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Fox Family #3

The Way You Love Me

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Oliver Fox never thought he’d step foot in Deep Haven again—not with the ghosts he left behind. But when the custody battle for his beloved daughter hinges on his ability to face his past, he returns to Deep Haven and dives back into the fray of his mistakes…starting with the girl next door.

Veterinarian Lena Larson has her hands full with the town’s pets, including a shelter for lost animals. The last thing she needs is the arrival of the man who once shattered her heart. But back he is, and with an adorable daughter…and the need to start over. She has no intention of letting him back into her life. But when her shelter is destroyed, Lena finds herself with a garage full of homeless animals—and an unlikely ally in Oliver. Together, they embark on a mission to find homes for the abandoned animals, and help Oliver make peace with his past.

But it’s not easy to come home. Not everyone believes Oliver has changed, and their doubt could keep him from retaining custody of his daughter. More, Lena has ghosts of her own, and they’ve returned to haunt her. If she isn’t careful, they might even have the power to destroy the surprising happy ending she never saw coming.

Discover this captivating story of healing, forgiveness, and the transformative power of second chances.

Fox Family
How Sweet It Is
It’s Your Love
The Way You Love Me

Deep Haven Collection
Only You
Still The One
Can’t Buy Me Love
Crazy for You
Then Came You
Hangin’ by a Moment
Right Here Waiting
Once Upon a Winter Wonderland

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 23, 2024

41 people are currently reading
2867 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Sass Aleckson

15 books147 followers
Author writes under the penname Michelle Aleckson as well.

After growing up on both the east and west coasts, Michelle now loves living the country life in central Minnesota with her own hero and four children. She rocks out to 80's music on a Saturday night, enjoys playing board games, and is a hopeless romantic. And if you're wondering, yes, Sass is her maiden name.

She writes contemporary romance with a dash of sass and suspense. Connect with her on her website: michellealeckson.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,320 reviews74 followers
January 24, 2024
Deep Haven is always a warm place to return - a small town full of caring people where forgiveness and redemption are just around the corner. The people and their stories will wrap around your heart like a soft fuzzy blanket on a blustery day. Oliver and Lena's story is no different. Oliver has a dark past steeped in addiction and bad decisions. Though he's trying hard to start fresh, even he has doubts at times that he can really pull through. Lena is a straight-laced vet who's been hurt by life and has a hard time trusting. Their journey to true freedom, acceptance, and trust is raw, real, and so relatable.
I've really enjoyed getting to know the Fox siblings. If you love contemporary romance with a redemptive thread, you will love this book and the series.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of the publisher and via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,877 reviews209 followers
January 24, 2024
Oliver Fox hurt a lot of people in the past with his reckless actions, including himself. He carried so much guilt over his parents’ death that his acting out in high school led to some very bad life choices. This is a second chance at life story. When we meet up with Oliver, he is three years sober and trying to gain custody of his daughter. This is a daughter that no one from his past, including his family, knows about. I appreciated that he desperately wanted to be a good dad to Kiah and was willing to return to his hometown of Deep Haven to make that happen.

The author does not gloss over the many trials that Oliver has in his journey through the novel. He is a recovering alcoholic and even though it has been three years since he has taken a drink, there are a couple of times where he almost slips. He also struggles to make the many amends that are part of his twelve step program. Some amends are easier than others and Oliver has to learn the difference between being vulnerable and being weak. He has to learn to genuinely apologize.

Oliver and Lena have a painful past. She was one of his closest friends, yet he hurt her terribly her senior year of high school. She doesn’t want to forgive him, yet begins to see the change in him. They have a rocky road back to becoming friends and then more, with a few pitfalls that they have to overcome. This story is packed with hard work for Oliver as he tries to make things right, yet hope flows through the story, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,142 reviews47 followers
December 10, 2023
This is a wonderful contemporary romance story. A recovering alcoholic, Oliver Fox is granted temporary custody of his 5 year old daughter Kiah until he has completed a recovery program, along with check-ins from a social worker.
He heads home to Deep Heaven, intent on providing a home for Kiah and making amends to the people he had hurt before he left due to poor choices that he had made years ago. One of them is Lena Larson, now a veterinary.
Lena has a hard time trusting men. Not only does she have to temporarily house and find homes for the shelter animals after the animal rescue shelter has been damaged, she learns that her father she never met wants to reconnect with her.
When Oliver shows up in town, he wants to prove that he's a changed man, but making amends with some of the people he had hurt takes a longer process than he expected it to take.
The Way You Love Me is a fantastic read about forgiveness, second chances, and family. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for maiaisreading.
557 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2024


THE WAY YOU LOVE ME by Michelle Sass Aleckson

“Faith. Forgiveness. A future they never imagined. It’s time for a fresh start for the Fox family.”

