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Catching Serenity
A woman torn apart by secrets. A man held prisoner by the truth. Can the greatest love of all set them both free?Serenity McClaren had it all before her life crumbled around her like the sand castles on her beloved beach, causing her to flee Croisette Shores and the only home she’d ever known. Nearly five years later and living in Atlanta, she receives a mysterious, unsigned "Come home, Serenity. Things aren’t as they seem. Time to find your answers." Returning to South Carolina, she prepares to face her demons and the ailing father she left behind, hoping to make peace with both.Child psychologist Jackson Ross is a man with a surprising past. He’s ready for the quiet life and eager to establish his practice in the quaint, coastal village. After he hires Serenity to decorate his new office, he’s drawn to the beautiful and enigmatic woman yet sees she’s haunted by a past she can’t escape. Wanting to help her, he begins to suspect one of his young patients may hold the key to unlocking Serenity’s secrets. Jackson follows his instincts and discovers the shocking truth, but how can he tell the woman he’s grown to love what he knows—and set her free—without compromising his professional ethics and losing her forever?CATCHING A poignant story of faith, hope and love, and discovering the everyday miracles from an all-powerful God.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 29, 2013
Serenity McClaren had it all before her life crumbled around her like the sand castles on her beloved beach, causing her to flee Croisette Shores and the only home she’d ever known. Nearly five years later and living in Atlanta, she receives a mysterious, unsigned note: "Come home, Serenity. Things aren’t as they seem. Time to find your answers." Returning to South Carolina, she prepares to face her demons and the ailing father she left behind, hoping to make peace with both.
Child psychologist Jackson Ross is a man with a surprising past. He’s ready for the quiet life and eager to establish his practice in the quaint, coastal village. After he hires Serenity to decorate his new office, he’s drawn to the beautiful and enigmatic woman yet sees she’s haunted by a past she can’t escape. Wanting to help her, he begins to suspect one of his young patients may hold the key to unlocking Serenity’s secrets. Jackson follows his instincts and discovers the shocking truth, but how can he tell the woman he’s grown to love what he knows—and set her free—without compromising his professional ethics and losing her forever?
JoAnn Durgin gets better and better with each book! I absolutely LOVED this book! I found myself laughing outloud during the flirtatious conversations between Serenity and Jackson. Reminded me of me and my husband! This book is a must read. If you've never read JoAnn's books, you're missing out! Especially with this one!
Child psychologist Jackson Ross is a man with a surprising past. He’s ready for the quiet life and eager to establish his practice in the quaint, coastal village. After he hires Serenity to decorate his new office, he’s drawn to the beautiful and enigmatic woman yet sees she’s haunted by a past she can’t escape. Wanting to help her, he begins to suspect one of his young patients may hold the key to unlocking Serenity’s secrets. Jackson follows his instincts and discovers the shocking truth, but how can he tell the woman he’s grown to love what he knows—and set her free—without compromising his professional ethics and losing her forever?
JoAnn Durgin gets better and better with each book! I absolutely LOVED this book! I found myself laughing outloud during the flirtatious conversations between Serenity and Jackson. Reminded me of me and my husband! This book is a must read. If you've never read JoAnn's books, you're missing out! Especially with this one!
September 25, 2013
Shameless, I know, but it's one of the best ways to advise readers it's finally arrived! I hope you'll check out Catching Serenity today. Blessings and happy reading!
October 11, 2013
What a catchy tale… I absolutely loved JoAnn’s latest novel. Even though, it doesn’t have our favorite Teamwork members, it has – Doctor Jackson that overpasses all my heroes. I loved his sensitivity towards people around him and the ability to read Serenity and perceive her needs.
Serenity is still not recovered from a series of tragedies that happened five years ago and have stripped her from her own happy send castle and taken away not just her son and husband but also her mom and left her broken-hearted and with a father who can’t seem to recover from the shock and loss either. But God is good and sends her a new client that needs his office redesigned – Doc Jack, while she redesigns his office Jack is trying to redesign Serenity’s heart and help her heal so she can accept God’s and his love.
