What do you think?
Rate this book
Discovering Hope
What do Brigadoon, saris, epic laser tag games, and Jesus have in common? Hope. She’s a Christian with a passion for life and a fascination with Jay’s heritage. He’s an Indian with a fledgling interest in learning about the Hope within Hope.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2012
112 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Chautona Havig
275 books1,833 followers**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 24, 2018
***SPOILER ALERT***
Discovering Hope was interesting, for sure, and it has some good lessons. But I wasn't really a fan of the friendship/romance between the two main characters. Though a strong Christian, Hope allowed herself to become quite attached to a non-Christian guy, Jay. She shared so much from her heart exclusively with him - deep emotional things - and spent a lot of one-on-one time with him. They became best friends and she was leaning way too much on him. He was the first person she'd call in like any situation. It was obvious to me that they had a deep attachment and were falling for each other ... yet Hope said she would not marry a unbeliever and such. So why did they allow themselves to become so close?? What if he'd never become a Christian? Then what? Truth be told, I don't believe that guys and girls should be best friends (unless they're married.). I think guys and girls can - and should - have friendships, but they shouldn't have one-on-one, "best friend", really personal friendships ... otherwise you can easily become emotionally attached to someone you never meant to in the first place/can't marry.
Then, almost as soon as Jay becomes a Christian, they start dating. Almost like they were dating before, but now they're "officially" dating because it's okay. But is it the wisest thing for a mature Christian to marry a new believer? Are they at the same place? Is he equipped to lead her (and future children) spiritually? Now, Jay did seem very mature ...
Which brings me to another point. He was perfect! I don't know if I saw a flaw in him the entire book.
As many great, little lessons this book provided, and as beautiful as it was to watch Jay's journey to Christ, I kind of feel Discovering Hope is giving a message that a girl can become deeply involved - in the name of friendship - with an unbeliever and eventually he'll turn into the perfect Christian man of your dreams.
It was an interesting book with some really heartfelt and sweet parts, but I was uncomfortable with the overall message.
Discovering Hope was interesting, for sure, and it has some good lessons. But I wasn't really a fan of the friendship/romance between the two main characters. Though a strong Christian, Hope allowed herself to become quite attached to a non-Christian guy, Jay. She shared so much from her heart exclusively with him - deep emotional things - and spent a lot of one-on-one time with him. They became best friends and she was leaning way too much on him. He was the first person she'd call in like any situation. It was obvious to me that they had a deep attachment and were falling for each other ... yet Hope said she would not marry a unbeliever and such. So why did they allow themselves to become so close?? What if he'd never become a Christian? Then what? Truth be told, I don't believe that guys and girls should be best friends (unless they're married.). I think guys and girls can - and should - have friendships, but they shouldn't have one-on-one, "best friend", really personal friendships ... otherwise you can easily become emotionally attached to someone you never meant to in the first place/can't marry.
Then, almost as soon as Jay becomes a Christian, they start dating. Almost like they were dating before, but now they're "officially" dating because it's okay. But is it the wisest thing for a mature Christian to marry a new believer? Are they at the same place? Is he equipped to lead her (and future children) spiritually? Now, Jay did seem very mature ...
Which brings me to another point. He was perfect! I don't know if I saw a flaw in him the entire book.
As many great, little lessons this book provided, and as beautiful as it was to watch Jay's journey to Christ, I kind of feel Discovering Hope is giving a message that a girl can become deeply involved - in the name of friendship - with an unbeliever and eventually he'll turn into the perfect Christian man of your dreams.
It was an interesting book with some really heartfelt and sweet parts, but I was uncomfortable with the overall message.
October 27, 2015
(I wrote this review last year, but failed to post it here)
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up for mild romance, some sadness, and reading level
Best for Ages: 13 and up
After reading Noble Pursuits with my friend Jessica, I was more than happy to agree that Discovering Hope be our next book to read together. Neither of us were disappointed with this second installment of the Rockland Chronicles.
One of my favorite things about Havig’s books is that they are down to earth. Her stories are about ordinary people with their everyday problems. She has a talent for making the mundane, everyday things seem very interesting.
