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Love in Blackwater #1
Love in the Storm
When a snowstorm sneaks up, she gets stranded with the handsome man who once arrested her. Will he be able to forgive her when the truth comes out?
Lyric Woods has been sober for years now, but nothing about picking herself up from rock bottom has been easy. She’s behind on bills and on the verge of getting evicted, still paying for the mistakes of her past. When she is stranded with the deputy who doesn't remember her, she gets a second chance at a first impression.
Asa Scott isn’t complaining about being stranded with the beautiful Lyric. The kind woman tending his wounds after a wreck in the storm is the first to make him think he could move on after his wife’s death. But when he finds out about her record, he can't reconcile the woman from the past with the woman who cared for him at the cabin.
When Lyric needs his help after they’re rescued, Asa treads carefully. Helping her is fine—letting her into his life and trusting her near his son is another story.
Despite his fears, Asa can’t fight the way he feels about the resilient woman who helped him. But when it looks like Lyric has fallen back into her old ways, will Asa trust the evidence or believe the woman he’s falling for and fight to clear her name?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
Lyric Woods has been sober for years now, but nothing about picking herself up from rock bottom has been easy. She’s behind on bills and on the verge of getting evicted, still paying for the mistakes of her past. When she is stranded with the deputy who doesn't remember her, she gets a second chance at a first impression.
Asa Scott isn’t complaining about being stranded with the beautiful Lyric. The kind woman tending his wounds after a wreck in the storm is the first to make him think he could move on after his wife’s death. But when he finds out about her record, he can't reconcile the woman from the past with the woman who cared for him at the cabin.
When Lyric needs his help after they’re rescued, Asa treads carefully. Helping her is fine—letting her into his life and trusting her near his son is another story.
Despite his fears, Asa can’t fight the way he feels about the resilient woman who helped him. But when it looks like Lyric has fallen back into her old ways, will Asa trust the evidence or believe the woman he’s falling for and fight to clear her name?
If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2024
654 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Blake
44 books857 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
April 27, 2024
Book Review: Love in the Storm by Mandi Blake - 4.5 Stars!
Ya'll Mandi Blake does it AGAIN! Her books are always just the BEST comfort reads for me personally and I loved this one. A snowed in trope, forced proximity, characters with depth, a sweet romance, great Christian faith content, what more could we ask for?!
In this story, we have Lyric who is a new Christian with a troubled past filled with drugs, alcohol and mistakes. She's been clean for 5 years and is a new Christian excited for her journey with the Lord. When a snowstorm sneaks up on them, Lyric gets stranded with the handsome police officer, Asa, who arrested her 10 years ago. He doesn't recognize her right away but she's worried how will he feel after he finds out her past... They get to know each other and the rest is history as a romance blossoms.
I loved the way Mandi wrote this story. It was a quicker romance but YALL even though I am not a quick romance person, Mandi ALWAYS gets me hyped for the couple and their romance! The way she writes it doesn't feel like instalove to me, it feels natural and just a feel good, sweet, Christian romance. I appreciate that about her stories. I also love how layered these characters were. Lyric had her past mistakes she was dealing with and Asa had the grief of losing his wife to cancer several years ago and how to live life as a single Dad on him. I also LOVE the single Dad trope finding love again, so that was a bonus for me.
Overall, I loved this book and am looking forward to book 2 with Dawson's story since we met him in this one.
Ya'll Mandi Blake does it AGAIN! Her books are always just the BEST comfort reads for me personally and I loved this one. A snowed in trope, forced proximity, characters with depth, a sweet romance, great Christian faith content, what more could we ask for?!
In this story, we have Lyric who is a new Christian with a troubled past filled with drugs, alcohol and mistakes. She's been clean for 5 years and is a new Christian excited for her journey with the Lord. When a snowstorm sneaks up on them, Lyric gets stranded with the handsome police officer, Asa, who arrested her 10 years ago. He doesn't recognize her right away but she's worried how will he feel after he finds out her past... They get to know each other and the rest is history as a romance blossoms.
I loved the way Mandi wrote this story. It was a quicker romance but YALL even though I am not a quick romance person, Mandi ALWAYS gets me hyped for the couple and their romance! The way she writes it doesn't feel like instalove to me, it feels natural and just a feel good, sweet, Christian romance. I appreciate that about her stories. I also love how layered these characters were. Lyric had her past mistakes she was dealing with and Asa had the grief of losing his wife to cancer several years ago and how to live life as a single Dad on him. I also LOVE the single Dad trope finding love again, so that was a bonus for me.
Overall, I loved this book and am looking forward to book 2 with Dawson's story since we met him in this one.
December 12, 2025
My first Mandi Blake novel! I’m impressed.
I absolutely love the double-meaning title. Blake’s characters literally find love in the storm, but they are also loving and supporting others in their community who are going through the storms of life. In the chaos of our present day, isn’t this a wonderful message?! What an inspiration to read about characters who care about doing what’s right and care about helping people who are struggling.
