author Hallee Bridgeman does an awesome job of showing the highs and lows of tested faith. I highly recommend this book for those seeking a novel full of faith, inspiration and wholesome relationships.
Emerald Fire is the second book in the Jewel Trilogy about three half sister that have overcome a heart wrenching childhood filled with drugs, abuse and murder. To the outside world Maxine Bartlett has overcome and risen above her childhood of abuse. She climbs to the top of the corporate latter and has made something for herself. But nightmares of her childhood still haunt her today and if any man gets to close or touches her she pull away. She has found a great friendship in Barry Anderson, ex pro football player now lawyer. Because he is married and off-limits she feels comfortable around him. Barry and his wife had a very strained marriage, he was always faithful but she stopped loving him and was unfaithful for many years. Things change when his wife of eighteen years is killed in an accident. Barry who has had a strong relationship with God is now filled with anger over his wife’s death and betrayal. While attending a football game in Las Vegas with friends he some how finds himself married to Maxi. He wants an annulment but she wants to work thing out. After seeking God’s will in prayer she takes a bold step by moving into Barry’s home and challenging him to make their marriage work. Just when things are looking up Maxi is in a terrible car accident that changes everything. Can Barry somehow find his faith in God again and the strength to stand by Maxi in her darkest days. The author Hallee Bridgeman does an awesome job of showing the highs and lows of tested faith. I highly recommend this book for those seeking a novel full of faith, inspiration and wholesome relationships.
September 8, 2013
Maxine Bartlett has had a worse than hard life, yet she overcomes the terrible start and makes something of herself. Great job. Great friends. Great sisters. Dates a lot of guys, but can never find herself to trust them. Then when one comes along she can trust, one thing after another threatens their relationship. She has to learn to fully trust God and how to listen to Him before things start to turn around.
This story takes you on a journey from pain and survival to hope, forgiveness, faith and love. It is a beautiful Romance that is very difficult to put down. The characters are so real, it is a fun trip to get to know them. Their lives are connected in such amazing ways, it’s neat to see and realize in our own lives how God brings us together.
I read it in just over one day. Beautiful story. Had to get to the end, it was that good! I highly recommend it to Romantic Fiction fans.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://TMWoodsBooks.com/blog . Also follow me on Twitter @TMWoodsBook, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/TMWoodsBooks .
This story takes you on a journey from pain and survival to hope, forgiveness, faith and love. It is a beautiful Romance that is very difficult to put down. The characters are so real, it is a fun trip to get to know them. Their lives are connected in such amazing ways, it’s neat to see and realize in our own lives how God brings us together.
I read it in just over one day. Beautiful story. Had to get to the end, it was that good! I highly recommend it to Romantic Fiction fans.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://TMWoodsBooks.com/blog . Also follow me on Twitter @TMWoodsBook, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/TMWoodsBooks .
August 29, 2013
As in Sapphire Ice and Greater than Rubies, Hallee Bridgeman takes us deep into the lives of the three sisters and the men they love. Enjoyable is not a strong enough word. Enthralling is more accurate. I couldn’t stop reading until I found out how it all ended.
Emerald Fire, Maxi’s story, offers unexpected plot twists causing a rollercoaster of emotion. Sarah’s story in Topaz Heat is full of excitement and suspense. Combine these with the continuing saga of Tony and his sweet Robin, the Jewel Series characters will live long in my mind. Hallee’s way of writing from the depths of the characters hearts and souls make them real, like friends I’ve known all my life.
Cinderella stories at the finest, the transformation of Robin, Maxine and Sarah from a childhood of poverty and abuse to one of love and spiritual fulfillment are captivating, leaving me wanting to know them more, better, and share them with others. I forget I’m reading fiction. It’s more like real-life.
Hallee, you surprised me. I guessed what Sarah’s story might be like but Maxi’s? What a great plot twist. Thank you so much for sharing your heart with readers through this series. What a treasure.
I received this book from Book Fun Network in exchange for my honest opinion
Emerald Fire, Maxi’s story, offers unexpected plot twists causing a rollercoaster of emotion. Sarah’s story in Topaz Heat is full of excitement and suspense. Combine these with the continuing saga of Tony and his sweet Robin, the Jewel Series characters will live long in my mind. Hallee’s way of writing from the depths of the characters hearts and souls make them real, like friends I’ve known all my life.
Cinderella stories at the finest, the transformation of Robin, Maxine and Sarah from a childhood of poverty and abuse to one of love and spiritual fulfillment are captivating, leaving me wanting to know them more, better, and share them with others. I forget I’m reading fiction. It’s more like real-life.
Hallee, you surprised me. I guessed what Sarah’s story might be like but Maxi’s? What a great plot twist. Thank you so much for sharing your heart with readers through this series. What a treasure.
I received this book from Book Fun Network in exchange for my honest opinion
August 28, 2013
I really enjoyed reading Emerald fire. It was a little confusing in the beginning with multiple times, but once I got into the book I thought it was good. Emerald Fire continues the story of three sisters that began in Sapphire Ice and Greater Than Rubies. Robin and tony are happily married, but Tony's friend Barry is having marital troubles, and even worse has begun to doubt G-d.
Maxine the middle sister cannot trust men. After the first few dates, when a man might want a kiss, she ends the relationship. Now she and Barry are friends and buddies. They enjoy football games and just hanging out while Barry's wife socializes. An unexpected tragedy brings everything to a head.
Hallee Bridgman has done a good job of keeping a person guessing as to what is going to happen next. Once you get into this book you will have a hard time putting it down.i look forward to reading Topaz Heat the final book in the series.
I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
Maxine the middle sister cannot trust men. After the first few dates, when a man might want a kiss, she ends the relationship. Now she and Barry are friends and buddies. They enjoy football games and just hanging out while Barry's wife socializes. An unexpected tragedy brings everything to a head.
Hallee Bridgman has done a good job of keeping a person guessing as to what is going to happen next. Once you get into this book you will have a hard time putting it down.i look forward to reading Topaz Heat the final book in the series.
I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2013
I love Hallee's characters and how she developed each one! Anytime you think the story can't twist anymore she surprises you with another development. This series is very had to put down and I'm always sad to see it end...eagerly awaiting her next book!
May 6, 2012
Written by the most beautiful woman I know.
August 29, 2013
Remarkable Story of God’s Loving Mercy (4 Stars)
Emerald Fire (The Jewel Series-Book 2) by Hallee Bridgeman
This book starts with a brief prologue about the history of Maxine, the main character in this book. She and her 2 sisters have suffered greatly, yet by the grace of God, they have come out victorious. But still, Maxine, as strong and successful as she is, she is still a wounded little girl trying to forget the past.
In Chapter 1 it starts out with a present event and then backs up to give you all the details of how Maxine and Barry made it to that point and then once you catch up, it goes on and there are many surprises you won’t see coming!
Barry is married to a very selfish woman, Jacqueline, who is only married to get the fame and fortune. Barry is an ex-football star and now a great lawyer and his wife shows up just enough to claim the limelight and then goes off on her merry way. Barry is a Christian and is constantly praying for his wife and give her as much grace as Hosea did for Gomer!
Maxie and her sisters and brother-in-law are all great friend with Barry. Maxie enjoys sports, especially football and watches the games with Barry. They have a good friendship, and that’s all it is...until one day when the world came crashing around Barry. Because of this event, he ended up taking Maxie down with him. Away from God and wondering why all these terrible events are happening. Yet, finally Maxie comes back to God asking forgiveness and for direction for her life, since it’s falling apart. His advise reminds me of Ruth and Boaz.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the final book in the series, Topaz Heat-Book 3. There are two other books in this series before Emerald Fire-Book 2. Sapphire Ice-Book 1 and Greater Than Rubies-Book 1.5 and I can’t wait to go back and read those books because I want to know the stories about how the sister’s got to where they are now.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Book Club Network for my honest opinion and did not receive any compensation for a favorable review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Emerald Fire (The Jewel Series-Book 2) by Hallee Bridgeman
This book starts with a brief prologue about the history of Maxine, the main character in this book. She and her 2 sisters have suffered greatly, yet by the grace of God, they have come out victorious. But still, Maxine, as strong and successful as she is, she is still a wounded little girl trying to forget the past.
In Chapter 1 it starts out with a present event and then backs up to give you all the details of how Maxine and Barry made it to that point and then once you catch up, it goes on and there are many surprises you won’t see coming!
Barry is married to a very selfish woman, Jacqueline, who is only married to get the fame and fortune. Barry is an ex-football star and now a great lawyer and his wife shows up just enough to claim the limelight and then goes off on her merry way. Barry is a Christian and is constantly praying for his wife and give her as much grace as Hosea did for Gomer!
Maxie and her sisters and brother-in-law are all great friend with Barry. Maxie enjoys sports, especially football and watches the games with Barry. They have a good friendship, and that’s all it is...until one day when the world came crashing around Barry. Because of this event, he ended up taking Maxie down with him. Away from God and wondering why all these terrible events are happening. Yet, finally Maxie comes back to God asking forgiveness and for direction for her life, since it’s falling apart. His advise reminds me of Ruth and Boaz.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the final book in the series, Topaz Heat-Book 3. There are two other books in this series before Emerald Fire-Book 2. Sapphire Ice-Book 1 and Greater Than Rubies-Book 1.5 and I can’t wait to go back and read those books because I want to know the stories about how the sister’s got to where they are now.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Book Club Network for my honest opinion and did not receive any compensation for a favorable review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 18, 2022
I loved it!
Okay, I have to admit, I’m becoming very biased when it comes to Hallee Bridgeman’s books. They’re all so good! I’m having a hard time coming up with something new to say about them. And I’m trying very hard not to give anything away, which for this one is difficult, since I know who her husband is (and I’m not telling). I’ve become very attached to the characters and I love watching them grow and change throughout each subsequent book. I also really like how Mrs. Bridgeman handles the faith element in each of her books. She doesn’t overwhelm the story with it. There is just the right amount without being what some would consider “preachy.”
If I had one negative thing to say about the book it’s that I didn’t appreciate Maxine’s husband’s attitude. It made sense and I understood, but I wanted to fuss at him to get his act together and focus on what’s right in front of him. He did finally get it near the end, so I’m just nitpicking because I figured I should try to be somewhat objective. J
I highly recommend this book and the others in the series!
I received this book through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given.
Okay, I have to admit, I’m becoming very biased when it comes to Hallee Bridgeman’s books. They’re all so good! I’m having a hard time coming up with something new to say about them. And I’m trying very hard not to give anything away, which for this one is difficult, since I know who her husband is (and I’m not telling). I’ve become very attached to the characters and I love watching them grow and change throughout each subsequent book. I also really like how Mrs. Bridgeman handles the faith element in each of her books. She doesn’t overwhelm the story with it. There is just the right amount without being what some would consider “preachy.”
If I had one negative thing to say about the book it’s that I didn’t appreciate Maxine’s husband’s attitude. It made sense and I understood, but I wanted to fuss at him to get his act together and focus on what’s right in front of him. He did finally get it near the end, so I’m just nitpicking because I figured I should try to be somewhat objective. J
I highly recommend this book and the others in the series!
I received this book through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given.
August 15, 2013
Loved it
September 29, 2013
Loved it
October 8, 2013
Really impressed with this trilogy!
October 4, 2013
I truly liked this book. Barry and Maxine were relatable and I enjoyed their path to forgiveness. I had a hard time putting it down when I needed to work on something else and ended up finishing it in a day. The one thing that I had not cared for was that the first chapter began with the characters married and then the next was before they were. It confused me, though I did figure it out by the next chapter.
And now, the second book, Topaz Heat, calls to me....
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
To see what other books I back, go to my blog at http://backingbooks.blogspot.com/
And now, the second book, Topaz Heat, calls to me....
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
To see what other books I back, go to my blog at http://backingbooks.blogspot.com/
January 21, 2014
This is the second book in 'The Jewel Series' by Hallee Bridgeman.
I read the whole series - they're SO GOOD! The series are about friendship, family relations and devotion to God. I like how Hallee incorporated scripture into the story.
This whole series is about three sisters who were raised by an alcoholic mother who was eventually murdered. The sisters each have a different father. They experienced vey emotionally trying situations, but with the help of Robin (the oldest sister) and God, each sister learns to rise above the situation and be grounded in God.
I read the whole series - they're SO GOOD! The series are about friendship, family relations and devotion to God. I like how Hallee incorporated scripture into the story.
This whole series is about three sisters who were raised by an alcoholic mother who was eventually murdered. The sisters each have a different father. They experienced vey emotionally trying situations, but with the help of Robin (the oldest sister) and God, each sister learns to rise above the situation and be grounded in God.
August 19, 2014
I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest opinion. It is a marvelous book with engaging characters. I think the two most endearing qualities about this book are its harsh realities, Maxine and her sisters survived the darker side of the foster system, and the fact that each novel stands on it own. I picked up Emerald Fire without any previous experience with Hallee Bridgeman and even though it is the second book in the series, I had no trouble catching up. I proceeded to devour Topaz Heat, book three, and then just had to go back and read Sapphire Ice, book one, and the novella Greater than Rubies that is a 1.5 in the series.
Maxine is constantly falling in and out of love, but to her it's not the forever kind of love, it's only the for right now kind of love and until she can get over her aversion to a man's touch as a result of her troubled childhood, it never will be. Barry Anderson is unhappily married and is trying to reconcile with his philandering wife. It is only through the power of God and His awesome love that these two are able to overcome obstacles and discover true love.
Maxine is constantly falling in and out of love, but to her it's not the forever kind of love, it's only the for right now kind of love and until she can get over her aversion to a man's touch as a result of her troubled childhood, it never will be. Barry Anderson is unhappily married and is trying to reconcile with his philandering wife. It is only through the power of God and His awesome love that these two are able to overcome obstacles and discover true love.
January 9, 2014
Emerald Fire
By: Hallee Bridgeman
Emerald Fire the next book in the trilogy. This series is based on three sisters who grew up in a really bad childhood.. Childhood of drugs, abuse and murder. Maxine worked her way through getting over what happened to her as a child. Works hard to make it higher up in a company. To have a relationship is something she can’t even think about. Her childhood memories haunt her. Till she meets Barry a ex pro football player. Can she build a relationship with him? Great Christian Romance.
By: Hallee Bridgeman
Emerald Fire the next book in the trilogy. This series is based on three sisters who grew up in a really bad childhood.. Childhood of drugs, abuse and murder. Maxine worked her way through getting over what happened to her as a child. Works hard to make it higher up in a company. To have a relationship is something she can’t even think about. Her childhood memories haunt her. Till she meets Barry a ex pro football player. Can she build a relationship with him? Great Christian Romance.
January 23, 2014
Enjoyed this much better than book 1!
book 1's Tony was too perfect to be true, I like the story of Maxine & Barry more :)
book 1's Tony was too perfect to be true, I like the story of Maxine & Barry more :)
February 15, 2020
Main characters:
Maxine Bartlet
Barry Anderson
Robin and Sarah Maxine's half-sisters
Tony Viscolli Robin's husband Barry's best friend
Derrick DiNunzio Sarah's husband
This book certainly kept my interest, but I’m conflicted. If I dislike what a main character did, does that make the book bad? Or is it a well written book with a hard-to-put-down storyline deserving 5-stars that includes a really crummy thing a likable person did, without which there would be no story?
Seriously, if I were Maxine, and Barry did to me what he did to her, I would have felt used, been incredibly hurt, turned my back on him, walked away forever... and there would have been no story. But since Maxine bucked up and stuck with him, the story continued.
The saving grace to this story, literally, was Maxie's faith change and the fact that she looked to her Savior for direction. Plus Tony and Robin speaking Godly wisdom into Maxie and Barry's lives was encouraging.
In the end, I’m giving this four stars because of some uncomfortable physical scenes. They worked for this story, but to me just slightly too descriptive.
I wasn’t sure I would read another in the series since I really didn’t like the first one, but this one was way better.
