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Christiansen Family #2
It Had to Be You
Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen’s cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits—and starting to fear she doesn’t have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior—on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he’s getting from Eden Christiansen isn’t making things any easier. But when Owen’s carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.
481 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
416 people are currently reading
2657 people want to read
About the author
Susan May Warren
213 books3,626 followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 399 reviews
May 22, 2021
Characters: Susan May Warren is great at creating characters I care about. Both Jace and Eden had flaws, doubts, fears, and all that fun stuff. But they both grew throughout the book and came to depend more on God.
Language: Clean.
Moral: One of the major themes was trusting God to take care of the people you love. This was shown in Eden's life as she tried to "save" her brother and eventually realized she couldn't. It was also illustrated in the lives of other characters, but you'll have to read the book. :)
Plot: Yep, here I am reading another contemporary romance... :) Once again, the plot moved enough to make me want to keep reading. I got a little frustrated when Jace and Eden had their "big misunderstand." But they got over it relatively quickly. I also thought the ending wrapped up a little too nicely, but that's me being a super picky reader.
Random comments: I wasn't crazy about a Christian side character owning a bar (yes, it was a bar and grill, but still...) I also didn't like how one sentence seemed to imply you could lose your salvation (that you could quit holding onto God's hand, and you'd be alone). Nope, God's grip is way too strong for that kind of nonsense (John 10:28-29).
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. A couple kisses were a little more described than I would've like, though. Yes, I am a picky reader. :)
Writing: I love Susan May Warren's writing style. It flows really well and fits her stories perfectly.
Overall: I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of Christian fiction and contemporary romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Language: Clean.
Moral: One of the major themes was trusting God to take care of the people you love. This was shown in Eden's life as she tried to "save" her brother and eventually realized she couldn't. It was also illustrated in the lives of other characters, but you'll have to read the book. :)
Plot: Yep, here I am reading another contemporary romance... :) Once again, the plot moved enough to make me want to keep reading. I got a little frustrated when Jace and Eden had their "big misunderstand." But they got over it relatively quickly. I also thought the ending wrapped up a little too nicely, but that's me being a super picky reader.
Random comments: I wasn't crazy about a Christian side character owning a bar (yes, it was a bar and grill, but still...) I also didn't like how one sentence seemed to imply you could lose your salvation (that you could quit holding onto God's hand, and you'd be alone). Nope, God's grip is way too strong for that kind of nonsense (John 10:28-29).
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. A couple kisses were a little more described than I would've like, though. Yes, I am a picky reader. :)
Writing: I love Susan May Warren's writing style. It flows really well and fits her stories perfectly.
Overall: I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers of Christian fiction and contemporary romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
September 12, 2019
*Updated review for audio version - Wow! I am reminded again why this is one of my favorite books ever. I think I read this book about once a year. This time I listened to the audio through Audible Escape and the narration was very well done. There were two instances where the narrator read the Bible reference strangely, saying "One John" instead of "First John" and that caught my attention, but it was a very small thing. She did a good job with voices and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story.*
I am absolutely loving this series about the Christiansen family! It Had to Be You is a wonderful addition and I just could not put this book down once I started reading it! The author did such a great job creating characters that are flawed, yet likeable. And the setting she chose, the hockey world, is exciting and dangerous at the same time.
Eden and Jace don’t seem to be a match at first. One of the great things about this book is that the main characters must learn to look deep inside themselves and others to discern who they are. Eden has some very strong opinions about Jace that are based partly on media hype and partly on the man he used to be before finding Christ. I loved seeing him through her eyes, while also knowing where he was coming from. And Jace has some opinions about his team member’s older sister, as well. I enjoyed watching Eden and Jace discover that their assumptions about the other were not accurate. Seeing their relationship develop and weather some rocky storms was just so captivating.
Jace has a lot of baggage that he is continually trying to work through. Even though he is a major hockey star, he feels that he has failed in many ways and is really not happy with his “bad boy” image. I loved the look into the hockey world and even though I haven’t ever been a follower of hockey, I was totally wrapped up in this book! The author did a great job explaining the world of hockey and making it exciting for the reader.
Owen, Eden’s brother, has a lot to deal with in this book. His story that is evolving as he tries to find his way will surely be a moving one to read about in a future book. I also loved reading about Sam and his little girl, Maddie. There is just so much to this story and it is all fantastic.
Included at the end of the book is the free novella titled I Really Do Miss Your Smile. It is the story of the patriarchs of the Christiansen family. It’s the story of how Ingrid and John met and eventually found a life together. And even though it is only a novella, it is packed with a powerful love story. I have loved each book of this series so far, and I am really looking forward to the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
To read this review on my blog and enter Susan May Warren's $100 Visa Cash Card giveaway, go to:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
I am absolutely loving this series about the Christiansen family! It Had to Be You is a wonderful addition and I just could not put this book down once I started reading it! The author did such a great job creating characters that are flawed, yet likeable. And the setting she chose, the hockey world, is exciting and dangerous at the same time.
Eden and Jace don’t seem to be a match at first. One of the great things about this book is that the main characters must learn to look deep inside themselves and others to discern who they are. Eden has some very strong opinions about Jace that are based partly on media hype and partly on the man he used to be before finding Christ. I loved seeing him through her eyes, while also knowing where he was coming from. And Jace has some opinions about his team member’s older sister, as well. I enjoyed watching Eden and Jace discover that their assumptions about the other were not accurate. Seeing their relationship develop and weather some rocky storms was just so captivating.
Jace has a lot of baggage that he is continually trying to work through. Even though he is a major hockey star, he feels that he has failed in many ways and is really not happy with his “bad boy” image. I loved the look into the hockey world and even though I haven’t ever been a follower of hockey, I was totally wrapped up in this book! The author did a great job explaining the world of hockey and making it exciting for the reader.
Owen, Eden’s brother, has a lot to deal with in this book. His story that is evolving as he tries to find his way will surely be a moving one to read about in a future book. I also loved reading about Sam and his little girl, Maddie. There is just so much to this story and it is all fantastic.
Included at the end of the book is the free novella titled I Really Do Miss Your Smile. It is the story of the patriarchs of the Christiansen family. It’s the story of how Ingrid and John met and eventually found a life together. And even though it is only a novella, it is packed with a powerful love story. I have loved each book of this series so far, and I am really looking forward to the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
To read this review on my blog and enter Susan May Warren's $100 Visa Cash Card giveaway, go to:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
August 12, 2015
This book... wow. It is now on my favorites list.
I loved the characters, I loved the story, I loved the way Susan May Warren told the story. Really, I can't think of anything that I didn't like about this book. It made me laugh and it made me cry. It really is a great read -- even better than book 1 -- and I highly recommend it!
I loved the characters, I loved the story, I loved the way Susan May Warren told the story. Really, I can't think of anything that I didn't like about this book. It made me laugh and it made me cry. It really is a great read -- even better than book 1 -- and I highly recommend it!
December 30, 2015
This was my first book by Susan May Warren, and it was amazing! I loved it so much. It was a quick read. I loved the main characters and how they progressed throughout the book. I will definitely be reading more of her books in the future.
February 14, 2022
I got so much whiplash from this book with all the back and forth between Eden and Jace. To be honest, I didn't get Eden at all. Her personality and motivations were abnormal for the genre, I've never read another character just like her (or met one) and had the hardest time understanding her. Someone would say something and Eden's reaction to it would just be so far off the deep end, I never knew how she reached her assumptions out of what was said. I also felt like she flip flopped a lot, maybe because what she said she wanted and what she really wanted were kind of opposites so I was like "does she, doesn't she?" the whole book.
But that doesn't mean the author didn't write a realistic character, just because I've never encountered this person. I've only experienced a narrow slice of life, after all.