This story, unlike any I have read, is very close to my heart because of my own loss that sadly didn’t have the happy ending that JoAnn so talently had put into Serenity’s life. I thank JoAnn for the gift of this book and for using Jack to dispense some of the greatest advises to heal a broken heart.
Dear reader: I absolutely recommend this newest novel to you. It will keep your heart in your throat with worry over some parts and then it will make you laugh from some very witty comebacks and then passion of their love will curl your toes…aaand then you will laugh and cry from the wonder of the whole miracle. JoAnn’s talent to touch reader’s heart and keep them really involved in the book is at height in this novel.
Buy. Read. And absolutely ENJOY!!!
November 2, 2013
Author, JoAnn Durgin, has another best seller in her latest book, "Catching Serenity." Striking a perfect balance between intrigue and romance, the story immediately captivates the readers' attention with a cryptic note sent to the heroine, Serenity, by person or persons unknown. With every chapter, the reader is drawn more into the characters' lives and the mystery that surrounds them. We are not only attracted to the characters because of the mysterious plot, but also because of their attributes. A heroine who is strong, yet vulnerable, a mother who will sacrifice everything for her family, a stoic father, and a hero, Jackson, who is protective and loyal, are the characters you will love long before the story's end.
As the mystery builds, so does the romance. This part of the balance is written so well that one's heart dips and soars along with Serenity's. The reader experiences the love that Jackson has for Serenity, and as their relationship falters, one may even get a little teary-eyed.
The lives of the hero and heroine are also used to point the reader to God's unconditional love for each of us, his forgiveness, mercy and grace.
If you love to read Christian romance, you will love this book!
As the mystery builds, so does the romance. This part of the balance is written so well that one's heart dips and soars along with Serenity's. The reader experiences the love that Jackson has for Serenity, and as their relationship falters, one may even get a little teary-eyed.
The lives of the hero and heroine are also used to point the reader to God's unconditional love for each of us, his forgiveness, mercy and grace.
If you love to read Christian romance, you will love this book!
February 11, 2014
This book was great! It had the perfect mix of romance and suspense. I liked that it is set in my home state of South Carolina too! I am honored to have won this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway as I most likely would not have known about this book or the author.
February 5, 2014
JoAnn Durgin writes a romance that goes deep into your soul. Her writing goes beyond the superficial sweetness of romance into the very depth of the lives of her characters. There is always so much more than a sweet story—there is life, there is purpose, and there is history within the heart of each character.
When depth and details surround the characters, it fosters emotional attachments to the lives of the characters. This book will tug on your heartstrings! I found myself emotionally attached to Serenity’s story. Pictures are painted, emotions are exposed, and the book draws you in, making you one with the story. As you read, the story unfolds into a well-developed plot line that keeps you cheering for her. Although romance is certainly the genre, this story carries its share of mystery and suspense as well.
Serenity’s life has been overflowing with tragedy. With that tragedy, comes emotional baggage that she just can’t seem to move beyond--at least not until Jackson comes along. Filled with a sweet, sensitive, and caring spirit, Jackson reaches out to her physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. He carries Serenity to a place true to her name.
This title caught my eye right away. I sensed a play on words. Serenity—the state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled—yet her life had been anything but serene. Although the beginning meaning is simply her given name, the author compliments the story with scripture and biblical principles, opening the door to serene living.
When depth and details surround the characters, it fosters emotional attachments to the lives of the characters. This book will tug on your heartstrings! I found myself emotionally attached to Serenity’s story. Pictures are painted, emotions are exposed, and the book draws you in, making you one with the story. As you read, the story unfolds into a well-developed plot line that keeps you cheering for her. Although romance is certainly the genre, this story carries its share of mystery and suspense as well.
Serenity’s life has been overflowing with tragedy. With that tragedy, comes emotional baggage that she just can’t seem to move beyond--at least not until Jackson comes along. Filled with a sweet, sensitive, and caring spirit, Jackson reaches out to her physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. He carries Serenity to a place true to her name.
