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Many Oaks Romances #1
A Surefire Love
Small towns have long memories, and generations of dysfunction burned Blaze’s reputation before her own faults could.
Twenty-six and guardian to her preteen sister, Blaze is determined to give her sister the stability she never had. Her church is a big part of that plan, until a run-in with an uptight youth pastor derails their progress. Blaze goes toe-to-toe with a man who looked down on her back in high school—and volunteers for his team of youth leaders.
A survivor of the wreck that took his high school basketball coach, Anson sacrificed a promising athletic career to pick up Coach Voss’s legacy. Now a youth pastor, his mission to offer students real hope clashes with a leadership board that’s more concerned about numbers.
As his allies turn their backs and Blaze explores the impact of undiagnosed ADHD on the patterns of her life, Blaze and Anson find unexpected support in each other. Perhaps her preconceived ideas about him are as far off base as his are about her and her sister. When scandal ignites around them, will their love prove to be surefire—or crash and burn?
Fans of Nicole Deese and Melissa Tagg will fall in love with this opposites-attract romance about faith, second chances, and sacrificial love.
Twenty-six and guardian to her preteen sister, Blaze is determined to give her sister the stability she never had. Her church is a big part of that plan, until a run-in with an uptight youth pastor derails their progress. Blaze goes toe-to-toe with a man who looked down on her back in high school—and volunteers for his team of youth leaders.
A survivor of the wreck that took his high school basketball coach, Anson sacrificed a promising athletic career to pick up Coach Voss’s legacy. Now a youth pastor, his mission to offer students real hope clashes with a leadership board that’s more concerned about numbers.
As his allies turn their backs and Blaze explores the impact of undiagnosed ADHD on the patterns of her life, Blaze and Anson find unexpected support in each other. Perhaps her preconceived ideas about him are as far off base as his are about her and her sister. When scandal ignites around them, will their love prove to be surefire—or crash and burn?
Fans of Nicole Deese and Melissa Tagg will fall in love with this opposites-attract romance about faith, second chances, and sacrificial love.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2024
67 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Emily Conrad
13 books440 followersEmily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s living) is Jesus. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and their energetic coonhound and two lop-eared bunny rescues. Learn more about her and her books at emilyconradauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 12, 2024
When I pick up a book by Emily Conrad, I always know I will get thought-provoking faith along with a sweet love story. This book delivered on both. There were a few moments in the first few chapters where I wondered where the author was going to take it, but she did a fabulous job and put a spin on a micro-trope that I normally dislike. She handled it well and differently than I've seen done and I appreciated that the characters were open and communicated with one another.
I truly appreciate how each character, though strong in faith, still struggled and was never perfect. They pushed one another to become better people and to see things from other people's perspectives. I loved the ADHD and anxiety rep in the book. I also enjoyed seeing how the church issues played out, even though there were many times that a certain character was making me angry. haha
If you're looking for a slow-burn, sweet romance with strong faith, likable characters, and small-town vibes, then you need to read this one!
**I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
I truly appreciate how each character, though strong in faith, still struggled and was never perfect. They pushed one another to become better people and to see things from other people's perspectives. I loved the ADHD and anxiety rep in the book. I also enjoyed seeing how the church issues played out, even though there were many times that a certain character was making me angry. haha
If you're looking for a slow-burn, sweet romance with strong faith, likable characters, and small-town vibes, then you need to read this one!
**I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
April 26, 2024
This book further confirmed that Emily Conrad will forever be one of my favorite authors! This story was a romance but had SO MUCH MORE. The faith was strong and central through every bit of the plot. The relationship between Blaze and her sister Mercy was realistic yet so sweet. Anson had a bit of a superiority complex at the start but I love how as he and Blaze grew closer he began to see and admit his flaws. There was tension in the church—that made me SO frustrated with a certain antagonist but I love how it showed that churches and church leadership are also sinners in need of a Savior and that we shouldn’t put any human on a pedestal. I related to Blaze and her struggles which added an additional layer of depth for me. There were tropes and situations that normally annoy me but were executed perfectly and showed that when done right those tropes can drive home a lesson that you won’t soon forget. There was just so much to this story with high stakes and big falls that showed how big God is and that even the worst of circumstances bring Him glory, draw us nearer to Him, and are truly for our best. It’s everything I want and need in a Christian romance book and anyone who reads Christian romance should give this book a read.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
💋
16+
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
💋
16+
April 22, 2024
#BookReview : A SUREFIRE LOVE by Emily Conrad
As a youth pastor, I admire Anson's dedication to helping the kids. However, I agree with Pastor Greg that he could benefit from connecting more emotionally with others, including the kids. Enter Blaze, along with her younger sister, Mercy. Blaze has a difficult past. Blaze seems to crave control. She needed to learn to trust others, especially God, for support through challenges and new experiences.
Blaze and Anson, despite having met in high school, are only just getting to know each other.I was unsure about Anson and Blaze at first, but their chemistry has become clear over time. I enjoyed Blaze's creative ideas. They always made the kids' activities a blast. The pancake scene with Anson, Blaze, and Mercy was pure sweetness.
The story felt realistic. While the pacing started slow, it remained steady throughout, allowing the characters and their struggles to unfold. They were relatable. The author bravely tackled complex issues like ADHD, anxiety, family issues and alcoholism, and I genuinely learned more about ADHD from this book. The faith message was beautifully woven throughout the narrative, never feeling forced or preachy, but still powerful. Oh, don’t forget to read the Bonus Epilogue. It’s a fun one and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Series: The Many Oaks Romances, Book 1
Pub date: 29 April 2024
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
As a youth pastor, I admire Anson's dedication to helping the kids. However, I agree with Pastor Greg that he could benefit from connecting more emotionally with others, including the kids. Enter Blaze, along with her younger sister, Mercy. Blaze has a difficult past. Blaze seems to crave control. She needed to learn to trust others, especially God, for support through challenges and new experiences.
Blaze and Anson, despite having met in high school, are only just getting to know each other.I was unsure about Anson and Blaze at first, but their chemistry has become clear over time. I enjoyed Blaze's creative ideas. They always made the kids' activities a blast. The pancake scene with Anson, Blaze, and Mercy was pure sweetness.
The story felt realistic. While the pacing started slow, it remained steady throughout, allowing the characters and their struggles to unfold. They were relatable. The author bravely tackled complex issues like ADHD, anxiety, family issues and alcoholism, and I genuinely learned more about ADHD from this book. The faith message was beautifully woven throughout the narrative, never feeling forced or preachy, but still powerful. Oh, don’t forget to read the Bonus Epilogue. It’s a fun one and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
Series: The Many Oaks Romances, Book 1
Pub date: 29 April 2024
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 17, 2024
This story kept me eagerly turning the pages to see how things would work out for Blaze and Anson! These two characters had some very deep issues from their pasts to overcome, while also battling things in the present that were weighing them down. All while also finding their way to a love that could be the start of a beautiful life together.
It was very moving to read as Blaze shared with Anson difficult things about her past, as well as some specific instances when Anson had caused her even more pain by the way he reacted to her at times. It was interesting to see how closed off Anson was about certain events in his life. He really tried to control the narrative of how people saw him. I liked that Blaze helped him to open up and share his true self.
The things that Blaze and Anson struggled with in the present day with Blaze’s possible ADHD and Anson’s church leadership difficulties felt very realistic. While they were trying to live their lives and help others as best they could, they both had these things making that hard.
A Surefire Love is the first novel in the Many Oaks Romances series, but there is also a prequel novella that is fun introduction to the community titled Now or Never.
(4.5 stars)
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...
It was very moving to read as Blaze shared with Anson difficult things about her past, as well as some specific instances when Anson had caused her even more pain by the way he reacted to her at times. It was interesting to see how closed off Anson was about certain events in his life. He really tried to control the narrative of how people saw him. I liked that Blaze helped him to open up and share his true self.
The things that Blaze and Anson struggled with in the present day with Blaze’s possible ADHD and Anson’s church leadership difficulties felt very realistic. While they were trying to live their lives and help others as best they could, they both had these things making that hard.
A Surefire Love is the first novel in the Many Oaks Romances series, but there is also a prequel novella that is fun introduction to the community titled Now or Never.
(4.5 stars)
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...
April 8, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the author, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
Full disclosure. I am a HUGE fan of Emily Conrad’s books. I look forward with anticipation to every new release. She has a way of building characters that are real, relatable & worthy of the investment of your time & thought. She is not afraid of dealing with difficult or hard topics, either.
I love that every story weaves characters from past stories in, creating a world with moments of familiarity & even sentimentality. And she knows how to create tension while remaining true to the characters involved. You won’t find any outlandish or maddening road blocks. But she will still surprise you with believable & unexpected twists & turns. All the while you will find yourself rooting for the characters you grew fond of by chapter 3.
Most importantly, Emily weaves beautiful and powerful truths about God & His grace into every journey. A Surefire Love is full of moments revealing and celebrating the timeless truths of our gracious God, in the midst of addiction, sabotage, teen angst & more.
No spoilers here … just an encouragement to delve into Anson & Blaze’s story. If you love contemporary Christian romance … let me change that … if you love a good book, you’ll love this one. And I guarantee if it’s your first book by Emily Conrad, it won’t be your last.
Full disclosure. I am a HUGE fan of Emily Conrad’s books. I look forward with anticipation to every new release. She has a way of building characters that are real, relatable & worthy of the investment of your time & thought. She is not afraid of dealing with difficult or hard topics, either.
I love that every story weaves characters from past stories in, creating a world with moments of familiarity & even sentimentality. And she knows how to create tension while remaining true to the characters involved. You won’t find any outlandish or maddening road blocks. But she will still surprise you with believable & unexpected twists & turns. All the while you will find yourself rooting for the characters you grew fond of by chapter 3.
Most importantly, Emily weaves beautiful and powerful truths about God & His grace into every journey. A Surefire Love is full of moments revealing and celebrating the timeless truths of our gracious God, in the midst of addiction, sabotage, teen angst & more.
No spoilers here … just an encouragement to delve into Anson & Blaze’s story. If you love contemporary Christian romance … let me change that … if you love a good book, you’ll love this one. And I guarantee if it’s your first book by Emily Conrad, it won’t be your last.
April 11, 2024
A powerful start to a series! A well crafted story that illustrates the beauty and challenges of the human experience. Anson and Blaze are both committed to God and to doing what they can to strengthen others in the faith. They have both arrived at this point by wading through some traumatic experiences. Their devotion doesn't make their problems go away but rather gives them the strength to cope with and rise above their challenges. As they confront wounds from the past and deal with ongoing stresses of life, they rediscover they are stronger with God and with each other. It is a fabulous story of human connection, the power of faith, and of waiting on and trusting in God.