I liked that Jace wasn't really your normal Christian fiction hero either, he and Eden were definitely not cookie cutter characters. Original is good. However, i was shocked when (small spoiler) he admitted he was a Christian, because I had NO IDEA and we were far enough in the book, I should have been able to pick up on it by then. If your life isn't showing your faith clear enough for people to see it, take a step back and think about that. I had trouble buying their chemistry too, maybe because I just didn't get Eden enough to do so.
So another thing that threw me is that there was a ton of back matter in the Kindle version of this book, so it actually ended at 75% of the Kindle book. Now normally in a book, the crap hits the fan at 75% so I'm reading the book with a certain expectation that the genre sets up, and then the book just ended! So I want to encourage authors to really think about the AMOUNT of stuff they pack at the end of a Kindle book, because it affects how the reader takes in the story.
So those two things really threw me off overall. With that said, I liked a lot of the plot points and messages of the story (it did get preachy. Really very preachy, actually) and I'll definitely keep reading the series. My overall takeaway is that this book was different, I never knew where it was going to go, and that's not all a bad thing.
But that doesn't mean the author didn't write a realistic character, just because I've never encountered this person. I've only experienced a narrow slice of life, after all.
I liked that Jace wasn't really your normal Christian fiction hero either, he and Eden were definitely not cookie cutter characters. Original is good. However, i was shocked when (small spoiler) he admitted he was a Christian, because I had NO IDEA and we were far enough in the book, I should have been able to pick up on it by then. If your life isn't showing your faith clear enough for people to see it, take a step back and think about that. I had trouble buying their chemistry too, maybe because I just didn't get Eden enough to do so.
So another thing that threw me is that there was a ton of back matter in the Kindle version of this book, so it actually ended at 75% of the Kindle book. Now normally in a book, the crap hits the fan at 75% so I'm reading the book with a certain expectation that the genre sets up, and then the book just ended! So I want to encourage authors to really think about the AMOUNT of stuff they pack at the end of a Kindle book, because it affects how the reader takes in the story.
So those two things really threw me off overall. With that said, I liked a lot of the plot points and messages of the story (it did get preachy. Really very preachy, actually) and I'll definitely keep reading the series. My overall takeaway is that this book was different, I never knew where it was going to go, and that's not all a bad thing.
October 29, 2019
DNF
I dont have anything against Christian believe, but reading this book lost my interest. And it is a super long book.
I give up. The writing is dragging. The characters take forever to connect. When they do connect,i can not feel their chemistry.
2 stars
I dont have anything against Christian believe, but reading this book lost my interest. And it is a super long book.
I give up. The writing is dragging. The characters take forever to connect. When they do connect,i can not feel their chemistry.
2 stars
January 12, 2014
I am blown away by how amazing this book was! I took a chance on Susan by reading the first in this series, Take a Chance on Me, and she did even more of an astounding job with the second in this series, It Had to be You!
When Eden was first introduced in the last book, I easily related to her in many ways and hearing more of her story I felt we could be best friends! It didn't matter if Eden was telling a story of how amazing a person was about their life or struggling with what her purpose was (since she feels she does not have a gift like her siblings)! Not only did Eden grip my heart, but Jace as well! He had one of the most unexpected personalities and story that I have read about concerning the main male character! I truly loved how Susan dove into his life and gave the reader a huge glimpse of all the pain that was there as well as his relationship with God! She really did give a powerful reminder to never judge anyone based on outward appearances and rumors because you never know what wonderful person you will find underneath!
It Had to be You really wasn't a light story. I had to put the book down a few times because it was so raw and heart-wrenching (how Susan could write some of the scenes is beyond me because it left me tearing up many times!), but yet Susan showed that the the presence of God was always reaching down to these characters. It didn't matter if they had doubt, felt unloved, or felt they could never be part of God's family due to their actions, she showed that God never left any of these characters alone in their hardships! This is just one small part of the awesome message that Susan delivers throughout because there were many more that touched and amazed me!
I'm so glad it had to be me in having an opportunity to read this latest by Susan May Warren because it does not disappoint! You might cry a few tears and have some good laughs along the way, but you will definitely turn the last page feeling encouraged! I don't think anyone can leave from this novel not knowing God is always with them, through the joys and trials, and has an amazing purpose for their life! (Also I want to mention that their is a prequel included, but I haven't read it yet since I'm still basking in Eden and Jace's powerful story of grace and redemption!)
I give It Had to be You a 5 out of 5 stars (it definitely is going to be in my top ten novels of 2014)!
(I received this novel for free from the publisher Tyndale in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review! Thank you so much Tyndale!)
When Eden was first introduced in the last book, I easily related to her in many ways and hearing more of her story I felt we could be best friends! It didn't matter if Eden was telling a story of how amazing a person was about their life or struggling with what her purpose was (since she feels she does not have a gift like her siblings)! Not only did Eden grip my heart, but Jace as well! He had one of the most unexpected personalities and story that I have read about concerning the main male character! I truly loved how Susan dove into his life and gave the reader a huge glimpse of all the pain that was there as well as his relationship with God! She really did give a powerful reminder to never judge anyone based on outward appearances and rumors because you never know what wonderful person you will find underneath!
It Had to be You really wasn't a light story. I had to put the book down a few times because it was so raw and heart-wrenching (how Susan could write some of the scenes is beyond me because it left me tearing up many times!), but yet Susan showed that the the presence of God was always reaching down to these characters. It didn't matter if they had doubt, felt unloved, or felt they could never be part of God's family due to their actions, she showed that God never left any of these characters alone in their hardships! This is just one small part of the awesome message that Susan delivers throughout because there were many more that touched and amazed me!
I'm so glad it had to be me in having an opportunity to read this latest by Susan May Warren because it does not disappoint! You might cry a few tears and have some good laughs along the way, but you will definitely turn the last page feeling encouraged! I don't think anyone can leave from this novel not knowing God is always with them, through the joys and trials, and has an amazing purpose for their life! (Also I want to mention that their is a prequel included, but I haven't read it yet since I'm still basking in Eden and Jace's powerful story of grace and redemption!)
I give It Had to be You a 5 out of 5 stars (it definitely is going to be in my top ten novels of 2014)!
(I received this novel for free from the publisher Tyndale in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review! Thank you so much Tyndale!)
May 28, 2020
Two entirely different Susan May Warren books in just a few days. One I could barely wait to finish, and one I didn’t want to be finished with. This is that book. I loved it, and I'm not the biggest fan of contemporary Christian romances.
Eden was an obit writer, feeling like she's wasting her life until she could finally get a real reporter position. The majority of her life was sidelined by taking care of her brother, the up and coming hockey star, Owen Christiansen, plus encouraging every member of her large Minnesotan family. In her thinking, she was a nobody compared to the others.
Jace Jacobsen was the team captain and to Eden, he was not doing his job watching out for the new recruits who were getting drunk and doing stupid things. She considered him the team troublemaker. Well, she was about to get an up close and personal view of this man as her brother was hospitalized after a fight and accident. Getting to know the real Jace was an eye opener.
What I really liked about this book compared to the previous book by this author was that It Had to be You had real faith conversations, real issues where God took center stage, real faith struggles, and real biblical wisdom from real Christian family members. At one point Owen was struggling with the severity of his eye injury, facing being cut from the team. He exploded in anger in the hospital room. His father gently gave him some profound advice about his suffering.
..."He [God] doesn’t stop it. And if He has the power to stop it, then you could say that He let it happen. So the question we have to ask is, if God is love and God says yes to suffering, how do those two fit together? ...We expect God’s love to be all nice and neatly packaged. But He’ll do what He has to in order to draw us to that place where we need him. Know him. Are overwhelmed by His love for us....Satan‘s plan for our suffering is the destruction of our faith. God's plan is for life. For love. You need to make a choice, Owen. Are you going to pray and lean into God? Or are you going to let this take you apart?"