This title caught my eye right away. I sensed a play on words. Serenity—the state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled—yet her life had been anything but serene. Although the beginning meaning is simply her given name, the author compliments the story with scripture and biblical principles, opening the door to serene living.
November 8, 2013
Catching Serenity
By JoAnn Durgin
I have read I think just about every book JoAnn has written. Well I love them they just seem to get better. JoAnn’s books a Christian Romance. I love the nice clean love stories.
The story is about Serenity how her life was torn apart by all the secrets. Serenity moves away from home and away from her past. Living in Atlanta five years later she gets a mysterious letter that has no signature. This letter is asking her to come home. That life is not what it seems there. But if she goes back she has to face all the things she ran from. The death of her husband then her son and a mother who just disappeared. Can she stand going back and facing all this?
New faces in town when she gets back there. Main thing is she needs a job so she sets up her own interior decorating business. Her first job is with child psychologist Jackson Ross. He also has a pass he would like to forget. Will love spark here or will their past keep them apart? Jackson learns things about her past, but he can’t tell her it would be against professional ethics. Can this cause her to run the other way away from him? Get this great book and find out.
By JoAnn Durgin
I have read I think just about every book JoAnn has written. Well I love them they just seem to get better. JoAnn’s books a Christian Romance. I love the nice clean love stories.
The story is about Serenity how her life was torn apart by all the secrets. Serenity moves away from home and away from her past. Living in Atlanta five years later she gets a mysterious letter that has no signature. This letter is asking her to come home. That life is not what it seems there. But if she goes back she has to face all the things she ran from. The death of her husband then her son and a mother who just disappeared. Can she stand going back and facing all this?
New faces in town when she gets back there. Main thing is she needs a job so she sets up her own interior decorating business. Her first job is with child psychologist Jackson Ross. He also has a pass he would like to forget. Will love spark here or will their past keep them apart? Jackson learns things about her past, but he can’t tell her it would be against professional ethics. Can this cause her to run the other way away from him? Get this great book and find out.
October 3, 2013
I stumbled upon JoAnn Durgin several months ago, and after reading the first book in her "The Lewis Legacy Series" I was hooked. I read every book in the series, and I have been anxiously awaiting her next book. I am happy to report that I was NOT disappointed with Catching Serenity. This story is full of interesting twists, lovable characters and a storyline that will tug at your heartstrings. I think that Jackson will go down in history as one of my all-time favorite heros. He is a man of character, integrity and heart. He is a solid Christian, yet he still manages to show his humanity. He is patient and loving but has a wicked sense of humor and a swoon-worthy romantic streak. There are moments when his interaction with Serenity will have you reaching for the nearest box of tissues. As I got closer to the end of this book, I found myself holding my breath at the end of each chapter for fear that the story would come to an end. Thank you, JoAnn, for being such a gifted writer and for sharing your talents with us!
November 2, 2013
Very easy for me to give this book a 5-star rating, because I loved it. Catching Serenity is another example of the fine Christian romances that JoAnn Durgin writes.
This author’s romances read light, but in fact hold stories of such depth. The perfect blend for Christian romance because they keep me turning the pages.
I loved Catching Serenity for that reason. Few authors have the ability to keep me reading after a certain hour in the evening, but the realism attached to the emotional drama in this novel held me entranced. It’s back to that combination of lightness while being deep at the same time. It boils down to an author who digs into the human psyche, and whose research is impeccable.
I was totally absorbed in the story of decorator Serenity McLaren whose secrets hold her in a psychological prison due to the mysterious loss of her mother, and of her child that died at birth. Child psychologist, Jackson Ross, unravels the mystery, and this romance drama kept me on the edge of my seat.
This author’s romances read light, but in fact hold stories of such depth. The perfect blend for Christian romance because they keep me turning the pages.
I loved Catching Serenity for that reason. Few authors have the ability to keep me reading after a certain hour in the evening, but the realism attached to the emotional drama in this novel held me entranced. It’s back to that combination of lightness while being deep at the same time. It boils down to an author who digs into the human psyche, and whose research is impeccable.
I was totally absorbed in the story of decorator Serenity McLaren whose secrets hold her in a psychological prison due to the mysterious loss of her mother, and of her child that died at birth. Child psychologist, Jackson Ross, unravels the mystery, and this romance drama kept me on the edge of my seat.
October 11, 2013
Love twists, characters you'll love, and a great storyline, don't miss Catching Serenity. It evokes emotions and pulls heartstrings. Jackson is a Christian with humor who makes a wonderful hero. He's patient and loving. You'll adore his relationship with Serenity. Sometimes you read a book you hate to see come to an end. This is such a book, but don't take my word for it. Check it out yourself. You'll be glad you did. By the way, I have a novel with the name Serenity, too, so I love the character's name.
B. J. Robinson
Author of Serenity Through the Storm and other romantic suspense novels
B. J. Robinson
Author of Serenity Through the Storm and other romantic suspense novels
October 28, 2013
I enjoy this book. It teaches of love and forgiveness and God's grace. I can't wait for another book.
August 8, 2014
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and found this book to be a truly wonderful read. I would recommend this book to anyone.
August 8, 2014
A FANTASTIC story!!!!! Truly loved how the author shared the message of Christ, his love, forgiveness and healing!!
July 3, 2017
Loved this book!
As a Christian who loves romance, it's so good to have read a book that was so well balanced! It wasn't preachy and it didn't lack realistic ideals or overestimate me. It was the perfect balance of people learning to love God, love others and forgiveness. I loved the characters and their friendship that didn't rush into love. Although they knew they loved each other, they took the time to develop which is always an irritation in other romances where once they express their love, the book is over. I do wish Serenity wasn't so self absorbed that she didn't at least learn about who Jackson was but I understand that was a part of their growth. The reasoning behind Elise taking Justin and leaving seemed a little far fetched for "reality" but interesting enough. Great book!
As a Christian who loves romance, it's so good to have read a book that was so well balanced! It wasn't preachy and it didn't lack realistic ideals or overestimate me. It was the perfect balance of people learning to love God, love others and forgiveness. I loved the characters and their friendship that didn't rush into love. Although they knew they loved each other, they took the time to develop which is always an irritation in other romances where once they express their love, the book is over. I do wish Serenity wasn't so self absorbed that she didn't at least learn about who Jackson was but I understand that was a part of their growth. The reasoning behind Elise taking Justin and leaving seemed a little far fetched for "reality" but interesting enough. Great book!
June 23, 2018
You’ll see it coming
but won’t mind. It’s really long, and you will mind - that’s the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. JoAnn Durgin knows how to develop characters. You will love the cast of “Catching Serenity”. The plot, on the other hand, becomes cumbersome, repetitive and predictable. The little mystery was easy to predict very early on. I really didn’t mind knowing. What I DID mind was delaying the explanation for 400+ pages and then rushing thru the conclusion in 3 short chapters after waiting 46 long others to get there! Diligence should have a greater reward.
but won’t mind. It’s really long, and you will mind - that’s the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. JoAnn Durgin knows how to develop characters. You will love the cast of “Catching Serenity”. The plot, on the other hand, becomes cumbersome, repetitive and predictable. The little mystery was easy to predict very early on. I really didn’t mind knowing. What I DID mind was delaying the explanation for 400+ pages and then rushing thru the conclusion in 3 short chapters after waiting 46 long others to get there! Diligence should have a greater reward.
January 1, 2018
Great read
What a wonderful and powerful story. The mystery is woven through very well and the twists and turns are handled very well. The ending is very skillfully brought about and is really touching. I would recommend this story to any reader who enjoys clean, Christian romances.
What a wonderful and powerful story. The mystery is woven through very well and the twists and turns are handled very well. The ending is very skillfully brought about and is really touching. I would recommend this story to any reader who enjoys clean, Christian romances.