I appreciated the messages about learning to accept the things we can’t control, but I will remember this book for what it reminded me about making mistakes:
🥰 “Everyone messes up, even Christians. It’s how we fix it that matters.”
🥰 “If we were bound to our mistakes forever, the world would be a dark place.”
Great main characters:
✔️Officer Asa Scott - A police officer and single father who’s stranded while helping others
✔️Lyric Woods - A lonely woman who has chased away her family with a series of bad choices and is stranded at work when the roads are closed
I’ll definitely be putting this series on my TBR come the new year!
I absolutely love the double-meaning title. Blake’s characters literally find love in the storm, but they are also loving and supporting others in their community who are going through the storms of life. In the chaos of our present day, isn’t this a wonderful message?! What an inspiration to read about characters who care about doing what’s right and care about helping people who are struggling.
I appreciated the messages about learning to accept the things we can’t control, but I will remember this book for what it reminded me about making mistakes:
🥰 “Everyone messes up, even Christians. It’s how we fix it that matters.”
🥰 “If we were bound to our mistakes forever, the world would be a dark place.”
Great main characters:
✔️Officer Asa Scott - A police officer and single father who’s stranded while helping others
✔️Lyric Woods - A lonely woman who has chased away her family with a series of bad choices and is stranded at work when the roads are closed
I’ll definitely be putting this series on my TBR come the new year!
May 6, 2024
I got this as an arc back in January and I’m rereading it before I start the second book next. Great story line, authentic relationships, sweet romance, and the faith values were prominent and strong! I’m excited to dive into the next book!
August 3, 2025
My first ever Mandi Blake book and it did NOT disappoint! Absolutely amazing! Swoon, small-town charm, and a protective hero all wrapped up in one amazing package. Loved it!
September 24, 2025
Blog Post: https://fictionwithphoebe.com/love-in...
Lyric Woods has a lot on her plate — working two jobs and trying to leave her wild past behind her. She doesn’t really have time for romance. But all that changes when she’s stranded in a blizzard with Asa Scott, a widower and single father, who just happens to be the police officer that previously arrested her.
Asa and Lyric’s romance was a bit too insta-lovey for me. But, I did enjoy their interactions while they were stranded at the cabin. Forced proximity because of snow is one of my favorite storylines!
Jacob (Asa’s son) bonding with Lyric over cars was also very sweet ☺️
Favorite Moments
❄️ Clue
❄️ One hundred pages
❄️“I’m glad it was you”
❄️ Shoveling snow
Content Notes:
death of a spouse (mentioned), mention of alcoholism and drug use, blood, some mild innuendo, mention of hunting, noticing and awareness, touching, mention of ”a fling,” kissing, a man is shirtless, mention of almost dying from drug overdose, mentions of various crimes and violence, mention of divorce and parental abandonment, mention of moving in with a man in the past, blood, guns and shooting, mention of twerking, one use of “sexiness,” mention of “making out”
Lyric Woods has a lot on her plate — working two jobs and trying to leave her wild past behind her. She doesn’t really have time for romance. But all that changes when she’s stranded in a blizzard with Asa Scott, a widower and single father, who just happens to be the police officer that previously arrested her.
Asa and Lyric’s romance was a bit too insta-lovey for me. But, I did enjoy their interactions while they were stranded at the cabin. Forced proximity because of snow is one of my favorite storylines!
Jacob (Asa’s son) bonding with Lyric over cars was also very sweet ☺️
Favorite Moments
❄️ Clue
❄️ One hundred pages
❄️“I’m glad it was you”
❄️ Shoveling snow
Content Notes:
death of a spouse (mentioned), mention of alcoholism and drug use, blood, some mild innuendo, mention of hunting, noticing and awareness, touching, mention of ”a fling,” kissing, a man is shirtless, mention of almost dying from drug overdose, mentions of various crimes and violence, mention of divorce and parental abandonment, mention of moving in with a man in the past, blood, guns and shooting, mention of twerking, one use of “sexiness,” mention of “making out”
January 10, 2024
"This isn't real," she mumbled into the soft comforter. "I am not stranded in a luxury mountain cabin with Officer Handsome."
Ahhh, forced proximity. Oh, how I love you!
Seriously.
Here. For. It.
This is a fantastic Christian fiction romance. It has every element that I'm looking for: redemption, grace, excellent writing and a faith element that compliments--it doesn't overtake the story, but isn't just a one time mention either. It's who these characters are.
"Everyone messes up, even Christians. It's how we fix it that matters."
This was a pick-up read that I had a hard time putting down. Mandi Blake is a new-to-me author as of last year and I've quickly been reading everything of hers that I can get my hands on.
If you like Christian fiction, clean/wholesome romance, forced proximity and an overall feel-good book. This is the next one you should check out!!
Love in the Storm will be available 1.17.2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: former drug/alcohol user, single parent trope, death of a loved one, forced proximity, Christian themes, mild violence, romance-kisses only.
