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Coastal Chronicles #1
Julianne
Julianne Finnegan lives in the shadow of her adored but wildly successful brother, Michael. Her professional life is a disaster, she has no sense of herself outside her family, and she can’t face another Monday. A chance encounter with Oliver, a handsome young actor, gives her the courage to leave her job and prove her real potential. Julianne’s confidence soars as she meets the challenges of revitalizing the failing community theater. The time she spends with Oliver opens her eyes to a certainty she’s never known before, even in her successful brother. But as she starts to open her heart to Oliver, an old crush returns. Gavin, a famous movie director, has been Michael’s best friend for years and loved her as a little sister. The excitement and passion Julianne has developed for the theater shocks him into realizing she is a child no longer, but a beautiful talented woman who has captured his heart. Julianne is faced with some difficult choices. Will she choose glitz or a steadfast love?
284 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
6 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Rebekah Lyn
12 books49 followersRebekah is a Christian with a heart for new beginnings. She is a Florida native and a graduate of Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Fl. A love of history, research and journaling led naturally to a passion for writing. She enjoys travel and has traveled extensively across the United States and Canada as well as Europe and the Caribbean. Her reading taste run from the classics to light fiction. When she is not working or writing, she enjoys cooking,baking and sharing recipes on her blog, http://rebekahlynskitchen.wordpress.com
Her current works include, Summer Storms and the new release Winter's End, books 1 & 2 in The Seasons of Faith series and Julianne the first book in The Coastal Chronicle series. She is currently working on the second installment of the Coastal Chronicles, set in Brevard County, Florida during the early years of the space program.
Rebekah currently resides in Florida along with her "attack" cat, Mia. They would enjoy meeting with you on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/authorRebekahLyn
Her current works include, Summer Storms and the new release Winter's End, books 1 & 2 in The Seasons of Faith series and Julianne the first book in The Coastal Chronicle series. She is currently working on the second installment of the Coastal Chronicles, set in Brevard County, Florida during the early years of the space program.
Rebekah currently resides in Florida along with her "attack" cat, Mia. They would enjoy meeting with you on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/authorRebekahLyn
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 15, 2012
I really enjoyed reading "Julianne" by Rebekah Lyn. I look forward to reading more books written by Rebekah. I would recommend this book to my family and friends.
Julianne is a young woman who is still trying to get over a relationship that ended three years ago. She is working for a telemarketing company that she hates. When she accidentally runs into Oliver, a handsome young actor, things start to turn around. Oliver introduces Julianne to Cameron who runs the Garner House Theater. Julianne starts working on a proposal to help bring busniess back to the Garner House Theater. When Julianne quits working at the telemarketing job, her very successful older brother Michael, offers her a job as a waitress at the Harbor House.
When Gavin, Michael's best friend, comes into town, Julianne is not sure which guy she should choose. She has had a crush on Gavin since she was a child. However, Gavin has always viewed her as a little sister, until he reads over Julianne's proposal, he sees her as a strong and independent woman. Oliver has a past he isn't proud of, when he lived in LA, he was a party animal which led him to experiment with drugs and get mixed up with the wrong people. Gavin helped Oliver by getting him into a drug rehab clinic. Oliver turned his life around by giving his life to God.
Julianne works really hard for several weeks on putting together a press event before the opening season at the Garner House Theater. On opening night, the theater is packed with people who came to watch the play and several reporters have come to conduct interviews. Julianne steps out to get some air, Gavin notices her, he goes outside and kisses her for the first time. She passes out and Gavin carries her to Cameron's office before taking her to the hospital, to have some tests done. The reason she passed out was because she was overly tired and had skipped some meals.
Julianne decides to take a week off and heads up to her families cabin in the mountains with her dog Pepper. Pepper is a pug who has a lot of energy and loves to be outdoors. While on vacation she turns her cell phone off to prevent any distractions. Carolyn and Phil Conners, who retired to the mountains several years ago, Julianne has known them since she was a child. Bradley, who was nearly ten years older, agreed to go on a hike with Julianne. Gavin drove up to the mountains to visit with Julianne and let her know how he feels. Julianne has waited a long time to her Gavin's feelings but she also has feelings for Oliver. In the end, Julianne and Oliver, meet Michael at the theater. When Michael squeezes Julianne's hand he notices a thin gold band with a tiny diamond between two hearts around her finger.
This book is filled with happy times, stressful times, and confusing times. I laughed at the part when Pepper chased a squirrel up a tree, because my dog does the same thing. I know everyone handles stress differently but I have lost sleep and skipped meals just like Julianne. I felt like I was in Julianne's shoes and knew exactly what she was feeling. I also liked the fact that Oliver was very open about his faith and how God worked in his life. I love reading inspirational romance books.