July 4, 2017
Fantastic Read!
This book was longer than usual, but was worth every extra bit of reading time. I believe this story tugged on just about every heartstring I have, and I loved it. It's highly recommended.
This book was longer than usual, but was worth every extra bit of reading time. I believe this story tugged on just about every heartstring I have, and I loved it. It's highly recommended.
July 25, 2019
Emotional! Sensational!
Great book! Kept you interested from the beginning! Will be recommending to others! I loved how the story line was relatable to anyone. Overall great book!!!!!!
Great book! Kept you interested from the beginning! Will be recommending to others! I loved how the story line was relatable to anyone. Overall great book!!!!!!
June 18, 2017
Amazing
I could never have imagine the love and sacrifice a family makes and to find true twice through Christ,trust., loyalty
I could never have imagine the love and sacrifice a family makes and to find true twice through Christ,trust., loyalty
April 6, 2018
Love Love Loved
This is a fantastic book with, romance, intrigue and the most wonderful characters. I could not put this book down!
This is a fantastic book with, romance, intrigue and the most wonderful characters. I could not put this book down!
August 4, 2018
Wonderful book
This book took a couple of chapters to get into, but once I started, I couldn't put it down! I laughed and cried with the characters, the story!one was wonderful!
This book took a couple of chapters to get into, but once I started, I couldn't put it down! I laughed and cried with the characters, the story!one was wonderful!
March 5, 2020
Loved this book
This is the first time I’ve read Joan Durgin’s work. It will not be my last. I would love a sequel to this story. Christian fiction is my favorite reading material!
This is the first time I’ve read Joan Durgin’s work. It will not be my last. I would love a sequel to this story. Christian fiction is my favorite reading material!
February 28, 2014
Serenity McClaren’s life could not be described as serene for at least five long years, being on a continual downfall into despair of loss and mystery. Death had claimed her young husband Danny through gunshots fired by a thief in a convenience store robbery while Serenity was pregnant; and death mercilessly robbed the life of Liam Justin, her newborn baby. Her mother Elise had mysteriously disappeared simultaneously. Serenity watched her father Clinton groveling in sorrow and self-pity. She chose to escape to Atlanta, building walls, and space so as not to confront the issues or allow healing – she couldn’t cope.
Until….. “Come home, Serenity. Things aren’t as they seem. Time to find your answers.” No signature, return address, or clue as to who had written this message. Serenity went over those in her life trying to discern the writer of such a message, but no clue was definite. Yes, it was time to return to the beaches of Croisette Shores, South Carolina, the only home she had ever known. This is where we find Serenity as the story begins, sitting on the sandy beach early in the morning when she hears a man’s voice holler “Freud” and is startled when Freud, a beautiful huge Siberian Husky, skids and spews sand over her while jumping to catch a Frisbee thrown by an unfamiliar handsome man. He apologizes without introduction. Serenity wonders what kind of man would name his dog Freud; then wonders at herself for paying more than a passing glance at an attractive man.
JoAnn Durgin has done it again!! Somehow she penetrates into the minds of her characters and enlivens the conscious breathing being right down to whether it is two legged or four legged – and brilliantly gives each a name and suitable disposition. If you think you might know what will happen next, do not be too sure ….JoAnn will never keep the story predictable. Catching Serenity is a romance story during the present time that is researched thoroughly for added factual interest that might cause one to say “Oh, I didn’t know that!” JoAnn’s stories are never boring and always entertaining. Every word is written with heartfelt depth from her soul. Ms. Durgin doesn’t need explicit terms to describe sensual feelings or love in romantic scenes. Her script is beautiful as is her faith – from which she hears the whisper of God giving her the words to compose as testimony to His relationship with her. Her script is so humorous in just the right spots to lighten the story and cause laughter.