Ahhh, forced proximity. Oh, how I love you!
Seriously.
Here. For. It.
This is a fantastic Christian fiction romance. It has every element that I'm looking for: redemption, grace, excellent writing and a faith element that compliments--it doesn't overtake the story, but isn't just a one time mention either. It's who these characters are.
"Everyone messes up, even Christians. It's how we fix it that matters."
This was a pick-up read that I had a hard time putting down. Mandi Blake is a new-to-me author as of last year and I've quickly been reading everything of hers that I can get my hands on.
If you like Christian fiction, clean/wholesome romance, forced proximity and an overall feel-good book. This is the next one you should check out!!
Love in the Storm will be available 1.17.2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: former drug/alcohol user, single parent trope, death of a loved one, forced proximity, Christian themes, mild violence, romance-kisses only.
August 9, 2024
I enjoyed this one! It was a sweet romance that had good faith elements in it. I think for me, I'm finding I'm not a straight up romance girlie...I need more literary with a side of romance. I also am learning I need more humor and banter in my romances and less serious, emotional story lines. That's a me problem, not the book problem! I do still recommend this one!
Watch my reading vlog for more thoughts: https://youtu.be/ut3W31oitrI?si=VIHUQ...
Watch my reading vlog for more thoughts: https://youtu.be/ut3W31oitrI?si=VIHUQ...
January 9, 2024
Genre: Christian romance
Content: makeouts, mentions of alcoholism & drug addiction
I’m pretty sure this is the first book I’ve ever read of Mandi Blake’s and it was great! Asa gets in a car accident coming down a mountain in a snowstorm & ends up snowed in with Lyric, the girl who rescued him. She cares for him and tends to his wounds and they develop a closeness. As it turns out though, Lyric recognizes him from her darker past: Asa arrested her a decade ago when she was in the midst of addiction.
Lyric has been sober for 5 years now but is still struggling to get on her feet. Honestly, I got some Les Mis vibes! Maybe that’s just because I saw the musical 10 days ago. Lyric is clean but there is this stigma that follows her around and causes people to distrust her. She finally gets a break with this divine re-meeting of Asa.
I loved the found family aspect of this. Jacob and Granny were precious. Dawson and Olivia also welcomed Lyric with open arms. Kendra, Lyric’s sponsor, was amazing. Overall, it was a really beautiful story of redemption and had the message of “He who is without sin cast the first stone at her”. We all make mistakes and have weaknesses. Some might just be more visible than others. Doesn’t change the fact that we all need Jesus. ❤️
This one releases January 17th!
Quotes That Resonated:
💔 Watching the person you love suffer got a hard zero out of ten.
☀️ Asa was goodness and light, and she wanted nothing more than to sink into the safety he offered.
🍫 "Speaking of dessert. How do you feel about s'mores?" Lyric arched an eyebrow. "Does anyone have negative feelings about s'mores? They're probably the best treat ever."
‼️ "I can't shed my past like a second skin. It doesn't go away."
"Really? Because my past is dead. It can't hurt me anymore. I became a new person. If I hadn't put my new self together, I would have stayed broken."
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
Content: makeouts, mentions of alcoholism & drug addiction
I’m pretty sure this is the first book I’ve ever read of Mandi Blake’s and it was great! Asa gets in a car accident coming down a mountain in a snowstorm & ends up snowed in with Lyric, the girl who rescued him. She cares for him and tends to his wounds and they develop a closeness. As it turns out though, Lyric recognizes him from her darker past: Asa arrested her a decade ago when she was in the midst of addiction.
Lyric has been sober for 5 years now but is still struggling to get on her feet. Honestly, I got some Les Mis vibes! Maybe that’s just because I saw the musical 10 days ago. Lyric is clean but there is this stigma that follows her around and causes people to distrust her. She finally gets a break with this divine re-meeting of Asa.
I loved the found family aspect of this. Jacob and Granny were precious. Dawson and Olivia also welcomed Lyric with open arms. Kendra, Lyric’s sponsor, was amazing. Overall, it was a really beautiful story of redemption and had the message of “He who is without sin cast the first stone at her”. We all make mistakes and have weaknesses. Some might just be more visible than others. Doesn’t change the fact that we all need Jesus. ❤️
This one releases January 17th!
Quotes That Resonated:
💔 Watching the person you love suffer got a hard zero out of ten.
☀️ Asa was goodness and light, and she wanted nothing more than to sink into the safety he offered.
🍫 "Speaking of dessert. How do you feel about s'mores?" Lyric arched an eyebrow. "Does anyone have negative feelings about s'mores? They're probably the best treat ever."
‼️ "I can't shed my past like a second skin. It doesn't go away."
"Really? Because my past is dead. It can't hurt me anymore. I became a new person. If I hadn't put my new self together, I would have stayed broken."