I’m not a hockey fan, not much of a sport fan overall, but this book was more relational than detailed about the sport. Great character development and family dynamics.
I really liked this book.
Eden was an obit writer, feeling like she's wasting her life until she could finally get a real reporter position. The majority of her life was sidelined by taking care of her brother, the up and coming hockey star, Owen Christiansen, plus encouraging every member of her large Minnesotan family. In her thinking, she was a nobody compared to the others.
Jace Jacobsen was the team captain and to Eden, he was not doing his job watching out for the new recruits who were getting drunk and doing stupid things. She considered him the team troublemaker. Well, she was about to get an up close and personal view of this man as her brother was hospitalized after a fight and accident. Getting to know the real Jace was an eye opener.
What I really liked about this book compared to the previous book by this author was that It Had to be You had real faith conversations, real issues where God took center stage, real faith struggles, and real biblical wisdom from real Christian family members. At one point Owen was struggling with the severity of his eye injury, facing being cut from the team. He exploded in anger in the hospital room. His father gently gave him some profound advice about his suffering.
..."He [God] doesn’t stop it. And if He has the power to stop it, then you could say that He let it happen. So the question we have to ask is, if God is love and God says yes to suffering, how do those two fit together? ...We expect God’s love to be all nice and neatly packaged. But He’ll do what He has to in order to draw us to that place where we need him. Know him. Are overwhelmed by His love for us....Satan‘s plan for our suffering is the destruction of our faith. God's plan is for life. For love. You need to make a choice, Owen. Are you going to pray and lean into God? Or are you going to let this take you apart?"
I’m not a hockey fan, not much of a sport fan overall, but this book was more relational than detailed about the sport. Great character development and family dynamics.
I really liked this book.
March 20, 2014
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R154P1TA...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Is this book really over?? *sighs* It Had to Be You
is the second book in the Christiansen Family series and one that I truly savored. Before starting it, I could not wait to begin the journey through it and, once I did, I did not want the story to end. I ended up having to set the book aside for other review books, but I kept anticipating the time when I could pick it back up and read more.
I loved this book so much! Maybe it's because I'm a huge hockey fan and loved how hockey played a very big role in the story (I mean, the main character is a HOCKEY PLAYER!), but just thinking about this story makes me smile. The characters and overall story were just so good! I got annoyed with Owen when he treated Eden like a maid/servant and didn't seem to appreciate all the things she did for him. There were also some sad moments when you couldn't help but feel for the characters.
I was already familiar with the Christiansen family from reading Take A Chance On Me (book one) and the prequel novella, so it was great to get this view of Eden's life. While the majority of It Had to Be You took place in the city, not Deep Haven like the last book, I enjoyed the setting.
I could go on about the things I loved about this book (like the story of grace, the ending, etc.), but I'll stop. Suffice it to say, another fantastic contemporary read from Susan May Warren. I can't wait to read the next Christiansen's novel, When I Fall In Love (set to release July 1st, 2014). I recommend It Had to Be You to fans of contemporary romance novels. It's not a fluffy read, as there are several deep moments in the novel. I loved it!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
Is this book really over?? *sighs* It Had to Be You
is the second book in the Christiansen Family series and one that I truly savored. Before starting it, I could not wait to begin the journey through it and, once I did, I did not want the story to end. I ended up having to set the book aside for other review books, but I kept anticipating the time when I could pick it back up and read more.I loved this book so much! Maybe it's because I'm a huge hockey fan and loved how hockey played a very big role in the story (I mean, the main character is a HOCKEY PLAYER!), but just thinking about this story makes me smile. The characters and overall story were just so good! I got annoyed with Owen when he treated Eden like a maid/servant and didn't seem to appreciate all the things she did for him. There were also some sad moments when you couldn't help but feel for the characters.
I was already familiar with the Christiansen family from reading Take A Chance On Me (book one) and the prequel novella, so it was great to get this view of Eden's life. While the majority of It Had to Be You took place in the city, not Deep Haven like the last book, I enjoyed the setting.
I could go on about the things I loved about this book (like the story of grace, the ending, etc.), but I'll stop. Suffice it to say, another fantastic contemporary read from Susan May Warren. I can't wait to read the next Christiansen's novel, When I Fall In Love (set to release July 1st, 2014). I recommend It Had to Be You to fans of contemporary romance novels. It's not a fluffy read, as there are several deep moments in the novel. I loved it!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
May 17, 2016
This book was just wonderful! This story moved me. Susan May Warren overall wrote a beautiful story. I love it's not just your typical opposites attract love story, it was just so much more. Eden Christiansen was so kind and she had a beautiful ability of seeing the best in others, even though she struggled to see those good qualities in herself. What I really took away from this book is the impact of loving others. Also trusting God's leading in our lives. Because His plans are so much better than ours. We just have to let go. I just loved the whole Christiansen family! I'm looking forward to reading about the other ssiblings.
May 3, 2016
I'm so glad I picked up the Christiansen Family Series. Susan May Warren is an amazing writer. It takes skill to pack such emotionally charged characters into a story that is compelling and interesting. It Had to be You makes you examine your own life and the relationships in it. I was invested in Eden's story from page one, and couldn't wait to see how it would end. Read my full review: http://faithlovebooks.blogspot.com/20...
January 7, 2020
PopSugar Reading Challenge: A book by an author who has written more than 20 books.
I've really enjoyed getting to know the Christiansen family and can't wait to read about the rest of them. I found this book heartwarming, funny, emotional, and just all-around enjoyable. I'm not giving it 5 stars because it didn't overwhelm me, and I felt at times something was missing within the writing, like parts of the story.
Jace and Eden were the main characters of the book but you also get to know more about the Christiansen family throughout the story as well. I loved the bible verses implemented within the story and the love of God that the family shared.
Jace and Eden kinda gave me whiplash with the back and forth insecurities they had about themselves and each other. I wanted to shake them both at one time or another and tell them to get their act together. It seemed drawn out.
I don't know much about Ice Hockey so reading about it has been interesting. It makes me want to watch some YouTube videos on it...lol.
Rating: PG (mild violence, some romantic contact)
Language: no profanity or use of deity in a negative way
Recommend: Absolutely!
I've really enjoyed getting to know the Christiansen family and can't wait to read about the rest of them. I found this book heartwarming, funny, emotional, and just all-around enjoyable. I'm not giving it 5 stars because it didn't overwhelm me, and I felt at times something was missing within the writing, like parts of the story.
Jace and Eden were the main characters of the book but you also get to know more about the Christiansen family throughout the story as well. I loved the bible verses implemented within the story and the love of God that the family shared.
Jace and Eden kinda gave me whiplash with the back and forth insecurities they had about themselves and each other. I wanted to shake them both at one time or another and tell them to get their act together. It seemed drawn out.
I don't know much about Ice Hockey so reading about it has been interesting. It makes me want to watch some YouTube videos on it...lol.
Rating: PG (mild violence, some romantic contact)
Language: no profanity or use of deity in a negative way
Recommend: Absolutely!
April 2, 2020
Eden is the over protective sister to her hocky all star brother, Owen. Owen is a helpless sap that only cares about hocky, his career and life are in trouble and when Eden trys to help he pushes her away.
Only after an accident that causes Owen to lose his sight in one eye does Eden finally listen when Owen pushes her away. He pushes her right towards his teammate Jace.
We get to see Jaces soft side when he helps his friends Sam with Sams daughter Maddys medical issues not just the hocky star and screw up the world makes him out to be.
I really really enjoyed this one I didn’t really know all that much about hockey before this book and I feel like having a book that’s not revolving around football is just such a breath of fresh air. One because I don’t like football and two because hockey is interesting it is violent but it’s interesting.
I also think that my two favorite fictional families are the Christiansens and the Baxters (by Karen Kingsbury) and I think they need to do a crossover. Can we do that in books? Fictional crossover. They do it in TV shows all the time and they are always wonderful so why not have my two favorite Christian authors come together and put the families I love in one story! Someone help me make this happen!!
Only after an accident that causes Owen to lose his sight in one eye does Eden finally listen when Owen pushes her away. He pushes her right towards his teammate Jace.
We get to see Jaces soft side when he helps his friends Sam with Sams daughter Maddys medical issues not just the hocky star and screw up the world makes him out to be.
I really really enjoyed this one I didn’t really know all that much about hockey before this book and I feel like having a book that’s not revolving around football is just such a breath of fresh air. One because I don’t like football and two because hockey is interesting it is violent but it’s interesting.
I also think that my two favorite fictional families are the Christiansens and the Baxters (by Karen Kingsbury) and I think they need to do a crossover. Can we do that in books? Fictional crossover. They do it in TV shows all the time and they are always wonderful so why not have my two favorite Christian authors come together and put the families I love in one story! Someone help me make this happen!!
December 31, 2021
I don't think I have ever related to a character so much as I have with Eden Christiansen in It Had To Be You... the prologue had me crying almost instantly, and I felt as though it had been written for me. The story through these pages touched me more than I've ever realized and noticed with other books and will remain one of my most favourite reads... this one might even be my most favourite for the year or 2021!
February 2, 2023
This is the second book in the Christiansen family series and I absolutely loved it. It follows one of the daughters in the family and her younger brother as they live away from home while he pursues his new hockey career and she continues her career in the obits department! I really enjoyed the hockey aspect of this story and all the “behind the scenes” we get with what it could be like for an NFL player in real life. The characters stories kept me interested and wanting more!
Eden, the main female character was so relatable and I found myself connecting with her deeply in so many ways! I loved the “love” story in this book a lot but there were a couple times that I thought the couple would jump to conclusions too quickly but other than that it was swoony and I loved how it all played out.
The side characters stories were also very touching and it really displayed the faith aspect strongly! It makes me so excited to continue the series for the rest of the Christiansen kids.
Eden, the main female character was so relatable and I found myself connecting with her deeply in so many ways! I loved the “love” story in this book a lot but there were a couple times that I thought the couple would jump to conclusions too quickly but other than that it was swoony and I loved how it all played out.
The side characters stories were also very touching and it really displayed the faith aspect strongly! It makes me so excited to continue the series for the rest of the Christiansen kids.
June 14, 2022
a heartbreaking yet touching book again to do with accepting oneself and putting trust in God
May 19, 2023
I really love the spiritual truths and just the whole spiritual element that Susan May Warren includes in her stories. This book was very good. I could really relate to Eden’s character. I loved Jace’s personality and the way their love story evolved. I wish there was a little more communication at the end between Eden and Jace. Jace never explained why he acted so harshly towards her and she just accepted his apology. That really left me wanting more. Overall, a very powerful and emotional story, sometimes heavy … but worth the read.
March 26, 2019
#2 Christiansen Family
Oh Wow! Definitely a favourite!
Another lovely and touching story of redeeming love, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
The John Doe storyline was so touching (I'm so glad Eden didn't give up on him!) and little Maddy ~ what a sweetheart! As for Eden and Jace, watching their story unfold was wonderful. I was sad to see this story end.
(Seems strange to me that a Christian would own a bar, especially considering what the Bible has to say about drunkenness, but that was my only complaint about the story.)
Favourite quotes:
“There’s always light, Jace. God’s love is too bright for the darkness to win.” ~ Eden Christiansen
But you don’t have to change the world to earn the applause of heaven. ~ Ingrid Christiansen
“We expect God’s love to be all nice and neatly packaged. But He’ll do what He has to in order to draw us to that place where we need Him. Know Him. Are overwhelmed by His love for us.”
“Satan’s plan for our suffering is the destruction of our faith. God’s plan is for life. For love. You need to make a choice, Owen. Are you going to pray and lean into God? Or are you going to let this take you apart?” ~ John Christiansen
“God’s only concern is what you do with the life you’ve been given.”
“Do you ever feel like you don’t really belong in the Kingdom of God? Like you’re loved but not liked? Saved but not favored?” ~ Jace Jacobsen
“Yeah. When life seems to go south, we feel like God doesn’t love us. But I keep going back to something my dad said to Owen. Maybe we have to start redefining how we understand God’s love. And start hoping. My dad says that hope is one part confidence in God’s love for us and one part our delight in Jesus. And that when we start to hope, it changes us, sets us apart. Makes us see life more clearly.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“We look at our own problems, and we say . . . why? Maybe we should look at our blessings and ask the same thing.” ~ John Christiansen
“Why don’t you let me make up my own mind?” ~ Jace Jacobsen
“There’s always light, Jace. God’s love is too bright for the darkness to win.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“But I had to let him walk alone so he’d stop leaning on me and start leaning on God.” ~ Olivia Peterson
...hope is one part confidence in God’s love for us and one part our delight in Jesus. And that when we start to hope, it changes us. Maybe that’s what it meant to have singleness of heart. To trust in God’s love, to not be divided in that belief by your own fears, failures, doubts.
That’s what grace was. The chance to start over, to be used for glory instead of destruction.
“I thought I was supposed to be more. But then I realized God had already put me where I could shine.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“Isn’t it interesting that, against the darkness, God provided light for us to find our way home?”
I'm loving this series so far!
Christiansen Family
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Oh Wow! Definitely a favourite!
Another lovely and touching story of redeeming love, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
The John Doe storyline was so touching (I'm so glad Eden didn't give up on him!) and little Maddy ~ what a sweetheart! As for Eden and Jace, watching their story unfold was wonderful. I was sad to see this story end.
(Seems strange to me that a Christian would own a bar, especially considering what the Bible has to say about drunkenness, but that was my only complaint about the story.)
Favourite quotes:
“There’s always light, Jace. God’s love is too bright for the darkness to win.” ~ Eden Christiansen
But you don’t have to change the world to earn the applause of heaven. ~ Ingrid Christiansen
“We expect God’s love to be all nice and neatly packaged. But He’ll do what He has to in order to draw us to that place where we need Him. Know Him. Are overwhelmed by His love for us.”
“Satan’s plan for our suffering is the destruction of our faith. God’s plan is for life. For love. You need to make a choice, Owen. Are you going to pray and lean into God? Or are you going to let this take you apart?” ~ John Christiansen
“God’s only concern is what you do with the life you’ve been given.”
“Do you ever feel like you don’t really belong in the Kingdom of God? Like you’re loved but not liked? Saved but not favored?” ~ Jace Jacobsen
“Yeah. When life seems to go south, we feel like God doesn’t love us. But I keep going back to something my dad said to Owen. Maybe we have to start redefining how we understand God’s love. And start hoping. My dad says that hope is one part confidence in God’s love for us and one part our delight in Jesus. And that when we start to hope, it changes us, sets us apart. Makes us see life more clearly.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“We look at our own problems, and we say . . . why? Maybe we should look at our blessings and ask the same thing.” ~ John Christiansen
“Why don’t you let me make up my own mind?” ~ Jace Jacobsen
“There’s always light, Jace. God’s love is too bright for the darkness to win.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“But I had to let him walk alone so he’d stop leaning on me and start leaning on God.” ~ Olivia Peterson
...hope is one part confidence in God’s love for us and one part our delight in Jesus. And that when we start to hope, it changes us. Maybe that’s what it meant to have singleness of heart. To trust in God’s love, to not be divided in that belief by your own fears, failures, doubts.
That’s what grace was. The chance to start over, to be used for glory instead of destruction.
“I thought I was supposed to be more. But then I realized God had already put me where I could shine.” ~ Eden Christiansen
“Isn’t it interesting that, against the darkness, God provided light for us to find our way home?”
I'm loving this series so far!
Christiansen Family
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April 1, 2014
You can see my original tour stop post here.
4.5 stars
I have enjoyed most of Susan May Warren's books and have been meaning to read this series since the first book, Take a Chance on Me, came out last year. I'm definitely going back to read the first book now because I really enjoyed It Had to be You!!
For one thing, Susan just always does a great job of pulling me into her books from the start. Normally there's some friction between the heroine and hero and this book definitely held to that. I also enjoyed reading about Jace, a professional hockey player, renegade bad boy, and definitely swoon worthy. I tend to be a succor for chiseled athletes, especially when they are gentlemen and are hiding some vulnerabilities. Eden annoyed me in the beginning because I could see how much of her life she was giving to her brother and was almost obsessed with it. However, she mellows out and I could see her kind of come into her own as the story progressed. These characters were a perfect match. Then you have these great supporting characters, such as other hockey players, the John Doe, Sam and his daughter, Eden's co-worker and boss, and the Christiansen clan that really filled in all the spaces. I loved how instantly I felt I knew the characters and connected with them.
The pacing and the writing style were both perfect. I basically just ate the book up! There was enough tension, depth, and romance balanced with some humor and heartbreak. Yes, there was heartbreak. I teared up pretty good in a few spots. Moving on to the happier parts...the romance was really sweet and I loved how the author let the tension between the two MC's grow. Too much is really too much and because everything was balanced so well I was fully invested in each moment. The third POV with Sam did throw me just a little and his portions were the most heartbreaking for me, but I definitely was routing for him and his daughter.
The Christian aspect of the story is fairly strong, but not too preachy. It's more just the characters dealing with what they are facing and they're facing some pretty serious stuff. The inspiration comes through Eden's dad's and others' counsel as to reaching out and trusting in God and making that choice. Some of the inspirational moments touched me as well.
Will I be reading the next book in this series? Definintely. In fact I am dying to pick it up. Right. Now. It was such an inspirational romantic book that left me feeling happy and content (except for needing the next book!!!) I would recommend It Had to be You to those who enjoy Christian Romance or just general Romance and wouldn't mind the inspirational moments.
There is also a prequel to the series, I Really Do Miss Your Smile, that's a little over 60 pages that is also included. It's the back-story for Eden's parents. I really loved it as well!! It was a great novella and definitely worth the read!
Content: Clean
Source: I want to thank LitFuse Publicity Group and the publisher, Tyndale House Publishers, for my free review copy, which did not affect my opinion in any way.
4.5 stars
I have enjoyed most of Susan May Warren's books and have been meaning to read this series since the first book, Take a Chance on Me, came out last year. I'm definitely going back to read the first book now because I really enjoyed It Had to be You!!
For one thing, Susan just always does a great job of pulling me into her books from the start. Normally there's some friction between the heroine and hero and this book definitely held to that. I also enjoyed reading about Jace, a professional hockey player, renegade bad boy, and definitely swoon worthy. I tend to be a succor for chiseled athletes, especially when they are gentlemen and are hiding some vulnerabilities. Eden annoyed me in the beginning because I could see how much of her life she was giving to her brother and was almost obsessed with it. However, she mellows out and I could see her kind of come into her own as the story progressed. These characters were a perfect match. Then you have these great supporting characters, such as other hockey players, the John Doe, Sam and his daughter, Eden's co-worker and boss, and the Christiansen clan that really filled in all the spaces. I loved how instantly I felt I knew the characters and connected with them.
The pacing and the writing style were both perfect. I basically just ate the book up! There was enough tension, depth, and romance balanced with some humor and heartbreak. Yes, there was heartbreak. I teared up pretty good in a few spots. Moving on to the happier parts...the romance was really sweet and I loved how the author let the tension between the two MC's grow. Too much is really too much and because everything was balanced so well I was fully invested in each moment. The third POV with Sam did throw me just a little and his portions were the most heartbreaking for me, but I definitely was routing for him and his daughter.
The Christian aspect of the story is fairly strong, but not too preachy. It's more just the characters dealing with what they are facing and they're facing some pretty serious stuff. The inspiration comes through Eden's dad's and others' counsel as to reaching out and trusting in God and making that choice. Some of the inspirational moments touched me as well.
Will I be reading the next book in this series? Definintely. In fact I am dying to pick it up. Right. Now. It was such an inspirational romantic book that left me feeling happy and content (except for needing the next book!!!) I would recommend It Had to be You to those who enjoy Christian Romance or just general Romance and wouldn't mind the inspirational moments.
There is also a prequel to the series, I Really Do Miss Your Smile, that's a little over 60 pages that is also included. It's the back-story for Eden's parents. I really loved it as well!! It was a great novella and definitely worth the read!
Content: Clean
Source: I want to thank LitFuse Publicity Group and the publisher, Tyndale House Publishers, for my free review copy, which did not affect my opinion in any way.
March 21, 2014
Owen Christiansen is playing his first season of pro hockey, and sister Eden is his self-appointed babysitter, there to drag him out of bars and make sure his clothes get washed. Never mind that her dedication to Owen means she is missing prized assignments at work, and possibly costing her the opportunity to get out of writing obituaries and into real reporting.
Jace Jacobsen is Owen’s team captain, a role that places him in the sights of Eden Christiansen far too often for his liking. And he’s got his own problems, like knee injuries and migraines that affect his playing, and might mean his contract isn’t renewed. And then there’s Megan, his best friend’s daughter, who is ill.
I thoroughly enjoyed It Had to be You. Jace was a wonderful hero, a bit like Mr Darcy in that he was rich and handsome, and Eden’s initial impressions of him turned out to be all wrong. With Eden, I liked the way she wasn’t impressed by Jace’s fame (but perhaps less impressed with the way she held Jace responsible for Owen’s mistakes). Overall, this was Eden’s story, as she was the one who had to learn to see herself as a person of value in her own right, not merely a shadow of her famous younger brother.
It Had to be You is the second book in Susan May Warren’s Christiansen family series, which is set in Deep Haven, the same location as the (surprise) Deep Haven series. The early Deep Haven books were light romances, while the later books focused more on restoring relationships. The Christiansen family series is following (another surprise) the Christiansen siblings. It Had to be You can easily be read as a standalone novel, as it’s not actually set in Deep Haven and has fewer overlapping characters than earlier novels. However, fans of the earlier novels will like this continuation.
One of the strengths of Susan May Warren’s writing has always been her ability to weave Christian themes and lessons into a story without it sounding like preaching, and It Had to be You is no exception. Recommended for all Deep Haven fans.
Thanks to Tyndale and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Jace Jacobsen is Owen’s team captain, a role that places him in the sights of Eden Christiansen far too often for his liking. And he’s got his own problems, like knee injuries and migraines that affect his playing, and might mean his contract isn’t renewed. And then there’s Megan, his best friend’s daughter, who is ill.
I thoroughly enjoyed It Had to be You. Jace was a wonderful hero, a bit like Mr Darcy in that he was rich and handsome, and Eden’s initial impressions of him turned out to be all wrong. With Eden, I liked the way she wasn’t impressed by Jace’s fame (but perhaps less impressed with the way she held Jace responsible for Owen’s mistakes). Overall, this was Eden’s story, as she was the one who had to learn to see herself as a person of value in her own right, not merely a shadow of her famous younger brother.