Will Serenity find the answers to the mysteries? I could reveal more about this wondrous story, but you will hear no spoilers from this reviewer. Recently I rendered a heartfelt comment about JoAnn Durgin: “JoAnn's writings have been a blessing to me. I have read all of her books....well, almost all and she is one of my favorite authors. Her style, collection of exclusive words that have special meaning, love of real romance, and everything about her natural skill and talent shines throughout each story. JoAnn is a classy writer and upholds her faith to the utmost. Her stories are original and delightful. She has taught me much about writing and that her footsteps are planted firmly in excellency that few can follow. I know whoever reads her books will be blessed.” Readers, you will be missing a special blessing if you do not read Catching Serenity. Thank you JoAnn Durgin for giving me the comfort of catching (some) serenity of my own.
Until….. “Come home, Serenity. Things aren’t as they seem. Time to find your answers.” No signature, return address, or clue as to who had written this message. Serenity went over those in her life trying to discern the writer of such a message, but no clue was definite. Yes, it was time to return to the beaches of Croisette Shores, South Carolina, the only home she had ever known. This is where we find Serenity as the story begins, sitting on the sandy beach early in the morning when she hears a man’s voice holler “Freud” and is startled when Freud, a beautiful huge Siberian Husky, skids and spews sand over her while jumping to catch a Frisbee thrown by an unfamiliar handsome man. He apologizes without introduction. Serenity wonders what kind of man would name his dog Freud; then wonders at herself for paying more than a passing glance at an attractive man.
JoAnn Durgin has done it again!! Somehow she penetrates into the minds of her characters and enlivens the conscious breathing being right down to whether it is two legged or four legged – and brilliantly gives each a name and suitable disposition. If you think you might know what will happen next, do not be too sure ….JoAnn will never keep the story predictable. Catching Serenity is a romance story during the present time that is researched thoroughly for added factual interest that might cause one to say “Oh, I didn’t know that!” JoAnn’s stories are never boring and always entertaining. Every word is written with heartfelt depth from her soul. Ms. Durgin doesn’t need explicit terms to describe sensual feelings or love in romantic scenes. Her script is beautiful as is her faith – from which she hears the whisper of God giving her the words to compose as testimony to His relationship with her. Her script is so humorous in just the right spots to lighten the story and cause laughter.
Will Serenity find the answers to the mysteries? I could reveal more about this wondrous story, but you will hear no spoilers from this reviewer. Recently I rendered a heartfelt comment about JoAnn Durgin: “JoAnn's writings have been a blessing to me. I have read all of her books....well, almost all and she is one of my favorite authors. Her style, collection of exclusive words that have special meaning, love of real romance, and everything about her natural skill and talent shines throughout each story. JoAnn is a classy writer and upholds her faith to the utmost. Her stories are original and delightful. She has taught me much about writing and that her footsteps are planted firmly in excellency that few can follow. I know whoever reads her books will be blessed.” Readers, you will be missing a special blessing if you do not read Catching Serenity. Thank you JoAnn Durgin for giving me the comfort of catching (some) serenity of my own.
September 1, 2016
Romance, Mystery, Faith, Forgiveness!
I have read all of author JoAnn Durgin’s books. Catching Serenity is my favorite one so far. Don’t get me wrong, all of them were great reads but this one really grabbed me.
I can’t even begin to write a review that would do justice to this book. If you are looking for a great romance, this is it! If you enjoy a little mystery, this is it! If you love reading about God’s love and forgiveness, this is definitely it.
Serenity McClaren seems to have her life back on track as much as possible considering what she has been through. A strange note brings her back to her home town of Croisette Shores, South Carolina. Her past still haunts her here. Will she ever be free of the past to move on?
I loved the romance in this book. Jackson Ross is the kind of man every single woman has ever wished for. He has it all, looks, kindness, faith, and oh that beautiful dimpled smile. He is a Child psychologist who has a way with young children that would endear him to any woman.
As a Christian fiction reader I loved how God is the center of this book. We know and feel in our hearts that without Him we couldn’t even begin to go through what life throws our way. I love the prayers, the scriptures, and the unending faith that some of the characters have. Forgiveness is a key issue in this book too. As we know, sometimes forgiving someone isn’t always easy.
Catching Serenity is one of the best books I have read so far this year. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. I highly, highly recommend this book to you.
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
I have read all of author JoAnn Durgin’s books. Catching Serenity is my favorite one so far. Don’t get me wrong, all of them were great reads but this one really grabbed me.
I can’t even begin to write a review that would do justice to this book. If you are looking for a great romance, this is it! If you enjoy a little mystery, this is it! If you love reading about God’s love and forgiveness, this is definitely it.
Serenity McClaren seems to have her life back on track as much as possible considering what she has been through. A strange note brings her back to her home town of Croisette Shores, South Carolina. Her past still haunts her here. Will she ever be free of the past to move on?
I loved the romance in this book. Jackson Ross is the kind of man every single woman has ever wished for. He has it all, looks, kindness, faith, and oh that beautiful dimpled smile. He is a Child psychologist who has a way with young children that would endear him to any woman.
As a Christian fiction reader I loved how God is the center of this book. We know and feel in our hearts that without Him we couldn’t even begin to go through what life throws our way. I love the prayers, the scriptures, and the unending faith that some of the characters have. Forgiveness is a key issue in this book too. As we know, sometimes forgiving someone isn’t always easy.
Catching Serenity is one of the best books I have read so far this year. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. I highly, highly recommend this book to you.
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
January 19, 2014
Up front, I must say I am a JoAnn Durgin fan. All her books are good, but I feel she did a stellar job with Catching Serenity. She chose an idyllic setting in Croisette Shores. So much so it’s practically a character in itself.
This is the coming-home story of Serenity McClaren, who married her high school sweetheart, but later experienced heartbreaking drama, which would have crumbled most. Her strong character surfaces and sustains while she carries on with life. Soon after achieving her graduate degree, a cryptic letter pushes her back to Croisette Shores, her hometown. Back to a near-recluse father and back to fresh pain of previous losses.
Pace and passion escalate when Serenity meets Doctor Jackson Ross, is hired as his office decorator and when their lives become intertwined with many threads. I’m no exception to lining Doc Jack right up there with Atticus Finch. He certainly comes center stage, as do other memorable characters. Refreshing and unexpected plot twists kept me turning the pages with only the tiniest lapse of reader credibility, which the compelling story easily overcame.
Strong faith elements, along with absorbing romances, are Ms. Durgin’s signatures marks and there are no disappointments of these in Catching Serenity.
I highly recommend.
This is the coming-home story of Serenity McClaren, who married her high school sweetheart, but later experienced heartbreaking drama, which would have crumbled most. Her strong character surfaces and sustains while she carries on with life. Soon after achieving her graduate degree, a cryptic letter pushes her back to Croisette Shores, her hometown. Back to a near-recluse father and back to fresh pain of previous losses.
Pace and passion escalate when Serenity meets Doctor Jackson Ross, is hired as his office decorator and when their lives become intertwined with many threads. I’m no exception to lining Doc Jack right up there with Atticus Finch. He certainly comes center stage, as do other memorable characters. Refreshing and unexpected plot twists kept me turning the pages with only the tiniest lapse of reader credibility, which the compelling story easily overcame.
Strong faith elements, along with absorbing romances, are Ms. Durgin’s signatures marks and there are no disappointments of these in Catching Serenity.
I highly recommend.
February 5, 2016
.Serenity—what a beautiful name, and so fitting for the heroine of this story. At least on the exterior. Underneath Serenity McClaren’s beauty and poise is a woman who has endured extreme loss, and she is desperate for resolutions. Jackson Ross seems like the perfect man to help her, or maybe simply the perfect man.
Author JoAnn Durgin has mastered the art of creating realistic, multi-dimensional characters, and the ones in Catching Serenity are particularly appealing. I loved the personalities and many-layered mysteries in this inspirational novel. Croisette Shores is a town I’d love to visit for an extended period. I could almost smell the sea air and feel sand compress under my feet, and I experienced the pain and hope of Serenity and Jackson.