Julianne is a young woman who is still trying to get over a relationship that ended three years ago. She is working for a telemarketing company that she hates. When she accidentally runs into Oliver, a handsome young actor, things start to turn around. Oliver introduces Julianne to Cameron who runs the Garner House Theater. Julianne starts working on a proposal to help bring busniess back to the Garner House Theater. When Julianne quits working at the telemarketing job, her very successful older brother Michael, offers her a job as a waitress at the Harbor House.
When Gavin, Michael's best friend, comes into town, Julianne is not sure which guy she should choose. She has had a crush on Gavin since she was a child. However, Gavin has always viewed her as a little sister, until he reads over Julianne's proposal, he sees her as a strong and independent woman. Oliver has a past he isn't proud of, when he lived in LA, he was a party animal which led him to experiment with drugs and get mixed up with the wrong people. Gavin helped Oliver by getting him into a drug rehab clinic. Oliver turned his life around by giving his life to God.
Julianne works really hard for several weeks on putting together a press event before the opening season at the Garner House Theater. On opening night, the theater is packed with people who came to watch the play and several reporters have come to conduct interviews. Julianne steps out to get some air, Gavin notices her, he goes outside and kisses her for the first time. She passes out and Gavin carries her to Cameron's office before taking her to the hospital, to have some tests done. The reason she passed out was because she was overly tired and had skipped some meals.
Julianne decides to take a week off and heads up to her families cabin in the mountains with her dog Pepper. Pepper is a pug who has a lot of energy and loves to be outdoors. While on vacation she turns her cell phone off to prevent any distractions. Carolyn and Phil Conners, who retired to the mountains several years ago, Julianne has known them since she was a child. Bradley, who was nearly ten years older, agreed to go on a hike with Julianne. Gavin drove up to the mountains to visit with Julianne and let her know how he feels. Julianne has waited a long time to her Gavin's feelings but she also has feelings for Oliver. In the end, Julianne and Oliver, meet Michael at the theater. When Michael squeezes Julianne's hand he notices a thin gold band with a tiny diamond between two hearts around her finger.
This book is filled with happy times, stressful times, and confusing times. I laughed at the part when Pepper chased a squirrel up a tree, because my dog does the same thing. I know everyone handles stress differently but I have lost sleep and skipped meals just like Julianne. I felt like I was in Julianne's shoes and knew exactly what she was feeling. I also liked the fact that Oliver was very open about his faith and how God worked in his life. I love reading inspirational romance books.
September 10, 2012
I enjoyed this book because it was easy to relate to the main character, Julianne. Her life seems to be at a standstill... She is still recovering from a painful breakup from three years earlier, and she is stuck in a dead end job that holds no interest or passion for her. I'm sure most of us have experienced times like these in our lives! To make matters worse for Julianne, her older brother has a very successful career, and Julianne often longs for her own identity outside of simply being "Michael's sister." A chance encounter with a stranger in the park opens up new opportunities for Julianne, who begins to come into her own at last.
The characters in this book were likeable, and the story was upbeat and inspirational. There was only one thing I didn't necessarily like about this story. There is an underlying Christian theme, especially where one particular character is concerned. Finding God has helped this character turn his life around, and throughout the story he thinks and talks about God and prays a lot. I've often found myself picking up a book that I was interested in because of the story line, and then felt like I was being evangelized to without warning. I don't seriously mind this, because the story itself was enjoyable. But if this type of thing makes you uncomfortable, be aware. However, for those fans of Christian fiction, this book fits in seamlessly to the genre.
The characters in this book were likeable, and the story was upbeat and inspirational. There was only one thing I didn't necessarily like about this story. There is an underlying Christian theme, especially where one particular character is concerned. Finding God has helped this character turn his life around, and throughout the story he thinks and talks about God and prays a lot. I've often found myself picking up a book that I was interested in because of the story line, and then felt like I was being evangelized to without warning. I don't seriously mind this, because the story itself was enjoyable. But if this type of thing makes you uncomfortable, be aware. However, for those fans of Christian fiction, this book fits in seamlessly to the genre.
September 25, 2012
Julianne is trying to find her way in life.
This novel brings you into the world of theatre.
A community theatre trying to survive in economic
times and low attendance. Julianne takes on the job
of saving "The Garner House." Does she do it? Pick
up this novel and see....
I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading
more of Rebekah Lyn's novels.
This novel brings you into the world of theatre.