It Had to be You is the second book in Susan May Warren’s Christiansen family series, which is set in Deep Haven, the same location as the (surprise) Deep Haven series. The early Deep Haven books were light romances, while the later books focused more on restoring relationships. The Christiansen family series is following (another surprise) the Christiansen siblings. It Had to be You can easily be read as a standalone novel, as it’s not actually set in Deep Haven and has fewer overlapping characters than earlier novels. However, fans of the earlier novels will like this continuation.
One of the strengths of Susan May Warren’s writing has always been her ability to weave Christian themes and lessons into a story without it sounding like preaching, and It Had to be You is no exception. Recommended for all Deep Haven fans.
Thanks to Tyndale and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
March 17, 2014
Title: IT HAD TO BE YOU
Author: Susan May Warren
Publisher: Tyndale Fiction
January 2014
ISBN: 978-1414378428
Genre: Contemporary romance
Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen’s cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits—and starting to fear she doesn’t have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.
Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior—on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he’s getting from Eden Christiansen isn’t making things any easier. But when Owen’s carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.
Susan May Warren has done it again. A heart-stopping novel that wraps the characters around your heartstrings and doesn’t let go. IT HAD TO BE YOU is the second book in the A Christiansen Family series, but it easily stands alone. Fans will want to read Take a Chance on Me the first book in the series, and the novella (included free in IT HAD TO BE YOU), I Really Do Miss Your Smile.
I’ve said this before and I’ll say this again. I want to write like Susan May Warren. She is absolutely the best, and I love her books. I’m her number one fan. IT HAD TO BE YOU ripped my heart out and I cried at the end. Now I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out (this summer.) Awesome book, awesome author. Discussion questions are also included at the end of the book. Don’t miss IT HAD TO BE YOU.) It will change your life. $14.99. 480 pages. 5 stars.
Author: Susan May Warren
Publisher: Tyndale Fiction
January 2014
ISBN: 978-1414378428
Genre: Contemporary romance
Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen’s cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits—and starting to fear she doesn’t have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.
Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior—on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he’s getting from Eden Christiansen isn’t making things any easier. But when Owen’s carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.
Susan May Warren has done it again. A heart-stopping novel that wraps the characters around your heartstrings and doesn’t let go. IT HAD TO BE YOU is the second book in the A Christiansen Family series, but it easily stands alone. Fans will want to read Take a Chance on Me the first book in the series, and the novella (included free in IT HAD TO BE YOU), I Really Do Miss Your Smile.
I’ve said this before and I’ll say this again. I want to write like Susan May Warren. She is absolutely the best, and I love her books. I’m her number one fan. IT HAD TO BE YOU ripped my heart out and I cried at the end. Now I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out (this summer.) Awesome book, awesome author. Discussion questions are also included at the end of the book. Don’t miss IT HAD TO BE YOU.) It will change your life. $14.99. 480 pages. 5 stars.
January 22, 2014
I've read Susan May Warren for a long time and I love her Deep Haven books. The first in this series about the Christiansens was wonderful but this one is just totally over the top! It moved me in ways I never imagined.
Eden Christiansen has always been there, hovering, taking care of, babying, her brother Owen, rookie hockey star. She's put so much effort into his career that she hasn't had time for herself in any way at all. She dreams of being a great reporter, but seems stuck writing obituaries for her paper. She doesn't see that this will ever change.
Jace Jacobsen is the enforcer of his hockey team, aggressive and blunt, but he's not at peace with his life. Eden holds him responsible for policing Owen's behavior, too. Jace also has secret demons in his own life that weigh him down at every turn.
Will these two people who seem to hate each other manage to look beyond the turmoil in their lives and see the hope that God offers them? Or will they continue in their stubbornness and miss out on the greatest thing that could ever happen to them.
This book has so much of value in it. Susan May Warren has the unique ability to make the reader a part of the story. From the very first, you feel as if you belong there, with the characters. It's almost as if there is a big giant tv screen playing along in your head as you read!
I shed a lot of tears during the last portion of this book. And I tell you this: God ministered to me about a situation in my own life, teaching me a lesson about hope and grace, too! The theme of redemption runs strong through this book also. It's like I got a sermon from this book! I just read another book this week with the same message, so I think maybe God is trying to get my attention!
The romance was fantastic. She writes so sweetly about the romance between her characters, always has. You'll never regret buying a Susan May Warren book! I know I'll never miss one!
Eden Christiansen has always been there, hovering, taking care of, babying, her brother Owen, rookie hockey star. She's put so much effort into his career that she hasn't had time for herself in any way at all. She dreams of being a great reporter, but seems stuck writing obituaries for her paper. She doesn't see that this will ever change.
Jace Jacobsen is the enforcer of his hockey team, aggressive and blunt, but he's not at peace with his life. Eden holds him responsible for policing Owen's behavior, too. Jace also has secret demons in his own life that weigh him down at every turn.
Will these two people who seem to hate each other manage to look beyond the turmoil in their lives and see the hope that God offers them? Or will they continue in their stubbornness and miss out on the greatest thing that could ever happen to them.
This book has so much of value in it. Susan May Warren has the unique ability to make the reader a part of the story. From the very first, you feel as if you belong there, with the characters. It's almost as if there is a big giant tv screen playing along in your head as you read!
I shed a lot of tears during the last portion of this book. And I tell you this: God ministered to me about a situation in my own life, teaching me a lesson about hope and grace, too! The theme of redemption runs strong through this book also. It's like I got a sermon from this book! I just read another book this week with the same message, so I think maybe God is trying to get my attention!
The romance was fantastic. She writes so sweetly about the romance between her characters, always has. You'll never regret buying a Susan May Warren book! I know I'll never miss one!
February 26, 2014
This right here, folks – this is a good book. I think I have become quite attached to the Christiansen family. You get to know them very well in these first two books in the series. They are delightful, realistic, easy to identify with, and very lovable. I’m so excited for Owen’s story someday! Something tells me it’s going to be interesting. But I really loved getting to know Eden and Jace so well in this book. They are an adorable couple with a strong foundation. The story felt very realistic (I’ve already mentioned that the family is!) and was easy to get into and read quickly. Another highlight in this book was the novella at the end, titled I Really Do Miss Your Smile, and covering pages 395-462. It’s the story of the parents in the family, and is a most delightful read that I greatly enjoyed. All in all, I recommend this series and can’t wait for more!
**I reviewed this book for Tyndale House Publishers as part of the blog tour. I wasn’t compensated in any other way or required to post positively. All opinions are my own.**
**I reviewed this book for Tyndale House Publishers as part of the blog tour. I wasn’t compensated in any other way or required to post positively. All opinions are my own.**
February 13, 2016
Owen Christiansen is a young professional hockey player with a bright future at his finger tips, but a string of poor choices, according to his sister Eden, is going to ruin him. Pulling him out of a bar room brawls lands her at the feet of the team captain, "J Hammer" Jace Jacobson, whom Eden brazenly confronts about her brother's reckless behavior. Jace's stormy, reckless reputation proceeds him, nevertheless, circumstances cause Eden to question her initial expression, especially when Owen suffers a terrible injury and Jace begins to question his own future in the league.
Eden Christiansen, with her quiet way of revealing the best in others and Jace Jacobson, with his not-so-quiet-way of working out his demons, make quite a pair! Eden, who just wanted "normal" and Jace, "nothing-normal-about- him" find out for themselves that God has an amazing ability to demonstrate His love in ways that they never could have imagined.
Some stories are meant to be savored over and over and over again. And this is one of them.
