Surprised by Love

The Heart of San Francisco #3

by Julie Lessman

Shy and unattractive as a child, Megan McClare has always been teased by her classmates. But when she returns home from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. With ambitions to become a lawyer or doctor, Megan accepts an internship at the district attorney's office only to discover that she will be working with Devin Caldwell, a boy who mercilessly mocked her at school--and with whom she was hopelessly enamored. She turns to her dear friend Bram Hughes for support and advice. But Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a kid sister. He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man?(

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Christian Romance, Christian, Fiction

416 pages, Paperback

First published October 7, 2014

About the author

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.

Reviews

[Cintia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finally finished this trilogy, and I have to say, I’m a little disappointed.

FULL REVIEW IN MY BLOG: http://abookandateacup.blogspot.com/2...

[Grace Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Warnings*

#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3--additional warning reserved only for this review--this is a copy-and-paste from a blog post of mine, so I've included a summary, which I never do, and the flow/format is a little different. For more of my thoughts about this book/series, check out my post!

Four and a half stars

San Francisco, California

Year 1904


Megan McClare left behind a childhood of baby fat, glasses, and braces when she went to Paris for her senior year. Now, she's returned to her loving family, supportive best friend, and all the memories of her childhood. In other words, Devin Caldwell, the bully who ruined her life. A new woman outfitted with stylish clothes, straight teeth, a slender figure, and contacts, she's determined to raise above the image everyone had assigned to her--that she'd assigned to herself--and prove to herself, Devin, and even her family that she's more than just a chubby face. And if she can prove that she's more than just a "sister" to Bram Hughes, her best friend and surrogate older brother, at the same time, then so be it!


Megan and Bram's story revives the friends-to-lovers/brother's best friend romance trope that even Julie adores. Like Lizzie and Brady in A Passion Denied and Jake and Sheridan in Love's Silver Bullet. Meg and Bram have known each other for years and have always relied on one another--Meg on Bram for emotional support and unconditional love and Bram on Meg to be the little sister he lost. Then everything changes when she returns home from Paris looking more like an "attractive young woman" than the little girl she used to be.

We've been through this plot trope before, it seems. But this time Julie presents a much less dramatic story bereft of shooting lessons and cracker crumbs and accidental kisses, and with a Sabrina twist. (If you've ever watched either Sabrina movies, you'll get it.) For the first time in this series, her shortened length and more lighthearted storytelling works really well eliminate the more stressful elements of the friends-to-lovers story.

Bram and Meg are still the stereotypical characters--Godly, big brother-esque family friend with a dark past and starry-eyed young girl with a quick mind but a gentle demeanor. Their main plot is still the same. Simply...less dramatic. More externally focused, to be honest. I still really like the drama and the back-and-forth that Love's Silver Bullet and even A Passion Denied had, and of course I like the multiple POVs of all the other family members, which I really missed in this series. But surprisingly, this new method worked wonders on Bram and Meg's story.

It also worked well on Logan and Cait's, which is finally completed in Surprised by Love. Their romance was able to drag out across three novels, of course, deftly entwined with the stories of Cait and Logan's children (not theirs together, of course). Their love story was a little more passionate, a little more dramatic (thanks to Andrew Turner), which was great, but I swanny if Cait wasn't crying in every. single. scene.

Either way, at this point (as in only two/three chapters from the very end), it appears as though Surprised by Love deserves five stars. It was short and sweet, and nicely so, and featured a little more of our character's lives outside the family (which was kind of depressing, since I do so like the family). But then...the end. It was the most rushed ending I have ever read in my entire life. At one point, toward the beginning of the end, Meg is laid up in her bed, bruised and battered, and only one scene with her and Bram occurs before she's back at the law office. Suffice it to say, the two snakes of the story are found out all in one fell swoop and, within seconds, the heroines are united with their heroes and every lives happily ever after. There's no confrontation--which was at least needed on Cait/Logan/Andrew's parts, after Andrew was found out to be a horrendous hypocrite. There's no "oh, my! How could I have be fooled? How was I so blind?" moment on anyone's part. Admittedly, Meg and Devin didn't need as much confrontation and "oh, woe is me" as Cait and Andrew did. We all knew Devin was as snake and we all knew Meg wasn't in love with him.

But Andrew Turner? Cait was going to marry him. Then she finds out that he's been funding the very brothel they're striving to shut down, and she--what? She just says goodbye and moves on. I mean, really? After all this time? After all the pretending? After all the pushing Logan away?

Yeah. I needed more ending.

BookWorm

[Saraina Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC!!!

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Heart of San Francisco series consists of Love At Any Cost, Dare To Love Again and Surprised by Love. The latest in the series does not stand alone, so be warned. When you pick it up, you'll find yourself reading about the couples from the first two books. If you've read Lessman before, you probably know what to expect from Surprised by Love. The further along in the series you get, the more couples there are to keep up with, and Lessman seems to have a hard time letting go of her characters. That isn't a bad thing, by the way. And if you've connected with these characters in previous books, then you might find it only right to reconnect with them again, to catch up.

In previous books, readers have met Cassie and Jamie, Caitlyn (the mom) and Logan (Uncle Logan), and Alli and Nick. This book focuses on another McClare, Megan McClare, and the men in her life who are pursuing her.