A community theatre trying to survive in economic
times and low attendance. Julianne takes on the job
of saving "The Garner House." Does she do it? Pick
up this novel and see....
I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading
more of Rebekah Lyn's novels.
January 4, 2013
I was given this book for an honest review last August. I got a little sidetracked with my own writing and school, but I am so sad I didn't read this sooner! It was wonderful! I loved Julianne coming into her skin and figuring out her feelings.
Oliver was amazing and the type of guy I would swoon over. I loved this book and can't wait to read more stories from the author.
Oliver was amazing and the type of guy I would swoon over. I loved this book and can't wait to read more stories from the author.
January 5, 2013
I love this book I couldn't put it down until I finished the both. I was hook on seeing what happen at the end.
August 3, 2012
Julianne is a very interesting book about a girl trying to find her way in life. She is from a well-to-do family and struggles to find her purpose/passion in life. A chance meeting with a guy leads her on an adventure to not only save a struggling theater but also the adventure of self realization. Julianne has had a crush on her brothers best friend for years but finds she also has feelings for another guy. Throughout the book there are some light moments that just make you laugh and there are times you ache for Julianne as she deals with her own inner turmoil.
Very well written book and extremely easy read. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star is because I usually only give book 5 stars if I come back and re-read them over and over again. I don't know that Julianne is a book I would read every year but if I do come back and re-read it several times, I plan on changing my rating to a 5 star.
Very well written book and extremely easy read. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star is because I usually only give book 5 stars if I come back and re-read them over and over again. I don't know that Julianne is a book I would read every year but if I do come back and re-read it several times, I plan on changing my rating to a 5 star.
October 6, 2012
My Review:
Author Rebekah Lyn has wrote a very good story line. Her main character Julianne Finnegan struggles with several real life situations.
Even though I did enjoy reading Julianne for the most part I was just not really into the book. I must say that it did not hold my attention as well as I felt I was expecting it too. The theme was good, the characters where good. Just that, an okay read.
And just a note here to say that this is only my opinion, you must take a chance a read for yourself. Any one struggling with the same issues may receive more from the book than I did.
So due to the above I am giving this book a Breath of Life Rating of:
Three Clock Rating..
Disclosure: I received this book in exchange for my review. The opinions are mine. And your opinion may differ.
Author Rebekah Lyn has wrote a very good story line. Her main character Julianne Finnegan struggles with several real life situations.
Even though I did enjoy reading Julianne for the most part I was just not really into the book. I must say that it did not hold my attention as well as I felt I was expecting it too. The theme was good, the characters where good. Just that, an okay read.
And just a note here to say that this is only my opinion, you must take a chance a read for yourself. Any one struggling with the same issues may receive more from the book than I did.
So due to the above I am giving this book a Breath of Life Rating of:
Three Clock Rating..
Disclosure: I received this book in exchange for my review. The opinions are mine. And your opinion may differ.
September 10, 2012
I thought this author had a nice idea, but the execution very much was missing. For instance, one major issue was a overformality in the characters' speach. They said "I will" instead of "I'll" all the time, making the book seem so formal. Also, among other things, I thought the religious of the aspect of the book should have been explored much earlier, as far as Julianne's character went. (Grade: "C".)
September 18, 2012
I enjoy Christian fiction but like to see the faith of the characters more integrated into the book rather than revealed in short "religious" segments.
April 17, 2014
Julianne always felt she was growing up in her big brother's shadow. Michael the overachiever, Michael the success story. Julianne was the dreamer. Her life seemed to be on hold. She seemed to be caught up in a string of 'for the time being' type jobs, never really finding her stride. She wasn't content; she had unfulfilled dreams.
But then she finds Oliver. He introduces her to Cameron and she volunteers to help breathe some life into the local theater production. She has finally hit her stride. But life quickly gets complicated when Gavin shows up in her life and he no longer sees her as Michael's little sister.
How Julianne handles attraction to two handsome men, her new responsibilities as publicist for the Renaissance Players, and family dynamics is what makes this story a heartwarming read.
This is the first book written by this author. Rebekah Lyn has crafted an enjoyable book highlighting Julianne's search for life's purpose. It is well written, and flows easily from chapter to chapter. It is definitely a character-driven tale which, for the most part, is an easy going moderately paced work of fiction set in modern day Alexandria.
