The last thing Lane Bromley wants is to leave his remote mountain cabin. But when his struggling daughter shows up with a grandson he didn’t know he had, Lane’s search for the boy’s father leads him to the other surprise veterinarian Julia Frasier. They can’t seem to agree on anything, but maybe they can find common ground long enough to create a loving environment for their grandchild…and each other.
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Native Texan Myra Johnson writes emotionally gripping stories about love, life, and faith. Myra is a three-time Maggie Awards finalist, two-time finalist for the prestigious ACFW Carol Awards, winner of Christian Retailing’s Best for historical fiction, and winner in the Inspirational category of the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Awards.
After living five years in Oklahoma, then eight years in the beautiful Carolinas, Myra and her husband are thrilled to be back in the Lone Star State enjoying wildflowers, Tex-Mex, and real Texas barbecue! The Johnsons share their home with a very pampered rescue dog and a cat with attitude.
Awards of note: When the Clouds Roll By, Till We Meet Again, Book 1 (Abingdon Press 2013), won the historical fiction category of the 2014 Christian Retailing's Best Award. Autumn Rains (Heartsong Presents 2009), won the 2005 RWA Golden Heart for Best Inspirational Romance Manuscript.
Myra’s writing career was launched in 1985 when she sold her first short story while taking a course through the Institute of Children’s Literature. Myra later joined the ICL staff as a magazine writing instructor, teaching hundreds of students the fundamentals of story and article structure, plotting, character development, and market analysis. She now writes full-time and is active in her church as well as local and national writers groups.
Myra and her husband have been married for 50+ years. The Johnsons have two married daughters, seven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.
Lane Bromley was doing just fine living off the grid in his mountain cabin. His distressed daughter Shannon shows up and she is in a bad way, and leaves her toddler son with him. Lane is instantly attached to baby Tate. He hadn't seen his daughter in quite awhile and is caught by surprise. But he wants her to get the mental health treatment that she needs, and Lane knows that he has to do the best that he can do for Tate. This begins with finding Tate's other family, and that leads him to Julia Frazier, Tate's grandmother. Julie is the town's veterinarian and had no idea that the son she lost, Steven, is the father of the infant.
Lane and Julia find themselves at odds almost from the moment that they meet. For one thing, Lane is very worried about Shannon, and Julia is still saddened by the loss of her son, and is shocked to learn that he had married and had a child. But, putting those worries aside, Julia is not too enamored by the reclusive lifestyle that Lane leads and she wants to be the one who cares for Tate.
Tate and his care comes first to both Lane and Julia, even if they are at odds. However, there is the undeniable fact that sparks are there for the both of them. As this is an inspirational romance, the story was very sweet, with reminders of putting the important matters into the hand of a higher power, something that both Lane and Julia had in common. As delightful as this story was with Lane and Julia as protagonists, baby Tate was utterly adorable. But there was also the loyal and loving rescue dog Rowena. His Unexpected Grandchild was a warm and wonderful story and is definitely deserving of five stars.
Many thanks to Love Inspired and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
An emotional story of family strength and love! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When his estranged daughter arrives at his mountain cabin bringing a surprise grandchild, recluse Lane Bromley does what he can to help his mentality fragile daughter. He embraces the role of caring for his grandson and looks for the toddler’s other relatives. His search brings him to Julia Frazier, a local veterinarian and the child’s grandmother. As the two grandparents work through their disagreements about little Tate’s future, they begin to recognize their attraction to each other. If they can move beyond past grief and guilt, there is the promise of a hopeful future for this middle-aged couple.
With his cute exclamations, precious little Tate immediately claimed a piece of my heart. Then his loyal and protective rescue dog, Rowena, grabbed the remainder. Such sweeties! I definitely enjoyed all the characters. Their reactions and emotions seemed real and understandable considering the situations they faced. I loved the message of strong families and supportive friends doing the right thing by relying on God to conquer uncertainties and fears. Author Myra Johnson is known for skillfully writing emotionally touching stories such as this one. If you like books with lovable children, endearing pets and charming romance, reading His Unexpected Grandchild will leave you with a contented smile and a full heart.
Favorite quotes:
“Maybe people like us need to reach the end of our own strength before we can admit how desperately we need God.”