This book is about Hope, a girl with a strong faith in God despite the fact that she lost her brother in a car accident the year before. While at college, she meets Jay, a young man from India. So begins a wonderful friendship.
One of the things I most appreciated about this book was Jay’s struggle to accept Hope’s faith. It wasn’t easy for him, and it wasn’t quick. Too many books make it sound so easy, but often it is a long struggle.
The romance in this book, like all of Havig’s books, is sweet and based on friendship, not just gushy feelings. I love the way she balances the friendship and the romance so well in her stories.
There were some sad parts to this book, but it made it really, really good. I don’t have a single complaint about this story.
I highly recommend this book to those who like romance that is based on something more than feelings, stories about everyday people, and authors who are not afraid to let their faith take center stage.
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up for mild romance, some sadness, and reading level
Best for Ages: 13 and up
After reading Noble Pursuits with my friend Jessica, I was more than happy to agree that Discovering Hope be our next book to read together. Neither of us were disappointed with this second installment of the Rockland Chronicles.
One of my favorite things about Havig’s books is that they are down to earth. Her stories are about ordinary people with their everyday problems. She has a talent for making the mundane, everyday things seem very interesting.
This book is about Hope, a girl with a strong faith in God despite the fact that she lost her brother in a car accident the year before. While at college, she meets Jay, a young man from India. So begins a wonderful friendship.
One of the things I most appreciated about this book was Jay’s struggle to accept Hope’s faith. It wasn’t easy for him, and it wasn’t quick. Too many books make it sound so easy, but often it is a long struggle.
The romance in this book, like all of Havig’s books, is sweet and based on friendship, not just gushy feelings. I love the way she balances the friendship and the romance so well in her stories.
There were some sad parts to this book, but it made it really, really good. I don’t have a single complaint about this story.
I highly recommend this book to those who like romance that is based on something more than feelings, stories about everyday people, and authors who are not afraid to let their faith take center stage.
April 14, 2016
I've read some books by Chautona Havig that I love, I've read others that I like pretty well, and there are some I started, but didn't like. This one was on sale and so I got it, hoping it would be one I liked. It was! The characters were sweet, down to earth real and the story was . . . well, I didn't want to put the book down and do other things. I felt like I could drive to Rockland and meet Hope and Jay. And I really want to. :)
Yep, I would recommend this book.
Yep, I would recommend this book.
December 28, 2012
I am confused about what I think about this book. On the one hand, it was a sweet story that was very detailed and had a nice outcome. It also dealt with some difficult issues that could legitimately happen to someone. I like a fairly likely story as opposed to something completely far fetched. That said, I have read far too many Christian books that show a non-believer experiencing a short struggle with their spirituality only to finally "get it" and become converted. This, I have never seen take place and so when I read about it over and over in Christian literature, I find it frustrating. God is capable of anything, and I realize this, but the frequency of the same short struggle (and who has time to pose a long struggle in a fiction book? I know this is a constraint) seems overused to me. I am taking something out on this book that I find to be chronic in this genre which isn't totally fair. I don't mean to peg just this book, I'm just voicing my overall frustration with this type of theme. Nonetheless, I think the author writes well, as the story was well told. If this had been my first dance with Christian fiction, this would have been the cat's meow!
September 17, 2012
Discovering Hope is another amazing novel by Chautona Havig. From their friendship to developing love, it reminds me of Nicolas Sparks a novel. Having discovered Mrs. Havig’s writing through her serial novel, Past Forward, it exceeded my expectations. I like how characters from her other novels are peppered throughout. It makes the reader feel like an “observer” of another world. The novels that I have read take you to places like Rockland, Westbury, and Fairbury, aiding you to get lost in the story and engrossed in these people’s lives.
Chautona Havig is the lord and creator of this world. She handles the well-being and lives of her creations with the grace of any soft handled deity. Her Christianity is fully rooted this novel; evenly balanced in the story like a seasoning that giving a dish its perfect flavor. All of the characters are shining ideals of Christians that people strive to and look for in their neighbors.
Jay finding his way to Christianity is perfectly done. The guidance he finds is never overzealous or a nuisance. His discovery of Christianity reminded me of my journey.