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
January 30, 2025
So Mandi Blake was on my list of authors I wanted to try in 2025. This is my first read by her and it will not be my last. I am immediately adding all of her books to my TBR. The banter of this book was laugh out loud funny and absolute perfection. The beginning of this book was completely adorable and I am already loving Dawson and can’t wait to read his story. I was apprehensive about how part of the storyline was going to play out, but Mandi wove that element beautifully and I loved how it all came together in the end. My must read authors just grew by one!
January 8, 2024
I can’t even write down my first thoughts after finishing Love in the Storm because it was basically excited internal squealing noises that can’t be spelled out in a way that makes sense. The chemistry was just ah-mazing between Lyric and Asa. I wasn’t sure at first about how quickly their relationship seemed to be progressing while they were snowed in together but it wasn’t like they were professing their love and walking down the aisle after 2 or 3 days of being stranded so I was able to move past that. Lyric and Asa’s relationship definitely had more time to be explored once they got back out into the real world. Between Asa’s son and Lyric’s past, they had to have some tough conversations early on, which definitely helped it feel more real.
Speaking of, ASA!! Total book boyfriend material. He definitely had his moments when he struggled with judging Lyric’s past, but obviously he’s human so he can’t be perfect. In general, I just absolutely loved him. There was a part there towards the end where things were feeling super tense. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop due to Lyric’s past. Would she relapse, would there be a misunderstanding that would tear them apart, was I worrying for nothing?? I won’t go into detail as to not ruin anything, but there were a few chapters where things seemed bleak and I was concerned for real! But man, Lyric was very dedicated to turning her life around, which was very inspiring. One thought I had while reading this book was how natural the faith elements are woven into the story.
I know this is the start of a new series and I am very excited to see where this goes. Dawson seriously cracked me and I’m so glad his story is next because I’m ready to see more of him. The interactions between him and Asa, and just his personality in general, were so fun. There were several moments I laughed out loud because it was just that funny. As with all Mandi Blake books, I highly recommend it!
Speaking of, ASA!! Total book boyfriend material. He definitely had his moments when he struggled with judging Lyric’s past, but obviously he’s human so he can’t be perfect. In general, I just absolutely loved him. There was a part there towards the end where things were feeling super tense. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop due to Lyric’s past. Would she relapse, would there be a misunderstanding that would tear them apart, was I worrying for nothing?? I won’t go into detail as to not ruin anything, but there were a few chapters where things seemed bleak and I was concerned for real! But man, Lyric was very dedicated to turning her life around, which was very inspiring. One thought I had while reading this book was how natural the faith elements are woven into the story.
I know this is the start of a new series and I am very excited to see where this goes. Dawson seriously cracked me and I’m so glad his story is next because I’m ready to see more of him. The interactions between him and Asa, and just his personality in general, were so fun. There were several moments I laughed out loud because it was just that funny. As with all Mandi Blake books, I highly recommend it!
January 9, 2024
Loved Asa and Lyric's story! A storm hits Blackwater without a lot of notice, and Lyric is stuck at one of her boss's rental properties, when she hears a loud crash. She knows it wasn't in the house, so she runs out in the storm. When she reaches the road in front of the house, she sees a tree down and a truck that's crashed into it. She helps the man in the car, and realizes that it's Asa Scott, one of the police officers. She also knows he arrested her ten years ago, and that he stood up for her in court to be given a lighter sentence. Now, she's been sober and clean for five years. She just doesn't want Asa to remember that they met ten years ago. She soon realizes, though, that she's got to tell Asa the truth, because if he finds out on his own, it's going to hurt them both. The more time they spend together, the more they fall for each other. Asa hasn't dated at all, or even been interested in meeting someone, since his wife passed away. Until Lyric. When hard times come, and it looks like Lyric has had a relapse, will Asa stand by her, believe her, and help her, or will she lose everything she's ever wanted? I love the way Asa is there for her, and reminds her that God is always there, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
April 3, 2024
Love, love, loved this sweet story of love and redemption. Lyric was mentioned in one of Mandi’s earlier books and my heart went out to her with all her struggles. And Asa has been a guy I’ve hoped would find a second chance at romance. How perfect that they found it together. They both needed to embrace love once more and to trust their hearts to another. Asa’s family helping Lyric see that love isn’t earned but gifted was one of my favorite parts of the story. Plus there were beautiful faith elements and prayers woven throughout the story that made it the most lovely read. I cannot tell you enough how much I truly enjoyed this love journey. In fact, I read it in two hours because I could not put it down (sorry, not sorry Mandi!!) I highly recommend you grab a copy if it so you can love it too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
January 11, 2024
I have been looking forward to Asa’s story for a long time! This did not disappoint. Lyric and Asa’s first meeting was definitely not how you want to meet your future spouse, but it was certainly memorable.
Lyric and Asa’s chemistry was off the charts, and I’m really glad they took their feet off the gas when they got back to the “real world” and got to know each other better. This book really focused on letting go of past sins and trusting that God has washed them white. It was also a good reminder that we can’t get through this life alone.