Eden Christiansen, with her quiet way of revealing the best in others and Jace Jacobson, with his not-so-quiet-way of working out his demons, make quite a pair! Eden, who just wanted "normal" and Jace, "nothing-normal-about- him" find out for themselves that God has an amazing ability to demonstrate His love in ways that they never could have imagined.
Some stories are meant to be savored over and over and over again. And this is one of them.
March 18, 2014
Susan May Warren is one of my go-to romance authors. Her books are fun and have a spiritual depth I enjoy. It had to be You was no exception. In this book the heroine has forgotten how to live her own life; instead, she is wrapped up in her brother's life as a NHL hockey player. She has dreams, but she's forgotten how to pursue them in the light of keeping him out of trouble. And she blames the team captain for the messes her brother gets into. The only problem is he's living a life that isn't what he wants either. He doesn't like who he's become and doesn't know how to break out of the image that's been foisted on him. The book is the exploration of the reluctance we sometimes have to shed the roles we either create or accept in our lives, no matter how poorly they fit. And those roles can prevent us from becoming the people we want and hope to be. These were characters I longed to return to and I hated to see the story end. A double thumbs up for readers who love romance with a strong spiritual thread.
December 19, 2023
Another addition to Deep Haven that I LOVED. I related so much to Eden's character and loved her story. Jace was a great male lead (I realized after finishing this book late last night that this is the 3rd book I read and adored where the male character was a Hockey player..maybe I have a secret love for hockey players :P)
The spiritual and faith themes in the book struck right through the heart & I found myself reaching for a pen to underline multiple paragraphs and quotes I wanted to remember and journal. Thank you Susan for another great read to get lost in for a few hours. I can't wait for the next story!
The spiritual and faith themes in the book struck right through the heart & I found myself reaching for a pen to underline multiple paragraphs and quotes I wanted to remember and journal. Thank you Susan for another great read to get lost in for a few hours. I can't wait for the next story!
July 8, 2015
I was captivated by book one; Take a Chance on Me; which made me anxious to read book two in the series, It Had to Be You. This series is about the Christiansen family. Each book focuses on a different family member; in this book we get to know Eden and Owen Christiansen. The story is told through Eden’s eyes. One thing about the Christiansen’s they are loyal and they have each other’s back. Eden starts to realize that the relationship she has with her brother Owen has to change. She understands this even more when a friend points something out and she reacts,…”I’m not obsessed. He’s my brother.”
“He takes up all the available space in your life. And you let him.”
…”I’m his big sister.”
“Right. Not his trainer. Not his coach, not his mother…You gotta show a little tough love here; Eden.”
This makes her take a hard look at her life. “Was she living her life and seeking her dreams? Or was she putting her life live on hold so her brother could achieve his dreams? She cheered him on and lost sight of her calling?”
Her brother was not walking out his heritage of faith but living reckless and his life was spinning out of control. He was about to lose what he’s worked so hard to achieve. Eden didn’t understand what was going on with him.
Jace, hockey team captain is stuck in a rut. He’d lost the love of the game. He didn’t want to keep Owen and the other newbies on track motivated. He wasn’t a babysitter. So what was his role? How did he get them to jell and become a team? The media painted him as a womanizer, who’s self-centered; an uncaring individual. They weren’t right about him. They didn’t know the whole story and he wasn’t about to tell them. It would get lost in translation anyway.
Eden sees a totally different side of Jace when she learns about his relationship with Sam and his young daughter Maddy. His friend has a huge struggle. Jace tries to be there for his friend and help when he can. Sam says to Jace in the hospital, “All this time I thought it was up to me to make sure Maddy got a heart, kept her heart. And yes, she’s my child. But it was right there all the time.”…I’ve been holding on so hard to God in all this. But I think I’m supposed to let go – and Ask God to hold onto me. To pick me up like I do Maddy and carry me. I can’t do it anymore. I’ve been angry and stubborn and I need a new heart as badly as Maddy does. I’m tired of trying to fix it. I can’t do it. And I don’t think I’m supposed to”…I’m sitting here letting go. Putting my daughter into the hands of the Lord. Believing his plans are greater than mine.”
While in the hospital Eden and Jace stumble upon a person she feels compelled to help. Jace and Eden embark on a journey to uncover a mystery there; someone’s life is on the line. They need answers fast. There findings could be Eden’s big break in the newspaper business.
I’ll never forget doing the very thing Sam did with my child went into heart surgery! This is what I love about this story. It’s transparent and raw. It’s real people facing some impossible situations in a simplistic, impossible ways. They are not super spiritual or pie in the sky but honest in dealing with what comes their way. Get out the tissues for this one. This story touched my heart on so many levels and is a situation I won’t soon forget.
I highly recommend it as a Great read that it would make a wonderful book club pick. There is so much to talk about. This author also has 15 discussion questions for you to dig deeper into this story and its characters. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series and learn about another member in the Christiansen family.
BONUS STORY INCLUDED – it’s about the parents INGRID and JOHN CHRISTIANSEN LOVED this novella titled I Really Do Miss Your Smile.
The story starts out with how the Christiansen parents met each other. It wasn’t love at first site for John Christiansen. His family owned the Evergreen Lake Resort. It was a place where families vacationed every year. It kind of reminded me of the Dirty Dancing movie where families went on vacation and had fun activities for all. Ingrid had a sister named Kari that was very different than she was. Kari was older and experienced; Ingrid was the younger innocent one. It also reminded me of It’s a Wonderful Life in the fact that John was out to see the world. He had to get out of Deep Haven. Ingrid loved that Deep Haven was a small town; she wanted to raise her family there. George Bailey was bound and determined to leave the small town he grew up in. Mary went away to college but looked forward to coming back to her small town to life out her days. That was the struggle between Ingrid and John too. This is an emotional gripping read that will pull at your heart strings and have you rejoice at the end!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
“He takes up all the available space in your life. And you let him.”
…”I’m his big sister.”
“Right. Not his trainer. Not his coach, not his mother…You gotta show a little tough love here; Eden.”
This makes her take a hard look at her life. “Was she living her life and seeking her dreams? Or was she putting her life live on hold so her brother could achieve his dreams? She cheered him on and lost sight of her calling?”
Her brother was not walking out his heritage of faith but living reckless and his life was spinning out of control. He was about to lose what he’s worked so hard to achieve. Eden didn’t understand what was going on with him.
Jace, hockey team captain is stuck in a rut. He’d lost the love of the game. He didn’t want to keep Owen and the other newbies on track motivated. He wasn’t a babysitter. So what was his role? How did he get them to jell and become a team? The media painted him as a womanizer, who’s self-centered; an uncaring individual. They weren’t right about him. They didn’t know the whole story and he wasn’t about to tell them. It would get lost in translation anyway.
Eden sees a totally different side of Jace when she learns about his relationship with Sam and his young daughter Maddy. His friend has a huge struggle. Jace tries to be there for his friend and help when he can. Sam says to Jace in the hospital, “All this time I thought it was up to me to make sure Maddy got a heart, kept her heart. And yes, she’s my child. But it was right there all the time.”…I’ve been holding on so hard to God in all this. But I think I’m supposed to let go – and Ask God to hold onto me. To pick me up like I do Maddy and carry me. I can’t do it anymore. I’ve been angry and stubborn and I need a new heart as badly as Maddy does. I’m tired of trying to fix it. I can’t do it. And I don’t think I’m supposed to”…I’m sitting here letting go. Putting my daughter into the hands of the Lord. Believing his plans are greater than mine.”
While in the hospital Eden and Jace stumble upon a person she feels compelled to help. Jace and Eden embark on a journey to uncover a mystery there; someone’s life is on the line. They need answers fast. There findings could be Eden’s big break in the newspaper business.