Discovering Hope is a beautifully crafted love story that is perfectly titled. It mainly follows Jay Brown as he discovers the magnificent woman that is Hope Senior. But it’s also about the hope that is found in faith, friendship, and love. If you’re not a fan of Chautona Havig, you will be once you finish this novel. If you are it’s just another novel love.
Chautona Havig is the lord and creator of this world. She handles the well-being and lives of her creations with the grace of any soft handled deity. Her Christianity is fully rooted this novel; evenly balanced in the story like a seasoning that giving a dish its perfect flavor. All of the characters are shining ideals of Christians that people strive to and look for in their neighbors.
Jay finding his way to Christianity is perfectly done. The guidance he finds is never overzealous or a nuisance. His discovery of Christianity reminded me of my journey.
Discovering Hope is a beautifully crafted love story that is perfectly titled. It mainly follows Jay Brown as he discovers the magnificent woman that is Hope Senior. But it’s also about the hope that is found in faith, friendship, and love. If you’re not a fan of Chautona Havig, you will be once you finish this novel. If you are it’s just another novel love.
November 27, 2012
This is a cute story with likable characters. Hope is fun and spontaneous--the kind of person everyone likes--and is very easy to become attached to. Jay is genuinely nice, and (much to Hope's surprise!) is quite American acting for someone who was born in India.
It was fun to watch their meeting and the subsequent growth of their friendship. Eventually their relationship changes to something more, and I found it particularly sweet when they started acting different and letting their feelings show, but at the same time they're not quite sure what to make of the subtle change in direction of their relationship.
At times I felt the "preachy" level got up just a tad too high, although considering that Jay's search for truth and understanding is a fairly large part of the plot, I'm not sure it could be helped. Honestly, "preachy" isn't really even the right word....It's not heavy-handed, there's just a fair amount of conversations between Jay and Hope where they discuss Bible verses or various points of her faith.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story, and though it's the first book I've read by Chautona Havig, I'm sure it won't be the last! I'm looking forward to checking out some of her other books in the future.
It was fun to watch their meeting and the subsequent growth of their friendship. Eventually their relationship changes to something more, and I found it particularly sweet when they started acting different and letting their feelings show, but at the same time they're not quite sure what to make of the subtle change in direction of their relationship.
At times I felt the "preachy" level got up just a tad too high, although considering that Jay's search for truth and understanding is a fairly large part of the plot, I'm not sure it could be helped. Honestly, "preachy" isn't really even the right word....It's not heavy-handed, there's just a fair amount of conversations between Jay and Hope where they discuss Bible verses or various points of her faith.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story, and though it's the first book I've read by Chautona Havig, I'm sure it won't be the last! I'm looking forward to checking out some of her other books in the future.
March 4, 2017
I quite enjoyed this story. The clear presentation of the Gospel message woven naturally through the growing attraction between Jay and Hope was wonderful, and the humor throughout the story was great! My only complaint about the book is that the last third of it seemed somewhat contrived, or added on after the climax had been reached. It was still good, just not quite as good as the first two-thirds.
October 11, 2012
Such a sweet relationship between the Hope and Jay. The first half was so quirky and fun that you kinda forgive the latter part for being a bit slow.
The one jarring thing that I found was Jay's use of 'Kadhal' as the noun form of the English expression 'My love'. It should've been 'Anbae'. (Tamil speaker's rant) ;)
The one jarring thing that I found was Jay's use of 'Kadhal' as the noun form of the English expression 'My love'. It should've been 'Anbae'. (Tamil speaker's rant) ;)
April 28, 2024
I am not a big contemporary Christian romance, but this was so different and endearing that I couldn't put it down. Hope Senior meets Sanjay "Jay" Brown at college. Jay is from India but is fascinated with Hope's personality from the very beginning. They meet for coffee and instantly click, but Jay's background tells him to move very slowly and become good friends. Hope is a very strong Christian; and as she shares her faith with Jay, he finds himself more and more interested in Christianity as well as Hope. Where will Jay's quest for learning about Christianity and Hope's love of his personality lead these two young people especially when Hope has to face several challenges?
This book was absolutely enchanting as I learned a bit about the Indian dialect that Jay spoke and the customs of India and watched the developing relationship between two special people. Havig outdid herself on this contemporary romance.
