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Strawberry Sands Beach Sweet Romance #9
There I Find Wisdom
Dakota Esenwein’s life took a turn she never expected after a heartbreak and a whirlwind of bad decisions led her away from her one true love. Now divorced, she’s back in the picturesque town of Strawberry Sands, seeking a fresh start as the new inn's handyman, juggling the joys and challenges of single motherhood.
Ryan Landry, with the echoes of the rodeo still haunting him, is drawn back to the town he grew up in and where his family still lives. He’s restless and unsettled, even as he takes a job as caretaker of the inn’s grounds which he does around his true love of training horses.
As the waves gently lap the shores, the two are thrown together, their past mistakes hanging in the balance. Can Strawberry Sands, with its tranquil beaches and faith-filled community, offer them a second chance at love? Dive into a poignant tale of forgiveness, redemption, and rediscovered love set against the backdrop of golden sands and sunlit horizons.
Ryan Landry, with the echoes of the rodeo still haunting him, is drawn back to the town he grew up in and where his family still lives. He’s restless and unsettled, even as he takes a job as caretaker of the inn’s grounds which he does around his true love of training horses.
As the waves gently lap the shores, the two are thrown together, their past mistakes hanging in the balance. Can Strawberry Sands, with its tranquil beaches and faith-filled community, offer them a second chance at love? Dive into a poignant tale of forgiveness, redemption, and rediscovered love set against the backdrop of golden sands and sunlit horizons.
- GenresRomance
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
628 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
November 23, 2023
If only to have wisdom in your youth.
How many times have young people made mistakes that wisdom would have prevented? How many mistakes of youth continue to haunt the adults they become? This story looks at those things. Dakota and Ryan had been friends since their childhood and their bond only increased when both developed a love for horses. As they competed on the rodeo circuit, their friendship deepened and strengthened. Then one drunken night choices were made that led to the shattering of the friendship. Now nine years later, Dakota is a divorced mother of two who has faced and continues to face never ending trials and hardship but has gained wisdom with the trials. Ryan has left the rodeo circuit to train, and hopefully in the future, breed horses also gaining insight and realigned values over the years. When they are thrown together again will they be able to rebuild the precious friendship to everyone’s advantage? Please note this book is a Christian themed novel and has doctrinal discussion. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
How many times have young people made mistakes that wisdom would have prevented? How many mistakes of youth continue to haunt the adults they become? This story looks at those things. Dakota and Ryan had been friends since their childhood and their bond only increased when both developed a love for horses. As they competed on the rodeo circuit, their friendship deepened and strengthened. Then one drunken night choices were made that led to the shattering of the friendship. Now nine years later, Dakota is a divorced mother of two who has faced and continues to face never ending trials and hardship but has gained wisdom with the trials. Ryan has left the rodeo circuit to train, and hopefully in the future, breed horses also gaining insight and realigned values over the years. When they are thrown together again will they be able to rebuild the precious friendship to everyone’s advantage? Please note this book is a Christian themed novel and has doctrinal discussion. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
November 28, 2023
“If she claimed to love God, if she claimed to be a follower of Christ, if she claimed to want God’s glory and not her own, then giving up her horse shouldn’t be such a struggle. It should be something she gladly did, if it furthered God’s plan in her life. It shouldn’t be something that was pried out of her cold, resisting fingers.”
This quote really hit me because I’ve been struggling a bit. I’ve been definitely thinking along these lines, but a bit begrudgingly. I’ll read lines in a book that talk about someone decades older than myself “at least having their health” and about not wanting to start being in pain every day.. but.. that is my life. While I do have a lot of health, it’s not what it was a year and a half ago. I do wake up in pain daily and it eats with my ability to sleep at night. A friend recently mentioned that God will provide what is best for us, and I do believe that. It’s just been easier for me to think about it as God doing what will bring Him the most glory because I don’t like to think about pains and struggles being His best for me, though I know that going through the Refiner’s fire is what strengthens, betters, and purifies us.
I enjoyed this second chance romance. These characters had pasts to work through but family and faith surrounded them the whole way. There were also a couple of little girls and some equines. I feel this series coming to a close and I’m sad to leave Strawberry Sands, but I’m blessed that I’ll be able to return anytime I want to relearn the lessons within these pages.