“God knows we’re helpless, self-centered, mistake-prone human beings, but He loves us anyway. It’s the whole reason He sent us Jesus, so we can quit wallowing in our guilt and start living—really living.”
*I received this book from the author and publisher with no requirement to write a review. This is my honest opinion.
There's well over 2 million grandchildren being raised by their grandparents in the United States, and yet it's not something we see reflected in romance novels very often. This realistic bit of conflict, coupled with the fact that the hero and heroine are older drew me to the story. As an added bonus? The heroine is firmly part of the sandwich generation - trying to keep the family vet practice afloat amid her father's increasing health problems and oh here comes the hero showing up to let her know she's a grandmother when she didn't even know her late son was married.
Unfortunately for all the realistic conflict, the romance is beyond flat. This is an inspirational romance featuring Eunuch Christians. A romance can be just kisses and still have chemistry and tension between the couple and there's none of that here. Suddenly they're developing feelings for each other and falling in love and I can't even begin to tell you how or why. Next thing you know we're at the end of the book and they're setting the land speed record getting married.
A small book with a large message. Can I say I loved everything about it from the compassionate way mental illness is dealt with to journeys back to God and the faith that heals. I found it so believable and the characters were so real that I could identify with them and their struggles. The road to letting go of control and letting God can be difficult but this was heart warming and the lighthearted moments that Tate and the canines brought left me smiling. An all around great read that is quick for a rainy day with your blanket. I enjoyed this so much as it left you with hope. I won a copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
His Unexpected Grandchild is a heartwarming, inspiring story with a beautiful Montana setting. The wonderful cast of characters—including a reclusive hero, an independent but vulnerable heroine, a delightfully intuitive toddler, and a protective furry friend—touched my heart and kept me immersed in the story from beginning to end. The smoothly flowing plot moves at a steady pace with lots of family drama. I thoroughly enjoyed this story of rediscovered faith and learning to trust God for courage to face and overcome life’s difficulties. I highly recommend it as quick, satisfying read. I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The last thing Lane Bromley wants is to leave his remote mountain cabin. But when his struggling daughter shows up with a grandson he didn’t know he had, Lane’s search for the boy’s father leads him to the other surprise grandparent: veterinarian Julia Frasier. They can’t seem to agree on anything, but maybe they can find common ground long enough to create a loving environment for their grandchild…and each other.
Review 3-star I so wanted to give this story a higher rating, but there was a major error at the beginning of the story. At Location 535 23% 2 paragraph 2nd sentence, He and Tate had just finished lunch and then at Location 583 25% 2 Paragraph No sooner had she cleaned up Tate after Lunch… So, I guess Tate had 2 lunches in just a few minutes. This mistake is hard to let go. For the rest of the story, I didn’t find any errors. The story flows and the overall feel is great. Besides that, one big error, the editing of the story is spot on. This so could have been a 5-star book as the story is a page-turner and I read it all in one sitting.
Conclusion: Will I recommend this book to others YES Will I read more books written by this Author Yes
I received this book from NetGalley for my Honest review.
I really enjoyed this story. I thought the way Lane and Julia were portrayed as older, fiercely independent people who had to let go of their need to always be in charge for the sake of their shared grandson was done quite well. I also appreciated the grace with which Tate's mother Shannon's mental health was handled. It was a difficult situation all around. That said, there was joy to be had as well. Not only in both Lane and Julia finding their stride with their grandson, but with the realisation as they spent more time together that a 'forever' kind of love was growing out of their friendship. Perhaps the most beautiful joy though, came as Julia and Lane each found their way back to trust and faith in God, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
His unexpected Grandchild is a very well written inspirational romance. I throughly enjoyed this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
Myra Johnson knocks it out of the park with this later-in-life opposites-attract romance.
Dealing with his adult daughter’s mental illness and adjusting to the life of caregiver for his toddler grandson throws Lane for a loop. He weeds through his daughter’s secretive past to find his grandson’s other grandparent, Julia. Both Lane and Julia work through their differences for the best interest of their grandson.
I loved the way the author slowly built a sweet romance between these two fifty-year-olds while they bonded over caring for their grandson. The author brought so much healing to each person in the story. And the opening—just WOW! I could not put the book down.
Fans of Christian romance, inspirational romance, and clean romance will enjoy this heart-warming story full of love and redemption and a few twists and turns.