Love Triangles. Some readers like love triangles, or, at the very least tolerate them well. Surprised by Love features two love triangles. One love triangle is between Caitlyn, Logan, and Andrew Turner. The second is between Megan and Bram Hughes and Devin Caldwell. Do I like love triangles? Not especially. I think there are times they can be done well. But usually the characterization is such that the reader knows from the earliest chapters which one will be the one, and which one is just wasting the reader's time. I hate wasting my time with characters that I know serve no actual purpose except to be an obstacle or complication of true love.

Compliments that aren't compliments. The biggest issue that I had with Surprised by Love, however, has to do with the oh-so-dramatic "transformation" of the main character, Megan. Readers are to believe that Megan was without a doubt an ugly duckling. A picked-on and bullied ugly duckling. She goes to Paris for one year. She returns amazingly, stunningly BEAUTIFUL. The transformation is so complete that her very own family, her very own friends that she's known for half her life cannot recognize her. We're to believe that. I can't believe that. It's one thing for a stranger--an acquaintance--that you barely ever see to not recognize you if you've lost a lot of weight or something. It's another for a friend or family member to not recognize you. Perhaps we're not supposed to take all the "I didn't recognize you" and "I barely recognize you" and "Is that you?!" and "I wouldn't have known you in a crowd" stuff seriously. Perhaps we're supposed to see it as well-intentioned exaggeration. Megan receives hundreds of compliments throughout the book, but, to me each one seemed to hide an insult. Wow! You're so beautiful now! I can't believe it's really you! and I never expected to find myself so attracted to you! You're so beautiful! and It's amazing! You've always been beautiful on the inside, but, now you're actually beautiful on the outside too! or Isn't it wonderful that you're pretty now! It wasn't quite as obvious as You've always been nice to spend time with, but now you're nice to look at too! But still part of me cringed whenever she received a compliment. Looking past the flattery, I heard the unintentional insult. I don't believe the author intended any of her compliments to be veiled insults. I really don't. If it had just been the love interest, and it was more along the lines of "Wow, you're not a child anymore! You're a beautiful woman!" I don't think it would have bothered me.

The transformation happened before the novel opens. We're not part of it, for the most part, we just see the results. After having reread the first chapter, the transformation includes:

dyed hair
wearing mascara, rouge, and lipstick
wearing powder to cover freckles
wearing contacts instead of glasses
removal of braces
going from "thick to thin" in a year

Is this transformation being made too much of by all the characters in the book? Perhaps. I think so at least!

Megan is not vain. I want to stress that. Others may be making much of her sudden gorgeousness. But Megan herself is too busy thinking of others to think about herself all the time.

There were things I definitely liked about Surprised by Love. There were characters that I liked spending time with. There were a few scenes that I really liked. However, I didn't "like" ever little thing about this one. There was something slightly off about the resolution: how things came together for both couples. Things came out exactly as I thought they would. It was how it was accomplished. I can't mention the details, of course, for spoiler reasons.

Overall, I'd say I enjoyed the first two better than this one.

[Anne Osterlund · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meg is back from Paris. Transformed. Gone is the shy, frumpy wallflower. Here is the the modern beauty, dedicated to a new law internship and hoping to transform the lives of desperate women in the darkest profession in San Francisco.

And in love with the man who has always seen past the wallflower.

Bram is unprepared for the transformation. To him, Meg has always been beautiful. In a young, kid-sister kind of way. The Meg that returns from Paris is different. She makes his blood race. She knows how to flirt. And that is not good.

Because Bram owes his father. And his father wants him to marry someone else.


I think Bram’s dilemma was my favorite part of this book. Trying to uncover the darkness behind such a kind, soulful character. This is the third novel in the series, and in addition to the main storyline, the reader also finally gets to watch the payoff in another relationship as well. And, I would just like to say, that’s it’s about time!

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the heroine of Julie Lessman's latest release (seems I always do like the main characters of her books!). Actually, I find it hard to believe that I haven't yet reviewed one of Julie's books, but my archives tell me this is my first one, so I better make it good since I've read almost all of them!

Julie is a great writer who writes Christian romance that teeters on the brink of heartbreaking sometimes. Her characters go through real struggles, heartache, and true love--that's what I like about them. Julie doesn't shy away from rifts between her characters. Surprised by Love is no different. Bram doesn't think a future with Meg can ever be his; Meg wants nothing more. How all the barriers between them are resolved is not an entirely easy road.

But it's worth it. I love that the message of love--though a surprise sometimes--is clear in all of Julie's books. God's love. True love. Both find equal footing in each of her romances.

I will warn you, though: I don't find the kissing in Julie's books offensive (it's more in her books than in other Christian romances in this genre, probably), but I've heard some might. This novel is no different in that regard. Does it take away from the story? Not in my opinion. But that's something each reader must decide. I wouldn't recommend this book to readers younger than 16, but neither would I say this is an impure or improper book.

One of the other things I love about Julie's books is that her heroines are strong women who have dreams. Meg's dream? To win Bram's love. But she also works in an attorney's office and on behalf of the less fortunate. There's also a subplot of a romance between Meg's mother and her uncle which you probably should read the first two books in the series to best understand--but the ending is pretty beautiful. A wee bit rushed, but no surprise there since it's spanned the other two books.

If you're looking for sigh-worthy romance perfect for a chilly winter evening, check out Surprised by Love.

Disclosure: Netgalley and Revell sent me a copy of this book to review.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like the other books in this series, the premise sounded fun but some things prevented me from fully enjoying the novel. Megan is an intelligent and dynamic character, but it bothered me that the unspoken message was that her confidence and self-worth came because of her physical transformation, and the reactions of the other characters reinforced the notion that a person must fit society's ideal of beauty to be able make a difference in the world. She is compassionate and forgiving, but also naively trusts in a relationships with red flags all over it. Bram's personal history was interesting to learn, but the way it prevented him from accepting his attraction for Megan was frustrating since he seemed smarter than that. There is also finally a conclusion to the three-book long angst-fest between Megan's mother and Uncle Logan, thank goodness.

(Thank you to Revell Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Salyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something that I will never get over and never stop cherishing about these books is the easy camaraderie between the characters. Their is tons of dialogue and at no time does it seem forced. The conversations are hilarious, emotional, informative, and entertaining. Not once did I get bored over the story or plot. It all smoothly rolled along scene by scene, and I didn't want to miss a moment of it. Just like Julie Lessman's other books series: Daughters of Boston and Wind's of Change, I felt like I was a part of the story. Seeing everything through their eyes. When Bram would take Meg's hands in his and comfort her, I felt like it was my hands he was holding. When Blake and Jamie joked around with Bram, I felt like they were joking around with me. When the family sat down for dinner together, I felt like I had my own place mat.

I cannot get over how real these stories become to me, and that is the reason I get so much out of them. The lessons that Julie shares with us are things we can impart in our daily lives. The situations and struggles these characters go through are hard to read, but only because they are SO relate-able for the majority of people today. Their problems strike home for most of us, and truth be told, Julie does not take it easy on us in her writing. Their stories grab and twist your heart until you think you can't take anymore pain, but then she redeems us with the love of God washing over the characters, to the point where I can't put the book down.

I love the time period that Julie writes about, the late 1800's - early 1900's. I don't come across many authors who write about that period. But what I think I like most about that is she picks to write about ordinary people. Not famous people, not people in a war, but ones you could walk passed down the street. Then she goes on to continue the series with someone else from the family, not a whole new unrelated character, but someone we already know a bit about. This allows us to go DEEP, she doesn't giveaway everything about a character in the first book, but we learn more and more as their life progresses. This is my favorite type of writing.

Now I am to understand that Julie is about to take on her very FIRST contemporary novel. Which, of course, will turn into a series. It's a given. Even though modern stories have not been my 'thing' in the past I pray that Julie will be the one to change that. After all, she does have a way with words.

Visit me blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/

[Amalie Vantana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The queen of sweet sass and romance has done it again!

Surprised by Love follows the middle daughter in the McClare family, Megan. Once a shy girl bullied by her classmates, Meg finishes her final year of school in Paris where she undergoes a transformation that leaves her family stunned. But no amount of exterior tweaking could fully erase the hurts from her past.

Abraham “Bram” Hughes was always Meg’s council and closest friend, but when she returns home there are many changes in the works, and not only the ones Meg has brought. Bram’s developing feelings are as unwelcome as they are surprising because he has his own hurts that he must face.

Cue the sweet agonizing ride.

Ms. Lessman has done a fabulous job, as always, building a story filled with love, forgiveness, intrigue, laughter, and a deep faith in God. The questions of how it will all turn out made this a book to be devoured for me. I finished Surprised by Love in less than 7 hours.

The family dynamics and fireworks were definitely booming in this book. With Caitlyn and Logan’s relationship finally reaching that critical point of will they or won’t they, I was surprised to find myself rooting for Logan. The angst of being denied his one true love definitely worked a number on him, both mentally and spiritually. After not liking his autocratic ways in the two previous books, he became a favorite of mine in Surprised by Love.

I’m going to put my hope out there into the virtual universe with the hope that Ms. Lessman sees this: Please, please, please let Jess and Blake end up together!!!

5 well deserved stars, or hearts, or cupcakes, or cute dancing penguins, whatever works, for the queen of sweet sass and romance.

[Alyssa · Rating 1 out of 5]

REVIEW: Surprised by Love by Julie Lessman



{About the Book}


Shy and unattractive as a child, Megan McClare has always been teased by her classmates. But when she returns home from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. With ambitions to become a lawyer or doctor, Megan accepts an internship at the district attorney's office only to discover that she will be working with Devin Caldwell, a boy who mercilessly mocked her at school--and with whom she was hopelessly enamored. She turns to her dear friend Bram Hughes for support and advice. But Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a kid sister. He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man?







{My Review}

Rating: 1.5 stars!!

Oh boy, where do I begin describing my feelings about this novel. Well, by the rating you can tell I did not like it in the least bit. First of all, the covers in Christian Historical Fiction need to change. It's the same dang thing every time, a girl on the cover. I'm waiting to more artistic covers or really just something different, hardcovers even. Now when it comes to the actual story it's the same old, same old. A cutsey romance with really, to me at least, no depth to be seen. And there is a....wait for it..... LOVE TRIANGLE. If you have read my blog at at all you guys know how I loathe love triangles. The just drive me absolutely mad. In the end there wasn't much to redeem this story for me. The very reason for the 1.5 star rating. Needless to say I probably won't pick up another Julie Lessman book.

[J.C. Morrows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oddly enough, the synopsis for this book brings one of my absolute favorite movies to mind. Young girl, shy and introverted – goes to Paris and returns all grown up.

Of course my favorite version is the 1995 remake with Julia Ormond, Greg Kinnear and Harrison Ford… not the original with Audrey Hepburn, William Holden and Humphrey Bogart – which is ultimately sadder and holds a much darker theme.

Surprised by Love is a wonderful Historical adventure - full of forgiveness, romance and of course.. surprise.

I was thoroughly intrigued by the wonderful story - and was surprised to discover that this is the third book in a series. It does not read that way. You should have no trouble at all with feeling lost in the midst of a series.

Megan is not at all what I pictured from reading the back cover copy. She is a bit of a spitfire – which makes perfect sense when you consider that she has taken an internship in the District Attorney’s office.

I am not about to spoil the outcome for you – you will HAVE to read it for yourself but I will tell you that it surprised me!

This is not a book to miss!

And of course now… I have to go hunt down more books. LOL!

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

As with all of Julie Lessman’s books, Surprised by Love was full of passion. That is the one thing I love about Ms. Lessman, I love her passion, and I love feeling it in each book she writes. Megan McClare had everything going for her. She is thrilled to return to California, landing an awesome job that she was thrilled about. But she was not thrilled that she would be working with a former high school classmate. Devin Caldwell was more like every woman’s horror that every woman’s dream! and that was especially true for Megan. This was one guy she did not want to see again, much less work with him. Which makes this story a most interesting and entertaining one!

The more I read, the more I enjoyed getting to know the characters, and the setting of the story. Julie Lessman does a fantastic job in describing each scene in detail, pulling you into the story so much that you don’t want to stop reading. As I neared the end of the book, I kept slowing down because I didn’t want it to finish! I encourage you to give Surprised by Love a try, and I know you will enjoy it as much as I did!

I received this book from Revell to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

Julie Lessman is an award-winning 

[Annie Hogle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don’t judge a book by its cover!!! This book was SO GOOD! I can’t tell you enough how much I was captivated! It kept me on my toes the entire time, I didn’t know what would happen and the surprises kept coming! Without spoiling the story, all I will say is I am pleased with Julie Lessman’s writing style! I see more of her books In my future!

[Noela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truthfully, I was already smiling before I’d opened this book. The prospect of beginning another book by Julie Lessman already guaranteed sky-scraping levels of enjoyment and entertainment, but even so I was honestly unprepared to be so stunned by the soaring standard of the inspired prose, the irresistible, wise-cracking and affectionate characters within, and the enrapturing story-line that this book delivered!

Taunted and teased relentlessly as a young girl owing to her braces, glasses and weight issues, Megan McClare has arrived back after a year in Paris, totally transformed in looks and in confidence. She now mirrors her shining inner beauty, triggering fast-pulses and sweaty palms amongst the eligible men in her hometown of San Francisco. One of those men is her life-long hero, friend, and protector, Bram Hughes. Ten years her senior, his affectionately named ‘Bug’ is now a beautiful young woman stirring feelings within; someone he once only ever thought of as a little sister. In fighting the attraction, he encourages her forgiveness and friendship with Devlin, her handsome work colleague who at one time was her fiercest tormentor. But can Bram’s heart withstand seeing his ‘Bug’ with someone else?

We’re indulged with not only one, but two agonizing and breathtaking romances in this final book of The Hearts of San Francisco series. Megan’s mother, the widowed Caitlyn McClare and her brother-in-law, the esteemed lawyer Logan McClare, are deeply in love but have a barrier of broken trust between them. This equally endearing couple find their relationship traversing new heights and depths. Their emotions, together with those of Megan and Bram (and my own!), rose and fell like the cable cars over the hills of their bustling city, and leaving you as jolted as the lurching cars!

‘Surprised by Love’ is a fascinating journey into 1904 through the eyes and hearts of the prominent, wealthy, and philanthropic family of the McClare’s. A bygone era when families ate, laughed, and played together; makes you wish you could turn back time. Julie Lessman captures those deep bonds of family love and loyalty with affection for her characters that spill over from the pages and into your heart. Expect to drench a few tissues but anticipate even more smiles and chuckles. The hidden jewel in this novel however, were the sage words and inspirational, spiritual lessons covering real-life issues such as dealing with fear, low self-esteem, pride, and forgiveness. Rippling with passions, romance, drama, and evolving faith, this exquisite novel has already topped my list of favorites for the year!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprised by Love is book three in Lessman's "Heart of San Francisco" series, which follows the McClare family. From page one, I was captivated by this novel and its characters. Though I did struggle a bit to keep up at first, due solely to my own lack of knowledge from not having read the first two books in the series, I soon had everything straight and was flying through the pages at warp speed. I simply could not put the book down—I had to know what would happen next—and I read the entire book in one afternoon and evening. (Good thing I didn't have anything important going on!)

While the Megan/Devin/Bram triangle is the heart of the novel, Megan's mother Cait has her own love triangle, which I think will be particularly satisfying to those who have read the first two books in the series. (I enjoyed it, too—but those who have been with the series from the beginning have been waiting a long time for Cait's love story to resolve.)

I also loved the spiritual content of this novel. It's not over the top/in your face, but it feels realistic. Faith plays a large role in Bram's life, and also in Logan's life. (Logan is one of Cait's suitors.) Letting go and trusting God is a prominent theme in the novel, and as I read, I stopped to consider some aspects of my life. I love when fiction becomes more than a story and touches my own life!

Over the years, Lessman has taken some heat for the sensual nature of her books, and while it's true that her books are more passionate than much of what's available in the Christian market, there is nothing in this novel that crosses the line of decency—in my opinion, there's nothing that's even close to the line. I loved Surprised by Love, and I look forward to reading more novels by Lessman.
-------
I received this book free from Revell through the Revell Reads program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always easy for me to put together reviews for Julie Lessman's novels. Her books are some of the best in the Christian fiction genre. The most difficult thing for me to do most times is to limit my word count! I know readers don't like "wordy" reviews, but I can't seem to help myself!

As with any of her stories, there's a boatload of romance and passion in Surprised by Love, but this time there's just a little more drama! If you're like me you've been anticipating the end to the will they, won't they between the McClare family's matriarch, Cait and her first beau, Logan that started in the first book. Thankfully we get our answer. Whether or not it's a happy ending for these two or not, you'll have to read on to find out. You'll not get spoilers from me!

That said, I have to be honest and say I was more interested in Cait's story than in our heroine Megan's. As much as I adore Julie's stories (I'm seriously a #1 fan), this wasn't my favorite. I didn't really connect with Meg. I almost wish she had stayed plain and plump "Bug" instead of suddenly becoming this slim, beautiful woman who turns all the men's heads. I think a little too much importance was placed on her appearance. Without revealing too much, I did however love how her relationship with Bram evolved from a sort of hero worship as a girl to something a little more serious. Julie definitely does the family saga well! After the last page, I never leave disappointed with Julie's stories and this was no different. Even though the heroes and heroines of the Daughters of Boston series are my all-time favorites, the McClares are a-okay in my book!

~ My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ~

*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*

[DianFlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Surprised by Love, author Julie Lessman has once again crafted a dramatic, breathtaking read -- that takes the reader on an exhilarating journey with as many twists and turns as the streets of San Francisco, in which the story is set.






Megan McClare has returned to her majestic home on Nob Hill after studying in Paris for a year. Gone is the shy, overweight wallflower with glasses, and no one is more surprised at the confident beauty standing before him than Megan's best friend, Bram Hughes. Gone is the little girl whose tears he had dried many times when she was mercilessly mocked, especially by her childhood crush and classmate, Devin Caldwell. When Devin reenters Meg's life, contrite and repentant, Bram encourages her to give Devin another chance, confused by his not so "brotherly" feelings towards "Bug" as he had affectionately dubbed her as a child. But will he be able to walk away from "his" Bug, and leave her in the arms of another...?






To say this book is amazing is truly an understatement! In my opinion, this is Julie Lessman's best novel yet and I have read them all. Included is another angst-filled romance between Meg's mother, Cait, and her Uncle Logan, guaranteed to tear your heart out and and leave you reaching for the tissues. The romantic tension is so palatable and thick you can cut it with a knife! Such exquisite torture... (sigh) I have never stopped reading a book and put it down because of tears and goose bumps until now...so overcome was I by a couple of shocking twists near the conclusion!! I think my hubby thought I had lost my marbles! I will miss the wonderful McClare family -- their joys and sorrows, triumphs and failures, humorous jabs and sarcastic quips, and most of all -- their faith.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been such a fun series! I loved the first two books, Love at Any Cost and Dare to Love Again, and this third and final book is just as delightful. Julie Lessman creates romantic tension like no one else, and this novel fairly sizzles with fervor. Easily read as a standalone, Surprised by Love will be that much more enjoyable for those who have read the first two installments and are familiar with some of the characters. While this tale focuses on Bram and Meg, the conflicted and turbulent, albeit devoted, relationship between the widowed matriarch of the McClare clan, Caitlyn, and her brother-in-law Logan, provides a strong secondary storyline and once again significantly impacts the family. I devoured this novel, ignoring my sensible bedtime to stay up and read it. Don't miss this book and this series!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advanced copy of this book free from Revell Publishers as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

I absolutely love family sagas, so revisiting the McClare family in San Francisco in Julie Lessman’s Surprised by Love was a real treat. And even though I haven’t yet had the chance to read Dare to Love Again, I thoroughly enjoyed and understood this third Heart of San Francisco story. Overall, Surprised by Love is a sweet story with great insight into previously secondary characters, Meg McClare and Bram Hughes, as well as peeks into the happenings in the lives of other family members. It has plenty of Lessman’s usual heartwarming romance and purposeful characters and circumstances. I think any fan of historical romance will want to take the time to read this latest novel by Julie Lessman. It certainly made me eager to go back and read Dare to Love Again.

Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Surprised by Love and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet torture. Lessman knows how to deliver a page-turning read filled with love and laughter and plenty of on-the-edge-of-your-seat drama. I savored every blessed word. And had a bit of a cry at the end because this is the last book in the Heart of San Francisco series.

This author has a special way of creating vibrant, true-to-life characters. I love the McClares. The banter and teasing between the siblings. The way they stick by one another when times get tough. They are multidimensional people that have a permanent place in my heart. And I love the unhurried feel as the story unfolds. Like we have all the time in the world to live every precious second right along with Meg and Bram.

And, oh my goodness what a complicated love story! I wouldn't expect anything less from this author though. So I gritted my teeth and plowed through the angsty bits (well, more than bits) and swooned over the romantic ones. And there's a bonus second love story within these pages as well. That one about tore my heart out. I felt pulverized by the end.

Another Lessman classic not to be missed.

[Charity U · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Lessman continues to delight and enchant me with each new book she debuts! This book had the perfect mix of romance, adventure, and humor – all twined together into one neat story that made me smile and laugh and worry right along with the characters. I found Meg to be a sweet and endearing person who made me love her from the moment she stepped onto the page. And Bram! What a hero. Mature and sensible, yet he still managed to be a heart-throb and such a GOOD man. While Devin had his positive and likable moments, all in all he was a great scoundrel. And reading the continuation of Cait’s story from the previous books in this series also kept me glued to this book. All in all, it was a wonderful read and one that will be proudly displayed along with my other books by Julie.
**Many thanks to Revell for providing me with a review copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review, or forced to post positively.

[Carrie Pagels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Julie Lessman! Two great romances for the price of one! We have parallel Mother/Daughter romances in this story with two potential candidates, each, for their hearts. Romantic tension is Julie's forté and she will keep the reader turning the pages long into the night with this compelling story! I've read every one of Julie's books and have loved them all.

Highly recommend!

[Stephanie Mccall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of all the Heart of San Francisco books, Surprised by Love is the one I looked forward to the most. Funnily enough, it's also the one I had the hardest time rating. It's one of Julie Lessman's weaker efforts, but that doesn't mean I didn't still enjoy it. It's...complicated. Well, on to the review.

As with all Julie Lessman's books, there's plenty to like. Megan and Bram, for instance, are my favorite couple. From the moment I met her, bookish, glasses-wearing Megan McClare was another literary "soul sister." And having worn glasses and braces (legs and teeth, thank you), and struggled with my weight my whole life, I understood her insecurities about her looks intimately. I also identified with her longing for love, although I never had a Bram in my life and sorely wished I did. So seeing her gain confidence in this book and be the heroine felt like a reward, a vicarious adventure.

I also loved Bram, both because he was a friend to Megan and because he was a hero in his own right. That is, he comes to love Megan for who she is and because she's right for him. It's not a case of the trope, Because You Were Nice to Me. Bram is not "settling." He and Megan do have to work through that obstacle of, "What if becoming 'more' ruins our friendship," but they do so *while* acknowledging the depth of feeling they already have. That's refreshing, and it highlights that these are scholarly, grounded people who both want God at the center of their relationship from the get-go. At the point of Surprised by Love's publication, I don't think Julie had written a relationship like that since Lizzie and Brady, so I was again, refreshed and enjoyed it all the more.

Additional kudos to Julie for placing Megan in a love triangle with Bram and Devlin, but tweaking it a bit. Some of that tweaking doesn't work, which I'll address in a minute. But what I did like was, Megan never acted head-over-heels for either hero, or desperate for the love of either. She does go through some necessary angst, but in a twist, it's because she's basically made her choice fairly early. She just has to admit it to herself, and work through the implications, all of which are more complex than she anticipates.

Finally, kudos to Julie for her emotional and spiritual threads. Specifically, I loved seeing Megan help another woman who had been in her shy, insecure position. But what I loved even more was, Megan doesn't come at this with the attitude, "I blossomed, and so will you, if you do everything 'right.'" No; she treats this woman like a real friend, capitalizes on her existing talents and assets, and reassures her she's acceptable and accepted as is. And yes, Julie does touch on the truth that being accepted by God is most important, and God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance. Yet, this is done organically, not in a preachy way or through minimizing the struggles women experience in a society that for the most part, doesn't embrace those truths.

Okay, so with all that said, what's the problem? Why did I find Surprised by Love difficult? For me, it was because despite the positive messages above, it sometimes felt like Julie was conflicted about how to communicate them. I remember thinking, if Megan had never gone to Paris, if she never lost weight and her skin never cleared, would Devlin still have been out here calling her Megan McTubby and claiming she smelled like a pig? I kind of think he would, which makes him a jerk in disguise and kind of dampens an otherwise good variation on the love triangle. As you might guess, it also dampens a strong message about appearances and insecurity. Thinking back, if I had Julie's ear, I might've suggested she either drop Devlin or risk making him antagonistic, period.

Additionally, as much as I love Megan and Bram, there were some parts of the novel I felt were slightly "recycled" from Lizzie and Brady's story. In particular, Bram's past and what happened with his little sister Ruthie feel "lifted." I don't think Julie meant to do that; Bram is still his own character, and I think she was trying to give him a unique plotline. Yet, he and Brady are so similar, down to their names, it was hard for me not to see it. And it might just be my writer's eye acting up, but that's the kind of thing where, once you see it, you can't unsee it.

Anyway, yes, this means Surprised by Love is probably my least favorite of Julie's offerings, at least in this series. But that's not saying much, because the book and series are still strong and well worth a read. In fact, you'll probably like Surprised by Love better than I did. Give it and the series a read. You'll be glad you did.

[Maria Thomas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seriously, if I'd read this one first I would probably have rated it higher but I was so tired of this series by this book. It took all three volumes to resolve the Cait/Logan relationship and I was soooo over the two of them long ago... All three of these books were 400+ pages so they were all long reads. I don't know how many times I nearly closed this one up and thought I couldn't take any more. How many times could Cait say she loved Logan but couldn't marry him and then throw herself into his arms crying and begging him to be her friend and not feel more for her? I so wanted him to say he was done playing her game. It was a most unfair game. I was relieved when he finally did even though I knew it wouldn't last. I was beginning to feel like I was reading a soap opera script or something. I only kept reading because it is hard for me to not finish a book and I figured I could at least see how it was going to play out even if I knew the ending. And if one took out the repetition of these conversations the book could have been shorter and still told the story.

The entire series has tons of sermonizing and I tired of the sermons as well, particularly in this one.

I was also bugged by people's responses to the ugly duckling turned swan. It all felt so shallow to me. It felt like people kept telling her she was so beautiful now in such a way as to point out her deficits from before her miraculous transformation. And it seemed to take a lot of products to make that beauty. Dye hair, make up, contacts (I didn't know those existed in this time period). It made Megs beauty seem artificial. Would she still be beautiful if she didn't color her hair and wear make-up? The only part that seemed real was her thinning down. The rest was covering something else.

So this was not a favorite for me. I do wonder if Blake will have a story in an upcoming book. I probably wouldn't read it since I didn't care for this one that much. But it seems like he is the only one that hasn't had a happily ever after resolve. And it kind of bugged me that no one seemed to care that he is Blake the Rake and proud of it.

[Sarah Vanscoyoc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t want it to end!
Surprised by Love is the third book in Julie Lessman’s The Heart of San Francisco series. I loved the first two in this series, so I was extremely excited to read this one. I was positive that Ms. Lessman couldn’t possibly top Dare to Love Again, which is the second book in this series, but she did! I have no idea how, but her books just keep getting better!
The descriptions and details were wonderful, as always. I loved the little known historical facts she threw in here and there, which were very interesting, without detracting from the flow of the story. I was engrossed from page one and didn’t want to put it down. The characters were fascinating and Julie’s writing was fabulous, as expected. Honestly, she could probably write a textbook on some very boring-to-me topic and I’d think it was great. There were several times when it was almost poetic and touched my heart very deeply. Julie has yet to disappoint me and I doubt she will, until she quits writing.
Megan McClare is the “middle” McClare child. We’ve met her in past books and she was always very shy and rather awkward. She had glasses and braces, and was not the thinnest person ever. When she returns home from spending her senior year of school in Paris, no one recognizes her. She grew and changed in many ways. Aside from outward appearance, her aspirations have also undergone a change. I had adored Meg from the first moment we met her, but I truly fell in love with her in this book. She is so sweet and caring, careful of the feelings of others, and always looking out for everyone. She still struggles with self-esteem issues and being confident in who she has become, even though she is no longer the awkward young lady she was before. I loved this quote that is used a couple times throughout the story. “True confidence blooms in the soil of a relationship with God, in following His path rather than one’s own, pursuing His truth rather than the world’s.” - Mrs. Rousseau, page 369 I enjoyed watching Megan grow throughout the story and discover the truth behind this quote.
Abraham “Bram” Hughes is the hero in this story. We know him rather well from Love At Any Cost, the first book in the series. He is the most serious on of the “Three Musketeers,” as the guys call themselves. He is the one most of them turn to for Godly advice and counsel. He is also Meg’s best friend. He is steadfast, strong, committed, kind, loving, handsome, and many other things. I particularly loved his kindness and compassion toward Meg. He is her anchor and has been for most of her life. But, he’s always seen her as a little sister, so when she returns and he suddenly doesn’t see her that way anymore, it confuses things. He struggles with how to still treat her the same and what to do with his unwanted feelings. I loved how realistic he is, especially in his struggles, not just with attraction, but also with his past mistakes. He is weighed down by guilt, but feels he deserves it, so he makes no effort to escape. I enjoyed his journey, as he found love and freedom, in rather unexpected places.
When I first found out this was to be Meg and Bram’s book, I couldn’t figure out how on earth that was going to work out. I was afraid it might be awkward or weird, but it actually made perfect sense the further I read. Who better to fall in love with, than your best friend? I found their romance very sweet and loved following their relationship as they fought to find their footing and adjust to all of the changes in their friendship. Then there was also the on-going relationship between Caitlyn and Logan. I was very excited to see where that would go and also get to know them better. I actually enjoyed the fact that Julie stretched it out through all three books, as it is somewhat secondary and I believe she needed all three to bring it to a comfortable conclusion. Their romance has been on-again-off-again as they struggle through years of history between them, lies, and fears. I’ve loved the progression throughout each story and the anticipation of wondering where they would go from here. I did almost pitch the book somewhere at one point, because I was just so mad at them. I’m glad I didn’t, though, because the ending was so sigh-worthy.
As much as I adore the characters, the relationships, and everything else about Julie’s books, I have to say that my favorite part is always the spiritual journey the characters go on. I love reading Julie’s books because I know I will always be challenged and encouraged in my faith. I love how the theme isn’t the same throughout the story, but rather it changes and progresses as the characters grow. A couple of the main themes that kind of carry on are forgiveness, and giving your plans and dreams to the Lord. I have already mentioned that Bram struggles with guilt, so forgiveness is a big deal for him. He believes he is redeemed and accepted by God, but still feels he must make restitution. This quote just struck me, “. . . he knew in God’s eyes in no one else’s, he was a man redeemed by a humble carpenter from Nazareth who had given His all. A man who had lain His life down so Bram could be free.” - Bram Hughes, page 351 Julie is very talented at taking something that often seems so simple and giving it new meaning.
As for the other part, Meg, Logan, and Caitlyn all must learn to trust the Lord’s plans and to give their desires to Him. I really appreciated how she handles this subject and the others. She portrays them with honesty. They are extremely difficult and she shows them as such. The characters struggle with them, they fall down, they get upset, but they also get back up again. We are always left with the hope that even when they fail, they can be redeemed.
As a general rule I hate reading the last book in a series and this one is no exception. Don’t get me wrong, it was wonderful, which is part of the problem. I dreaded the end of this book, because I knew it meant saying “goodbye.” I’ve had three books to fall in love with the McClares and letting them go in the space of just a few pages didn’t seem like enough. One thing is for sure, I will be “visiting” the characters and these books again and again.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a compelling story with realistic characters that will challenge and encourage you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in anyway. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Please note, all quotations used with permission from the author. No infringement intended.