‘Love in the Storm’ was the perfect start to this series and I cannot wait for Dawson’s story.
** I was sent a complimentary eARC with no expectation for a favorable review.
Lyric and Asa’s chemistry was off the charts, and I’m really glad they took their feet off the gas when they got back to the “real world” and got to know each other better. This book really focused on letting go of past sins and trusting that God has washed them white. It was also a good reminder that we can’t get through this life alone.
‘Love in the Storm’ was the perfect start to this series and I cannot wait for Dawson’s story.
** I was sent a complimentary eARC with no expectation for a favorable review.
January 10, 2024
This book blew my mind. From beginning to end I fell in love with both Asa and Lyrics.
Mandi did an amazing job with the heavy topics in this story while also keeping it light and engaging.
We follow a “good boy”, who is a single dad(queue the trauma.) Asa is always there for others to protect and serve but when he’s in a situation that only God can help with, he finds an angel in the storm.
Redeemed and Restored, Lyric is a whirlwind of hurt, strength and broken trust. Lyric is a God sent for Asa but her past haunts her at every crash! She’s drowning in a puddle of melted snow but Asa shows her just how far God can carry you.
I can’t wait to read the other books in this series!
Mandi did an amazing job with the heavy topics in this story while also keeping it light and engaging.
We follow a “good boy”, who is a single dad(queue the trauma.) Asa is always there for others to protect and serve but when he’s in a situation that only God can help with, he finds an angel in the storm.
Redeemed and Restored, Lyric is a whirlwind of hurt, strength and broken trust. Lyric is a God sent for Asa but her past haunts her at every crash! She’s drowning in a puddle of melted snow but Asa shows her just how far God can carry you.
I can’t wait to read the other books in this series!
July 31, 2024
Firstly, Mandi Blake, thank you so much for gifting me a free copy of this book! That was so kind, and I treasure this gift.
Where do I start? I loved the fast romance and forced proximity of this romance. I think Mandi handled it all so well and delivered the romance with an expert’s skill. I love how Asa and Lyric found themselves together in a cozy cabin because of snowy, dangerous circumstances and they grew quickly in their attraction and care for one another. Ugh, so sweet! I love how Asa pulled Lyric out of her head and showed her that love can help heal her wounds. Lyric always wanted to care for him, and he put her at ease but also treasured her trait of tenderness. Plus, I enjoyed how he helped her with her questions about her new faith and that they both were already believers from the start of the story.
Mandi so craftily immerses her readers in the story. I felt as if I was sitting on the sofa in the cabin right next to the Asa and Lyric. It’s my favorite when I can easily feel as if I’m in a story and I most certainly felt that way in this book. The atmosphere of this book made me want to snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa right under warm blankets. Hello, can I please rent the cabin as well? Also, I love that Mandi’s stories take place in a small town. As a small-town girl, I love how all the town characters come to life, and it makes me feel right at home. This story has a scene where there’s a group of men who spend time at a local diner and my grandpa does this exact thing (just a slightly different location) so that tidbit was so special to me.
Next, Lyric’s troubled past touched me. I found myself rooting for her and clinging to the words of grace and hope that other characters spoke to her throughout the story. As someone who goes to church where we have a growing number of recovered alcoholics and drug users, I loved this representation because I know the powerful testimonies that can come from recovered people. What a blessing to read!
I hope you pick up this book for some cozy moments that highlight the love of God even on the darkest of days!
Happy reading,
Beth
Where do I start? I loved the fast romance and forced proximity of this romance. I think Mandi handled it all so well and delivered the romance with an expert’s skill. I love how Asa and Lyric found themselves together in a cozy cabin because of snowy, dangerous circumstances and they grew quickly in their attraction and care for one another. Ugh, so sweet! I love how Asa pulled Lyric out of her head and showed her that love can help heal her wounds. Lyric always wanted to care for him, and he put her at ease but also treasured her trait of tenderness. Plus, I enjoyed how he helped her with her questions about her new faith and that they both were already believers from the start of the story.
Mandi so craftily immerses her readers in the story. I felt as if I was sitting on the sofa in the cabin right next to the Asa and Lyric. It’s my favorite when I can easily feel as if I’m in a story and I most certainly felt that way in this book. The atmosphere of this book made me want to snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa right under warm blankets. Hello, can I please rent the cabin as well? Also, I love that Mandi’s stories take place in a small town. As a small-town girl, I love how all the town characters come to life, and it makes me feel right at home. This story has a scene where there’s a group of men who spend time at a local diner and my grandpa does this exact thing (just a slightly different location) so that tidbit was so special to me.
Next, Lyric’s troubled past touched me. I found myself rooting for her and clinging to the words of grace and hope that other characters spoke to her throughout the story. As someone who goes to church where we have a growing number of recovered alcoholics and drug users, I loved this representation because I know the powerful testimonies that can come from recovered people. What a blessing to read!
I hope you pick up this book for some cozy moments that highlight the love of God even on the darkest of days!
Happy reading,
Beth
February 7, 2024
Beautiful book full of hope and faith 😍
Love In The Storm is full of hope, healing, and forgiveness.
📖Lyric messed up in her past, throwing the good things away for addiction and other issues. She's been sober for several years but still can't seem to keep her head above water financially.
❤️I absolutely loved Lyric. She is all of us. She is an example of everyone who makes a mistake and wants to change but still has consequences to deal with. Her internal battle is encouraging and I absolutely loved the addition of faith into this book and focusing on the Grace of Christ.
📖This is also a single dad romance and boy oh boy Asa is awesome. He's a police officer, father, and an awesome Christian. I loved his internal battles, and how he continued to have hope in the good of people.
❤️Now don't get me wrong all of these deep and heartfelt things are included but so are some swoony kisses and romantic scenes.
From the moment Asa and Lyric meet sparks are flying and I loved seeing their relationship blossom.
It was beautiful.
A beautiful book.
👄Kisses only
⚠️Addiction recovery, grief from loss of spouse, sobriety program and other side characters struggle with sobriety as well.
Love In The Storm is full of hope, healing, and forgiveness.
📖Lyric messed up in her past, throwing the good things away for addiction and other issues. She's been sober for several years but still can't seem to keep her head above water financially.
❤️I absolutely loved Lyric. She is all of us. She is an example of everyone who makes a mistake and wants to change but still has consequences to deal with. Her internal battle is encouraging and I absolutely loved the addition of faith into this book and focusing on the Grace of Christ.
📖This is also a single dad romance and boy oh boy Asa is awesome. He's a police officer, father, and an awesome Christian. I loved his internal battles, and how he continued to have hope in the good of people.
❤️Now don't get me wrong all of these deep and heartfelt things are included but so are some swoony kisses and romantic scenes.
From the moment Asa and Lyric meet sparks are flying and I loved seeing their relationship blossom.
It was beautiful.
A beautiful book.
👄Kisses only
⚠️Addiction recovery, grief from loss of spouse, sobriety program and other side characters struggle with sobriety as well.
November 10, 2024
The first half of the book when they were stuck in the storm together was the perfect clean romance! But once they left the cabin, the rest of the story was just boring. There was hardly another conflict.
July 7, 2024
Loved it so much!
September 14, 2024
Wonderful for so many reasons. The HONESTY and bravery of both characters. The acknowledgement that an addiction is a constant fight but the forgiveness and NEW LIFE that is possible.
January 31, 2025
Beautiful
Love the story.. clean Romance and Christian!! We need more books like this one!
I enjoyed and loved Asa and Lyric!
Love the story.. clean Romance and Christian!! We need more books like this one!
I enjoyed and loved Asa and Lyric!
Read
May 31, 2025A super sweet, insta love, small town romance. I’m an easy sell for a series set in a small town , and I’m sure I’ll be back to read more.
July 17, 2025
LOVED this book so much! Cannot wait to buy and finish the rest of this series and support this author in the future! 🩷
March 30, 2024
I absolutely loved Asa & Lyric's heartachingly beautiful, redeeming, caring, sweet, loving, swoony story!!!
March 15, 2025
2.5 stars.
There wasn’t enough conflict to carry this story, and the characters were too perfect. The flaws were in the past, and it just made the story not very interesting. I stuck it out because I enjoyed the part where they were stuck in the cabin.
There wasn’t enough conflict to carry this story, and the characters were too perfect. The flaws were in the past, and it just made the story not very interesting. I stuck it out because I enjoyed the part where they were stuck in the cabin.
January 13, 2024
Oh my gosh what to say about this amazing book!
First of all I did receive an ARC copy for my Kindle from the author for my review but that no way influences my thoughts on the book.
The faith elements in this book I just loved the fact that when anything was going wrong they prayed and trusted God just gave me an all over warm and fuzzy feeling!
Then the part in the book where Asa and Lyric were snowed in the rental cabin and falling for each other but she was scared to tell him the truth of her past and her addiction to alcohol cause he was a police officer and he was the first one to arrest her but he hadn’t recognized her be she remembered him. Then 2 days later when they finally were getting rescued and getting ready to leave the cabin she tells him everything she tells him her family isn’t like his, that she just has one friend and that’s it and he replay by saying “What If I said you can have me?” I died right there! I was kicking and screaming and getting all giddy! It reminded me of the moment in the Casper movie at the end when Casper gets to be human till midnight and he dances with Kat and he looks her in the eyes while they are dancing and says “Can I Keep You?” Yeah same feeling!
After just reading that part I knew my review was gonna be a 5 star review and I was immediately gonna have to read all of her books from now on!
This book made me cry happy tears the whole time but especially at the epilogue, I gasp and had my hand over my mouth as I was reading it and uncontrollably sobbing! This author is truly to me the clean Christian Colleen Hoover and needs to by hyped about more!!
First of all I did receive an ARC copy for my Kindle from the author for my review but that no way influences my thoughts on the book.