Genre: Christian Romance Romance: Squeaky clean. Kissing mentioned in passing. Faith: Both characters start out far from God but through the prayers and support of friends and family through hard times, both return to God and learn to trust Him again.
Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the Harlequin through Net Galley. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed reading this book that involved a grandparent as one of the main characters in the storyline. Throw in a precious little boy and it took it to a whole different level. Such a sweet story with an adorable cover that made me want to pick it up and read it. Glad I did! This book is part of the Harlequin Love Inspired series and is scheduled to be released March 26, 2024.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
His Unexpected Grandchild by Myra Johnson An Uplifting Inspirational Romance This toddler will steal his heart Just in time to open it… The last thing Lane Bromley wants is to leave his remote mountain cabin. But when his struggling daughter shows up with a grandson he didn’t know he had, Lane’s search for the boy’s father leads him to the other surprise grandparent: veterinarian Julia Frasier. They can’t seem to agree on anything, but maybe they can find common ground long enough to create a loving environment for their grandchild…and each other. This is Julia Frasier,Steven, mom and dad's story. This is Lane Bromley,Shannon and Tate's story. Always in the back of her mind was her parents’ impending retirement. They were both in their early seventies now, and over the past few months, Julia had noticed her father’s gradually worsening hand tremors. He’d attempted to hide them from both Julia and her mother, but Julia had grown concerned enough that she’d begun monitoring her father’s appointment schedule and tactfully stepping in for the more delicate procedures. Parked outside the Frasier Veterinary Clinic on the outskirts of Missoula, Montana, he stared through the streaked windshield of his maroon 4x4 truck. He probably should have phoned first to make sure Julia Frasier, DVM, was on duty today. But then he might need to explain why he’d specifically asked for her, and since he hadn’t had a pet since he was a kid... Well, that would get a little complicated. I recommend this book. His Unexpected Grandchild by Myra Johnson is a wonderful well written 5 star book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Myra Johnson. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope. A Steadfast Companion: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (K-9 Companions Book 12)by Myra Johnson The Rebel's Return: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (The Ranchers of Gabriel Bend Book 2) Rancher for the Holidays His Unexpected Grandchild by Myra Johnson
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of love, faith and second chances. Lane Bromley and Julia Frasier are fabulous characters, both have deep seated regrets about their past mistakes with their children, but are brought together by their adorable grandson Tate who steals the show. Julia is battling grief over her son’s death, the discovery of a grandson she had never met and having to realise that she can’t control everything. Lane shut himself off from the world after the tragic death of his wife, he blames himself for his daughter’s mental health issues and is determined to be better for his grandson who needs him. I loved the twists and turns of this highly emotional, engaging story, watching Lane and Julia fall in love while helping each other through some of the worst moments of their lives. I also loved the fact that Lane and Julia are about fifty years old, I love reading about characters who are older than the usual twenties to thirties characters. We all deserve to find love and happiness whatever our age and it’s encouraging to see more characters in their thirties and forties to fifties.
Nice to see some more mature protagonists! Lane is outside of a veterinary office to see the woman who is his surprise grandson's grandmother on the other side. Julia did not know what to make of this man who knew about her dead son. Then he showed her a picture and said this was his new-to-him grandson. His estranged daughter has come home and needed help, so he was caring for the toddler while his daughter got help. And what a cutie, the toddler is! Tate is a major character in this story. Can both Lane and Julia work together to take care of Tate and help Lane's daughter, especially when they don't see eye to eye on many things? Read this to find out!
The pace is leisurely and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has a few kisses only. The characters are vivid and engaging, even the dogs are well drawn and distinct characters. The Christian ideals are a part of the story and move it forward. This is a great story that will pull you in! Enjoy!
An enjoyable and heartwarming fresh twist on the secret baby trope!
When Lane's daughter shows up with the grandson he never knew he had, his is turned upside down as little Tate steals his heart and brings Veterinarian Julia Frasier into his life.
Heartwarming and well written, I loved how this book takes a trope and turns it on its head with more mature romantic leads, and a multigenerational plot. Great relationship building dialogue, strong faith, and a all around great plot.
Such a sweet read, I loved how Tate opened up Lane's life to so many new things, and helped him reconnect with his daughter. Tate is so sweet and his friendship with Rowena is precious!