The relationship between Julianne and Oliver is comfortable and predictable. The entire story is a pleasant read. Some may find this novel too static, but I found it cozy and warming. It makes for a good break from books which pump up our adrenaline in suspense. There is a light spiritual element in which Oliver introduces God to Julianne. He lets her know how she can find peace that passes all human understand with Him. Her response is open ended, and Oliver does not apply any pressure. We get the impression, however, that this is just the beginning for her. I found the conclusion soul satisfying.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Body and Soul Publishing on behalf of the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.”
But then she finds Oliver. He introduces her to Cameron and she volunteers to help breathe some life into the local theater production. She has finally hit her stride. But life quickly gets complicated when Gavin shows up in her life and he no longer sees her as Michael's little sister.
How Julianne handles attraction to two handsome men, her new responsibilities as publicist for the Renaissance Players, and family dynamics is what makes this story a heartwarming read.
This is the first book written by this author. Rebekah Lyn has crafted an enjoyable book highlighting Julianne's search for life's purpose. It is well written, and flows easily from chapter to chapter. It is definitely a character-driven tale which, for the most part, is an easy going moderately paced work of fiction set in modern day Alexandria.
The relationship between Julianne and Oliver is comfortable and predictable. The entire story is a pleasant read. Some may find this novel too static, but I found it cozy and warming. It makes for a good break from books which pump up our adrenaline in suspense. There is a light spiritual element in which Oliver introduces God to Julianne. He lets her know how she can find peace that passes all human understand with Him. Her response is open ended, and Oliver does not apply any pressure. We get the impression, however, that this is just the beginning for her. I found the conclusion soul satisfying.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Body and Soul Publishing on behalf of the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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.”
April 5, 2013
Rebekah Lyn’s book, Julianne, explores the themes of love, redemption and sacrifice in a unique and refreshing way. I learned more about the artistic world of theatre and what goes into promoting the productions and drawing people in to attend the performances. I appreciated the research required to weave that information into the scenes in order to make them come alive in a way that seems real and tangible.
Throughout the book there were some light moments that made me laugh and there were times I ached for Julianne as she deals with her own inner turmoil. She has a stubborn streak, like a lot of us do, and I commiserated with her need and desire to prove herself and make it on her own without a lot of help from those around her.
The characters are real and full of the same emotions we all experience. I sensed Julianne’s frustration about being stuck in a job she doesn’t like and sometimes even felt like I was walking in her shoes and knew exactly how she was feeling. The characters learn to trust God in the midst of their questions and turn to His Word for answers. The author helps the reader relate to the characters in the book and apply God’s love to their own lives.
The book’s paragraphs are filled with descriptive scenes, interesting characters, and a solid faith that shines through the pages from beginning to end. Her book is filled with happy as well as stressful and confusing times – a lot like our own lives, when we have our ups and downs and questions. Reading it is an emotional journey.
I think those who take the time to read this inspirational romance will enjoy it.
Throughout the book there were some light moments that made me laugh and there were times I ached for Julianne as she deals with her own inner turmoil. She has a stubborn streak, like a lot of us do, and I commiserated with her need and desire to prove herself and make it on her own without a lot of help from those around her.
The characters are real and full of the same emotions we all experience. I sensed Julianne’s frustration about being stuck in a job she doesn’t like and sometimes even felt like I was walking in her shoes and knew exactly how she was feeling. The characters learn to trust God in the midst of their questions and turn to His Word for answers. The author helps the reader relate to the characters in the book and apply God’s love to their own lives.
The book’s paragraphs are filled with descriptive scenes, interesting characters, and a solid faith that shines through the pages from beginning to end. Her book is filled with happy as well as stressful and confusing times – a lot like our own lives, when we have our ups and downs and questions. Reading it is an emotional journey.
I think those who take the time to read this inspirational romance will enjoy it.
May 6, 2014
Choosing the right path in life is difficult
Julianne thought she loved Gavin, a famous movie director, thought she could never measure up to the success of her big brother Michael, and felt her career was a disaster. Then she met Oliver. He was a handsome young actor, struggling to help a community theater stay afloat. Julianne gets inspired to quit her job and dive into an uncertain career that might not even pay the rent.
Her new career and new relationship with Oliver hit a snag when the love of her life suddenly sees her as a desirable woman. Should she take a chance on the life she always wanted with Gavin? Her career and her future hang in the balance, but which direction will she choose?
This is a wonderful romantic tale about a young woman finding herself. It is a clean read without scenes that make readers blush and contains insight into faith. Julianne must learn to have faith in herself. Oliver's faith makes her nervous. She learns secrets about the men in her life that make her question her own choices. It's a good read that makes you think.