Maxine Bartlet
Barry Anderson
Robin and Sarah Maxine's half-sisters
Tony Viscolli Robin's husband Barry's best friend
Derrick DiNunzio Sarah's husband
This book certainly kept my interest, but I’m conflicted. If I dislike what a main character did, does that make the book bad? Or is it a well written book with a hard-to-put-down storyline deserving 5-stars that includes a really crummy thing a likable person did, without which there would be no story?
Seriously, if I were Maxine, and Barry did to me what he did to her, I would have felt used, been incredibly hurt, turned my back on him, walked away forever... and there would have been no story. But since Maxine bucked up and stuck with him, the story continued.
The saving grace to this story, literally, was Maxie's faith change and the fact that she looked to her Savior for direction. Plus Tony and Robin speaking Godly wisdom into Maxie and Barry's lives was encouraging.
In the end, I’m giving this four stars because of some uncomfortable physical scenes. They worked for this story, but to me just slightly too descriptive.
I wasn’t sure I would read another in the series since I really didn’t like the first one, but this one was way better.
February 16, 2014
Reviewed by Desere
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Abused as a child Maxi hits panic buttons every time a man touches her but as we all know with God on your side you can and will be able to overcome everything and anything life may bring your way.
So yes Maxi manages this just fine when she meets the man of her dreams and a hasty marriage follows. But as soon as the dust settles Maxi realizes she is in for quite a ride. Her husband has turned his back on God and what follows is the utterly magical story written by the fabulous Hallee Bridgeman.
The author tells and showed me as reader just how important having God in our lives is. I loved how the author expressed the characters emotions with such passion,it had me in tears both of joy and sadness.
I loved how I got to see the completely different side of Barry the seemingly perfect husband and how he learns to come back onto the path of faith. And Maxi was a true inspiration ,being abused and feeling utterly left on your own and betrayed by the man you love and still finding the courage to fight back ~~ simply beautiful writing Hallee!
I look forward to the next and final chapter of a trilogy so powerful that I shall forever carry the strong message of the author with me.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Abused as a child Maxi hits panic buttons every time a man touches her but as we all know with God on your side you can and will be able to overcome everything and anything life may bring your way.
So yes Maxi manages this just fine when she meets the man of her dreams and a hasty marriage follows. But as soon as the dust settles Maxi realizes she is in for quite a ride. Her husband has turned his back on God and what follows is the utterly magical story written by the fabulous Hallee Bridgeman.
The author tells and showed me as reader just how important having God in our lives is. I loved how the author expressed the characters emotions with such passion,it had me in tears both of joy and sadness.
I loved how I got to see the completely different side of Barry the seemingly perfect husband and how he learns to come back onto the path of faith. And Maxi was a true inspiration ,being abused and feeling utterly left on your own and betrayed by the man you love and still finding the courage to fight back ~~ simply beautiful writing Hallee!
I look forward to the next and final chapter of a trilogy so powerful that I shall forever carry the strong message of the author with me.
August 12, 2014
Hallee Bridgeman writes with intensity and believability, making the reader anxious for more!
Read full review in the 2012 July/August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 July/August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 25, 2020
Emerald Fire by Hallee Bridgeman
This book starts out with dedication, TOC and prologue where Maxime had just watched the cops take her sister away from her. Her parents are out of the picture and things get confusing as to what really happened.
Story starts with Maxine waking up with her wedding ring on.
Story goes back in time to what happened when she was very young, abuse, her mother dying from drugs, her father in prison where he teaches other about God.
The plan was to get all the girls together and that is accomplished over the years and we find some are married and expecting. Like that you don't feel left out, you are brought up to speed with the characters even though you are just meeting them.
Past books in the series will discuss them in more detail.
Love how Maxine makes her money-at the job where she uses her pencils and drawings and paints and sells ads to the customers.
She also enjoys spending time with Barry but he's married so they just spend time when it comes to sports. His wife is not interested in that at all and she's a trophy wife
Story also follows Barry and what he goes through with his wife and her pregnancy and the funeral where Max helps him just disappear. When he does return she's there for him, attending games
watching sports on TV, heading to Vegas with the other friends.