I received a digital copy of this story. This review is my opinion.
I received a digital copy of this story. This review is my opinion.
October 30, 2025
This book was hands down 5 stars. It made me laugh. The faith elements were spot on. I loved watching Blaze navigate being the guardian of her sister and figure out the ADHD diagnosis for her sister while trying to figure out if that’s what she is dealing with. All around it was the perfect small town romance.
I also loved the 🐰 bunny.
I also loved the 🐰 bunny.
April 29, 2024
A Surefire Love by Emily Conrad is the second book I have read by this author, and I sure can’t wait to read more of her books.
This story is a romance focused on Blaze and Anson’s relationship, but it is so much more. It is told from both Blaze and Anson’s points of view. They were acquainted growing up, but there was no real relationship, just bad feelings and misunderstandings. The book begins with a meeting between the two where Blaze requests helping out with the youth group which Anson, as the youth pastor, is in charge of. There is quite a bit of tension between the two at first, but we get to see their relationship grow and evolve as they give each other a chance and work through their issues with Christ’s help.
Now, I said there was so much more than just this love story. I was intrigued from the first sentence, which states, “Pain cascaded through generations of Astleys.” The book dealt with generational curses and family dysfunction and overcoming these things. It also dealt with struggles within the church, the struggles of trying to find the right kind of program to keep youth involved in this day and age. But more than that, seeing the struggles churches go through to keep growing instead of shrinking. Having to learn to stay relevant without sacrificing the gospel of Christ. This becomes personal for Anson and is a great deal of the stress he is dealing with.
Additionally, Blaze is trying to raise her pre-teen sister Mercy while dealing with the struggles of ADHD and getting proper diagnoses and treatment for both her sister and herself. Then add in a mystery with someone apparently hiding out in the church and a bigger disaster toward the end of the book that may be related. Let’s just say, this all joined together to keep me eagerly swiping through pages to see how everything would be resolved.
I loved that this was a realistic story, but also was so frustrated seeing the way Anson was treated by his own church family. I really wanted to go to bat for him. Of course, I’m sure I would have said the wrong things and hurt the situation, instead of diffusing it.
The author really made these characters come to life and I was really rooting for Blaze and Anson’s relationship. I loved seeing the relationship between Blaze and her sister Mercy. But there were so many side characters who were important to this story.
All in all, this is just a wonderful story, and one I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
This story is a romance focused on Blaze and Anson’s relationship, but it is so much more. It is told from both Blaze and Anson’s points of view. They were acquainted growing up, but there was no real relationship, just bad feelings and misunderstandings. The book begins with a meeting between the two where Blaze requests helping out with the youth group which Anson, as the youth pastor, is in charge of. There is quite a bit of tension between the two at first, but we get to see their relationship grow and evolve as they give each other a chance and work through their issues with Christ’s help.
Now, I said there was so much more than just this love story. I was intrigued from the first sentence, which states, “Pain cascaded through generations of Astleys.” The book dealt with generational curses and family dysfunction and overcoming these things. It also dealt with struggles within the church, the struggles of trying to find the right kind of program to keep youth involved in this day and age. But more than that, seeing the struggles churches go through to keep growing instead of shrinking. Having to learn to stay relevant without sacrificing the gospel of Christ. This becomes personal for Anson and is a great deal of the stress he is dealing with.
Additionally, Blaze is trying to raise her pre-teen sister Mercy while dealing with the struggles of ADHD and getting proper diagnoses and treatment for both her sister and herself. Then add in a mystery with someone apparently hiding out in the church and a bigger disaster toward the end of the book that may be related. Let’s just say, this all joined together to keep me eagerly swiping through pages to see how everything would be resolved.
I loved that this was a realistic story, but also was so frustrated seeing the way Anson was treated by his own church family. I really wanted to go to bat for him. Of course, I’m sure I would have said the wrong things and hurt the situation, instead of diffusing it.
The author really made these characters come to life and I was really rooting for Blaze and Anson’s relationship. I loved seeing the relationship between Blaze and her sister Mercy. But there were so many side characters who were important to this story.
All in all, this is just a wonderful story, and one I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
April 10, 2024
LOVED Anson and Blaze's story!! Blaze and Anson have known each other for years, though they haven't been friends. He's the youth pastor at her church, and now her younger half-sister is attending activities under him. Blaze decides she'll volunteer to help so that she can keep an eye on Mercy. She doesn't want Mercy to go through the same things she had to go through. When Blaze does research to help Mercy, she finds out that Mercy may have ADHD. Blaze mentions it to Anson, because she thinks he might know something about it. Anson has been dating Sydney, but when he totally forgets the anniversary of their first date, Sydney realizes that neither of them is really the love of the others life, so she breaks things off with Anson. Blaze and Anson are blindsided when they start having reactions to each other, especially since he's with Sydney at the time, so both ignore them. When they decide to acknowledge their feelings, they also learn to trust each other. Anson and Blaze both realize that they have to trust each other, and most especially God. When things happen that neither expected, their relationship grows as they both learn to depend on God and each other, and work together toward a common goal. I learned a lot about ADHD that I did know previously from this book. A very well researched book that helps to shed light on the condition, and how it manifests differently in girls than boys. Blaze learns that just because someone may be a Christian longer than someone else, it does NOT mean that that person has their act together, or that they are better than someone else. The book took a turn I did not see coming, as to who did something. I picked the wrong brother, but I do love how everything worked out!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
April 16, 2024
When opening an Emily Conrad novel you can be assured of a few things - the stories will have deep characters who are not perfect, real world issues that are not always easy to handle and a story line that is faith filled and leads readers and the characters closer to God as they deal, or oftentimes struggle to deal, with said issues (of course there’s romance thrown in there too for good measure). Another thing you can be assured of is that you will be thoroughly invested in the story from the outset and will be left thinking about the characters and their story long after you’ve put the book down.
A Surefire Love, the first book in the Many Oaks Romance series, follows the story of Blaze and Anson. Emily weaves a story that dives into deep issues handled with grace and care. Amidst the hard issues currently faced by both Blaze - who’s navigating a neurodivergent diagnosis - and Anson - who is facing pressure to compromise his convictions in how he pastors the youth, they have to face truths about themselves born of circumstances from their pasts that have shaped the way they deal with issues and people and rely on God who is the author of it all.
It’s a story filled with deep faith storylines, but sprinkled with light moments throughout too. I love stories that have deep characters who don’t have it all figured out and make me think about my own faith journey. Highly recommend.
*I received a copy of this book from the author, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review. These are my honest opinions*
A Surefire Love, the first book in the Many Oaks Romance series, follows the story of Blaze and Anson. Emily weaves a story that dives into deep issues handled with grace and care. Amidst the hard issues currently faced by both Blaze - who’s navigating a neurodivergent diagnosis - and Anson - who is facing pressure to compromise his convictions in how he pastors the youth, they have to face truths about themselves born of circumstances from their pasts that have shaped the way they deal with issues and people and rely on God who is the author of it all.
It’s a story filled with deep faith storylines, but sprinkled with light moments throughout too. I love stories that have deep characters who don’t have it all figured out and make me think about my own faith journey. Highly recommend.
*I received a copy of this book from the author, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review. These are my honest opinions*
April 13, 2024
A Surefire Love is an excellent kickoff to Emily Conrad's new series, The Many Oaks Romances. Many Oaks is a small town in Iowa where Blaze cares for her young sister while working and singing occasionally at The Depot. Anson is a youth minister and basketball coach trying to make a difference in the lives of kids.
The author has a gift for writing characters with real, relatable issues in their lives. Blaze and Anson grew up in this small town, and small towns rarely forget anything, especially scandalous things. People form opinions early on, and they really don't change. The only thing harder than that can be small town church politics. Blaze has a past she has left but is afraid no one will ever forget, and Anson is trying to follow God's direction which doesn't seem to line up with the elder board. Then add in kids struggling with parents and alcohol and ADHD, and they have an avalanche of real life falling on them.
The story and issues are well-written, and the characters are likeable and flawed enough to be real. This is Christian fiction featuring a minister, so expect prayer and discussions about God, faith, and salvation. This is also a clean romance - expect some kissing!
I loved this book, and I think you will too.
Family friendly.
Thanks to the author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The author has a gift for writing characters with real, relatable issues in their lives. Blaze and Anson grew up in this small town, and small towns rarely forget anything, especially scandalous things. People form opinions early on, and they really don't change. The only thing harder than that can be small town church politics. Blaze has a past she has left but is afraid no one will ever forget, and Anson is trying to follow God's direction which doesn't seem to line up with the elder board. Then add in kids struggling with parents and alcohol and ADHD, and they have an avalanche of real life falling on them.
The story and issues are well-written, and the characters are likeable and flawed enough to be real. This is Christian fiction featuring a minister, so expect prayer and discussions about God, faith, and salvation. This is also a clean romance - expect some kissing!
I loved this book, and I think you will too.
Family friendly.
Thanks to the author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 17, 2024
For the first time ever, I participated in a buddy read for this book. Now, I’m the type to not only binge a book, but to binge the whole series. 😉 So, this was a different experience to me of slowing down my reading. I suppose I had some more time to reflect on it during my off time when waiting to be able to start reading again.
I really liked the church politics angle of this. It’s not something normally tackled in books like this, but is so present and subversive in our churches. Human ideas of success over God’s ideas.
We get two mains who come from very different backgrounds. We have a Youth Pastor and a Car Salesman and Bar Singer. In this Christian, small town romance, there is a love triangle. Now, normally I hate that trope, but I really liked this book. It was done well in that we don’t end up disliking any of the three. This book is set in Iowa (shoutout to my state!) and has neurodivergent characters. I related a lot to this as I’ve had ADHD my entire life. There were actually even some new ideas to me here. I did like how things were handled. This book had a heavy emphasis on teenagers and dealt with some of the heavy parts of life. I thought the balance was really well done.
This was a great book and I’m excited for more in this series and more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I really liked the church politics angle of this. It’s not something normally tackled in books like this, but is so present and subversive in our churches. Human ideas of success over God’s ideas.
We get two mains who come from very different backgrounds. We have a Youth Pastor and a Car Salesman and Bar Singer. In this Christian, small town romance, there is a love triangle. Now, normally I hate that trope, but I really liked this book. It was done well in that we don’t end up disliking any of the three. This book is set in Iowa (shoutout to my state!) and has neurodivergent characters. I related a lot to this as I’ve had ADHD my entire life. There were actually even some new ideas to me here. I did like how things were handled. This book had a heavy emphasis on teenagers and dealt with some of the heavy parts of life. I thought the balance was really well done.
This was a great book and I’m excited for more in this series and more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 20, 2024
"The deck's been stacked against you your whole life, but you've made something of yourself - Christ is making something beautiful of you. Surefire failure isn't your hallmark. The surefire love of God is."
Ending up as her sister's guardian was not Blaze's plan. When her sister starts struggling in school, she does her best to try to help. But she has her own struggles. Can she figure out the right path?
Anson wants to lead the youth group well. For him, the job is about impacting lives. When others seem to care more about appearances, can he hold true to his convictions?
This book is set in a small-town community with people who are long on memories and short on forgiveness. This book is part family, part friendship, part mystery and part sweet romance. But all of the parts are blended together to make a beautiful book.
This is such a wonderful book about discovering truths about yourself. I appreciated the growth and progress that the characters made throughout the book. There are not easy answers for the struggles that they are facing. But they learn to look to God since His love is always steady and sure. Faith that has faced trials is the strongest element of all. I really, really enjoyed it!
I received an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Ending up as her sister's guardian was not Blaze's plan. When her sister starts struggling in school, she does her best to try to help. But she has her own struggles. Can she figure out the right path?
Anson wants to lead the youth group well. For him, the job is about impacting lives. When others seem to care more about appearances, can he hold true to his convictions?
This book is set in a small-town community with people who are long on memories and short on forgiveness. This book is part family, part friendship, part mystery and part sweet romance. But all of the parts are blended together to make a beautiful book.
This is such a wonderful book about discovering truths about yourself. I appreciated the growth and progress that the characters made throughout the book. There are not easy answers for the struggles that they are facing. But they learn to look to God since His love is always steady and sure. Faith that has faced trials is the strongest element of all. I really, really enjoyed it!
I received an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
April 24, 2024
Christian romance books do not wreck me, but this one did - in a good way. This book is so real, I almost want to buy a few copies and anonymously drop them on certain people's front porches and hope they realize who they are in the story. "A Surefire Love" in honest and raw, but with the happily ever after we all long for.
Anson's insecurities as a man I see in men everywhere. (Plus, he used to play basketball, so even though I am not a man, I still connected with him. And his testimony? Um. Yeah, I felt that.)
Blaze... I felt her, too. Is she good enough? Can anyone ever see past her past? Plus, she had her younger sister (of whom she is a guardian) learn they have a new, neorodivergent battle to fight.
And there are things trying to rip their church apart.
Do they get to have a relationship? Can it survive everything else going on? Can they come out of everything stronger?
Where is God when everything else falls apart?
I strongly encourage you to read this book. There are hard parts, but life is hard. However, this book will leave you feeling encouraged and knowing you are not alone.
Anson's insecurities as a man I see in men everywhere. (Plus, he used to play basketball, so even though I am not a man, I still connected with him. And his testimony? Um. Yeah, I felt that.)
Blaze... I felt her, too. Is she good enough? Can anyone ever see past her past? Plus, she had her younger sister (of whom she is a guardian) learn they have a new, neorodivergent battle to fight.
And there are things trying to rip their church apart.
Do they get to have a relationship? Can it survive everything else going on? Can they come out of everything stronger?
Where is God when everything else falls apart?
I strongly encourage you to read this book. There are hard parts, but life is hard. However, this book will leave you feeling encouraged and knowing you are not alone.
April 4, 2024
This book is everything that I love about Christian fiction. It didn’t not shy away from the harsh realities in this life. Or the consequences of sin. We need this more in Christian fiction. How many more people could we reach if we weren’t so ashamed to talk about what was in our pasts? I love that Blaze wasn’t afraid to talk about her past sin when sharing her testimony. She struggled a lot before Jesus, and she struggled a lot after Jesus. The only difference was once she had Jesus, she also had hope and peace.
Blaze and Anson are almost as opposite as two people can be, but they balanced each other’s personalities perfectly. They also challenged the other when needed. Blaze had to learn to give herself the grace she so readily gave to others. Anson had to learn that when it came to sharing his faith, he needed to listen to God’s nudging.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series. I’m really rooting for Sydney to get her HEA.
**I received a complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Blaze and Anson are almost as opposite as two people can be, but they balanced each other’s personalities perfectly. They also challenged the other when needed. Blaze had to learn to give herself the grace she so readily gave to others. Anson had to learn that when it came to sharing his faith, he needed to listen to God’s nudging.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series. I’m really rooting for Sydney to get her HEA.
**I received a complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2024
It's amazing how much sway our past has over us. Even if we've surrendered our hearts and lives to Christ, our behavior is often shaped more by our past than our "new life." This is true of Blaze and Anson, the main characters in A Surefire Love by Emily Conrad.
I love how Emily develops the characters into people we're rooting for even as we are slapping our heads at their decisions.
I appreciate Anson's desire to reach kids with the truth of the gospel. I also appreciate the church's leadership board's desire to reach MORE students. This is a tension I understand as a mom of a teenager and an active teacher in our church. I was able to explore all the facets of this problem through Emily's delightful (and sometimes frustrating) characters.
If you like to see God's transformational love on display in the lives of imperfect people, A Surefire Love is a must read.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
I love how Emily develops the characters into people we're rooting for even as we are slapping our heads at their decisions.
I appreciate Anson's desire to reach kids with the truth of the gospel. I also appreciate the church's leadership board's desire to reach MORE students. This is a tension I understand as a mom of a teenager and an active teacher in our church. I was able to explore all the facets of this problem through Emily's delightful (and sometimes frustrating) characters.
If you like to see God's transformational love on display in the lives of imperfect people, A Surefire Love is a must read.
I received a copy of this book from the author, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
April 18, 2024
I love Emily’s books. She never shies away from the hard stuff.
Let me just say I love church stories. I have spent a great deal of my life at church or doing church activities. I have family members in the ministry and have seen life from both sides. And this is indeed a story involving church leaders and members.
Anson is a youth pastor who is all in and often sees things as black and white. Blaze has had life experiences that give her empathy with others. They both have secrets.
This book illustrates how keeping secrets can harm in the long run. Being transparent may be hard because it shows others our inadequacies but unltmately results in others responding honestly with us and allowing others to let us in when they are in need.
Emily gives me things to think about and presents situations that challenge me to think ‘what would I do’.
This book in particular shows how all of us are equally loved by God. And none of us are a lost cause.
This is such a unique story! Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but the opinions above are completely mine.
Let me just say I love church stories. I have spent a great deal of my life at church or doing church activities. I have family members in the ministry and have seen life from both sides. And this is indeed a story involving church leaders and members.
Anson is a youth pastor who is all in and often sees things as black and white. Blaze has had life experiences that give her empathy with others. They both have secrets.
This book illustrates how keeping secrets can harm in the long run. Being transparent may be hard because it shows others our inadequacies but unltmately results in others responding honestly with us and allowing others to let us in when they are in need.
Emily gives me things to think about and presents situations that challenge me to think ‘what would I do’.
This book in particular shows how all of us are equally loved by God. And none of us are a lost cause.
This is such a unique story! Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but the opinions above are completely mine.
May 29, 2024
A Surefire Love by Emily Conrad
The Many Oaks Romances
Blaze Astley hasn’t had the best life. An alcoholic mother had her growing up fast. Then, a baby sister became her responsibility. When she hit rock bottom, she ended up in church and became a Christian. She sings at The Depot a few nights, and now she’s helping with the youth group her sister is in. She couldn’t do it without God in her life.
Youth pastor Anson Marsh can’t believe the church board wants him to grow the youth group to help the church grow. The worst part is they want him to make it fun! He doesn’t want fun. He wants the students to hear the gospel. He could end up losing his job because it seems one man has a vendetta against him. His faith needs to be stronger than ever.
As these two opposite people get to know and support each other through tough times, a remarkable story comes to life.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
The Many Oaks Romances
Blaze Astley hasn’t had the best life. An alcoholic mother had her growing up fast. Then, a baby sister became her responsibility. When she hit rock bottom, she ended up in church and became a Christian. She sings at The Depot a few nights, and now she’s helping with the youth group her sister is in. She couldn’t do it without God in her life.
Youth pastor Anson Marsh can’t believe the church board wants him to grow the youth group to help the church grow. The worst part is they want him to make it fun! He doesn’t want fun. He wants the students to hear the gospel. He could end up losing his job because it seems one man has a vendetta against him. His faith needs to be stronger than ever.
As these two opposite people get to know and support each other through tough times, a remarkable story comes to life.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
April 8, 2024
Anson and Blaze’s story is woven through with heartache, joy, betrayal, friendship, sadness and joy ending with a love that will last the strongest fire. The physical struggles of Blaze and her sister show how difficult life can be with ADHD and you can feel their pain and confusion through the pages. Anson’s struggle to let go of his secrets and let others see that he hurts too is something we all struggle with. Life isn’t easy, fair, or understandable at times, but having God and a friend to walk through the fire with makes it worth the pain in the end.
This is clean, wholesome story with a focus on God’s help in life’s challenges. It is a story that I would revisit. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
This is clean, wholesome story with a focus on God’s help in life’s challenges. It is a story that I would revisit. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
April 16, 2024
What an incredibly real story. Don’t assume that a story with a youth pastor is going to be all goofball, off the wall moments.
Anson’s convictions run deep and when he is torn with pressure to compromise them, yet God sends exactly what he didn’t realize he needed.
Enter Blaze.
I can identity with Blaze in SO many ways. She’s lost her mother, she’s the child of an alcoholic, she’s raising a younger sister (though I am from a distance), and is on a journey to addressing her own neurodivergent challenges while committing to new depths in her faith. Seriously, Emily, is there a hidden camera I’m missing somewhere? 🤣
Their love story means confronting hard past truths and seeking out the God who sees it all.
Excellent character chemistry and swoony moments, Great romance
isnstill center stage here, but not at the expense of a deep faith message.
So good. I love stories that teach.
Anson’s convictions run deep and when he is torn with pressure to compromise them, yet God sends exactly what he didn’t realize he needed.
Enter Blaze.
I can identity with Blaze in SO many ways. She’s lost her mother, she’s the child of an alcoholic, she’s raising a younger sister (though I am from a distance), and is on a journey to addressing her own neurodivergent challenges while committing to new depths in her faith. Seriously, Emily, is there a hidden camera I’m missing somewhere? 🤣
Their love story means confronting hard past truths and seeking out the God who sees it all.
Excellent character chemistry and swoony moments, Great romance
isnstill center stage here, but not at the expense of a deep faith message.
So good. I love stories that teach.
April 21, 2024
This was my first book by Emily and I really loved this book. This story is about Anson who is a youth pastor at the church and he is faced with some difficulties from the church board. He thinks he is doing everything he possibly can but when Blaze walks in and asks if she can volunteer to be a leader for the youth group, he is not sure if she’s the right person for it. Blaze has had a hard life. With an alcoholic mom, raising her sister and rumors from gossiping people in the town. She has turned to her faith to help her and being involved with church to guide her.
I really loved the strong faith connection between Anson and Blaze. They come from different paths in life and still come together in faith to guide them the right way. I also loved the ADHD awareness in the story. It really showed the difficulty with everyday life. This is the first book in the series Many Oaks and I cannot wait for more.
I really loved the strong faith connection between Anson and Blaze. They come from different paths in life and still come together in faith to guide them the right way. I also loved the ADHD awareness in the story. It really showed the difficulty with everyday life. This is the first book in the series Many Oaks and I cannot wait for more.
April 29, 2024
Infamous as a child for the conflagration that gave her her nickname, Blaze was used to being looked down on. But Anson somehow made it worse by treating her well for a day, then ignoring her. Since then, they've avoided each other. When an incident at the youth group Anson leads brings throws them together again, sparks of a different sort fly. But Anson has bigger problems: the church board is pushing for a big growth in numbers at the expense of Bible teaching. And Blaze's younger sister isn't making her life easy either. As they spend more time together, it becomes clear that there's something between them - but is it just a spark to be put out by the troubles around them, or can it grow into a true sure-fire love?
I read and loved this a few weeks ago but put off reviewing because I couldn't find the words. But that's not fair to either the author or the book, so here's the best I can do, though it doesn't do it justice. This is a deeply moving story, with characters I really cared about, some important themes, a touching story, some inspiring moments, a hint of mystery, and a satisfying happily ever after. I found the thread of discovering undiagnosed ADHD interesting, though (or because?) I struggle with what feels like a ubiquitous use of medication in our society to solve everything. The theme of God's love is woven strongly through, and the unusual addition of a church board member acting in the way he did was an interesting and thought-provoking touch. All in all, a great read, and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I read and loved this a few weeks ago but put off reviewing because I couldn't find the words. But that's not fair to either the author or the book, so here's the best I can do, though it doesn't do it justice. This is a deeply moving story, with characters I really cared about, some important themes, a touching story, some inspiring moments, a hint of mystery, and a satisfying happily ever after. I found the thread of discovering undiagnosed ADHD interesting, though (or because?) I struggle with what feels like a ubiquitous use of medication in our society to solve everything. The theme of God's love is woven strongly through, and the unusual addition of a church board member acting in the way he did was an interesting and thought-provoking touch. All in all, a great read, and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
April 22, 2024
Good, inspirational story by Emily Conrad.
Outward appearances can be so wrong once you know the whole story behind the person.
It took me a bit to get into this book, but was well worth the time as the story progressed.
Blaze has been raising her half sister, Mercy, for years but lately it’s been without her late mother. Their mother was the town drunk and meth addict before she died and the town still judges them for it.
Anson is the youth pastor who has had some difficulties with Mercy. Blaze offers to help by becoming one of the youth leaders, but Anson inadvertently questions her abilities. Not a good way to start.
They’ve been acquainted since high school but are just now getting to know the other one and the past they’ve lived.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Outward appearances can be so wrong once you know the whole story behind the person.
It took me a bit to get into this book, but was well worth the time as the story progressed.
Blaze has been raising her half sister, Mercy, for years but lately it’s been without her late mother. Their mother was the town drunk and meth addict before she died and the town still judges them for it.
Anson is the youth pastor who has had some difficulties with Mercy. Blaze offers to help by becoming one of the youth leaders, but Anson inadvertently questions her abilities. Not a good way to start.
They’ve been acquainted since high school but are just now getting to know the other one and the past they’ve lived.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
April 27, 2024
I loved this book so much! I didn’t want it to end. It made me laugh and had me teary-eyed. It touched on so many emotions. I liked the fact that it addressed important and hard topics with grace. And I absolutely loved the strong message of faith.
I loved how real and authentic these characters were. I liked Blaze right off the bat. She was relatable and had an endearing quality to her. I loved her tenacity and resilience. I didn’t know what to think of Anson at first, but I enjoyed getting to know him, and I ended up really liking him. I loved how passionate he was about his faith and sharing the gospel.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough. If you’re a fan of contemporary Christian romance, you’re going to love it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I loved how real and authentic these characters were. I liked Blaze right off the bat. She was relatable and had an endearing quality to her. I loved her tenacity and resilience. I didn’t know what to think of Anson at first, but I enjoyed getting to know him, and I ended up really liking him. I loved how passionate he was about his faith and sharing the gospel.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough. If you’re a fan of contemporary Christian romance, you’re going to love it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
June 13, 2024
I wanted to really like this book, but I felt that some parts were a tad slow. I was also a bit confused until I read the back cover and had a grasp on the overall plot. Unfortunately I didn’t like how medication and entire ADHD fit into the story. I’ve seen it affect many different people and I feel it is too deep of a topic to be taken with such as easy (and singular) solution. The relationship between Blaze and Andon was sweet, but I never felt like either was falling in love. I kept waiting for the spark and chemistry between them to grow. I did like the realities of the inside workings of the church and how things can fall apart. The story was filled with Christ and working through challenges and becoming a better person, and all those qualities were great. Emily is a great writer and I've enjoyed her other books.
July 21, 2025
A story filled with faith.
This is the second Emily Conrad novel I’ve read in as many weeks. After reconnecting with my walk with Jesus I decided to take time away from mainstream romance however as a life long reader (and one who loves romance stories), I was skeptical about getting back to romance stories, even if they were Christian romance.
These stories are so much more than romance, there’s heart and soul and so much of real life that are relatable. I enjoyed this story a lot, I found myself feeling deeply for both Anson and Blaze, and the secondary characters. The test of ultimate faith and how powerful a shared testimony can be was impactful in this story.
I would have liked to get more of an epilogue with Anson and Blaze. I’d a be reading more on this series and one I’ll happily recommend to readers of Christian romance.
This is the second Emily Conrad novel I’ve read in as many weeks. After reconnecting with my walk with Jesus I decided to take time away from mainstream romance however as a life long reader (and one who loves romance stories), I was skeptical about getting back to romance stories, even if they were Christian romance.
These stories are so much more than romance, there’s heart and soul and so much of real life that are relatable. I enjoyed this story a lot, I found myself feeling deeply for both Anson and Blaze, and the secondary characters. The test of ultimate faith and how powerful a shared testimony can be was impactful in this story.
I would have liked to get more of an epilogue with Anson and Blaze. I’d a be reading more on this series and one I’ll happily recommend to readers of Christian romance.
April 25, 2024
This book probably has my favorite first chapter I’ve ever read in a Christian fiction romance. The tension between the two main characters was a great set up for the rest of the story and had me hooked from the get-go. Emily delivers a wonderful love story full of God’s truth,, while also touching on hard themes like trauma, loss, church struggles, neurodivergent diagnosis, and more. I love the character’s Emily creates, and I related to many of their struggles and desires in a way that challenged me to grow with them as I read. I can’t wait to read more in this series! I received a complimentary copy but wasn't required to leave a positive review - and then I ordered a few more copies so I could hand them out to friends!
April 27, 2024
This book was not shy in difficult situations and complex emotions, but Emily wrote them with grace, empathy, and through much research. She touches on the difficulties of addiction, mental health and illness, and the need to care for one’s self. She also deals with the legalistic complexities that can happen in a church. And she rightly points to Christ, the only One who can restore you and offer full forgiveness, mercy, and grace.
If those things turn you off, don’t read this book.
If you want a sweet book with believably flawed characters, teenagers needing hope and guidance, a church in flux, and where the characters face difficulties, yet find their way to Christ, THIS book is for you!
If those things turn you off, don’t read this book.
If you want a sweet book with believably flawed characters, teenagers needing hope and guidance, a church in flux, and where the characters face difficulties, yet find their way to Christ, THIS book is for you!
July 9, 2024
Book overview:
Small towns have long memories, and generations of dysfunction burned Blaze's reputation before her own faults could.
Twenty-six and guardian to her preteen sister, Blaze is determined to give her sister the stability she never had. Her church is a big part of that plan, until a run-in with an uptight youth pastor derails their progress. Blaze goes toe-to-toe with a man who looked down on her back in high school-and volunteers for his team of youth leaders.
A survivor of the wreck that took his high school basketball coach, Anson sacrificed a promising athletic career to pick up Coach Voss's legacy. Now a youth pastor, his mission to offer students real hope clashes with a leadership board that's more concerned about numbers.
As his allies turn their backs and Blaze explores the impact of undiagnosed ADHD on the patterns of her life, Blaze and Anson find unexpected support in each other. Perhaps her preconceived ideas about him are as far off base as his are about her and her sister. When scandal ignites around them, will their love prove to be surefire-or crash and burn?
My thoughts:
New to Emily Conrad books, I loved this relatable redemption story. It was not your typical romance story... it was real and raw, full of hope and second chances! I found this inspirational love story hard to put down!
Small towns have long memories, and generations of dysfunction burned Blaze's reputation before her own faults could.
Twenty-six and guardian to her preteen sister, Blaze is determined to give her sister the stability she never had. Her church is a big part of that plan, until a run-in with an uptight youth pastor derails their progress. Blaze goes toe-to-toe with a man who looked down on her back in high school-and volunteers for his team of youth leaders.
A survivor of the wreck that took his high school basketball coach, Anson sacrificed a promising athletic career to pick up Coach Voss's legacy. Now a youth pastor, his mission to offer students real hope clashes with a leadership board that's more concerned about numbers.
As his allies turn their backs and Blaze explores the impact of undiagnosed ADHD on the patterns of her life, Blaze and Anson find unexpected support in each other. Perhaps her preconceived ideas about him are as far off base as his are about her and her sister. When scandal ignites around them, will their love prove to be surefire-or crash and burn?
My thoughts:
New to Emily Conrad books, I loved this relatable redemption story. It was not your typical romance story... it was real and raw, full of hope and second chances! I found this inspirational love story hard to put down!
April 8, 2024
An incredibly engaging story about grace and forgiveness. The characters are believable and the story captivating. I couldn’t put it down. There was plenty of intrigue to keep you reading and so many secrets to learn.
Theologically, this book is heavy on the decision theology and comes in often. If that is your theological tradition you will likely enjoy it. If not, while it sticks out, the story is enjoyable enough to just understand that is where the characters are coming from and keep reading.
There is light kissing, occasional hugging, and some touching do the face/hair, but that is all for physical relationships in this book. Overall it is a great read that I enjoyed.
Theologically, this book is heavy on the decision theology and comes in often. If that is your theological tradition you will likely enjoy it. If not, while it sticks out, the story is enjoyable enough to just understand that is where the characters are coming from and keep reading.
There is light kissing, occasional hugging, and some touching do the face/hair, but that is all for physical relationships in this book. Overall it is a great read that I enjoyed.
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