The faith elements in this book I just loved the fact that when anything was going wrong they prayed and trusted God just gave me an all over warm and fuzzy feeling!
Then the part in the book where Asa and Lyric were snowed in the rental cabin and falling for each other but she was scared to tell him the truth of her past and her addiction to alcohol cause he was a police officer and he was the first one to arrest her but he hadn’t recognized her be she remembered him. Then 2 days later when they finally were getting rescued and getting ready to leave the cabin she tells him everything she tells him her family isn’t like his, that she just has one friend and that’s it and he replay by saying “What If I said you can have me?” I died right there! I was kicking and screaming and getting all giddy! It reminded me of the moment in the Casper movie at the end when Casper gets to be human till midnight and he dances with Kat and he looks her in the eyes while they are dancing and says “Can I Keep You?” Yeah same feeling!
After just reading that part I knew my review was gonna be a 5 star review and I was immediately gonna have to read all of her books from now on!
This book made me cry happy tears the whole time but especially at the epilogue, I gasp and had my hand over my mouth as I was reading it and uncontrollably sobbing! This author is truly to me the clean Christian Colleen Hoover and needs to by hyped about more!!
January 16, 2024
I'm so excited by the prospect of this series!
**edit to original May 2022 novella review**
Just read the extended/updated full-length 2024 release and still love this story. Yes, most of what was in the original novel is here... but there's more. So much more. It's a great introduction to future protagonists in this new series, plus a reminder of all the people we love in Blackwater. Ms Blake's done a fabulous job of mixing the old with the new, and this story is fresh and worthy of a read (or reread... kinda... for those who read the original novella).
I have a confession: I've had a 'thing' for Asa since his first appearance in the Blackwater Ranch series. 🙊 So to say I was thrilled to realise this book was about him is an understatement.
I guess Mandi Blake knows how to write intriguing characters, regardless of being a side character. Cos I've wanted more of Asa for ages! 😂
Really enjoyed Asa's book! Liked the whole 'trapped with a stranger' meet cute and the stranger too! Lyric was sweet even if a little impulsive, but her heart was right. I really felt for her always living under the shadow of her past.
So happy Asa had his second HEA, and sweet Jacob will have a beautiful stepmum to love.
*squee* So excited for this series. There are lots of side characters we met in the Blackwater Ranch (and now the newer Wolf Creek Ranch series) who would be perfect candidates for this 'Love in Blackwater' series. 😍
**edit to original May 2022 novella review**
Just read the extended/updated full-length 2024 release and still love this story. Yes, most of what was in the original novel is here... but there's more. So much more. It's a great introduction to future protagonists in this new series, plus a reminder of all the people we love in Blackwater. Ms Blake's done a fabulous job of mixing the old with the new, and this story is fresh and worthy of a read (or reread... kinda... for those who read the original novella).
I have a confession: I've had a 'thing' for Asa since his first appearance in the Blackwater Ranch series. 🙊 So to say I was thrilled to realise this book was about him is an understatement.
I guess Mandi Blake knows how to write intriguing characters, regardless of being a side character. Cos I've wanted more of Asa for ages! 😂
Really enjoyed Asa's book! Liked the whole 'trapped with a stranger' meet cute and the stranger too! Lyric was sweet even if a little impulsive, but her heart was right. I really felt for her always living under the shadow of her past.
So happy Asa had his second HEA, and sweet Jacob will have a beautiful stepmum to love.
*squee* So excited for this series. There are lots of side characters we met in the Blackwater Ranch (and now the newer Wolf Creek Ranch series) who would be perfect candidates for this 'Love in Blackwater' series. 😍
January 7, 2024
I read this book back in its novella form and absolutely loved it but always wanted more. I was thrilled when I learned that Mandi was going to expand it into a full-length novel. 👏 I couldn’t wait to read it! It did not disappoint. Wow was this a fantastic read! I love the theme woven throughout about God being there for and with us and working everything together even when it doesn’t feel like He is and when our lives seem to be falling apart. It is hard to trust Him in those times but with her amazing storytelling, Mandi helps us to see that trusting God in those moments, though hard, is exactly what we need to do.
I always comment on the theology in the books I read. This is definitely a Christian book but it isn’t preachy. It’s about the characters learning, struggling, and growing in faith. The characters are committed to waiting until marriage for things that belong only in marriage and this is another place where you see their faith as they keep distance even when they don’t want to.
There is a passing mention of “choosing Christ” so there is some decision theology in this book. The decision theology in this book isn’t over powering and it doesn’t detract from the story or the overall message even if you are from a branch of Christianity that doesn’t ascribe to decision theology.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I always comment on the theology in the books I read. This is definitely a Christian book but it isn’t preachy. It’s about the characters learning, struggling, and growing in faith. The characters are committed to waiting until marriage for things that belong only in marriage and this is another place where you see their faith as they keep distance even when they don’t want to.