[Cindi · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a nice story about the closeness of the McClare family. I enjoyed the fun banter between the family members.

The writing style just didn't click for me. I felt as though I was reading a contemporary novel instead of a historical one. The way people carried themselves and spoke was not true to the time period, especially among the educated upper class.
I was quite disappointed by the emphasis of outer beauty in general, but especially with Meg. Her "transformation" was not endearing. It was superficial at best.

My biggest disappointment was the lack of Jesus Christ in the novel. I truly don't recall Him ever being mentioned. This was the case throughout the series and made me very sad. Maybe the author doesn't realize that the only way to heaven is through our belief and trust in Jesus Christ. Just believing in God is not what is important. Even the devil believes in God.
Jesus Christ died on the cross to cover our sins. Jesus is the ONLY way to an eternity with the Lord. It was also implied that praying was the way to get what we want in this life and that seemed to be the only time Logan prayed. His prayers always had ulterior motives. :(

If you enjoy shallow characters where physical attraction is the main emphasis you'll love this romance. I'm sorry to say, this series did not appeal to me and this book, in particular, was enough to keep me from reading this author's books in the future.

[Theresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

well this book was certainly interesting! It had the romantic plot of society in San Francisco in the early 1900s. Young Megan McClare is sent off to Paris, France on her 'overseas experience' and comes back reborn with a new confidence that surprises not only her family but her very 'best friend' Abraham Hughes! Their long friendship sparks a new era as well as Meg's career choices and overcoming the memory of school bully Devin Caldwell. Now this is all good, but the author adds an element of faith and prayer into her storyline; something that was certainly different - you see, this sect of San Franciscan society believe in honesty, chastity and a Godlike existence! But with the author allowing a hint of amusing naughtiness .... so, once I got into it, I enjoyed this story!

[Carrie Daws · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my goodness! For much of this book, I was worried the author would end things a bit wrong. And then I was very worried she would end it all wrong. But, whew! She turned it all around and I finished the book quite content. With one exception (Blake), but I'm confident she'll deal with that little issue in the concluding novella to the series.

As for this book, it's a great story of forgiveness, moving past mistakes, and allowing others to grow past them too. And it's all encased within a wonderful family full of fun characters that I'd love to know in real life.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first J.L. read. I am not a big love triangle person, and this one kept me guessing a while. Was that a good thing? I'm not sure. lol Truth be told, I was kinda rooting for the "other guy"...am I the only one? So sue me. I did feel the ending was satisfactory however, and I did enjoy the spiritual reflections, which to me were more true-to-life than what you get in some other novels (unlike the plot coincidences which were highly dramatic).

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Christian historical fiction novel takes place in San Francisco in the early 1900’s. Meg, the main character, is delightful, and I enjoyed her interactions with Bram. There are two love triangles in the story. This did not add a great deal to the story for me as I knew right away who each lady would end up with. This was fun to read, however, and I am now interested in reading the other two books in the series.