To Have and To Hold

What Did You Vow #1

by Lakisha Johnson

Sydney Garcia is an unmarried 37-year-old, whose mother won’t let her forget it. Each day she’s reminded of the fact, “You’re not getting any younger, hija.”

But Sydney has had her fair share of failed relationships and isn’t willing to settle. So, when she reluctantly attends her 20th class reunion and meets Raymond Richardson, she takes a chance on falling in love again.

Things move quickly even after a temporary snag.

At the altar, they vow, “to have and to hold.” Until the day after their first wedding anniversary when Sydney finds out Raymond’s meaning of the vow is nothing like she imagined.

In Book 1 of the What Did You Vow Mini-Series, find out how Sydney’s life changes and if it’ll end with her keeping the vow... to death do us part.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance

134 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2023

About the author

Lakisha Johnson, native Memphian and author of over ten titles was born to write. She’ll tell you that “Writing didn’t find me, it’s was engraved in my spirit when I was created.” Along with being an author, she is an ordained minister, co-pastor, wife, mother and the product of a large family.

She is an avid blogger at kishasdailydevotional.com and social media poster where she utilizes her gifts to encourage others to tap into their God given talents. She won’t claim to be the best at what she does nor does she have all the answers, she is simply grateful to be used by God

Reviews

[Ellowyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think you have a favorite Lakisha Johnson book she pops up with another one. She did a great job writing this one. Raymond was a trip. The submissive wife list had me almost throwing my device. This was a great page-turner. This is a must-read. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

[Tanisha Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need more!!!

I devoured this book.

I have been waiting on a Lakisha Johnson story for a long time, and boy, did she deliver. She knocked it out of the park with this suspenseful and page-turning read. I knew something wasn't right with Raymond, and oh Lord.... Just read it and see! I loved the gems she dropped throughout and the truths she exposed. I cannot wait for the next story. I pray it comes soon!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Debbie Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unveiling Darkness

Raymond was crazy. He really misused the Bible by using it to try to control his wife. He really tried to justify his actions. I’m glad the case got solved and I’m so happy they found Sydney alive . I’m glad that Raymond’s ex came forward because without her I think poor Sydney would still be locked up in the basement

[Dawn Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Ok this was a page turner. This story went deep. I might have to read more by this author. Glad I gave it a try.

[ShayBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an eye opener to the vows we take as a married couple and how we each interpret those vows and their meanings. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Keesha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deacon Unhinged had me and Sydney messed up! This one was messy, messy, messy.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dude here..I can’t! It’s funny how we can all hear the same message, but interpret it to mean what only benefits you. As usual love the prayers.
I have been buying bubble bistro every since it kept being mentioned in several of your books. I still have some in my closet.

[Teri Rainey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read both book 1&2. They were very short reads and somewhat predictable. I can’t say either were my favorites. I needed more depth.

[Vonetta Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had an interesting take on what the vow To Have and To Hold could mean to some people. It moved pretty fast in Raymond and Sydney reconnecting with each other and even their discussion of this vow. There were red flags with Raymond and his thoughts on this vow that Sydney noticed at first but somehow let her guard down and was fooled into thinking that he had changed his beliefs.

It was ridiculous how Raymond tried to use the bible to backup his backwards thinking and even crazier that his mother supported his foolishness. When he presented his Submissive Wife list to Sydney I was rolling my eyes and shaking my head so hard it was crazy.

While it was a quick read and I understand and appreciate this is a work of fiction, I felt the way Raymond's character was written was a little extreme in his thinking and his actions thus the 3 star rating.

[Pat Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vows

There's no doubt of this author's love for God and the Word. She always strongly brings clear messages (yes, and prayers and sermons too) without being preachy and somehow wraps a story around it all. This was a warning for those seeking a spouse - know the person and don't ignore the red flags.
This is the first book by this author that didn't grab me right away though. The dialogue seemed juvenile or forced; I had to remind myself that this author delivers in order to continue reading. I'm disappointed that this accomplished author still has editing errors on simple things like 'to/too', 'feelings/fillings', etc. It's a real distraction for me.

[Lavera Fleeks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good storyline but too many grammatical errors.

I enjoyed the storyline and characters. I didn’t see the plot twist so I was pleasantly surprised, however, there are many grammatical errors that I would’ve thought a decent editor would have noticed. I’m going to read the second novel in the series and hopefully that one is better.

[HeyYallItsMei · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost Mrs. Johnson DON'T MISS!!! Now to the story...this story was great. Really makes you think "what did I vow?" Or "what am I agreeing to?" Do we really know? Everyone interprets things the way they feel best suits them. And clearly Raymond believed what he was taught as a child. Would I say he was brainwashed? No, not so much. He just believed in it so much he never wanted to depart from it. He believed it with his whole chest. And his mama who was taught and his this mindset engrained in her probably since she was a child by her dad encouraged Raymond's behavior because she saw nothing wrong in it. Because to see something wrong in the way he behaved she'd have to see something wrong in what her dad did/thought/taught. I really loved how strong minded Sydney was and even with all her strength she went against her better judgment to please her family and be a wife and mother even when there'd flags were accompanied by sirens. Always follow your intuition good people. Happy that man found God. Happy for Melanie, Sydney and their families. And baby Charlene is a friend friend. We all need a Charlene & Sam.