“sometimes we hold onto the things that we think should happen. That we expect. That we desire. And God has a different plan in mind. We get all upset and concerned and worried and fret about how things are going to work out the way we think they should, when we could just live a life of peace and ease if we allow God to have His way without us fighting Him every step of the way.”
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This quote really hit me because I’ve been struggling a bit. I’ve been definitely thinking along these lines, but a bit begrudgingly. I’ll read lines in a book that talk about someone decades older than myself “at least having their health” and about not wanting to start being in pain every day.. but.. that is my life. While I do have a lot of health, it’s not what it was a year and a half ago. I do wake up in pain daily and it eats with my ability to sleep at night. A friend recently mentioned that God will provide what is best for us, and I do believe that. It’s just been easier for me to think about it as God doing what will bring Him the most glory because I don’t like to think about pains and struggles being His best for me, though I know that going through the Refiner’s fire is what strengthens, betters, and purifies us.
I enjoyed this second chance romance. These characters had pasts to work through but family and faith surrounded them the whole way. There were also a couple of little girls and some equines. I feel this series coming to a close and I’m sad to leave Strawberry Sands, but I’m blessed that I’ll be able to return anytime I want to relearn the lessons within these pages.
“sometimes we hold onto the things that we think should happen. That we expect. That we desire. And God has a different plan in mind. We get all upset and concerned and worried and fret about how things are going to work out the way we think they should, when we could just live a life of peace and ease if we allow God to have His way without us fighting Him every step of the way.”
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 8, 2023
This is a short and sweet second chance love story where two friends from years before on the rodeo circuit are given a new chance at a relationship. There were circumstances that Ryan Landry didn't know about when he refused Dakota Esenwein's unexpected marriage proposal over ten years ago. They had been good friends and after a night of drinking celebrating with new friends, they woke up together in bed. He was really upset with himself and so hadn't seen Dakota for a few weeks. So her call was unexpected and he was a little short with her refusing her proposal. The next thing he found out was that she had married George, another rider on the circuit in a surprise elopement to Las Vegas. Dylan regretted the loss of his relationship with Dakota. He knew he wasn't ready to get married back then because he had dreams of being a rodeo champion. All these years later, he knew that she had really been the one for him.
Dakota Esenwein was at a crossroads again in her life with the death of her grandmother. Her grandmother had been the one to raise her after the death of her parents. That's where she went after her marriage to George ended. That marriage had been a huge mistake but when Dylan rejected her when she needed him the most, she needed a father for her unborn baby. Now she is back in Strawberry Sands trying to open her grandmother's souvenir shop back up. She needed a way to provide for her two daughters and was thankful for the small apartment above the shop.
Dylan had no idea that Dakota was moving back to Strawberry Sands when his mother asked him to do a repair job at the souvenir shop. He was happy to see her and knew that they both needed to address what had happened between them in the past. He needed to seek her forgiveness for his actions and he had no idea how Dakota had sacrificed her dreams to give him his success.
This is a powerful story of forgiveness and the unexpected opportunity to have a second chance with the girl he should have never let get away.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
Dakota Esenwein was at a crossroads again in her life with the death of her grandmother. Her grandmother had been the one to raise her after the death of her parents. That's where she went after her marriage to George ended. That marriage had been a huge mistake but when Dylan rejected her when she needed him the most, she needed a father for her unborn baby. Now she is back in Strawberry Sands trying to open her grandmother's souvenir shop back up. She needed a way to provide for her two daughters and was thankful for the small apartment above the shop.
Dylan had no idea that Dakota was moving back to Strawberry Sands when his mother asked him to do a repair job at the souvenir shop. He was happy to see her and knew that they both needed to address what had happened between them in the past. He needed to seek her forgiveness for his actions and he had no idea how Dakota had sacrificed her dreams to give him his success.
This is a powerful story of forgiveness and the unexpected opportunity to have a second chance with the girl he should have never let get away.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
December 9, 2023
Dakota and Ryan’s story is a sweet, second chance at love story. It includes regrets, sacrifice, and self- reflection as well as personal growth. Once best of friends who had dreams of rodeo glory, they have lived their lives apart for nearly a decade. One night of revelry and excess drinking had been the catalyst to the ending of their friendship. It was a night that left Dakota pregnant and with decisions to make about what was best for the baby, herself and Ryan. She asked him a question, he said no while he put his ambitions first, and she made the decision to marry another man. Now, nearly a decade later, God has guided them both back to Strawberry Sands where their relationship began.