This book was absolutely enchanting as I learned a bit about the Indian dialect that Jay spoke and the customs of India and watched the developing relationship between two special people. Havig outdid herself on this contemporary romance.
September 2, 2013
Jay and Hope are on the road to discovering what true friendship is all about.
The thing I love most about Chautona's writing is her ability to blend interesting characters, good clean humour and timely truths. It is so refreshing to have characters who are uncomplicated in their honestly and integrity. So often in stories we read of people second guessing each other, making assumptions and drawing negative conclusions. I love that Chautona's characters talk - they are open, truthful, challenging and willing to listen. This in no way means they are boring. It means that when there is doubt, fear, mistrust or questions they are brave and daring enough to face the issues head on and are willing to hear and adjust. To me these are very strong characteristics to have and make me want to spend more time with these people.
This book is about friendship. It's about having an open and accepting heart. It's about appreciating enjoying cultural differences. The story is gentle but in no way soft. Although Mrs. Havig claims not to be a romantic ... you could have fooled me!!! She understands romance as a gift to be treasured and savoured. I sort of fell in love with Jay myself ;)
Another very refreshing aspect of this story is the journey Jay takes as he discovers who Jesus is. I've seen too many Christians become offended by the doubts and questions thrown their way. Jay was allowed to question, he was given the freedom and time to search for answers and possibly most importantly, he had a friend who let him make his own decision.
Discovering Hope is delightful.
Thank you Chautona for another very enjoyable book. Keep `em coming.
The thing I love most about Chautona's writing is her ability to blend interesting characters, good clean humour and timely truths. It is so refreshing to have characters who are uncomplicated in their honestly and integrity. So often in stories we read of people second guessing each other, making assumptions and drawing negative conclusions. I love that Chautona's characters talk - they are open, truthful, challenging and willing to listen. This in no way means they are boring. It means that when there is doubt, fear, mistrust or questions they are brave and daring enough to face the issues head on and are willing to hear and adjust. To me these are very strong characteristics to have and make me want to spend more time with these people.
This book is about friendship. It's about having an open and accepting heart. It's about appreciating enjoying cultural differences. The story is gentle but in no way soft. Although Mrs. Havig claims not to be a romantic ... you could have fooled me!!! She understands romance as a gift to be treasured and savoured. I sort of fell in love with Jay myself ;)
Another very refreshing aspect of this story is the journey Jay takes as he discovers who Jesus is. I've seen too many Christians become offended by the doubts and questions thrown their way. Jay was allowed to question, he was given the freedom and time to search for answers and possibly most importantly, he had a friend who let him make his own decision.
Discovering Hope is delightful.
Thank you Chautona for another very enjoyable book. Keep `em coming.
October 4, 2017
My book in the Scavenger Hunt Featuring Chautona Havig's books was "Discovering Hope" and I am going to start this review by saying this book is fantastic and I would give it more than 5 stars if I was able.
This story is about Hope, the main female character is named Hope but, I am talking about the feeling not a girl's name. Yes, there is sadness and things happens in the story that made my heart ache for Hope but this story also me rejoice. This story is fiction but I think it is one that could have happened in any neighbor.
The scenes are written so well, that there were two that I was thinking I wish I was watching tv because I would have really liked to see the sari and the wedding dress.
"Discovering Hope" is a story about a friendship that develops into something something more.
The laser tag and snowball fights are fun to read.
This story also shows that is better to live your faith than it is to preach to someone.
I recommend "Discovering Hope" to anyone that likes to read stories with life lessons and has real issues like losing someone and dealing with grief and injury along with fun scenes.
I have quite a few of Chautonia Havig's books and I really know without a doubt that "Discovering Hope" is my favorite of them.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
This story is about Hope, the main female character is named Hope but, I am talking about the feeling not a girl's name. Yes, there is sadness and things happens in the story that made my heart ache for Hope but this story also me rejoice. This story is fiction but I think it is one that could have happened in any neighbor.
The scenes are written so well, that there were two that I was thinking I wish I was watching tv because I would have really liked to see the sari and the wedding dress.