The fainting goat was funny and unexpected, this book is truly an emotional rollercoaster. A recovering alcoholic like Oliver had a lot to prove to keep custody of his child. Despite his challenges, I liked Oliver’s easy camaraderie with people. Kiah was already an interesting character for a five year old. She’s adorable and her love for animals is sweet.

I have enjoyed the Fox’s siblings' journeys back to Deep Haven. Finding love along the way was an added blessing. Lena's withdrawal felt confusing and distant in the beginning. Past hurts were in the way even for a friendship between Oliver and Lena. But forgiveness can really change a person’s heart. It was sweet. This story of redemption, forgiveness and love was different but heartwarming.

Thank you to @justreadtours for providing the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.


Profile Image for Rebecca.
127 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2023
I received an advance release copy of this book in exchange for a review.

Oliver and Lena grew up neighbors, but in typical young love fashion had many misunderstandings. Flash forward 12 years and Oliver is fighting for custody of his daughter. He returns to his hometown out of desperation and stays when he finds he still belongs.

Both Lena and Oliver are looking for belonging, a theme that really resonated with me. I enjoyed this lighthearted romance with deep moments as well as comedic ones.

I really enjoy Susan May Warren’s books and her style comes through in The Way You Love Me. I also enjoyed returning to Deep Haven and seeing some mentions of past characters.
Profile Image for Rachelle LeBlanc.
509 reviews11 followers
February 6, 2024
Summary:

Oliver is a screw up that is being forced to go home to Deep Haven. He has to prove to the court he is who Kiah belongs with and not his ex’s sister.

Lena is the vet in Deep Haven. She doesn’t know what to think when trouble, Oliver, comes back to Deep Haven and with a daughter.

Can Oliver make amends with the people of his past and keep custody of his daughter?



My Thoughts:

I enjoyed reading Oliver’s story. He was trying his best to overcome his past. Oliver would do anything to retain custody of Kiah including returning to Deep Haven.

Oliver made a big deal about making amends with his family, high school coach and others. He was extremely nervous and scared about talking to each person but it felt too easy. It took a lot to make amends with Lena and his brothers but the rest just forgave him. I wish some inspirational quotes would have been said to Oliver with each person. It felt like the inspirational speech was saved for the very end. They should have been throughout to help him with each person.

Overall, I enjoyed The Way You Love Me.

Thank you JustReadTours and Michelle Sass Aleckson for the complimentary copy of The Way You Love Me.
Profile Image for Patrice Doten.
1,286 reviews19 followers
December 17, 2025
I don't often read contemporary romance because it rarely holds my interest, but I will read anything Michelle Sass Aleckson writes. This story has so much heart, depth, emotional honesty, and beautiful, glorious hope. Readers looking for a redemption story that packs enough of a wallop to make you ugly cry will not want to miss this one!
Profile Image for Manda| Little Bitty Delights.
199 reviews
January 30, 2024
The Way You Love Me is the 3rd book in the Fox Family Series and you guys I have had the best time with this story! You can read it as a stand alone no problem though I totally recommend reading the others in the series.

Discover a tale where, no matter the hurdles and mistakes, faith and hard work pave the way to heartfelt amends. The story, touching on addiction, loneliness, child custody, and family reconciliation, is sprinkled with humor (animal antics included 😉) which balance the narrative. Oliver Fox, facing significant challenges, becomes a relatable and believable character. Lena Larson, nursing a broken heart, keeps it guarded. Their imperfect yet perfect match unfolds in a charming small town, complete with meddling townsfolk, creating a warm embrace for readers.If you crave a wholesome, redemptive love story with imperfectly perfect couples, then give this book a read!

In this story:
💕 Small Town Activities and Festivals
💕 Animal 🐐 Antics
💕 Single Dad
💕 Nerdy Vet and all around animal lover
💕 Opposites attract
💕 Child Custody Battle

Thank you @michelle_aleckson @sunrisemediagroup @justreadtours for a complimentary copy of this book which I voluntarily reviewed. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
834 reviews13 followers
January 30, 2024
Fox Family 3

I enjoyed reading this book and spending more time in Deep Haven with the Fox family. There is a good biblical faith element that is woven through the story and both Oliver and Lena had growth and things they needed to work on. Many books have only one of the main characters with issues that need dealt with. I found the book to be well written and easy to read. It evoked a full spectrum of emotions from frustration and anger when people took situations out if context and blamed Oliver, to joy and happiness when Lena and Oliver worked through their difficulties to find love. I look forward to reading more books by Michelle Sass Aleckson.
Profile Image for Readingintheweehours.
319 reviews45 followers
January 23, 2024
This is such a sweet story with a great reminder that it's never too late to go home.
I love recovery stories, and I appreciated Ollie's journey and even his wrestling with sobriety when life threw a multitude of curve balls. I especially loved how Michelle named out some of the #12steps as Oliver worked through them. I like how the sobriety journey wasn't glossed over and how re-learning relationships in a new style of life brought through.
I also loved Lena's growth to awareness of family beyond bloodline.
All in all, this wasn't a story that shied away from the hard spaces of life, but is still a warm, cozy, small-town read with a sweet romance!
And there's dogs, cats, and fainting goats.
What else could you want?;)

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
384 reviews27 followers
January 23, 2024
We are back in Deep Haven with the third in the Fox Family series, The Way You Love Me, by Michelle Sass Aleckson.
This time we focus on Lena Larson, the town veterinarian, a woman who struggles with trust and the scars from her past. It's also Oliver Fox's turn in this book. The prodigal son has returned...with a young daughter. Oliver burned some bridges when he left town years before, and now he's back to make amends. He HAS to be successful so he can keep custody of Kiah. One of those burned bridges was with Lena.
When an emergency happens at Lena's animal shelter, Oliver is right there to help, and to prove he's changed. As they work together, can their hearts become as close as they once were? Maybe even closer? Find out - you will be so happy you did! Plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Tressa (Wishful Endings).
1,829 reviews193 followers
February 2, 2024
THE WAY YOU LOVE ME is another story set in Deep Haven (best known from The Christiansen Family series by Susan May Warren) and the third involving the Fox family. Family is big in this small town and this family has slowly been coming back together after being torn apart years earlier. The final piece is the hero in this book, Oliver Fox, and he has quite a challenge ahead of him. Fans of the spin-off series should enjoy this one, especially seeing the Fox family finally find some healing. Full of small-town charm, animal antics, one sweet little girl, and a man and woman who are trying to find themselves and love, all with a bit of inspiration.

I liked the overall premise for this story and was also very much looking forward to seeing how things get resolved with the Fox family, Robin's story being my favorite of the three siblings. Oliver is a sweet guy with a bit of a rough past, but he's been on the right path for a while and is trying to do his best and make amends. He has a lot to do and fix to get where he wants and needs to be. Lena is used to being alone and doesn't trust love or men. She's an excellent veterinarian with a deep love for all animals and a good friend. The two have a rocky past but have always been drawn to each other. Their love story has a lot of challenges as they both have some deep insecurities and they are both facing outside pressures while they're trying to mend their relationship. I found them both likable characters, although I feel like Kiah and the animals were my favorite characters in this story.

I also had some issues with the story. I didn't like Oliver at the beginning from when he's introduced in the first chapter. I think his character came off really one dimensional when I wanted a lot move complexity. That did get better. I also didn't like that both these characters are trying to reconcile and forgive things from high school. I don't know anyone who was perfect in high school. This whole concept really rubbed me wrong, especially as they've grown up and matured and yet are letting things that happened over ten years back and they were teenagers hole them back. It contradicted who their present characters were. As a side note, forgiveness doesn't have anything to do with the other person, but your own heart. I felt there was some pressure there for some of the characters to offer forgiveness when that isn't actually necessary for someone to make amends or to be who they want to be, so parts of that rubbed me wrong. Then there was the drama... so much of it. At one point I was rolling my eyes a lot and felt like telling these characters to get over themselves already. I think for me, I wanted a lot more depth and things to come off more realistic so that the story felt more genuine and relatable.

In the end, was it what I wished for? Recommended to fans of the Fox family and Deep Haven. This was an overall sweet story with lots of heart, but needed more development.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Meagan Myhren-Bennett.
Author 29 books162 followers
January 25, 2024
The Way You Love Me
Fox Bakery #3
By Michelle Sass Aleckson

Oliver Fox left home years ago and never thought he'd be back. But to keep custody of his five-year-old daughter, he needs to return to Deep Haven. But facing his past and the mistakes he's made may be the most difficult thing he's ever done.

Lena Larson is Deep Haven's only veterinarian, and when an accident makes the animal shelter unusable, she opens her home to them. Oliver Fox's return just adds to Lena's daily stress. The last thing she needs is a daily reminder of her greatest embarrassment.

But to save what they most desire may involve Lena and Oliver letting go of the past and its pain and embracing a future that neither of could have seen. And there may be a fainting goat involved.

This is the third book in the Fox Bakery series which sees the Fox grandchildren returning to Deep Haven and facing the pain that drove them away. Leave doesn't leave the hurt or the mistakes behind, not when they've shaped your life. Sometimes the only way to heal is to return home and face it head on with those you love by your side. And sometimes you need to clear the air and not hide what you are truly feeling and yet balance it by not causing the issue to grow bigger. As Oliver told Lena she needed to both laugh more and get angry, she needed people to see the real her. Something I'm sure many of us are guilty of - wearing a mask. This was a book that offered depth while entertaining in a perfect blend.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Michelle .
1,104 reviews35 followers
January 15, 2024
1. How did you feel about the setting?

Deep Haven, Minnesota is celebrated for its sapphire waters on Lake Superior, offering a serene escape for visitors. The extensive bike path stretching for miles provides an invigorating way to explore this picturesque region.

2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Oliver Fox, a recovering alcoholic, was eager for the court case to be resolved, allowing him to reunite with his five-year-old daughter and gain custody.

3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Veterinarian Lena Larson is focused on her own path and knows that she can always rely on herself. She has learned from past experiences that she can’t rely on a man.

4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

The emotional connection to a seemingly ordinary sheet of paper could hold substantial sway over the legal proceedings. In the case of Oliver Fox gaining custody of his daughter, the sentimental value of the document might just tip the scales in his favor. This paper represented a list of individuals to whom he aimed to make amends.

5. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

I appreciate the easy-to-read writing style which is perfect for any young adult-adult reader.

6. Is there humor in the book?

Her vet tech rolled her eyes. “We both know it’s one of the fainting goats from the mini-golf place. They fall down at the tiniest little scare. It’s probably fine.”

As if to prove her point, the goat hopped off the table. It wandered around the room and made a puddle in the corner.

7. For whom would you recommend this book?

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers who appreciate uplifting and heartwarming contemporary Christian fiction. I may have even shed a few tears.

8. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I rated “The Way You Love Me” 5/5 because it resonated with me and brought to mind the struggles of fighting for custody during a divorce. It beautifully portrayed the positive outcomes that resulted from winning the case.

9. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?

Absolutely! It captures the reader’s attention with its portrayal of love.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,022 reviews66 followers
January 17, 2024
The past has come back to haunt Oliver Fox, but it is a past he needs to come to terms with in order to rectify some vile mistakes and deep emotional hurts. Oliver vowed he would never return to Deep Haven, but after a bitter custody battle for his daughter, Kiah, he realizes that Deep Haven might be the answer to a lot of his problems.

Oliver is a recovering alcoholic who has been sober for 3 years. However, he still needs to make amends to several people in Deep Haven, including family members and one special lady who happens to live next door to his home.

Lena Larson is the local veterinarian who loves all creatures great and small. When Oliver, the man who humiliated her and broke her heart many years ago, shows up at her clinic needing her help with a goat, she is not happy to see him. Even though this was an emotional scene, the goat provides some comedic relief to you as the reader. Lena probably did not think it was funny, but I did. She is determined to avoid Oliver completely. Oliver is determined to show Lena, his family and other residents of Deep Haven that he is not the same man that left those many years ago.

This story was beautifully written and rooted in redemption, hope and second chances showing that obstacles of the past can be overcome with deep faith and the willingness to forgive. It was dripping with emotions from happiness to sadness as well as grief and joy, with a wonderful sprinkle of just the right amount of humor. Both main characters were battling something from their past without even fully understanding what was necessary to win the battle. Deep Haven is a wonderful sanctuary for hurting souls with a close knit community of people who care for others. I felt such empathy for both Oliver and Lena, even when I wanted to shake them. They showed that pride and assumptions are never a good combination in a relationship. I finished this book with a smile on my face and a tear or two.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,354 reviews164 followers
October 16, 2024
"Love is never easy, Lena. Life together will be muddled and difficult at times. Relationships are risk."

Love was a risk that Lena Larson thought she would ever take again. . . . except that when Oliver Fox arrived back in Deep Haven with an adorable little girl, her defenses began to crumble, one little giggle at a time. The man in question had shattered her heart those many years ago, and it seemed that even this newer version of Oliver Fox needed a big, bright caution sign hanging around his handsome neck.

Oliver Fox had made so many mistakes. . . . but hopeful that he was on the right path forward. Coming back to his hometown with a list of amends could assure the custody of his five year old daughter . . . . which meant providing Kiah with a stable home environment sourced from a steady income. Falling in love (again, if the truth were known) with his next door neighbor certainly hadn't been on his court order.

Do you love a story with deeply flawed characters whose understandings and misunderstandings collide at the best and worst of times, recovering with offers of love and forgiveness along with immeasurable measures of grace? Throw in family dynamics, a precious child, and animals who provide a multitude of comedic interruptions and there you have it . . . "The Way You Love Me" . . . a wonderful, romantic finish to this heartwarming series.
Profile Image for Carol R Gehringer.
343 reviews24 followers
January 27, 2024
Return to Deep Haven, MN to meet another Fox Family member in this contemporary romance by Aleckson with themes of second chances, family, and happy endings.

In The Way You Love Me, recovering alcoholic Oliver Fox returns with his young daughter to Deep Haven, to face his past and make amends with the people he hurt, starting with his family and the girl next door, Lena. Coming home is never easy especially when ghosts from the past are faced after a long absence. Will Oliver get a second chance with Lena and his family and be able to make peace with his past?

Aleckson pens an inspirational romance where imperfect people might be undeserving of second chances, but most of them get them. Lena hurts from her past - not just her broken heart from Oliver’s sudden departure years ago, but from her family origin as well. Both are looking for a sense of acceptance. Aleckson delivers the right level of romance interspersed with deep moments and comic scenes (love Oreo the goat!).

Readers will appreciate the clean romance, happily ever after but only after lots of angst and healing, relatable characters, and a light-handed faith element.

Deep Haven’s fans will welcome cameo appearances of their favorite characters, and new readers will enjoy the small-town charm of Deep Haven. Although it can be read as a standalone, readers may want to read the entire Fox Family series, as well as the Deep Haven Collection.

Carol R. Gehringer

NOTE: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,108 reviews17 followers
January 23, 2024
This is the third book in the Fox Family Series. They’re an extension of the Deep Haven Series. If you’ve not read books one and two do yourself a favor and go read them before you sit down with this one.

If you’ve never been to Deep Haven you’re in for a treat! It’s a wonderful place to visit.

In this novel, we get to focus on Oliver, who is a recovering alcoholic. He’s just gotten custody of his daughter but he has his work cut out for him as he has to jump through hoops to be able to keep her. Add in a charming vet who has a history with Oliver and the sparks are going to fly!

Lena wants nothing to do with Oliver. But when he can help her save her clinic after it’s damaged and help house all the animals things start to change. This is a sweet novel. It’s a contemporary romance without all the danger and suspense but with some twists and turns to keep you reading and entertained.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,778 reviews46 followers
January 25, 2024
I really enjoy Christian Romance novels, especially those that are a part of series. The Way You Love Me by Michelle Sass Aleckson is Book 3 in the Fox Family Series. The series is written by various authors. I have read the first 2 books in the series and I am excited to eventually read the entire series.

I was intriuged by the characters and theme of this book from the very first chapter. Oliver Fox and Lena Larson are the 2 main characters of the book and they have past where he broke his heart. Oliver wasn't sure about returning to Deep Haven as he left on not good terms. He is back because he loves his young daughter and wants to do all he can to fight for custody. He knows he is a changed man, but others are not so sure. Lena Larson is the town Veternarian and runs the local animal shelter. She is not wanting Oliver back in town, but she is grateful when he comes to the rescue when there is a fire at the Animal Shelter. The way the pair is thrown together and they are able to work together to save the animals is just beautiful. Lena begins to trust Oliver and the future looks good for the pair. This book is one of forgiveness, trusting God and second chances. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction Romance. GREAT BOOK!
Profile Image for Emily.
504 reviews16 followers
January 31, 2024
This was the first book I have read in the Fox Family-Deep Haven Series. After finishing The Way You Love Me by Michelle Sass Aleckson I will be going back and reading the first two books. I did notice that the other books in this series are written by different authors. It will be interesting to see the difference from each author.
The Way You Love Me was well written. It was an easy read, but it really captivated me from the start. I had no issues being drawn right into Oliver and Lena’s life.
The character development was great. Oliver’s struggle with alcoholism was very real. It really shed some light on him and his struggles. Made him more of a real character. I enjoyed Lena’s awkwardness and
The storyline was pretty good. I enjoyed it. It had a lot of moving parts. Oliver as a father and his relationship with Kiah. Oliver’s past and all the people he has to make amends with. Oliver’s future of what will happen with custody and whether he will stay in Deep Haven. I enjoyed that the author switched from Oliver to Lena’s perspective so that we got both of the sides of the story.


*I was given a copy of the book for personal review from the author. This is my person thoughts and reflections.
Profile Image for Beth.
464 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2024
Another six star read!

Returning to my lovely Deep Haven is always a pleasure. I honestly wish this was a real small town, with all of these characters living there, so I could move there and be a part of this incredible place!

I loved Robin and Grayson Fox's stories. However, I think Oliver is my favorite! I absolutely loved his character, how he turned his life around, his love for Kiah and Lena and his family and how hard he tries to help everyone around him.

His and Lena's love story was not an easy one, but I loved how hard he kept trying and watching Lena grow to trust him just made me love Oliver even more!

Lena really was a hard nut to crack, but I love how she was the balance, the order, the extra that Oliver needed in his life. As she opened up to him, and the rest of her community, I really began to like her!

Fair warning though, the last 40% of this novel sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions! I was cheering one minute, crying the next, praying, hoping, and everything in between! I could not tear myself away from the story and I loved every single minute of it!

Michelle is a truly gifted author and though I have loved every single one of her Deep Haven novels, this one is her best!
Profile Image for Sally Mander.
819 reviews24 followers
January 25, 2024
5 stars, Enjoyable

THE WAY YOU LOVE ME: A DEEP HAVEN NOVEL (FOX FAMILY Book 3)
by Michelle Sass Aleckson

Oliver Fox finds himself forced to return home, in order to care properly for his young daughter.

Lena has always had a crush on Oliver, but as always, he has remained oblivious. Now, Oliver has moved back home and Lena finds herself thrust into situations with him, over and over.

Lena is a veterinarian whom everyone brings their sick or injured animals to, for treatment. She also has a big heart, always wanting to help animals.

This is a delightful story, I especially liked the fainting goats, it would be fun to have one of those.

I read the previous book, #ItsYourLove and enjoyed it, also.

This is a continuing saga of the Fox family, in a standalone form.

I received a complimentary copy of #TheWayYouLoveMe from #BookFunnel and #SunrisePublishing I was under no obligation to post a review.

#Inspirational #InspyFic #CoverLove #FoxFamilySeries #ADeepHavenNovel #ContemporaryFiction #Love #HEA #ARC #ChristianFiction #MichelleSassAleckson #SusanMayWarren
41 reviews6 followers
December 21, 2023
If I could visit any fictional town, I would choose Deep Haven, Minnesota. And through Michelle Sass Aleckson’s new novel, “The Way You Love Me”, I got my wish!

Plus, I never knew I needed a meet-cute involving a tiny fainting goat, but I so obviously did!

In “The Way You Love Me”, you’ll meet Ollie Fox, a recovering alcoholic, desperate to keep his daughter while trying to make amends for his past mistakes, even if it means returning to Deep Haven to face them all.

And Lena Larson, a single veterinarian who has difficulty trusting others, (especially Ollie) and doesn’t recognize how badly she needs a family of her own.

Michelle’s wonderful story is one of forgiveness, recovery, redemption, the true meaning of family, and second chances.

And the tiny fainting goat? She makes more than one hilarious appearance, creating chaos in the lives of some of our favorite Deep Haven residents.
Profile Image for Lori Hooten.
348 reviews8 followers
December 27, 2023
Oliver Fox has so much in his past that he has tried to outrun and out maneuver, over and over. But he finally sees that he must face it and own up to his past. Then, he can finally move forward with the daughter that spurs him on to right. But often those who were hurt in the past make it so hard for him. Does he give up or push on? Each day is a new decision on that front. But with family, and his daughter, giving him support, maybe this path will end with something better.

I really enjoyed this story of the Fox family. I enjoy seeing people try hard to make things right and work out their mistakes. This happy ending story gives us all a model for moving forward after a less-than-perfect life, struggling against the odds and doing what is right even when it is hard. Life lessons abound in the covers of this little gem. A clean, happy-ending read that brings joy to your life and faith in family, even when that family extends beyond bloodlines.
Profile Image for Kathryn Bochman.
364 reviews22 followers
December 19, 2023
The Way You Love Me is the perfect addition to the Deep Haven saga! This time, we finally get the story of Oliver and Lena, and it did not disappoint. I quickly fell in love with the characters and cheered them on as they fought to overcome the past and the present. Aleckson expertly layered this novel with dynamics that were so relatable and heart rendering that I could not help but find myself in the pages before me. Of special interest was the custody battle of a sweet little girl, a topic that is very near to my own experience.

A truly beautiful story, sweetly romantic, and utterly irresistible, The Way You Love Me is an unforgettable read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Profile Image for Sharon Hughson.
Author 31 books63 followers
December 20, 2023
This was a different sort of visit to Deep Haven, and I wasn't sure I would like it at first.

It was hard for me to drop inside of a recovering alcoholic's head, but it was also eye-opening. Ollie Fox has many marks against him and a load of baggage that would crush anyone. I loved that he got a happy ending even though there was a lot of struggle and heartache along the way.

Sadly, I could relate too easily to Lena, and I hurt for her isolated self, always believing she was better off without love. But in the end, she is the one to make the grand gesture and heal the rift that separates them. What a feel good moment that was!

I loved the cast of animals that pranced across the stage of this novel's setting. Reminded me why I have cats rather than dogs...or goats, regardless of how cute they might be.
Profile Image for Beth | Faithfully Bookish .
932 reviews247 followers
January 6, 2025
Dynamic engaging characters with complex backstories and familial issues navigate grief, forgiveness, and second chances under the microscopic scrutiny of the small town community. Ultimately themes of family, belonging, and found-family shine through in a faith-rich, God-honoring way. The familiar town of Deep Haven and unique northern Minnesota setting shines bright in each season. One-day read with time to spare. Excellent use of pet characters with distinct personalities and an eccentric collection of species and breeds.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review. As owner of JustRead Publicity Tours, I received compensation from the publisher and/or author to coordinate a promotional tour for this title. The opinions expressed are my own.

Profile Image for Deena.
1,184 reviews
December 23, 2023
Another amazing trip back to Deep Haven! I've loved every moment I've been able to spend getting to know the Fox siblings.

Oliver's story is by far the most tragic. Being the oldest sibling he feels the weight and responsibility for the tragedy their family endured.

Lena broke my heart. I understand her need to feel like she belonged somewhere and mattered to someone. Her story resonated with me.

I loved everything about this book, with one exception: I wanted more time with the people of Deep Haven! Every story deepens my love for these imaginary characters. And the depth of each story makes the place feel like a real community I would love to live in.

My thanks to the publisher for my advance copy. My review is honest and has not been solicited in any way.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,197 reviews
December 29, 2023
Oliver Fox comes home to Deep Haven in the name of second chances and for his daughter, Kiah.

Lena is the town Veterinarian, she has a passion for animals and how they are less complicated than people. She isn't happy to see Oliver back in town, especially when she finds out that he is completing for the same grant that she was hoping to win to save the shelter. I admired her for her courage, stepping out of her comfort zone, and how she bonds with little Kiah.

A heartwarming romance, with a adorable meet cute, and strong themes of faith, family and forgiveness. This is a heart tugging read with great characters, lots of heart, faith, and second chances.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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