Ryan is now retired from the rodeo and is saving for a ranch of his own. He does handyman jobs and repairs to make extra money as well as working in his brother’s stables training horses. He was hired to help repair the shop Dakota inherited from her grandmother without knowing that she was the new owner. Neither expected to see each other again, and Dakota is reluctant to be around him. Both have regrets about the night they spent in each other’s arm, but they also can’t forget it happened or how it effected their relationship. Ryan soon learns about everything that Dakota dealt with on her own since then. He not only wants to make amends, he wants to at least be friends with Dakota and her daughters, though he is hoping that they will have more than friendship. Over the years they have both learned to trust in God’s guidance and plan for them, and now God has brought them back to each other.
This insightful book and it’s pearls of wisdom leave one feeling inspired and thoughtful. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review
Ryan is now retired from the rodeo and is saving for a ranch of his own. He does handyman jobs and repairs to make extra money as well as working in his brother’s stables training horses. He was hired to help repair the shop Dakota inherited from her grandmother without knowing that she was the new owner. Neither expected to see each other again, and Dakota is reluctant to be around him. Both have regrets about the night they spent in each other’s arm, but they also can’t forget it happened or how it effected their relationship. Ryan soon learns about everything that Dakota dealt with on her own since then. He not only wants to make amends, he wants to at least be friends with Dakota and her daughters, though he is hoping that they will have more than friendship. Over the years they have both learned to trust in God’s guidance and plan for them, and now God has brought them back to each other.
This insightful book and it’s pearls of wisdom leave one feeling inspired and thoughtful. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review
November 25, 2023
Dakota a former rodeo competitive rider is desperate. Her ex left her with two kids and her grandma passed away leaving her a run-down shop in Strawberry Sands. In order to feed her kids and try to make a go of her messed up life she has to sell her beloved horse Goldie. Soon she is on her way with two kids to a new life. In the meantime, Ryan, her former best friend and a championship Rodeo rider now lives in Strawberry Sands where he is hoping to start a ranch. There is some history between Ryan and Dakota and clearly, it goes deeper than he realizes.
At first, Dakota doesn’t want to get drawn into a relationship again with the handsome cowboy but their past secrets can’t help but draw them together. This time will they be wiser than they were a decade ago?
Jessie Gussman again delivers a compelling and dramatic story about people who made mistakes and hopefully, through God’s Grace have learned from them. As always in Jessie’s books we are amazed by the goodness of God when we will just take the time to listen and obey. I found myself underlining lots of passages because her books always convict me. One of my favorite quotes from the book is:
“Every experience you have, every time God comes through for you, it makes you a little wiser, a little more secure knowing you can trust him.”
Certainly, that is true for Ryan and Dakota and it’s nice to be reminded that it’s true in my life as well.
At first, Dakota doesn’t want to get drawn into a relationship again with the handsome cowboy but their past secrets can’t help but draw them together. This time will they be wiser than they were a decade ago?
Jessie Gussman again delivers a compelling and dramatic story about people who made mistakes and hopefully, through God’s Grace have learned from them. As always in Jessie’s books we are amazed by the goodness of God when we will just take the time to listen and obey. I found myself underlining lots of passages because her books always convict me. One of my favorite quotes from the book is:
“Every experience you have, every time God comes through for you, it makes you a little wiser, a little more secure knowing you can trust him.”
Certainly, that is true for Ryan and Dakota and it’s nice to be reminded that it’s true in my life as well.
December 9, 2023
Dakota had been in love when she was young, but her boyfriend and best friend didn't want to get married. Rodeo championships and fame were most important to him, and he didn't want to give it all up for marriage and settling down with that kind of responsibility. After a night of drinking and sleeping with Ryan, Dakota suddenly finds herself pregnant, so she accepts a marriage proposal from a guy who was interested in her. But that was a bad decision in a list of bad decisions, and it ended in divorce. If there really was a God, she thought she didn't want to know Him, EXCEPT Dakota realized that all the bad things she had gone through had made her stronger and better. Now her grandmother has died, and Dakota, a single mother of 2 girls, needs a place to live. She decides to move to Strawberry Sands, because her grandmother left her a store there with an apartment above. No furniture, no food, but Dakota and her 2 young daughters at least had a place to live. She even had to sell her horse to survive, but how long will her money last before it's gone?
"There I Find Wisdom" is a well-written, clean and tender romance. I liked that the H and h worked together, respectfully, to overcome past mistakes. Ryan's relationship to Dakota's girls was heartwarming. I highly recommend this story of love, forgiveness, and second chances.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
"There I Find Wisdom" is a well-written, clean and tender romance. I liked that the H and h worked together, respectfully, to overcome past mistakes. Ryan's relationship to Dakota's girls was heartwarming. I highly recommend this story of love, forgiveness, and second chances.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
December 14, 2023
Of all the books in this Strawberry Sands series by Jessie Gussman this is my favorite. Ryan and Dakota were friends from childhood but as young adults they crossed the line one night that led to Dakota getting pregnant. She never told Ryan because he had made it clear in past conversations that he didn't want a family as long as he was trying to win his rodeo championships. Dakota married another guy she had dated and he kept wanting to date her. He didn't know she was pregnant when they got married and they had another child before she eventually divorced him because he kept cheating on her. She and Ryan never kept in touch after Dakota found out she was pregnant.This story picks up eight year later when Dakota and her two daughters move to Strawberry Sands after her Grandmother died and she inherited the souvenir shop and apartment where her Grandmother used to live. Neither Ryan or Dakota know that they now both live in Strawberry Sands until she arrives at the shop/apartment and finds Ryan is the handyman who was hired to get the building liveable. Will they both stay in Strawberry Sands and will Ryan find out one of her daughters is his child? You will have to read the book or listen to the audiobook on the "Say with Jay" YouTube channel to find out.I highly recommend both the book and the audiobook. I received an ARC of the book from the author and this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 15, 2023
This is another wonderful book in the Strawberry Sands Beach Romances. Jessie Gussman is a wonderful writer who blends real life issues with Christian values.
Dakota made one big mistake in her life and compounded that by marrying someone she didn't love. Now, she is divorced, penniless and returning to Strawberry Sands where she had some wonderful summer memories with her grandmother. Her grandmother is gone but left her her souvenir shop in Strawberry Sands. She has returned with her two young daughters to a place that has both wonderful and painful memories. When she enters the shop, the first person she sees is the handyman on the ladder who happens to be none other than the boy who broke her heart, Ryan.
Ryan did something to hurt his best friend, Dakota, years ago. He wants to make things right with her but is she willing to forgive him? Dakota has a secret that she has been keeping from Ryan, too. It will take forgiveness on both their parts to mend their friendship and make way for the possibility of something more.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Dakota made one big mistake in her life and compounded that by marrying someone she didn't love. Now, she is divorced, penniless and returning to Strawberry Sands where she had some wonderful summer memories with her grandmother. Her grandmother is gone but left her her souvenir shop in Strawberry Sands. She has returned with her two young daughters to a place that has both wonderful and painful memories. When she enters the shop, the first person she sees is the handyman on the ladder who happens to be none other than the boy who broke her heart, Ryan.
Ryan did something to hurt his best friend, Dakota, years ago. He wants to make things right with her but is she willing to forgive him? Dakota has a secret that she has been keeping from Ryan, too. It will take forgiveness on both their parts to mend their friendship and make way for the possibility of something more.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
November 26, 2023
Dakota returns to the Strawberry Sands where she spent some summers with her Grandma when she inherits her Grandma's shop after her Grandma dies She never expects to find her one-time friend Ryan. Ryan and her were best friends and fellow competitors with their horses. He was a rodeo rider and she was a barrel racer. She gave it up when she unexpectedly became pregnant. Her life changed dramatically when her Grandma dies as she lost her living arrangements too. All she has left is a run-down shop in Strawberry Sands that her Grandma left her. She has no choice but to try to make it work as she now has two daughters after a failed marriage. She runs into Ryan almost immediately after arriving. Can they rekindle their friendship? Will she make enough after redoing the shop and getting it up and running? This is a fantastic story of someone sacrificing everything for others without regard to oneself. Jessie has woven wise life lessons into a fantastic story! This is one of the best yet! I love the entire series!
December 6, 2023
I have read every book in this series and enjoyed them very much. This story was particularly good. Dakota and Ryan made one foolish mistake eight years before, and unknown to Ryan, Dakota chose to bear all the responsibility so he could pursue his dream. Now they are both back in Strawberry Sands, and Ryan hopes to make amends for the past and win Dakota's heart. She has experienced a bad marriage and also misjudged Ryan for years. Because of this, she's not willing to trust Ryan, she wants to see real actions on his part. Ryan makes it a priority to earn her trust by working on repairs to her store, spending time with her daughters and respecting her desires.
This is a wonderful story about how simple misunderstandings can snowball and create heartbreak but also how honesty and wise choices can redeem the past. She made a great sacrifice for Ryan, and he, in turn gives her a truly meaningful gift. Although this is the ninth book in this series, it can be read as a standalone. I received an ARC of this book and this is my unbiased opinion.
This is a wonderful story about how simple misunderstandings can snowball and create heartbreak but also how honesty and wise choices can redeem the past. She made a great sacrifice for Ryan, and he, in turn gives her a truly meaningful gift. Although this is the ninth book in this series, it can be read as a standalone. I received an ARC of this book and this is my unbiased opinion.
November 30, 2023
In the palm of His hand…
Dakota Esenwein and Ryan Landry were best friends but one night changed that forever. Ryan went on with his career as a champion bronc rider but Dakota quit her barrel riding career. She married, had children, divorced, and ended up living with her grandmother. After her grandmother’s death, Dakota had nowhere to go except Strawberry Sands and the shop she inherited. It seemed like God had abandoned her just like Ryan did.
Ryan came home when he left his rodeo career. Owning a horse ranch is still his goal so he trains horses and works as a handyman to earn the money. When his mother asked him to take on a new job repairing the building for the granddaughter of an old friend, he had no idea his past was coming back to haunt him.
This is a heartwarming story of reconciliation and forgiveness. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
Dakota Esenwein and Ryan Landry were best friends but one night changed that forever. Ryan went on with his career as a champion bronc rider but Dakota quit her barrel riding career. She married, had children, divorced, and ended up living with her grandmother. After her grandmother’s death, Dakota had nowhere to go except Strawberry Sands and the shop she inherited. It seemed like God had abandoned her just like Ryan did.
Ryan came home when he left his rodeo career. Owning a horse ranch is still his goal so he trains horses and works as a handyman to earn the money. When his mother asked him to take on a new job repairing the building for the granddaughter of an old friend, he had no idea his past was coming back to haunt him.
This is a heartwarming story of reconciliation and forgiveness. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
December 9, 2023
Ryan and Dakota were good friends and played together when they were children. When they were older they both competed in rodeo events, so their friendship grew.
When Dakota quits the rodeo they lose touch. Over the years life happens and Dakota ends up moving to Strawberry Sands. She's hoping to run her gram's souvenir shop and make enough money to take care of her two daughters. She runs into Ryan first thing and they form an uneasy truce. They each have a secret that could have repercussions on them getting back to the close friendship they once had.
If you're curious about their secrets as well as the rest of Ryan and Dakota's story I recommend you read There I Find Wisdom. It is a clean, inspirational Christian romance with a joy-filled happy-ever-after.
I was given an ARC of this story from BookFunnel on behalf of the author, Jessie Gussman. This review is my honest opinion given voluntarily.
When Dakota quits the rodeo they lose touch. Over the years life happens and Dakota ends up moving to Strawberry Sands. She's hoping to run her gram's souvenir shop and make enough money to take care of her two daughters. She runs into Ryan first thing and they form an uneasy truce. They each have a secret that could have repercussions on them getting back to the close friendship they once had.
If you're curious about their secrets as well as the rest of Ryan and Dakota's story I recommend you read There I Find Wisdom. It is a clean, inspirational Christian romance with a joy-filled happy-ever-after.
I was given an ARC of this story from BookFunnel on behalf of the author, Jessie Gussman. This review is my honest opinion given voluntarily.
December 9, 2023
Dakota is the divorced mom of two girls. When her grandmother dies, she inherits a rundown, out of business gift shop in Strawberry Sands. With nowhere else to go, she sells her beloved horse, her only asset, and moves into the apartment above the gift shop. Ryan was Dakota’s best friend about ten years earlier – until he wasn’t. Ryan wants to raise and train horses. When he hears a champion horse if for sale, he arranges to purchase it, not knowing it is Dakota’s horse. When Dakota moves to Strawberry Sands, he suddenly finds he is the father of her nine-year-old daughter. He has never forgotten Dakota and would love to make a family with her and the girls. But can Dakota trust in God’s forgiveness and His perfect plan and learn to trust Ryan?