"Discovering Hope" is a story about a friendship that develops into something something more.
The laser tag and snowball fights are fun to read.
This story also shows that is better to live your faith than it is to preach to someone.
I recommend "Discovering Hope" to anyone that likes to read stories with life lessons and has real issues like losing someone and dealing with grief and injury along with fun scenes.
I have quite a few of Chautonia Havig's books and I really know without a doubt that "Discovering Hope" is my favorite of them.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
November 12, 2013
I have yet to be dissapointed with this author! A stand alone part of the Rockland Chronicles, we are let into the life of Hope, and are observers of how she lives her life despite loss and seeming aimlessness. Her faith intrigues her new friend Jay, as his intrigues her. Is faith standing on a streetcorner or "bible thumping" your way through life? Both Hope and her parents have been tested, and along with his boss/ friend Mike, he learns how faith can be the base for an awe-filled life.
This would be a great book for a multi-faithed engaged couple to read during pre-cana classes, as it talks about the basis of foundational friendship through whatever comes.
This would be a great book for a multi-faithed engaged couple to read during pre-cana classes, as it talks about the basis of foundational friendship through whatever comes.
December 27, 2012
I got this as a free download for kindle. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters were complex and likable. I did find that there was a lot of dialogue about religion, so if that's not your thing, you may want to avoid it. However, I thought it was well done and realistic for a seeker (a non-believer who is interested in Christianity) to ask a lot of questions.
December 4, 2012
So this isn't a "must" read or anything, but I felt it deserved 4 stars. I loved that I didn't have to flinch at any words or love scenes. I also loved that I read it around Christmas time to help reel in my focus of the season. So very cute!!
November 11, 2012
OK, this is a cute Christian romance. Not sure what drew me to it, but I'll admit I enjoyed it. However, if not for some very clever dialog involving Jay's Indian parents, I would have found it a bit too slow. Still, a well-written book with some feel-good moments.
December 18, 2012
This was a cute story, and that is always nice to read. Nothing objectionable or particularly deep. Just a story of two people coming together through their growing faith, helping each other through tragedy, and falling in love.
March 31, 2013
This book was a sweet and gentle story about how a friendship turned into love. My only problem with it was that there was not much of a climax to the story. I loved the characters. Overall, this book was good, not great.
April 13, 2013
This is a cute story that had me laughing out loud in parts and tearing up in others. The main character had the death of her brother and mother to cope with and meets a new friend who helps her through the process. An enjoyable read.
August 6, 2016
I loved this book, and look forward to reading more by this author.
That said - I feel like Jay's struggles with Christianity were extremely real, but were never fleshed out as well as they could have been. I would have liked to see more of this path with those issues.
That said - I feel like Jay's struggles with Christianity were extremely real, but were never fleshed out as well as they could have been. I would have liked to see more of this path with those issues.
August 19, 2014
I really loved this book. It was just as good as the first in this series!
This was possibly one of the best salvation message/coming to Christ stories I've read. Discovering Hope was Absolutely excellent, comical, endearing, and completely satisfying. *girly sigh*
This was possibly one of the best salvation message/coming to Christ stories I've read. Discovering Hope was Absolutely excellent, comical, endearing, and completely satisfying. *girly sigh*
September 20, 2012
SOOOOOOOOO cute
September 29, 2012
Really enjoyed this book. Engaging personalities and refreshing to read a book how a young man is so respectful to the young woman.
October 9, 2012
I really loved this story. Kept me interested from beginning to end.
February 26, 2013
I actually liked this book more than I thought I would. I didn't realize the book was about spirituality and it put me off for a bit, but in the end it wasn't too preachy and it was a cute story.
March 14, 2013
Cute! Quick read! Great to read on a flight or over the weekend.
July 10, 2013
parts of it were a bit confusing and rushed but overall a good story with amazing examples that show that christianity isn't a religion, it's a relationship
August 3, 2014
Humerous, easy reading. Good for a holiday! The cultural understanding made for interesting reading.
September 11, 2014
A special relationship. Lots of Bible search for understanding, which was well done. I liked the descriptions of the culture of India.
April 28, 2016
Enjoyable, fairly light.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews