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Shop On The Corner
Sometimes life's unexpected hardships force you to consider drastic changes you'd never have dreamed of but lead in time to some sweet and unexpected joys.
Laura O'Dell's life lately has been full of nothing but problems. Her father has died, she's lost her home, and now the family business she owns and loves is being taken by imminent domain to make way for a widened road. On top of it all, her sister and boyfriend came for a visit at Christmas and have stayed on and on, freeloading on her good nature. Maybe as Lillian advises, it's time to seek a big life change as far away from Amory, Mississippi as possible.
When Mitchell Quinlan dropped by a new business in Waynesville, NC, to welcome the owner and put in a word for employment for some friends, he was unprepared for the jolt of unexpected feelings that hit him in meeting Laura O'Dell. As a sensible businessman, he'd thought that sort of attraction a figment or books or movies. Yet, as he gets to know Laura, he learns she is holding a lot of secrets and not open to share them with him.
PRAISE FOR LIN STEPP AND HER MOUNTAIN BOOKS
"Lin Stepp's newest book ... is a sweet, heartwarming story that is difficult to put down once you start it. Even the secondary characters will steal your heart as you follow the heroine's touching journey from heartbreak to healing." - Joan Medlicott, USA Today Bestselling author of The Ladies of Covington series
"This warm-hearted novel ... will make readers eager for more of Lin Stepp's -endearing stories. A richly satisfying novel of love, family, and friendship." - Deborah Smith, New York Times Bestselling author
"I've finally come across someone that believes in all the things that I do.... Dr. Lin Stepp, I salute you."- Dolly Parton
"Another warm, clean romance with Appalachian flare and small-town charm." -AC, Reading Lark Reviews
Laura O'Dell's life lately has been full of nothing but problems. Her father has died, she's lost her home, and now the family business she owns and loves is being taken by imminent domain to make way for a widened road. On top of it all, her sister and boyfriend came for a visit at Christmas and have stayed on and on, freeloading on her good nature. Maybe as Lillian advises, it's time to seek a big life change as far away from Amory, Mississippi as possible.
When Mitchell Quinlan dropped by a new business in Waynesville, NC, to welcome the owner and put in a word for employment for some friends, he was unprepared for the jolt of unexpected feelings that hit him in meeting Laura O'Dell. As a sensible businessman, he'd thought that sort of attraction a figment or books or movies. Yet, as he gets to know Laura, he learns she is holding a lot of secrets and not open to share them with him.
PRAISE FOR LIN STEPP AND HER MOUNTAIN BOOKS
"Lin Stepp's newest book ... is a sweet, heartwarming story that is difficult to put down once you start it. Even the secondary characters will steal your heart as you follow the heroine's touching journey from heartbreak to healing." - Joan Medlicott, USA Today Bestselling author of The Ladies of Covington series
"This warm-hearted novel ... will make readers eager for more of Lin Stepp's -endearing stories. A richly satisfying novel of love, family, and friendship." - Deborah Smith, New York Times Bestselling author
"I've finally come across someone that believes in all the things that I do.... Dr. Lin Stepp, I salute you."- Dolly Parton
"Another warm, clean romance with Appalachian flare and small-town charm." -AC, Reading Lark Reviews
290 pages, Paperback
Published March 16, 2024
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March 17, 2024
The mountains are my happy place, as readers of this blog well know by now, and the Smoky Mountains are especially so (though I’ve fallen in love with the Blue Ridge Mountains in north Georgia too). Other than Dolly Parton, there is perhaps no better ambassador of the Smokies than author Lin Stepp, and her love for the area is clear in Shop on the Corner. While this is set on the North Carolina side rather than the Tennessee side (with which I’m most familiar), reading this novel nonetheless felt a little like coming home. And after enjoying the Waynesville setting so well in Shop on the Corner, I’m definitely going to put that on my travel to-do list now.
Laura is a likable heroine, warm and genuine, and readers will find her story compelling as it relates to relocating her shop and her struggles with her troubled sister. I really loved the employees (who were also her dear friends) at her upholstery shop in Mississippi and I identified with the advice one gave her as she was contemplating what to do with the shop – “You know, God sometimes speaks to us with a restlessness when we need to think about a move.” I’ve found that to be true in my own life, not just with a physical move but any sort of moving from one season of work or ministry to another, and it’s my first sign that I need to start paying attention to where He may be leading me. The faith thread in this book is sweet & insightful like that all the way through, and I enjoyed how it influenced Laura’s character development.
Mitchell is equally warm and charming, as our story’s hero, and I loved the instant zing of ‘my life is never going to be the same’ that he experiences when he first meets Laura. Having a hero fall head over heels – hard – for the heroine is always fun, and the chemistry between these two sparks from the beginning of their acquaintance to the story’s end. I especially appreciated how Mitchell shows up for Laura without fail, lending her his strength when she needs it, and reminding her often that she doesn’t have to soldier through life on her own anymore. (I will say, though, that I tired of the ‘lecherous looks’ he frequented in Laura’s direction. While I knew the author meant it as part of a loving relationship, I still would have preferred that to be described as a ‘heated look’ or a ‘passionate look’ because those convey more depth of feeling, not just lust, and they don’t carry the derogatory connotations that ‘lecherous’ does.)
Bottom Line: Shop on the Corner by Lin Stepp is a sweet love story with engaging characters and a picturesque setting. The author has perfectly captured the mountain town vibes and interpersonal dynamics of the Smokies, and readers will care very much about Laura and her journey. I enjoyed watching her blossom and thrive in Waynesville, including her romance with Mitchell, and I held my breath a time or two when the past threatens that newfound peace. It’s a dialogue-heavy story, so it tends to tell more than it shows and not all of the conversation serves to move the pace forward. All in all, though, this is a charming story that invites you to come sit on the front porch for a spell, feel the mountain breezes, smell the pine trees & azaleas, and fall in love with the characters.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Laura is a likable heroine, warm and genuine, and readers will find her story compelling as it relates to relocating her shop and her struggles with her troubled sister. I really loved the employees (who were also her dear friends) at her upholstery shop in Mississippi and I identified with the advice one gave her as she was contemplating what to do with the shop – “You know, God sometimes speaks to us with a restlessness when we need to think about a move.” I’ve found that to be true in my own life, not just with a physical move but any sort of moving from one season of work or ministry to another, and it’s my first sign that I need to start paying attention to where He may be leading me. The faith thread in this book is sweet & insightful like that all the way through, and I enjoyed how it influenced Laura’s character development.
Mitchell is equally warm and charming, as our story’s hero, and I loved the instant zing of ‘my life is never going to be the same’ that he experiences when he first meets Laura. Having a hero fall head over heels – hard – for the heroine is always fun, and the chemistry between these two sparks from the beginning of their acquaintance to the story’s end. I especially appreciated how Mitchell shows up for Laura without fail, lending her his strength when she needs it, and reminding her often that she doesn’t have to soldier through life on her own anymore. (I will say, though, that I tired of the ‘lecherous looks’ he frequented in Laura’s direction. While I knew the author meant it as part of a loving relationship, I still would have preferred that to be described as a ‘heated look’ or a ‘passionate look’ because those convey more depth of feeling, not just lust, and they don’t carry the derogatory connotations that ‘lecherous’ does.)
Bottom Line: Shop on the Corner by Lin Stepp is a sweet love story with engaging characters and a picturesque setting. The author has perfectly captured the mountain town vibes and interpersonal dynamics of the Smokies, and readers will care very much about Laura and her journey. I enjoyed watching her blossom and thrive in Waynesville, including her romance with Mitchell, and I held my breath a time or two when the past threatens that newfound peace. It’s a dialogue-heavy story, so it tends to tell more than it shows and not all of the conversation serves to move the pace forward. All in all, though, this is a charming story that invites you to come sit on the front porch for a spell, feel the mountain breezes, smell the pine trees & azaleas, and fall in love with the characters.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 16, 2024
Laura O'Dell has spent her entire life in the small town of Armory, Mississippi. Working at her father's upholstery shop "The Shop On The Corner" has been her life's work - her heart's desire. Her sister Georgina has made very different life choices from Laura's. Sometimes it's mind-boggling how two sisters, raised in the same environment can be so completely different.
After their father passed away, Georgina sold the family home - leaving Laura to find a new place to live. Meanwhile, Laura inherited the upholstery shop where she had worked along side her father for years. But now the state is moving to take the land under eminent domain which means Laura's beloved shop will be torn down. And, as if that is not more than enough for any one person to deal with, Georgina and her boyfriend Chance arrived at Laura's apartment at Christmas under the guise of wanting to spend the holidays with Laura. But, truth be told, they really came to freeload while they were unhoused and out of work themselves.
Laura has provided them with a roof over their heads, food to eat, even loaned them money but they are making no effort to move on with their lives. When Laura has had all she can take of them, and with the loss of her shop looming large, Laura sets out to find a way to continue the shop in a different location.
She never thought of moving out of town but nothing in town seemed right. Then, a friend encouraged her to look beyond Armory - beyond Mississippi even, pointing out that it would be a way for Laura to get out from under the weight of supporting Georgina and Chance. It would give her a fresh start while still doing what brings her joy - operating an upholstery shop. An internet search eventually led her to the small North Carolina town of Waynesville. A realtor there had a listing for a shop for sale so she reached out to the realtor. After discussing her needs and the shop further, the realtor told her that she had another listing: a shop on a corner in the downtown area that had once been an upholstery shop. She sent Laura pictures of the property as well as the equipment that had been left in the shop when the owners died. And so it was, that Laura bought the shop with all of its equipment sight unseen (except for the pictures sent by the realtor) to a place she'd never been. Packing up her belongings - including the shop sign that read "Shop on the Corner", she left Armory and Georgina behind.
Mitchell Quinlan, is the owner of Quinlan Staffing Services which is located in downtown Waynesville. He always makes it his practice to stop by new business establishments to welcome the owners to the area. When he does so at Laura's shop, he isn't prepared for the feelings that arise upon meeting her. Over time, those feelings develop further. As they do, readers get to know Mitchell and his family and friends better just as they are learning more about the quaint town of Waynesville, N.C.
The hallmarks of Ms. Stepp's writings include strong character development, just the right amount of tension between those characters as they navigate new relationships, a bit of lightheartedness, a touch of mystery, at least one struggle between "good and evil" and always a few twists and turns along the way. The unspoken, but strongly portrayed, values of following one's moral compass, being open to change, and true respect for others are gently woven into the very fiber of this story. These are all on display throughout this latest offering.
Shop on the Corner is Lin Stepp's latest Mountain Home book. Just as in the four previous Mountain Home books (Happy Valley, Downsizing, Eight at the Lake, and Seeking Ayita) Stepp has crafted an endearing, wholesome story set in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. Stepp's attention to detail in the places she sets her stories provides readers with a chance to do some armchair traveling of their own or to reminisce about their own travels to locations within the story. I thoroughly enjoyed "returning" to Waynesville, N.C. as well as to Lake Junaluska, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Biltmore House with this latest story. It is always fun to see these places through the eyes of the author and those of her characters.
As is always the case when I read one of Lin Stepp's newest, the book grabbed me from the first page and still hasn't let go even though I finished reading it a week ago! Her stories are that endearing. Her characters are that unforgettable. The life lessons are that profound. And, in the end, she always leaves me with a belief that there is still goodness in the world.
Shop on the Corner is due to be released in mid-March 2024 but is available to pre-order wherever you order your books. I had the distinct pleasure of receiving an Advance Reading Copy of Shop on the Corner in return for my honest review. If I could give it more than five stars, I would!
After their father passed away, Georgina sold the family home - leaving Laura to find a new place to live. Meanwhile, Laura inherited the upholstery shop where she had worked along side her father for years. But now the state is moving to take the land under eminent domain which means Laura's beloved shop will be torn down. And, as if that is not more than enough for any one person to deal with, Georgina and her boyfriend Chance arrived at Laura's apartment at Christmas under the guise of wanting to spend the holidays with Laura. But, truth be told, they really came to freeload while they were unhoused and out of work themselves.
Laura has provided them with a roof over their heads, food to eat, even loaned them money but they are making no effort to move on with their lives. When Laura has had all she can take of them, and with the loss of her shop looming large, Laura sets out to find a way to continue the shop in a different location.
She never thought of moving out of town but nothing in town seemed right. Then, a friend encouraged her to look beyond Armory - beyond Mississippi even, pointing out that it would be a way for Laura to get out from under the weight of supporting Georgina and Chance. It would give her a fresh start while still doing what brings her joy - operating an upholstery shop. An internet search eventually led her to the small North Carolina town of Waynesville. A realtor there had a listing for a shop for sale so she reached out to the realtor. After discussing her needs and the shop further, the realtor told her that she had another listing: a shop on a corner in the downtown area that had once been an upholstery shop. She sent Laura pictures of the property as well as the equipment that had been left in the shop when the owners died. And so it was, that Laura bought the shop with all of its equipment sight unseen (except for the pictures sent by the realtor) to a place she'd never been. Packing up her belongings - including the shop sign that read "Shop on the Corner", she left Armory and Georgina behind.
Mitchell Quinlan, is the owner of Quinlan Staffing Services which is located in downtown Waynesville. He always makes it his practice to stop by new business establishments to welcome the owners to the area. When he does so at Laura's shop, he isn't prepared for the feelings that arise upon meeting her. Over time, those feelings develop further. As they do, readers get to know Mitchell and his family and friends better just as they are learning more about the quaint town of Waynesville, N.C.
The hallmarks of Ms. Stepp's writings include strong character development, just the right amount of tension between those characters as they navigate new relationships, a bit of lightheartedness, a touch of mystery, at least one struggle between "good and evil" and always a few twists and turns along the way. The unspoken, but strongly portrayed, values of following one's moral compass, being open to change, and true respect for others are gently woven into the very fiber of this story. These are all on display throughout this latest offering.
Shop on the Corner is Lin Stepp's latest Mountain Home book. Just as in the four previous Mountain Home books (Happy Valley, Downsizing, Eight at the Lake, and Seeking Ayita) Stepp has crafted an endearing, wholesome story set in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. Stepp's attention to detail in the places she sets her stories provides readers with a chance to do some armchair traveling of their own or to reminisce about their own travels to locations within the story. I thoroughly enjoyed "returning" to Waynesville, N.C. as well as to Lake Junaluska, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Biltmore House with this latest story. It is always fun to see these places through the eyes of the author and those of her characters.
As is always the case when I read one of Lin Stepp's newest, the book grabbed me from the first page and still hasn't let go even though I finished reading it a week ago! Her stories are that endearing. Her characters are that unforgettable. The life lessons are that profound. And, in the end, she always leaves me with a belief that there is still goodness in the world.
Shop on the Corner is due to be released in mid-March 2024 but is available to pre-order wherever you order your books. I had the distinct pleasure of receiving an Advance Reading Copy of Shop on the Corner in return for my honest review. If I could give it more than five stars, I would!
March 11, 2024
I just finished Lynn Stepp’s latest Mountain Home book. As a reader, I appreciate her romantic heart. The book is full of romance, intrigue, and of course a beautiful setting in Waynesville, North Carolina. This is the sixth book in the series, and it is a winner.
Lin’s latest book is appropriately called, “Shop On the Corner”. Its owner, newly moved there from Mississippi is the main character and the love interest of a Waynesville realtor. We see a lot through Laura O’Dell’s eyes and her romantic interest Mitchell Quinlan.
The story begins with Laura’s sister, a singer with a gifted voice, and a boyfriend that have moved in with Laura. Both have drug issues, and neither is accountable either financially or otherwise. It is a situation that Laura can’t handle. Laura, an experienced upholster, wanted a fresh start. A shop in Waynesville provided that opportunity and also became the place where she met realtor Mitchell Quinlan.
Mitchell has a story of his own. He has helped raise the children of his sister who along with her husband died tragically in an automobile accident. His ties to his family are close and include grandparents in Waynesville. He is also surrounded by friends in the small town and as his relationship with Laura grows so does the couple's circle they inhabit.
Not all is well in Waynesville. Someone is stealing local monuments and history items. It will take accidental comments, some danger, and understanding of the people of the town to solve the mystery.
Lynn is at her best in describing the beautiful settings of small towns. This one is no exception. You will find yourself on the streets of Waynesville, peering into the “Shop On the Corner” and the real estate broker’s office. She takes you on a stroll several times through the lovely small town streets and vividly describes the restaurants, hiking trails, town square, and the lovely Biltmore Houe and its gardens through the eyes of the main characters.
A bonus setting for me is the lovely apartments above both the upholstery business and the reality business. Who of us has not romanticized about a lovely small apartment like that?
Lin’s books of Christian romance are a refreshing read from start to finish. I love the homey feel of them and her imaginative use of the mountain settings, small area towns, and a mystery along with the romance. Do not miss this local author’s newest, “Shop on the Corner” is Lin Stepp at her best. Thanks, Lin for allowing me to be an early reader and reviewer.
Lin’s latest book is appropriately called, “Shop On the Corner”. Its owner, newly moved there from Mississippi is the main character and the love interest of a Waynesville realtor. We see a lot through Laura O’Dell’s eyes and her romantic interest Mitchell Quinlan.
The story begins with Laura’s sister, a singer with a gifted voice, and a boyfriend that have moved in with Laura. Both have drug issues, and neither is accountable either financially or otherwise. It is a situation that Laura can’t handle. Laura, an experienced upholster, wanted a fresh start. A shop in Waynesville provided that opportunity and also became the place where she met realtor Mitchell Quinlan.
Mitchell has a story of his own. He has helped raise the children of his sister who along with her husband died tragically in an automobile accident. His ties to his family are close and include grandparents in Waynesville. He is also surrounded by friends in the small town and as his relationship with Laura grows so does the couple's circle they inhabit.
Not all is well in Waynesville. Someone is stealing local monuments and history items. It will take accidental comments, some danger, and understanding of the people of the town to solve the mystery.
Lynn is at her best in describing the beautiful settings of small towns. This one is no exception. You will find yourself on the streets of Waynesville, peering into the “Shop On the Corner” and the real estate broker’s office. She takes you on a stroll several times through the lovely small town streets and vividly describes the restaurants, hiking trails, town square, and the lovely Biltmore Houe and its gardens through the eyes of the main characters.
A bonus setting for me is the lovely apartments above both the upholstery business and the reality business. Who of us has not romanticized about a lovely small apartment like that?
Lin’s books of Christian romance are a refreshing read from start to finish. I love the homey feel of them and her imaginative use of the mountain settings, small area towns, and a mystery along with the romance. Do not miss this local author’s newest, “Shop on the Corner” is Lin Stepp at her best. Thanks, Lin for allowing me to be an early reader and reviewer.
March 1, 2024
The Shop On The Corner by Lin Stepp is the most charming contemporary Christian novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The action is set in small town America where the residents are warm and welcoming. The cover really sets the scene and this is re-enfored by Lin Stepp’s rich descriptions. Her words paint vivid pictures in the reader’s head.
A major theme surrounds re-purposing furniture, giving it a new lease of life. This reminds the reader that God is in the re-purposing business. He takes our dirty lives, washes us in His blood and clothes us with His love and gives us a new start in Him.
We witness a character who appears to have repented of past ways and turned a new corner – but the act of going to church does not make you a Christian any more than going into a hamburger joint makes you a hamburger. Appearances on the outside are shiny new, but the heart is still rotten.
Listening to the heart of God will give us the roadmap for our lives. “He [God] was stirring up my nest to make me want to fly.” God will always equip us wherever He sends us.
The reader is reminded of Philippians where we are urged to worry about nothing and to pray about everything. “We’re going to have faith that God will right this and we’re not going to get into fear. That’s not from God. Neither is worry or anxiety.” Wow! – That is so powerful. God sees the bigger picture, we only see a small part. We can trust God with our one and only life. A wonderful gem by Erma Bombeck is quoted: “Worrying is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but doesn’t get you anywhere.”
When we receive answers to prayer, we must remember to thank God. “[He] sent up a little thanks to God.” God always longs to hear from us and He delights in us.
All the characters were realistic, warm and welcoming. They lodged in my heart and felt like dear friends.
I really ‘lived’ The Shop On The Corner – so much so, that when I got up, I started wondering how Laura was getting on in her new upholstery shop! That’s the sign of a truly good book it becomes ‘real’ to me. I was actually disappointed when I realized Laura was only in my life because she was in a book!
I always enjoy all Lin Stepp’s books. They are positively delightful. I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“She [Nannie V] always defended God when I tried to blame Him… for life’s sorrows He never brings.”
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set in small town America where the residents are warm and welcoming. The cover really sets the scene and this is re-enfored by Lin Stepp’s rich descriptions. Her words paint vivid pictures in the reader’s head.
A major theme surrounds re-purposing furniture, giving it a new lease of life. This reminds the reader that God is in the re-purposing business. He takes our dirty lives, washes us in His blood and clothes us with His love and gives us a new start in Him.
We witness a character who appears to have repented of past ways and turned a new corner – but the act of going to church does not make you a Christian any more than going into a hamburger joint makes you a hamburger. Appearances on the outside are shiny new, but the heart is still rotten.
Listening to the heart of God will give us the roadmap for our lives. “He [God] was stirring up my nest to make me want to fly.” God will always equip us wherever He sends us.
The reader is reminded of Philippians where we are urged to worry about nothing and to pray about everything. “We’re going to have faith that God will right this and we’re not going to get into fear. That’s not from God. Neither is worry or anxiety.” Wow! – That is so powerful. God sees the bigger picture, we only see a small part. We can trust God with our one and only life. A wonderful gem by Erma Bombeck is quoted: “Worrying is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but doesn’t get you anywhere.”
When we receive answers to prayer, we must remember to thank God. “[He] sent up a little thanks to God.” God always longs to hear from us and He delights in us.
All the characters were realistic, warm and welcoming. They lodged in my heart and felt like dear friends.
I really ‘lived’ The Shop On The Corner – so much so, that when I got up, I started wondering how Laura was getting on in her new upholstery shop! That’s the sign of a truly good book it becomes ‘real’ to me. I was actually disappointed when I realized Laura was only in my life because she was in a book!
I always enjoy all Lin Stepp’s books. They are positively delightful. I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“She [Nannie V] always defended God when I tried to blame Him… for life’s sorrows He never brings.”
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
February 24, 2024
Shop On The Corner, the newest release in Lin Stepp's Mountain Home Book Collection, is a wholesome, uplifting, and inspirational starting over story. And, no one can tell such a heartwarming story as Lin Stepp.
Lin Stepp is quite adept at meticulously researching and weaving a locale's places of interest, events, and local history into her stories. This not only adds to her stories and makes her stories so rich and true to life, but is also informative to the reader and part of the great appeal and enjoyment of her wonderful books.
Shop On The Corner is the starting over story of Laura O'Dell and her bravery and determination as she explores options and makes decisions that will make it possible to create a new life for herself. Laura is pressed to find a new place to live and operate her successful upholstery business, preferably many states away from her current Mississippi home.
How Laura arrives at the decision to relocate to the quaint town of Waynesville, North Carolina - nestled between the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina - is a wonderful story in itself. Laura quickly finds that the townspeople of her new community are genuine and caring - providing her with love, support, and protection. As Laura starts over she finds that the payoffs are numerous, life-changing, and long lasting. True to life, there are a few challenging episodes along the way, including fallout from an unusual and head scratching community crime spree and a surprise reunion that causes some anxiety and unhappiness during what should be Laura's happiest moment in her new life.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Lin Stepp's uplifting, spiritual, informative, and heartwarming book - Shop On The Corner - and I firmly believe you will, too.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Lin Stepp is quite adept at meticulously researching and weaving a locale's places of interest, events, and local history into her stories. This not only adds to her stories and makes her stories so rich and true to life, but is also informative to the reader and part of the great appeal and enjoyment of her wonderful books.
Shop On The Corner is the starting over story of Laura O'Dell and her bravery and determination as she explores options and makes decisions that will make it possible to create a new life for herself. Laura is pressed to find a new place to live and operate her successful upholstery business, preferably many states away from her current Mississippi home.
How Laura arrives at the decision to relocate to the quaint town of Waynesville, North Carolina - nestled between the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina - is a wonderful story in itself. Laura quickly finds that the townspeople of her new community are genuine and caring - providing her with love, support, and protection. As Laura starts over she finds that the payoffs are numerous, life-changing, and long lasting. True to life, there are a few challenging episodes along the way, including fallout from an unusual and head scratching community crime spree and a surprise reunion that causes some anxiety and unhappiness during what should be Laura's happiest moment in her new life.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Lin Stepp's uplifting, spiritual, informative, and heartwarming book - Shop On The Corner - and I firmly believe you will, too.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
March 19, 2024
The gentle, faith-based changes in Shop on the Corner remind me of the Scripture, Jeremiah 29:11 -- "the plans I have for you..."
We meet Laura O'Dell, the first in a troupe of engaging characters, on page one. Her life, personal and business, heads for a change and a crash. Neither action is part of her personal "KNOWN."
Laura's 'KNOWN' was a comfortable rut in small town Mississippi. She did know about the chaos and looming change, but was resisting the decisions she had to make. She has 30 days left before facing an extremely different future. Encouraged to see possibilities of change beyond her imagination, Laura has to choose. Will she let change happen outside her control? Will she embrace the changes and drive her choices?
Because God's way was ready to open. Laura chose a new direction on faith. The rewards were new friends, family, stability and the love of her life.
Author, Lin Stepp and her husband, JL, travel to the story locations for accurate settings. They had grand cooperation with the Waynesville, North Carolina community. Avid hikers, they have written non-fiction books of Tennessee parks and trails. Readers can learn about the regional rivers and mountains. Recently, a devotional journal joined their publications. A monthly newsletter on LinStepp.com keeps readers and fans updated.
Lin Stepp's faith-based books appeal to various age groups. I often remind readers these mystery/romance stories are NOT chick-lit! The appeal for women, men, young or old is one of the best points for her writing. I have followed the fiction and non-fiction writing from the Stepp house for years. I received a copy of this book from my friend, the author. I was not required to review the book. But, to leave it hidden from other readers would be a grave wrong to literature.
We meet Laura O'Dell, the first in a troupe of engaging characters, on page one. Her life, personal and business, heads for a change and a crash. Neither action is part of her personal "KNOWN."
Laura's 'KNOWN' was a comfortable rut in small town Mississippi. She did know about the chaos and looming change, but was resisting the decisions she had to make. She has 30 days left before facing an extremely different future. Encouraged to see possibilities of change beyond her imagination, Laura has to choose. Will she let change happen outside her control? Will she embrace the changes and drive her choices?
Because God's way was ready to open. Laura chose a new direction on faith. The rewards were new friends, family, stability and the love of her life.
Author, Lin Stepp and her husband, JL, travel to the story locations for accurate settings. They had grand cooperation with the Waynesville, North Carolina community. Avid hikers, they have written non-fiction books of Tennessee parks and trails. Readers can learn about the regional rivers and mountains. Recently, a devotional journal joined their publications. A monthly newsletter on LinStepp.com keeps readers and fans updated.
Lin Stepp's faith-based books appeal to various age groups. I often remind readers these mystery/romance stories are NOT chick-lit! The appeal for women, men, young or old is one of the best points for her writing. I have followed the fiction and non-fiction writing from the Stepp house for years. I received a copy of this book from my friend, the author. I was not required to review the book. But, to leave it hidden from other readers would be a grave wrong to literature.
February 21, 2024
I just read this book for Lin Stepp, it will be out March 16 on the market. Shop on the Corner, when I started reading this book it sucked me in right from the beginning. I love the Characters, Laura is great, and brave and talented. Anyone that does upholstery has talent. Great storyline, kept my interest through the whole book. When she met Mitchell it was magical, and it can happen that way. God works this way in your life if you let Him. It was another great fun read. Very enjoyable book. You won’t be sorry you bought this book to add to your collection. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 29, 2024
This read has been an exceptionally beautiful story of two sisters, who have two entirely different lifestyles, with one always at odds with the other. It leads to one giving to the point of being abused by the other so called entitled one. In an effort to escape this vicious cycle, Laura moves her business to another state and attempts to live in seclusion from Georgana. How long will this last? Many things become positive in Laura's new life after this change. You need to read this wonderful story, which is also filled with the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. (I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
March 6, 2024
“An excellent read. I have enjoyed Lin Stepp’s books set in the Great Smoky Mountains for years. I highly recommend her books. She captures the essence of the warmth of the people who live in the areas, with heart warming romance, some suspense and always inspiration. Don’t miss this new book releasing March 16th.” Susan Reichert, author of Conquering Our Fears With Christ. “I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed by me are my honest opinion”.
April 21, 2024
Shop On The Corner
Another sweet story from Lin Stepp. Every book she writes has a Christian lesson included. Shop On The Corner has romance, family values, and wonderful characters. I loved it.
Another sweet story from Lin Stepp. Every book she writes has a Christian lesson included. Shop On The Corner has romance, family values, and wonderful characters. I loved it.
March 21, 2024
Pure enjoyment. ❤️
March 24, 2025
Just not my style of writing
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