Well Written story with lovable characters, romance, family dynamics, and great Christian principles.
I received a free advance copy of this book. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Well Written story with lovable characters, romance, family dynamics, and great Christian principles.
I received a free advance copy of this book. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
December 2, 2023
Another great book by Jessie! I love how she writes about real life situations and weaves faith and trust in God into them.
Dakota, a former barrel racer, now a single mom of two girls was living with her grandmother. When she passed away, Dakota was devastated. All she had left was her daughters, her horse (Goldie), and a rundown store in Strawberry Sands that her grandmother left her. She had to sell her horse to take care of her daughters and move to Strawberry Sands.
Ryan, a former champion bronc rider, lived in Strawberry Sands. He and Dakota had history together. Would they rekindle what they had when she moves back? Or will she not want anything to do with him? This is where wisdom and faith in God come in. Both of them want to follow where God leads them.
I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.
Dakota, a former barrel racer, now a single mom of two girls was living with her grandmother. When she passed away, Dakota was devastated. All she had left was her daughters, her horse (Goldie), and a rundown store in Strawberry Sands that her grandmother left her. She had to sell her horse to take care of her daughters and move to Strawberry Sands.
Ryan, a former champion bronc rider, lived in Strawberry Sands. He and Dakota had history together. Would they rekindle what they had when she moves back? Or will she not want anything to do with him? This is where wisdom and faith in God come in. Both of them want to follow where God leads them.
I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.
December 5, 2023
Ryan Landry has returned to Strawberry Sands after leaving the rodeo circuit. He’s been doing odds and ends jobs to pass the time until he gets his horse breeding and training business off the ground. When his mom asks him to do some repair work on a closed gift store, he never thought it would lead him to running into the girl that got away. Dakota Esenwain has hit a low spot in her life. Her husband has left her and their two kids, her grandmother has passed away and she has to sell her prized horse, Goldie, just to travel to the gift shop that her grandmother has left her. Upon arrival, Dakota stumbles upon Ryan in her shop. She was hoping she could avoid him for as long as possible. Their last night together on the rodeo circuit has lasting consequences that Dakota has been hiding from everyone. This is a story of forgiveness and hope for two lost souls.
December 4, 2023
'There I Find Wisdom' was heartfelt. Its moving plot was filled with one drunken night, a rejected proposal, forgiveness, spirituality, family bonding, and a second chance at love. Ryan and Dakota, the protagonists, worked hard to try to achieve their HEA. I liked the mesmerizing storyline which held my interest throughout. Moreover, I liked the concrete details the author provided, especially the figurative language such as, "Her mouth was open, her face pale, her eyes big in her face, her freckles stood out like flies in white cream." Overall, I liked the captivating narrative although I had expected more external conflict.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
December 9, 2023
Forgiveness, Trust, and Second Chances
This is another amazing book by Jessie Gussman. Each book in the series seems to be better than the last. Ryan and Dakota share a past from when she would visit her grandmother. They also hung out together once they were older as part of the rodeo. Dakota has made some poor choices and she takes what life has given her. Her grandmother dies leaving her the gift shop in Strawberry Sands which is all that keeps her and her girls from being homeless. She has held a secret for eight years. When she and Ryan cross paths again will he forgive her? Likewise, Ryan made a few poor choices in his life. One poor choice was when he said no to Dakota eight years ago. Will she be able to forgive him and learn to trust him?
This is another amazing book by Jessie Gussman. Each book in the series seems to be better than the last. Ryan and Dakota share a past from when she would visit her grandmother. They also hung out together once they were older as part of the rodeo. Dakota has made some poor choices and she takes what life has given her. Her grandmother dies leaving her the gift shop in Strawberry Sands which is all that keeps her and her girls from being homeless. She has held a secret for eight years. When she and Ryan cross paths again will he forgive her? Likewise, Ryan made a few poor choices in his life. One poor choice was when he said no to Dakota eight years ago. Will she be able to forgive him and learn to trust him?
November 20, 2023
Dakota and Ryan were childhood sweethearts growing into adults but not knowing how to express their feelings that had turned to love. Neither of them really drank at all then alcohol worked its evil magic along with a terrible phone call that ruined their friendship. Dakota married a man that neither her nor Ryan liked since he was a jerk as they referred to him. Through no fault of her own Dakota has to sell her beloved horse Goldie and is forced to move back home to Strawberry Sands only to meet up with Ryan who she was contented to never see again. Immediately the spark begin to fly. Excellent book and brought tears to my eyes. Jessie has done it again!
December 2, 2023
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Dakota’s life took a turn for the worse, she thought when her grandmother died. She had to sell her beloved horse in order to feed her children and move to Strawberry Sands to run the shop her grandmother left her. When she arrived, Ryan Landry was doing the repairs on the shop, much to her dismay. She had hoped to avoid him, but it wasn’t meant to be. Instead, she discovered she still had feelings for him. His tender care for her and her children eventually won her over. A great second chance story about forgiveness and acceptance.
December 11, 2023
Another wonderful book in the series by Jessie Gussman.
Dakota used to visit her grandma in Strawberry Sands when she was younger. That’s where she met Ryan and proposed to him, he turned her down and went off to become a rodeo star. She married another and had two kids before her marriage imploded and he took everything except her horse and the kids. Now her Grams is dying and has left her the abandoned gift shop in Strawberry. It has an apartment upstairs so she at least has somewhere to live.
She doesn’t know why her gram wants her here but she knows God is in control.
*I received this book asan ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Dakota used to visit her grandma in Strawberry Sands when she was younger. That’s where she met Ryan and proposed to him, he turned her down and went off to become a rodeo star. She married another and had two kids before her marriage imploded and he took everything except her horse and the kids. Now her Grams is dying and has left her the abandoned gift shop in Strawberry. It has an apartment upstairs so she at least has somewhere to live.
She doesn’t know why her gram wants her here but she knows God is in control.
*I received this book asan ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
December 11, 2023
There I Find Wisdom ~ Strawberry Sands Beach #9 by Jessie Gussman
Jessie has done it yet again with another brilliant story to add to this wonderful series of Strawberry Sands Beach. This book is very good with the depth of the characters that are Ryan &Dakota which pleasantly surprised me and had me rooting them on until the end.
I cannot say enough about how enjoyable this book was to read, I highly recommend this to all.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world-building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, Wonderful characters and Strawberry Sands Beach:)
Jessie has done it yet again with another brilliant story to add to this wonderful series of Strawberry Sands Beach. This book is very good with the depth of the characters that are Ryan &Dakota which pleasantly surprised me and had me rooting them on until the end.
I cannot say enough about how enjoyable this book was to read, I highly recommend this to all.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world-building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Romantic, Realistic, Wonderful characters and Strawberry Sands Beach:)
December 11, 2023
Another wonderful book in the series by Jessie Gussman.
Dakota used to visit her grandma in Strawberry Sands when she was younger. That’s where she met Ryan and proposed to him, he turned her down and went off to become a rodeo star. She married another and had two kids before her marriage imploded and he took everything except her horse and the kids. Now her Grams is dying and has left her the abandoned gift shop in Strawberry. It has an apartment upstairs so she at least has somewhere to live.
She doesn’t know why her gram wants her here but she knows God is in control.
*I received this book asan ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Dakota used to visit her grandma in Strawberry Sands when she was younger. That’s where she met Ryan and proposed to him, he turned her down and went off to become a rodeo star. She married another and had two kids before her marriage imploded and he took everything except her horse and the kids. Now her Grams is dying and has left her the abandoned gift shop in Strawberry. It has an apartment upstairs so she at least has somewhere to live.
She doesn’t know why her gram wants her here but she knows God is in control.
*I received this book asan ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
January 5, 2024
A good book for a sunny Friday morning.
I always enjoy bmooks by this author and being bought up on a dairy farm in Western Australia. I am reminded of what a marvelous place it was to grow up. Now at eighty and shortly moving tuo Boston to be my second husband and his family and grandchildren. His first wife is also a person I am pleased to have already met a few years ago. I am definitely blessed and when my daughter comes to visit us , will meet a whole new family up North. Today I went to the dentist and sat in the waiting room as I waited for John.
Our lives are great and for that I give thanks.
Robinboyer8@gmail.com
C
I always enjoy bmooks by this author and being bought up on a dairy farm in Western Australia. I am reminded of what a marvelous place it was to grow up. Now at eighty and shortly moving tuo Boston to be my second husband and his family and grandchildren. His first wife is also a person I am pleased to have already met a few years ago. I am definitely blessed and when my daughter comes to visit us , will meet a whole new family up North. Today I went to the dentist and sat in the waiting room as I waited for John.
Our lives are great and for that I give thanks.
Robinboyer8@gmail.com
C
January 24, 2024
Dakota and Ryan became friends when she would visit her grandmother and later on the rodeo trail but one mistake causes Dakota to leave the rodeo and lose touch with Ryan. Years later when her grandmother dies she inherits her gift shop in Strawberry Sands and returns there with her daughters. When she finds out Ryan is the person doing repairs to the shop, old feelings resurface for both of them.
Dakota has been keeping a secret which will hinder their friendship but she knows the wisdom of the Lord will help her see the way to revealing everything to Ryan.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Dakota has been keeping a secret which will hinder their friendship but she knows the wisdom of the Lord will help her see the way to revealing everything to Ryan.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
November 20, 2023
Author Jessie Gussman is amazing, she has written a wonderful story about second chances, in life and love. Ryan has given up the rodeo after being a three time champion and returned home to be with his family. Dakota has hit bottom after a divorce, losing her grandmother and a place to live along with worrying about taking care of her daughters. The only thing she has left is her beloved horse Goldie along with the old store her gram left her in Strawberry Sands. What does she know about running a store?
November 22, 2023
This is such a sweet and wonderful story. I was so happy to get to read Ryan Landry’s story. He was best friends with Dakota from the time they were small kids, but one mistake and lack of communication tore them apart. Then they are fortunate enough to get a second chance, will they be able to forgive and move on? I loved how Ryan who seemed not very happy in previous books was able to show who he really was, a kind man and good with kids. I love how this story showed the power of forgiveness, faith and love.
November 30, 2023
Wisdom once embraced is a valued companion
Dakota faces a lot of challenges and past mistakes. Wisdom is her companion as she acknowledges her consequences from choosing poor choices to fix her mistakes. You can see God at work in her life as circumstances direct her towards choice’s she is reluctant to embrace much like we can look back and see God’s hand and faithfulness in our lives. I love how Jessie weaves biblical truth and insight into her novels that provides much food for thought.
R. Fody
November 18, 2023
Dakota faces a lot of challenges and past mistakes. Wisdom is her companion as she acknowledges her consequences from choosing poor choices to fix her mistakes. You can see God at work in her life as circumstances direct her towards choice’s she is reluctant to embrace much like we can look back and see God’s hand and faithfulness in our lives. I love how Jessie weaves biblical truth and insight into her novels that provides much food for thought.
R. Fody
November 18, 2023
December 8, 2023
I love how Dakota and Ryan are able to overcome their history and how they organically come together in this book. With a child, other relationships and a lot of sacrifice, they finally are ready to trust each other, forgive and move forward. Ryan feels like Dakota is the one that got away, and is so grateful for the sacrifice Dakota made for him. Dakota is still holding on to a lot of guilt. Their trust in God is what gets them through. I loved reading this book and loved all of the feelings and forgiveness.
December 9, 2023
Dakota and Ryan had history that they would both rather forget, but haven't seen each other for years. Dakota since got married had 2 kids and is now divorced and back in her home town. Ryan has retired from the rodeo circuit but has been unsettled since he moved back home. What I liked was how they acknowledged their mistakes and determined to do better, also how Ryan treated both girls equally. I really loved the nuggets of wisdom in this book, especially from Ryan's mum. I received an ARC but this review is my own.
December 24, 2023
amazing as always
While premarital relations play a role in this story, it is clearly recognized as sin by the participants and we see some of the consequences of their actions. Yet we also see them learning to trust in God and His workings in their lives, working everything together for their good.
I love reading Jessie’s books because they always remind me to trust God, even when things don’t seem to be going well. I also appreciate how these stories always help me to appreciate my husband more.
While premarital relations play a role in this story, it is clearly recognized as sin by the participants and we see some of the consequences of their actions. Yet we also see them learning to trust in God and His workings in their lives, working everything together for their good.
I love reading Jessie’s books because they always remind me to trust God, even when things don’t seem to be going well. I also appreciate how these stories always help me to appreciate my husband more.
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