So much occurs in just a short time and we find her in the hospital with severe injuries.
Love how he asks God for help and he gets his answers. So painful to listen to both sides of each of their stories to know it just has to get better.
Hoping to catch up with them as life goes on, in further books in the series.
Love this one-emerald, such a beautiful color.
Ends with translation of words used in the book, luncheon menu and recipes and discussion questions.
Personal note from the author, other works from this series, excerpts from the series books and listing of other works by the author.
About the author is included at the end. and social media links to contact her and link to sign up for her newsletter.
This book starts out with dedication, TOC and prologue where Maxime had just watched the cops take her sister away from her. Her parents are out of the picture and things get confusing as to what really happened.
Story starts with Maxine waking up with her wedding ring on.
Story goes back in time to what happened when she was very young, abuse, her mother dying from drugs, her father in prison where he teaches other about God.
The plan was to get all the girls together and that is accomplished over the years and we find some are married and expecting. Like that you don't feel left out, you are brought up to speed with the characters even though you are just meeting them.
Past books in the series will discuss them in more detail.
Love how Maxine makes her money-at the job where she uses her pencils and drawings and paints and sells ads to the customers.
She also enjoys spending time with Barry but he's married so they just spend time when it comes to sports. His wife is not interested in that at all and she's a trophy wife
Story also follows Barry and what he goes through with his wife and her pregnancy and the funeral where Max helps him just disappear. When he does return she's there for him, attending games
watching sports on TV, heading to Vegas with the other friends.
So much occurs in just a short time and we find her in the hospital with severe injuries.
Love how he asks God for help and he gets his answers. So painful to listen to both sides of each of their stories to know it just has to get better.
Hoping to catch up with them as life goes on, in further books in the series.
Love this one-emerald, such a beautiful color.
Ends with translation of words used in the book, luncheon menu and recipes and discussion questions.
Personal note from the author, other works from this series, excerpts from the series books and listing of other works by the author.
About the author is included at the end. and social media links to contact her and link to sign up for her newsletter.
April 16, 2023
Highly recommend reading this series. Ms. Bridgeman can really wrap you into the lives of these sisters and then men that will love them. This is sister #2, the beautiful one with the unknown father -likely Native American. Because their mother was a drug addict, the girls don’t know their fathers and their fathers nor any of the men the mom hooked up with cared about the well-being of the girls. Maxine despite her outstanding looks topically doesn’t remain in a relationship for any length of time. However, she has been best gal-pal for Barry, a dear family friend. At Barry’s adulterous wife death, he is numb and confused and temporarily slips away from his faith. Maxine is always willing to help her friend out, and is even hesitant to fully commit to her own faith. Might that be bec she is secretly crushing on Barry. But the she accompanies him to Las Vegas on a group trip and like so many do in Vegas, they make a spur of the moment decision and marry. Maxine isn’t opposed to them remaining married, but Barry wants to do the honorable thing and seek an annulment. They are at odds with this for some weeks. Now you will have to read the novel to find out how Sister #2 comes out of this debacle. Will she settle her pretty self down with just one guy? Can Barry move forward upon learning all the ugly facts about his socialite wife of 18 years? What will be the impact of this confusion between Barry & Maxi with her best friend Tony V and his wife, Maxi’s sister?
December 18, 2020
A beautiful story about sister number two in the Jewel Series, Maxine, the one with the emerald green eyes and who ended up with a beautiful emerald ring from a sweet man who became one of her best friends. This story also fills in more background information about Robin, Tony, Sarah, Derrick and Tony's best friend and lawyer, Barry. Maxine is a strong woman who was greatly affected by her early childhood life after being tossed from one abusive foster home to another after her mother, who also didn't care for her as a mother should, was murdered. Hallee Bridgeman doesn't brush over the harshness and evil of life which often affects children from from broken and abusive relationships, but she does bring them gently into good, Christian environments which can nourish and feed their souls with God's love, and the love of caring people. I am really enjoying this series and l look forward to reading on to follow this family.
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