Julianne thought she loved Gavin, a famous movie director, thought she could never measure up to the success of her big brother Michael, and felt her career was a disaster. Then she met Oliver. He was a handsome young actor, struggling to help a community theater stay afloat. Julianne gets inspired to quit her job and dive into an uncertain career that might not even pay the rent.
Her new career and new relationship with Oliver hit a snag when the love of her life suddenly sees her as a desirable woman. Should she take a chance on the life she always wanted with Gavin? Her career and her future hang in the balance, but which direction will she choose?
This is a wonderful romantic tale about a young woman finding herself. It is a clean read without scenes that make readers blush and contains insight into faith. Julianne must learn to have faith in herself. Oliver's faith makes her nervous. She learns secrets about the men in her life that make her question her own choices. It's a good read that makes you think.
January 29, 2016
Julianne is a woman who feels that she’s always lived in her brother, Michael’s shadow. She struggles to find her own place in the world and do it on her own. Just about the time she’s at the end of her rope on another dead-end job, she bumps into Oliver who changes her life. Oliver also brings feelings to the surface that Julianne hadn’t felt in quite some time, not since Jonathan. Then there’s Gavin. Julianne has had a crush on him ever since her brother brought him home from college, but then there’s the fact that he never noticed her for more than a little sister.
I enjoyed reading this story. I love the theater and had been involved in plays in high school and college. Reading this brought back a lot of pleasant memories. The only negative (slightly) thing about this book is the sudden changes in points of view. Sometimes I had to go back and re-read a paragraph or two to see who perspective it was.
All in all, this was a great story. One you should definitely add to your TBR list.
I enjoyed reading this story. I love the theater and had been involved in plays in high school and college. Reading this brought back a lot of pleasant memories. The only negative (slightly) thing about this book is the sudden changes in points of view. Sometimes I had to go back and re-read a paragraph or two to see who perspective it was.
All in all, this was a great story. One you should definitely add to your TBR list.
April 30, 2013
"Julianne" (Book One in Coastal chronicles) by Rebekah Lyn is a novel about a woman in her twenties living on the East Coast who has finally finding herself. Julianne is a telemarketer who is a Public Relations wanna be. She has the degree, now she needs the opportunity. She is also surrounded by men. All love her and want to take care of her. Julianne grows up in this story both in the career and the man department. She is also introduced to God, Whom she knows little about, but is interested.
This is a pretty quick read. The Julianne character is fairly well developed, but the men tend to blend. It is also well researched. I didn't realize how little I knew about the theater. I would recommend this book for a young adult: late teens, early twenties, leaning more towards women. I would classify it as a beach read. Easy to read and yet entertaining. I received this book for free from the author through www.bodyandsoulpublishing.com.
This is a pretty quick read. The Julianne character is fairly well developed, but the men tend to blend. It is also well researched. I didn't realize how little I knew about the theater. I would recommend this book for a young adult: late teens, early twenties, leaning more towards women. I would classify it as a beach read. Easy to read and yet entertaining. I received this book for free from the author through www.bodyandsoulpublishing.com.
August 23, 2013
Rebekah Lyn has a way of drawing the reader into her stories. When you sit down to read one of her books, it's like sitting down with an old friend to chat. The story is refreshing. Non-Christians may think this book is too "preachy". But maybe they need to read it. For Christians, the "mini sermons" are reminders of the mighty God we serve. I love Lyn's style of writing. It may not be "page turning" suspense, but it is a comfort that we all need once in a while.
I received a copy of the book for an honest review.
I received a copy of the book for an honest review.
June 4, 2013
This is a story about struggles of the character Julianne. It is a Christian romance novel that is not too preachy and it has a great pace with well developed characters. The author's voice really pulled me into the story. I had to know what she was going to do next, how she was going to handle the situations. This is a beautiful story.
November 9, 2016
Although I may disagree with some of the messages in the story, I have to say that this author's writing is very good.
There is a gentleness within the tale that flows until the end.
The characters fit the plot, while emotions and choices show the complexities of human behaviour and relationships.
I am not one for romances, but see how this book would have strong appeal to those that do.
There is a gentleness within the tale that flows until the end.
The characters fit the plot, while emotions and choices show the complexities of human behaviour and relationships.
I am not one for romances, but see how this book would have strong appeal to those that do.
June 20, 2016
The author has developed a pleasantly refreshing love story without the normal sex and smut so often found in stories today. I'm sure that you will find this to be one that you will enjoy from cover to cover! So, just find a comfortable chair and enjoy!
December 1, 2013
The theme was good, the characters where good, but the book fell short. I think it bugged me that so many men were falling all over themselves to take care of her.
November 23, 2014
Fabulous Christian novel....
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews