Their whirlwind romance takes the hard road toward happily-ever-after as disaster tests their love for each other and their faith in God’s goodness.
Sophie Shultz smiles at her future, even when she doesn’t feel like it, but when a country drive leaves this city-girl stranded in the mud, the cowboy who stops to help gives her plenty to smile about. For real. Lance Carson is tall, handsome, and kind, if a little on the quiet side—not to mention the owner of Big Prairie’s celebrated vineyard.
Lance has always had a decided preference for solitude, but when he rescues Sophie he develops a whole new appreciation for companionship. It doesn’t take long for him to lose his heart as she fills the aching void life’s disappointments have left behind. But a family issue has put him in a hard spot, pushing him to a decision that will ruin his relationship with many of Big Prairie’s citizens—and devastate Sophie, who adores her newly adopted hometown. Before he can figure out how to tell her, someone tattles on his plans.
As their relationship is put to the test, conflict presses in from every side. Can this rapidly grown romance sink its roots deep enough to weather the storms, or will Lance and Sophie both lose their way?
Small town Christian stories of romance and redemption, begin the Big Prairie Romance series today!
Book 1: When I Come Home Again Book 2 When I Lost My Way Book 3: When I'm With You (Coming fall of 2020)
Jennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
My heart is too full for words right now. This story…just, wow. I don’t even know where to start. I was in love with it from the first chapter, but little did I know just how much more I would love it by the last. It presents such a rich, panoramic view of the love between a man and a woman, from the heady mix of euphoria and uncertainty that comes with instant mutual attraction right through to the deliberate, purposeful, unconditional love that weathers disappointments and rides out the tough stuff.
But what ultimately set this book apart for me was the central role of the characters’ faith. Rodewald has an amazing ability to plumb the depths of her characters’ weaknesses and struggles—the kind of weaknesses and struggles that so often lead to clichéd romantic plot developments—and take her stories in a completely different direction as a result of her characters’ spiritual journeys. Far from being perfect, her characters are somehow MORE beautiful, more loveable, for their imperfections precisely because it’s the only canvas upon which you can paint a picture of grace. And what a picture of grace this story paints.
One of the other things Rodewald does well in this book is capture the way romantic love matures over time. The romantic tension in the first third of this book is off the charts as Sophie and Lance recognise and explore their mutual attraction, but what I particularly love about the way Rodewald does this is that she never loses sight of the awkwardness and uncertainty that accompanies new love. The tension is in all the ways these two are yet to get to know one another—their insecurities, their likes and dislikes, their dreams—and in the way they will handle adversity when it comes. And as their relationship is tested and matures, so does the way they express their love for one another. To be honest, I felt a little drunk on the beauty of that love by the time I finished this book!
In short, for all the above reasons and more, this story is now listed among my favourite contemporary romances of all time.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
When I Lost My Way by Jennifer Rodewald is a powerful contemporary Christian novel about the vastness of God’s love. The love within the novel is based on the love in 1 Corinthians: 13 – love is patient, kind and never gives up. Jennifer Rodewald has written about a love that perseveres – as the reader hears about a love between two brothers, a love between couples and the love of God. The theme of the prodigal son runs throughout as we track the older brother from the tale. We see just how hard he works without realising he needs to surrender to God who longs to do life in a partnership with each and every one of us. “Do not underestimate the power of the God who hears.” God wants us to want Him. He delights when we build our lives with Him. No matter how hard our lives, God can turn them around. “God takes the bad, and He turns it for good.” There is the theme of trust. We pray to God but sometimes He seems silent. “Even in the… silence, she could trust Him.” We need to keep holding on. God will change our messes into masterpieces. We are only responsible for our own walk with God. “A person is responsible for his own relationship with the Lord.” We can signpost others to God but the choice is always theirs. We all make choices and can only own ours, not the choices of others. Going to church does not make us a Christian. “I’d die to think that you heard from me that church attendance equalled salvation.” Having a relationship with God and living out His love is what matters. The novel is about community. It is a community that pulls together when there are needs. I was reminded of the story of Ruth as I read – where you go, I will go. There is an air of love that covers the whole novel and it is beautiful to witness. I adored When I Lost my Way. I read it in just one sitting. It is a beautiful novel about love vast as the ocean. The whole novel can be summed up with this quote: “Will you choose to love when it is hard?” I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
When I Lost My Way is a beautiful story of romance, grace, and trusting in God’s strength.
I loved Sophie and Lance SO MUCH. Their rapport, from their slight humor to the almost-flirting and deep heart conversations, is natural and realistic. Their romance is sweet and selfless, highlighting how really knowing someone takes time and a desire to understand the other person’s motives and choices. I appreciate how they face their trials head on with honesty, even when it’s painful. One timely issue Jennifer sensitively sheds light on within their relationship is judgement and its ill effects, all in the context of relationship choices, identity, and skin color, referring to Biblical truths to shed light and draw the reader to a place of empathy.
I will be thinking about the deeper threads of this story long after the last page. Through the challenges, Sophie relies on God in an admirable way. Her trust in uncertainty and the way she seeks wisdom from scripture, her parents, and a respected friend is something to aspire to. Lance’s growth is relatable yet more dynamic as he is learning how God wants a personal relationship with him as he learns to pray and listen for His voice. The concept of loneliness in contrast with God’s ever-present strength is contrasted in Lance, and his journey reflects surrender to God’s will.
Jennifer Rodewald is a must-read inspirational author for fans of Courtney Walsh, Carla Laureano, and Lindsay Harrel for her stories of sweetly engaging romance and deep emotional themes.
Thank you to the author for the review copy. This is my honest review.
When I Lost My Way reminded me a lot of the prodigal son, who has lost his way. In this case, it seems that both brothers of the same family have lost their way, and for simplicity, only Lance’s issue is dealt with in this book.
This was very deep and the storyline brings you to the bottom of the well and there’s no mistaking that Lance has real issues to deal with, though at first, we are led to believe that there may be some issues due to Sophie being half black and half white, that’s not the half of it. Not that it isn’t an issue, it just wasn’t the one that was the main focus of this book. If I want to feel all the emotions, and even the ones I didn’t think possible then I reach for a Jennifer Rodewald book, or if you haven’t had a storyline make you cry lately reach for a book by Ms. Rodewald. It is high praise for me that a book makes me cry, that kind of writing is able to get that kind of response from me, tells me that this is nothing very high-quality writing.
If you want to know how much God loves; read this. In fact, go back and read the first book in the Big Prairie Series, When I Come Home Again.
This second novel of the Big Prairie Romance Series has multiple layers but the one that spoke to me the most was spiritual growth. Both main characters are Christians yet move toward greater dependence on Christ by the final pages. Loved the spiritual mentors Miss Jane and Pastor Derrick.
Sophie is biracial and had a difficult time fitting in during high school at a mostly white high school. Lance is an introvert that struggles in public settings. While their romance progressed rather quickly, the final pages had me smiling and cheering for their HEA.
I look forward to the final book of the series that will focus on Lane, Lance's wayward brother. Love how the author provides a glimpse of the characters that will be in the upcoming novel.
Although Lance and Sophie realized fairly quickly that their feelings for each other were deep, they still had a lot of learning and growing to do in this story.
This is book two in the Big Prairie Romance series, however, it can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. For those who have read book one, When I Come Home Again, you will recognize that some of this book takes place at the same time as events from that story.
I will admit that I was frustrated with Lance for a large portion of the book. He had some plans that were causing a lot of angst for a lot of people and he did nothing to communicate his reasoning to anyone. Sophie had to confront him before he even shared the information with her. But, Lance had a lot of spiritual growing to do and God was working on him. I was very impressed with the way Lance turned his focus to the things of God by the end of the book. Sophie, too, learned to lean on God in a deeper way, and realized the absolute power of prayer. I enjoyed seeing how much Lance and Sophie matured in both their faith and their love by the book’s end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Just when I think it can't be done, Jennifer Rodewald outdoes herself yet again. This book was spectacular. It always amazes me how seamlessly she weaves a profound and beautiful message of faith into every one of her novels. And this one resonated so deep with me.
I don't know if I've ever connected with a character as much as I have with Lance. He's a shy, nervous, introverted overthinker who always expects the worst. That's so me. I really felt for his inner struggles and was rooting for him so hard. He's a good guy who deserves the best. I instantly liked Sophie and really admired her total trust in God and how she leaned so fully on Him. Miss Jane was a great character too. She's such a joy. I loved her wisdom, genuineness, and strong faith.
I seriously can't recommend this book highly enough. There was a real authenticity to it. It felt like I was getting a peek into people's actual real lives. Watching how they dealt with very real struggles and dilemmas. It takes a special author to do that. I'm very eager to head back to Big Prairie in the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
'The thing is, the people we love will disappoint us. That's just human fact. That's when it's hardest to love.'
Lance Carson finds Sophie Schultz stuck on the dirt road toward his farm and vineyard one day and a romance develops quickly. Lance is a loner and Sophie is wide open and never meets a stranger. Come along as these two face several hurdles, including a disaster like no other, on their road to love and a future together. Also, watch them as their hearts open fully to God who loves them and has a perfect plan for their lives. The God who knows how to work well in the midst of conflict. And they have plenty.
Jennifer Rodewald brings us another strong story of the great impact God's grace has in the lives of those who open their heart to Him. The emotions are strong here and very impactful. What a wonderful offering from her! Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion in this review is my own.
Rodewald weaves a story of romance, grace, faith, and hope in When I Lost My Way. I've learned by now that when I pick up one of her books, I am in for a fantastic ride. Her characters are always so well written. They have faith that is inspiring, but they also have fears, struggles, and all the things that makes readers easily relate to them.
Here's what stands out most in this story for me. Yes, Sophie and Lance seemed to have a quick attraction/relationship. But that doesn't make them stop growing as characters, as a couple. They have to go through some trials in this story that "whirlwind romance" couples could handle. And yet, they do. They prove that while love can sometimes start out as a whirlwind, it doesn't necessarily stay that way. Sophie and Lance had opportunities to really deepen their love, their relationship, and their story. And I loved every single moment of it!
As with every Rodewald book I've ever read, the faith theme is strong, and yet not in your face. It is there to provide hope, make a reader want to connect more with the Creator, and be a story they will remember. Readers would be missing out if they did not pick up a copy of this book and start reading it immediately!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sophie is a wonderful character. Her love for Jesus is refreshing. This sweet love story has so many reminders of God’s goodness to believers. I feel like the plot was a tad slower than book one in this series but yet I didn’t want to stop reading it. I can’t wait for book 3!
What a ride. Loved every bit of this story that tugged at my heart strings, made me cry, brought tears of joy to my eyes and caused me to stop and praise the Lord. So many good themes: Grace, unconditional love, trials, interracial relationships, Gods faithfulness, trust, redemption, renewal, and spiritual growth. Shy, handsome,,hermit like cowboy Lance meets smiling , positive, outgoing , beautiful Sophie and he finds himself smitten. The more time they spend together, the more it’s seems they are destined to be together. But as it usually does, life gets in the way and throws multiple trials Lances way, which stir up his insecurities. The question becomes, can God’s love conquer all or will these trials divide forever.
There is so much to love about this story. I loved Lance and Sophie’s relationship and the influence Sophie has on Lance and his walk with God. I love how this entire story was an beautiful, realistic example of faith played out in daily life. I love the way the story is heavily intermixed with scripture, praise and prayers. I love how Sophie and Lance both have life challenges in which they have to choose whether they will trust God or not.
My favorite quote is ‘It was so tempting to pray daily for God to change Lances mind. Seemed like a fair prayer - except who was she to boss the King of heaven around?’
When I dig into a book written by Jennifer Rodewald, I know I can expect complex characters and a strong message of God’s ability to heal and direct our lives. When I Lost My Way, book two in the Big Prairie romance series) does just that.
Outgoing and energetic Sophie Shultz is the opposite of quiet, on the fringe of the community Lance Carson. Yet, from their first official meeting these two are drawn toward each other. But as their romance blossoms, circumstances try to pull them apart.
I liked that that these two characters stand on opposite sides of an issue between them because that’s life.
Rodewald’s authentic voice resonates because her characters could be someone sitting beside you in church. They fall in love, they struggle, they disagree, and navigating those lows of a relationship together and praying well for each other are firm foundations for the future of the relationship.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Loved this book! I was devouring this book, it was so inspirational, till I got to 91%. I stopped reading for several hours because I did not want It to end. My favorite passage, "It might feel simple, but girl, prayer is the most potent gift our heavenly Father has given us. Don’t you dare treat it as a just kind of thing . Do not underestimate the power of the God who hears.” I did finally pick back up where I left off and enjoyed the love and joy, grace and mercy, gratitude and peace this book oozes from every page. If you like clean stories that will draw you closer to the Heavenly Father without being preachy, you can't go wrong with 'When I Lost My Way'. I highly recommend this book. I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
Such a good story! I felt a connection with more than one of the characters and could relate to their circumstances in so many ways. Sophie and Lance became stronger together when they put God first and that is exactly how it should be!
This is the second book in the Big Prairie Romance series and so far it's my favorite. As before Miss Jane is a wonderful person and is filled with such amazing wisdom. Preacher Derrick (as I prefer to call him) made an impression on me as well.
Rating: PG Language: no profanity or use of deity in a negative way Recommend: absolutely!
This was a lengthy and thorough and perfect novel. The characters were absolutely amazing. This book expertly blended love and hardship, overcoming the past and looking toward the future, finding a home, what the church is, Joy and loss, and so much more. Though this book is more than double the length of many, I didn’t want it to end. It was incredible. I hope that we see more of the characters later!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The second book in the Big Prairie Romance is another enjoyable read. I love the characters and Sophie is the best. This book was an encouragement to me to pray to God who is on His throne. He is listening even when we don't feel it. I enjoyed this book very much and will read the next book about Lane. When he entered this story he literally made me laugh out loud.
What a wonderful book! It is well written and will keep you turning the pages. It is full of emotions and you can feel every one of them. I can't say enough good things about this book. I highly recommend this book. I loved it! I received an ARC copy and was not required to write a review all opinions expressed are my own.
Flooding my heart with rich emotions, When I Lost My Way is such a beautiful story of grace! I'm constantly amazed at how Jennifer Rodewald can convey such depth and wisdom in her stories.
Lance and Sophie are polar opposites. He is very serious and slightly socially awkward. She is all sunshine and smiles and is an extrovert. His faith is weak; hers has been nurtured and strengthened by her parents. I loved the way these two stretched each other and met a need in the other for love and acceptance. The struggles in their relationship and the way they recovered reflected the kind of love we should have for one another.
As the storms continued to come and the waters threatened to wash away all that Lance had been building, he had a choice to give in to the despair that threatened to erode his faith or to trust the Lord.
Starting with Miss Jane, the elderly Sunday school teacher I fell in love with in When I Come Home Again, the citizens of Big Prairie captured my heart as they exemplified the love of Christ to one who was making choices that could hurt them. Not that they were perfect, and in fact, the grace they showed was after some cold shoulders. But isn't that part of the Christian life? Making mistakes. being convicted. Then changing our attitudes to conform to the way Jesus would have us behave?
Having read this far, this is clearly the type of story you are interested in. So stop reading this, hurry, and grab a copy for yourself. You won't regret it!!
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Books like this are one of the reasons I read. Faith filled, life changing lessons of God's unending love towards man, all lives matter to God, having a relationship with God, loving people no matter what... loads and loads of life changing lessons. Lance has had it tough and messy. So many losses in his young 26 years until he met the delightful Sophie who challenged him to be a better man in so many ways especially in his relationship with God. The beautiful Sophie came to Big Prairie in search of a place to belong. Her faith was tested but I admired the way she loved God and chose to trust Him in Him even in the most dire situations. I loved her relationship with her daddy, so beautiful and worth emulating.
When I Lost My Way is thought challenging about certain matters and very self evaluating.
I recommend this book to everyone.
I recieved a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
When I lost my way by Jennifer Rodewald is my first read from the author and I totally loved it. This book had me on so many fronts and I will do my best not to spoil it in this review.Jennifer thank you for sharing the power of love, forgiveness, support, community and PRAYER.
So we see Sophie Shultz and Lance Carson who deal with their individual insecurities, how they navigate their love and their lives in this.
Sophie is still recovering from a racist experienced that had left her pretty scared and careful, that why coming to Big Prairie and meeting folks there that were so warm towards her made her feel right at home. Sophie total trust in God has been her anchor and her parents esp. her dad (Step-dad) has been rock solid for her.
We see this Handsome sturdy and yet shy cowboy, who has some scars and is reeling from the devastating blow when he lost 2 parents to illness and an accident. He also lost his relationship with brother because of the inheritance that his father left him. Trying to find a way to reconnect with his brother leads him in a direction that will significantly affect the whole town and potentially ruin the livelihood for most. Lance believes in the work of his hands and minding his business
Insecurity meet shyness… boom!!! love sparks and hearts connect. Then troubles strike... would they survive and would love take them through...
This book also showed me the power of prayer of God speaking at the nick of time and how God used Love and Chaos to win the heart of Lance.
This book I recommend a 100%.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion in this review is my own
What I really enjoyed about this book was that is was a nice long length so you really got to know the characters – none of whom were perfect, they all had their strengths and weaknesses, their different viewpoints, their different personalities (shy/outgoing, talkative and open/keeping all feelings safely buried), backgrounds and ethnicity – this diversity just added to the depth. I loved how their past and the family they came from made them who they are today (strengths and weaknesses) BUT didn’t mean they couldn’t move on from past hurts and insecurities, I loved seeing the growth in their spiritual journeys and in their relationship. The author did a brilliant job of interweaving God's word and Christian principles throughout the book without it being preachy – rather it was both encouraging and challenging. Very likeable, complex characters and the whole book felt very ‘real’. I received a complimentary copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
"What if I can't see Him in this?" Sophie softly replied, "I don't see Him in it either Lance. Not yet." "But you believe God is still here. With you?" Sophie replied - "With us. With you. And with me." "How do you know?" Sophie whispered - "He Promised" If that small interchange got your attention, then you are in for a memorable read in Jennifer Rodewald's new release - "When I Lost My Way."
I loved, loved, loved this book. I adored the richness of the characters and the realistic portrayal of how they in their humanity deal with real life issues. I thoroughly enjoyed the interweaving of God's word and principles throughout the book. I would definitely encourage anyone to pick up a copy of this book and ponder on all the wisdom throughout. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but have freely chosen to give my own honest opinion without compulsion or obligation.
I am pretty sure Jen had no idea of the events that will be playing out in the world when this book's release was scheduled. God sees, He is near, He heard and He certainly cares. Google's stubborn love is a symbolic of how God loves us, so fiercely! His glory will be revealed in the masses we see, in His time. Till then, keep looking. Wonderful romance with amazing faith insights. Incredibly moving writing. Love this book.
I have been blessed to read this story and I am so grateful! Jennifer has a beautiful way of taking you on a journey where you feel so in tune with the characters. I cannot wait for more from this author!
When Sophie decides to go for a drive her life will change. Lance is surprised to find a beautiful lady stuck in the muddy road. Lance is a very shy person and he feels sparks between him and Sophie. Miss. Jane is truly a inspirational lady. You will love the way she brings these two together. When Lane shows up at the lodge Lance can’t believe that his brother finally came home. You will feel God working throughout this wonderful story. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I would give this book a higher rating than a five star review if I could.
Jenn has done it again. I simply could not put the book down. Lance and Sophie’s story was so real and relatable. I love how Jenn weaves scripture throughout her stories so that we as readers can see how they apply in our own situations.
Jennifer, thank you for this sweet story with a big message. Loved reading and learning more about my own faith walk as I read about Sophi's. I am so thankful for the benefits to my spiritual journey that comes from reading your books.
My oh my...all I can say is, you've done it again Jennifer Rodewald! The words that come to my mind are "Simply Beautiful". A definite MUST READ. Can't wait for Lane and Daisy's story.
Sobbing. I'm so glad I picked up Lance and Sophie's story. Every time I read a Rodewald book, I want to stop writing and spend the rest of my life telling people to read her books instead.