Overall, a stand out read with excellent characters and handling of the relationships, with great interaction, strong faith, and themes of family. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Two fifty-somethings, Lane and Julia, are drawn together by a shared grandchild they had not known existed. Each has become closed off to love from past experiences. They have to find a way to work together to provide stability for the little boy while his mother, Lane's daughter, receives treatment.
This book covers all the changing feelings these two undergo as they love and care for their grandson. Their hearts begin to open and they each find their way back to faith in God.
Myra Johnson is an excellent storyteller. Reading this story is like experiencing everything yourself. I strongly recommend reading His Unexpected Grandchild. I was totally immersed in the story and think you will love it too.
There are two things certain about life: everyone suffers heartbreak, but we also all encounter unexpected joys. In Myra Johnson’s latest novel, His Unexpected Grandchild, Lane Bromley has isolated himself because of the tragic death of his wife. Unfortunately, his isolation has led to estrangement from the daughter he loves. And then she comes home with a son Lane doesn’t know exists. His grandson becomes the center of new connections between Lane’s daughter, veterinarian Dr. Julia Frasier, and a renewed faith in God that encourages reconciliation.
Johnson’s new book illustrates, through an inspiring story well-told, that our lives are a mix of heartbreak and joy. While we may prefer one over the other, accepting both with grace is the sign of a life fully lived.
What a sweet story! Myra Johnson wrote the perfect dialogue for little Tate! He made the story! Ms Johnson has a well written story with good characters, good storyline, and a satisfying ending, but oh the feels it takes to get there! Lane Bromley lives in the mountains “off the grid.” His daughter in the throes of a breakdown from the death of her husband. She leaves her young son, Tate with her dad as she goes thru treatment. Lane didn’t even know he had a grandson. In finding out there is another grandparent, he discovers that veterinarian Julia Frazier is the “Grammy.” They have some rough patches as they navigate their grand parenting skills. This story had laugh out loud moments and a few tearful moments too.
A sweet story with two strong-willed professionals who don’t know how to deal with their own emotions, much less with anyone else’s. They both love Tate and want the best for him, but each wants to fill the hole in their own heart, too. Myra Johnson writes a colorful story, with beautifully developed characters and just the right amount of description of setting and everyday life. The story touches on deep emotion, some that you might recognize in your own life. The surprise guest, Roweena, will make you wish she belonged to you.
I loved this story. I know grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. This book clearly brings out both the blessings and challenges of parenting one's children's children when, for whatever reasons, they can't raise their children themselves. I especially loved the realistic role assigned to the rescue dog. Though it has the happy ending I anticipated, there were several twists and turns I did not see coming. Johnson does a masterful job of telling an inspiring story of love, loss, loyalty, and perseverance.
I have to say, I really enjoyed reading HIs Unexpected Grandchild. I liked that the main characters were middle-aged. Nice change from the younger aged characters in most books. I also enjoyed the Christian romance aspect. Definitely a sweet, sweet story! Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. #shortbookthyme @shortbookthyme
What happens when Mr. Stubborn, Grumpy and Ms. Bossy, Control-Freak have to work together for the sake of an adorable little boy? What could possibly go wrong? More importantly, what could possibly go right? Read this fun and entertaining story of love, faith, and second chances, and you'll find out which way it all turns out.
A sweet Christian romance. Past heart-breaking losses and some surprises unite a couple who have recently discovered they share a grandchild. The child is adorable and there is a dog or three to add to the fun. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
I enjoyed this sweet little love story. It is your typical Love Inspired book, with a little extra added family drama. Not a young couple in this one, but middle-aged. It was sweet. Thanks netgalley & Harlequin for a copy. All reviews are my own.
Relatable characters--relatable inner dialog showing the relatable inner fears, and the slow recognition by each character of their own less than perfect reasoning--all help to make turning to God, the next necessary and best step. Enjoyed this book.
What an amazing later in life love story, but first came a lot of walls to break down and healing. Learning to heal from grief from loved ones and putting their trust in God can they live a happily ever after.
Beautifully written. I loved that the main characters were a bit older, but quite full of life. The book addresses real problems most face in very authentic ways which most authors don’t. Makes this Texas girl ready to book a vacation to a mountain cabin in Montana!