Realism, mysteries, and romance—what more could a reader want? I love this story and award Catching Serenity five stars. Disclaimer: I took advantage of Amazon’s offer of a e-free book to add to my collection. This review is my honest opinion, and I was not compensated for it.
Author JoAnn Durgin has mastered the art of creating realistic, multi-dimensional characters, and the ones in Catching Serenity are particularly appealing. I loved the personalities and many-layered mysteries in this inspirational novel. Croisette Shores is a town I’d love to visit for an extended period. I could almost smell the sea air and feel sand compress under my feet, and I experienced the pain and hope of Serenity and Jackson.
Realism, mysteries, and romance—what more could a reader want? I love this story and award Catching Serenity five stars. Disclaimer: I took advantage of Amazon’s offer of a e-free book to add to my collection. This review is my honest opinion, and I was not compensated for it.
August 18, 2015
I love it when I read a novel and the characters are so real that it seems like I’m catching up with old friends. In Catching Serenity, JoAnn Durgin does not disappoint. This book has intriguing mystery, combined with sweet romance that kept me turning the pages, eagerly anticipating what happens next. The thing I love about this author is that her characters are so real. Many writers take their characters through scenes that are just so unrealistic with how people normally react to major events and the chance at love –almost like a soap opera -but Durgin’s characters always work through issues with real, human emotions that the reader can understand and relate to. As the plot unfolds in Catching Serenity, there are unexpected twists that are revealed in perfect timing with a complete ending that doesn’t stop abruptly as many I have read do. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery and romance.
April 6, 2014
In Catching Serenity by JoAnn Durgin, a dog appropriately named Freud, first brings the hero and heroine together. Interior designer Serenity McClaren returns to her childhood home of Croisette Shores, South Carolina, after receiving a cryptic letter. She has suffered more than one tragedy, from the death of her husband and son, to a mother who disappeared five years ago.
Dr. Jackson Ross is a war veteran and child psychologist with a young client and his mysterious guardian. Serenity takes on client Dr. Ross who's beginning a practice in child psychology in Croisette Shores. As the story progresses, secret after secret is revealed, peeling away the elements of the story until the final chapter. JoAnn lives up to her brand of an outstanding romance writer as the chemistry between Jackson and Serenity builds.
Dr. Jackson Ross is a war veteran and child psychologist with a young client and his mysterious guardian. Serenity takes on client Dr. Ross who's beginning a practice in child psychology in Croisette Shores. As the story progresses, secret after secret is revealed, peeling away the elements of the story until the final chapter. JoAnn lives up to her brand of an outstanding romance writer as the chemistry between Jackson and Serenity builds.
April 1, 2014
Serenity McClaren's life shattered five years ago. Not long after the murder of her young husband, she gave birth to a baby boy who died the next day — the same day her loving mother disappeared from her life. She fled to the big city, determined to put the horrific past behind her, but now she's been summoned back to Croisette Shores by a mysterious anonymous message.
She opens an interior design studio with her first client being a child psychologist new to town. Jackson Ross has secrets of his own, including a strange pair of clients who might hold answers for the woman he's growing to love.
This is a poignant story of sandy beaches, memories, and love of many kinds. Highly recommended.
She opens an interior design studio with her first client being a child psychologist new to town. Jackson Ross has secrets of his own, including a strange pair of clients who might hold answers for the woman he's growing to love.
This is a poignant story of sandy beaches, memories, and love of many kinds. Highly recommended.
September 6, 2016
Storylines which were hard to follow at times
This was an okay book but only okay. To be honest the storyline was just to unbelievable at times-a child kidnapped because of the mafia-oh please! I definitely wouldn't pass it on if it was a paper copy.
This was an okay book but only okay. To be honest the storyline was just to unbelievable at times-a child kidnapped because of the mafia-oh please! I definitely wouldn't pass it on if it was a paper copy.
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