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: To Have and To Hold: What Did You Vow?
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"To Have and To Hold: What Did You Vow?" by Lakisha Johnson

My Sentiments:

'To Have and to Hold: What Did You Vow?' was one unforgettable intense story that will stay with you long after this suspenseful read. We find Sydney Garcia, who was 37 years old, pressured by her family, especially her mom, about getting married. After one horrible situation, Sydney was taking her time over this issue; however, a confident Raymond Richardson, who was a church deacon, comes into her life, and from there, after much persuasion, she decides to take a chance even though there were red flags all over the place. Will this be the right thing for her? After a year of marriage, what will happen after her husband delivers to her the 'Submissive Wife List?' This is where I say you must pick up this good read to see how this author has it all to the reader and 'how Sydney's life changes, and if it'll end with her keeping the vow...to death do us part.'

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Sydney Garcia attended her 20th Class Reunion, she didn’t expect to run into Raymond Richardson, and give love another chance. Things were going good, until their one year wedding anniversary, when Raymond presented his wife with his unbelievable contract of dos and don’ts. When Sydney doesn’t agree with some of the rules, she is reminded of the vow “Til Death Do You Part”.

This is the first book of the What Did You Vow series by @kishajohnson, and one that I highly recommend. If you think that this is your conventional Christian Fiction novel, then you are sadly mistaken. The author has a way of introducing tough issues backed by scripture and lessons. I don’t know why God had me to pick up this series at this time, but my steps have been ordered. I cannot wait to read more.

My favorite character goes to Sydney and my least favorite is Raymond, of course. If you are preparing for marriage…pick up this book. If you are newly married…pick up this book. If your marriage is struggling, you should pick this book up, too.

[Denise Brinkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Submissive Much!

I was married 20+ years and now divorced 6. One thing I didn’t do was pray nor fright for my marriage in the end I just wanted it to end and be done. I started changing reading my word more understanding what I could have done differently. None of that is to say it would have worked out but I now know that the next man that comes into my life has to be sent to me by God and any red flags I see will send me running. People show you what they want you to see. Some times they can hold on until you say I do and other times they just can’t There’s a lot of Raymonds out there, we just have to be prayed up and trust God because if you ask for a man, he will send you just that a man. You need to ask for a God fearing man and ask them what those wedding vows mean to them, because if you don’t this story can be your story. Well written. I hope there’s a book two where God sends her just who He had for her.

[Cathy Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book that I expect someone who has grown up in the church to understand. It was sometimes hard to read what a person who takes the Bible literally and not apply the Word of God to today and understand that we live under Grace because we live in the New Testament and so we have a better covenant with our Lord and Savior. I really liked reading this story because it combined how a man feels a woman ought to act and dress for him and how a woman feels how she should dress and act to attract a man, especially a man who believes in God. But believing in God and understanding the word of God is different for each other. I have experienced a man saying you belong to me but then he did not go to church or even read the Word like I do. I was raised in a holiness church. This book was one that anyone could read not just those that go to church and believe the Word but also those who do not know about God and are on a quest spiritually to find God and a mate.

[Abhijeet Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Have and To Hold by Lakisha Johnson is a fast-paced Christian fiction novella that explores the complexities of marriage vows and personal faith.

The book follows Sydney Garcia as she goes through love, betrayal and the unsettling reality of her husband. It's engaging and quite a page-turner. What started as a lovely romance soon turned into a crime mystery.

The story moves at a brisk pace, keeping suspense alive while incorporating biblical themes. It's not overly preachy, though. Just moral teachings.

If you're looking for a gripping Christian fiction with twists, you'll like this novella. It's an intense, thought-provoking read.

However, I might have loved it more, if the mystery element was introduced a tad bit early. It didn't get much "page time." Still, To Have and To Hold makes for a compelling read. It's worth checking out.

PS... The book might feel extreme at points and trigger some readers.

[Marsha Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

When they show you who they are, BELIEVE them!!

This was such a great read because I have a daughter this age and people are always asking why she is not married. I used to pray for her to have someone who loves God but I changed it to add a sane person because people can always send a representative. This is a good book for people who are desperate to be in relationships and for parents who are pushing it. The main character was not desperate but I feel as though she was pleasing others. Religion can mess a person up and I love how the author shows how people will use the Bible to suit their sick beliefs.

There are so many life lessons for people of God in this book.