There is a passing mention of “choosing Christ” so there is some decision theology in this book. The decision theology in this book isn’t over powering and it doesn’t detract from the story or the overall message even if you are from a branch of Christianity that doesn’t ascribe to decision theology.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 26, 2024
If you love a good romance, you don't want to miss this story!
The build up to Asa and Lyric being stuck in a cabin for a few days sets the stage for everything else to come. The snow storm forces the two of them to spend several days together and that time is well spent as they got to know each other.
Unfortunately, Lyric's past keeps her guarded, but a glimmer of hope shines through with Asa's kindness. Asa is one of the good guys. He's everything you want in a story's main male character because he's also not perfect.
Lyric's past, and her actual connection to Asa is brought to the forefront of the story. There was so much to appreciate about this story of redemption from each character's perspective as well as the supporting characters. We know that when someone is in recovery that it can truly take a village (or in this case, a small town).
It was really realistic in that Asa is a widower with a young son. Any relationship he has with Lyric will impact his son and he has to take that into consideration. It's also a reminder that once an addict, not always an active addict. So many lessons for readers to learn in the story.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate the amount of faith that is woven through the story! Reminders of God's forgiveness, prayer, forgiveness, and trust are the tip of the iceberg. The author did a wonderful job of seamlessly including it as part of the story.
*I received the book for review. This is my personal opinion.
The build up to Asa and Lyric being stuck in a cabin for a few days sets the stage for everything else to come. The snow storm forces the two of them to spend several days together and that time is well spent as they got to know each other.
Unfortunately, Lyric's past keeps her guarded, but a glimmer of hope shines through with Asa's kindness. Asa is one of the good guys. He's everything you want in a story's main male character because he's also not perfect.
Lyric's past, and her actual connection to Asa is brought to the forefront of the story. There was so much to appreciate about this story of redemption from each character's perspective as well as the supporting characters. We know that when someone is in recovery that it can truly take a village (or in this case, a small town).
It was really realistic in that Asa is a widower with a young son. Any relationship he has with Lyric will impact his son and he has to take that into consideration. It's also a reminder that once an addict, not always an active addict. So many lessons for readers to learn in the story.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate the amount of faith that is woven through the story! Reminders of God's forgiveness, prayer, forgiveness, and trust are the tip of the iceberg. The author did a wonderful job of seamlessly including it as part of the story.
*I received the book for review. This is my personal opinion.
June 7, 2024
Love in the Storm is the first in the Love in Blackwater series. I loved this story!! Lyric is a recovering addict, and doing really well until she finds herself snowed in with the extremely handsome man who also happened to have arrested her once. Asa has yet to recognize her and therefore she is on guard and extremely worried about revealing herself, but even with those walls built high around her heart he manages to squeeze his way in. Get ready to swoon as he sweeps her off her feet even though he himself isn’t sure he’s ready to jump into a relationship. The close quarters bring them closer together in this snow storm of love, but they both realize this storm is going to blow over and real life will resume. I have to say I was as worried as Lyric was about Asa finding out about her past. I was not disappointed in how Mandi unfolded this story layer by layer. There are twists and turns and a few surprises that will not disappoint as you read this story. And can I say again you will swoon and ooh and ahh as the heat between them rises. This is a clean closed door romance, but don’t think that means it’s going to be boring and uneventful. God is at the center of all of Mandi Blakes stories and is the true love story of our hearts.
January 17, 2024
Love in the Storm by Mandi Blake is the first book of her new series Love in Blackwater. If Blackwater sounds familiar to you, it’s because she has another series set in the same town! I’m looking forward to reading this series and seeing places and characters that are familiar!
I loved the beginning of this story and how Asa and Lyric met due to the storm and their forced proximity. Asa is such a wonderful character. He’s dedicated to his job and family, has a forgiving heart, and completely stands by those he loves. There is a scene at the end of the story that totally showed who he is for those he loves! Lyric has had a rough life due to some bad choices she made in the past, but she has worked her way through them and is trying to get completely back on track. The storm, and therefore Asa, showed up just in time to help her. The romance was quick in this story. Maybe a little too quick for me, but I’m more of a second chance romance trope person, so I’m sure others will love it.
I’m looking forward to Dawson’s story next! We get to meet him in this story and have a good sense of his personality and the teaser has made me want to read it asap!
I loved the beginning of this story and how Asa and Lyric met due to the storm and their forced proximity. Asa is such a wonderful character. He’s dedicated to his job and family, has a forgiving heart, and completely stands by those he loves. There is a scene at the end of the story that totally showed who he is for those he loves! Lyric has had a rough life due to some bad choices she made in the past, but she has worked her way through them and is trying to get completely back on track. The storm, and therefore Asa, showed up just in time to help her. The romance was quick in this story. Maybe a little too quick for me, but I’m more of a second chance romance trope person, so I’m sure others will love it.
I’m looking forward to Dawson’s story next! We get to meet him in this story and have a good sense of his personality and the teaser has made me want to read it asap!
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