I’ll never forget doing the very thing Sam did with my child went into heart surgery! This is what I love about this story. It’s transparent and raw. It’s real people facing some impossible situations in a simplistic, impossible ways. They are not super spiritual or pie in the sky but honest in dealing with what comes their way. Get out the tissues for this one. This story touched my heart on so many levels and is a situation I won’t soon forget.
I highly recommend it as a Great read that it would make a wonderful book club pick. There is so much to talk about. This author also has 15 discussion questions for you to dig deeper into this story and its characters. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series and learn about another member in the Christiansen family.
BONUS STORY INCLUDED – it’s about the parents INGRID and JOHN CHRISTIANSEN LOVED this novella titled I Really Do Miss Your Smile.
The story starts out with how the Christiansen parents met each other. It wasn’t love at first site for John Christiansen. His family owned the Evergreen Lake Resort. It was a place where families vacationed every year. It kind of reminded me of the Dirty Dancing movie where families went on vacation and had fun activities for all. Ingrid had a sister named Kari that was very different than she was. Kari was older and experienced; Ingrid was the younger innocent one. It also reminded me of It’s a Wonderful Life in the fact that John was out to see the world. He had to get out of Deep Haven. Ingrid loved that Deep Haven was a small town; she wanted to raise her family there. George Bailey was bound and determined to leave the small town he grew up in. Mary went away to college but looked forward to coming back to her small town to life out her days. That was the struggle between Ingrid and John too. This is an emotional gripping read that will pull at your heart strings and have you rejoice at the end!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. 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”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
September 17, 2021
Absolutely fantastic.
October 12, 2025
I love Jace. And the bit about feeling loved, but not liked? I relate 100% in so many ways. A good word for me; I needed it right now.
March 26, 2014
Author Susan May Warren’s latest, It Had to be You (Tyndale House Publishers), the second in her “Christiansen Family” series, is a contemporary drama and romance centered on another sibling in the Christiansen family, Eden Christiansen.
Eden is struggling to find her place in life while stuck at an entry-level job in a field she loves and holding on to her role as big sister too tightly. She would love to advance and become a star reporter, but she cannot seem to achieve a promotion out of the obituary department at the Minneapolis Star Tribune. She spends her free time as loyal fan, family cheerleader, and protective sister of her brother Owen, the new star forward for the St. Paul Blue Ox NHL team. She cannot see that she lacks self confidence in her own writing or that her overprotectiveness is causing her brother to shirk responsibility.
Through events resulting from Owen’s immaturity and recklessness, Eden meets Jace “The Hammer” Jacobsen, team captain and veteran enforcer for the Blue Ox team. His bad-boy reputation precedes him, intimidating Eden from the beginning, though she believes he could become the mentor her brother Owen desperately needs. Jace knows he is near the end of his career, but his emotional scars and secret guilt over past decisions weigh him down and keep him from facing the possibility of a career outside of pro hockey. As Jace and Eden combine forces to help a stranger, Eden gets to know the real Jace – not the famous celebrity – but the kind, protective, and sometimes intimidating person. Jace is afraid to let Eden in, thinking that she is just using him for a story. As their worlds collide and personal feelings come to the surface, they both must learn lessons in forgiveness, trust, and grace.
A secondary storyline gives depth to the characters and reinforces the theme of trust. It involves Jace’s best friend, single dad Sam, and his daughter, Maddy. She is in need of an organ transplant to save her life. Sam and Maddy’s story intertwines with Eden and Jace’s in unexpected ways, emphasizing the meanings of sacrifice and love, complete with moments of heart-wrenching emotion.
Jace and Eden are an unlikely pair: a famous hockey star and a down-to-earth would-be reporter. Jace has no clue how to approach her with her honesty one minute and withdrawn demeanor the next. They each avoid admitting their growing attraction, both convincing themselves that they are not good enough and that neither would be interested in a romantic relationship “with someone like me”. As their relationship slowly grows past friendship, Jace opens up to Eden about his fears and struggles with accepting forgiveness. Jace sees that Eden’s gift is recognizing others’ potential and encouraging them. With his support, she starts to find the encouragement she needs to move past insecurities and become confidant in her role in life.
The closeness of the Christiansen family is essential to the characters of It Had to be You, much like the first book in Susan’s series. Jace’s character has never before experienced this closeness. This poignant picture of a family grounded by faith and united through struggles serves to draw the characters closer to each other and closer to Christ.
Fans of pro hockey will be delighted with its inclusion in this novel, while those not remotely familiar with the game will not be lost. It provides an element of adventure and danger to the story.
Susan skillfully communicates the idea that God’s grace and forgiveness is available for anyone to freely accept. Each person has the potential to impact the world around them every day, with every decision he or she makes, by offering grace and love even to those who may not deserve it. That is the message at the heart of It Had to be You.
Note: Thank you to Tyndale House for the complimentary ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Eden is struggling to find her place in life while stuck at an entry-level job in a field she loves and holding on to her role as big sister too tightly. She would love to advance and become a star reporter, but she cannot seem to achieve a promotion out of the obituary department at the Minneapolis Star Tribune. She spends her free time as loyal fan, family cheerleader, and protective sister of her brother Owen, the new star forward for the St. Paul Blue Ox NHL team. She cannot see that she lacks self confidence in her own writing or that her overprotectiveness is causing her brother to shirk responsibility.
Through events resulting from Owen’s immaturity and recklessness, Eden meets Jace “The Hammer” Jacobsen, team captain and veteran enforcer for the Blue Ox team. His bad-boy reputation precedes him, intimidating Eden from the beginning, though she believes he could become the mentor her brother Owen desperately needs. Jace knows he is near the end of his career, but his emotional scars and secret guilt over past decisions weigh him down and keep him from facing the possibility of a career outside of pro hockey. As Jace and Eden combine forces to help a stranger, Eden gets to know the real Jace – not the famous celebrity – but the kind, protective, and sometimes intimidating person. Jace is afraid to let Eden in, thinking that she is just using him for a story. As their worlds collide and personal feelings come to the surface, they both must learn lessons in forgiveness, trust, and grace.
A secondary storyline gives depth to the characters and reinforces the theme of trust. It involves Jace’s best friend, single dad Sam, and his daughter, Maddy. She is in need of an organ transplant to save her life. Sam and Maddy’s story intertwines with Eden and Jace’s in unexpected ways, emphasizing the meanings of sacrifice and love, complete with moments of heart-wrenching emotion.
Jace and Eden are an unlikely pair: a famous hockey star and a down-to-earth would-be reporter. Jace has no clue how to approach her with her honesty one minute and withdrawn demeanor the next. They each avoid admitting their growing attraction, both convincing themselves that they are not good enough and that neither would be interested in a romantic relationship “with someone like me”. As their relationship slowly grows past friendship, Jace opens up to Eden about his fears and struggles with accepting forgiveness. Jace sees that Eden’s gift is recognizing others’ potential and encouraging them. With his support, she starts to find the encouragement she needs to move past insecurities and become confidant in her role in life.
The closeness of the Christiansen family is essential to the characters of It Had to be You, much like the first book in Susan’s series. Jace’s character has never before experienced this closeness. This poignant picture of a family grounded by faith and united through struggles serves to draw the characters closer to each other and closer to Christ.
Fans of pro hockey will be delighted with its inclusion in this novel, while those not remotely familiar with the game will not be lost. It provides an element of adventure and danger to the story.
Susan skillfully communicates the idea that God’s grace and forgiveness is available for anyone to freely accept. Each person has the potential to impact the world around them every day, with every decision he or she makes, by offering grace and love even to those who may not deserve it. That is the message at the heart of It Had to be You.
Note: Thank you to Tyndale House for the complimentary ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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