[Barbara Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than I imagined

You captured my heart and soul with this beautiful and amazing story I felt every part of your story as if it was me living and going through all that was put before you my doubts fears and hopes gone in a manner of seconds Believing in God is wonderful it’s when we trust others that where our trials really comes sometimes or how strong is our faith in God’s plan for our life we make plans for the future yet we have not asked God or waited for an answer I’m glad he always has a way of escaping for us this book I know answered a lot of questions I love that prayer was consistent for everyone now on to the next book this is a great book even with the suspense and thriller I give it 100%

[Brillybri 📚 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not bad

Christian fiction is out of my comfort zone, but I was determined to read it because it looked interesting.

I’ll say I like the storyline; it was just very straightforward. There wasn’t much building of the characters or their backgrounds. Everything was really cut and dry, which made the book not as interesting as it had the potential to be. I wasn’t surprised by anything that happened, which also made the story kind of bland.

I will say tho that I liked Sydney. I feel like if it weren’t for her family, she would’ve made very different decisions. Had she lived for herself instead of for her friends and family, she would’ve avoided a lot of BS, and I found what was right for her on her own time. Whatever that may be

[Ruth Whyte · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Have and to Hold . What did you Vow

This book was dramatic, emotional and inspirational. Wow this deacon is mental to married a woman then claim he own the woman . Making rules and once rules are not carry out he beats drug and lock them in his special room in his basement. He married Samara after a year he beat , drug and lock her away , then call her family to advise them she is missing,when deep down he know where she is. Good read . Lakisha Johnson you always delivers.

[Verlana Munn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be Careful When Someone Shows Them Who They Are Believe Them!

Lakisha Johnson good read. It's so sad to see how some people that are in church act like they have Jesus but are more carnal than a non believer.
Watching Raymond hide behind the church walls or was he hiding? Sydney had lost her discernment because of what people thought she should do she missed the flags. God really protects his babies though. He will protect you whenever you need him even when you don't he has you. His Grace was with Sydney. Blessings🤗🤗🤗🤗

[NubianJoí · Rating 5 out of 5]

“To Hand and To Hold: What Did You Vow?” was a excellent read. However, the subject matter is/was relevant yet it was equally disturbing. There were numerous RED FLAGS 🚩 in the life of Mr. Raymond Carter Richardson (and his mama Leila)! Where was the Pastor of St. Stephen Church? More so, only Raymond functioned by a superficial form a godliness! Why didn’t Sebastian (Sydney’s father) ever have a private conversation with Raymond and or other men of St. Stephen’s hold Raymond ask question/accountable for his actions?

[Gene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew what a ride

This book was goodt. And yes I said good with a T. baby this book had me glued to my tablet and phone. I'm talking bout reading while waiting in the Wendy's drive thru line. In the beginning I.was like okay a few hiccups but halfway through and I got to meat of the book first I laughed then I just kept reading and was like baby no ain't no way. Lakisha Johnson did her big one with this book. Kudos on a well written book.

[Ms. Cecil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Understand Your Vows!

Listen, Lakisha Johnson had me at the introduction. This is a very eye-opening story about different peoples interpretation and versions of marriage vows. I love the prayers in the book! The level of suspense took me by surprise. This is a great read for singles and married people, I definitely recommend it and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

[Mary Calton Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my 😱

I enjoy the author's ministry! I believe I have read each book written since I discovered her books in March 2020. The lessons that she teaches are inspirational and are appropriately relevant. This book has lessons on correctly interpreting and teaching the scriptures, 2 Timothy 2:15. I would recommend reading this book or others written.

I have to mention the spelling, grammatical errors and probably the spell check. Your editor missed this book.

[Dee Osah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mrs. Johnson is a gifted storyteller. This novel had me in stitches. Raymond Richardson was simply off the chain, somebody should have long taken this man off the streets. How could this dude be a deacon? And his mom? Wow. I loved how fast the story played out. Just the Submissive Wife List makes this novel worth a read.
If you're looking for a trip of a novel that gives you a real portrayal of the hypocrisies of some church dudes, then read this book.

[Ammina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow…..

From the first few words I knew w I was headed on a journey. As always this book was worth the wait. It shows we must pay attention to the warnings. God will always provide a way of escape. The question is will we take it? I recommend this book.
If you’re a new reader I highly recommend you make a list of all Lakisha Johnson’s book and start from the beginning. You will be blessed

[Treasure · Rating 5 out of 5]

unexpectedly good

Imagine marrying your worse nightmare, even though your we’ve very cautious during the courting season . Your potential spouse presented themself as an angel, God fearing and committed to doing right by God. Only for him to change on the day of your 1st wedding anniversary!
This book had me in a chokehold, the plot twist couldn’t have been predicted. I can’t want to read book 2 in this trilogy ! A must read

[BishopShe · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Gawd! Whewwww Lawd ~ RevKisha, your writing is definitely MINISTRY!!!! I couldn’t put it down and I’ve been waiting on the Spirit to crank you back up and the Spirit did just THAT!!!!! It was a BIble Study and preached WORD for me. I got a whole notebook/journal dedicated to this series for notes, points to ponder. So needed…… keep writing Queen!!!! Loved it from start to finish