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Tennessee Dreams #2

Threads of Joy

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A spark ignites between the "scandalous" divorc e and the upright pastor, but Joy's rocky past has made her wary of male attention, and her feelings of failure, not to mention her disbelief in a God of love, drives an even deeper wedge between them. Moreover, Lucas puts the brakes on their budding friendship when his congregants begin to question his intentions. When an unforeseen danger threatens Joy and her daughter, will the tight-knit town stand by and watch? Or will they open their hearts to the God of mercy and allow Him to do an unexpected work?

332 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2014

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212 people want to read

About the author

Sharlene MacLaren

34 books225 followers
After 31 years of teaching second and fourth grades, Shar decided to say, "Bye-bye, Students!" and "Hello, Writing World!" and it's been an interesting, exciting, challenging, and inspiring adventure. One thing she knows for certain—God dropped a seed of passion for writing in her heart back in the summer of 2000, and He's been growing it ever since. She signed on with Whitaker House Publishers in early 2006 and in December of that same year released Through Every Storm, a general fiction title that finaled in the American Christian Fiction Writers Book-of-the-Year. Another general fiction title, Long Journey Home, hit shelves in 2008. (It is her pleasure to announce that both of these titles are also available in SPANISH.)

Sharlene’s beloved, bestselling “Little Hickman Creek Series” released in 2007-08. This 3-book series set in 1895 KENTUCKY won the “Road to Romance” Reviewers’ Choice Award and a third place standing in the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest in 2008 and 2009. Also, in 2009, her historical series, “The Daughters of Jacob Kane”, began hitting bookshelves in stores countrywide. In late summer of 2010, Tender Vow, another general fiction stand-alone, will release, and following that, a 1920s 3-book set called “River of Hope”. The first in that series, River Song, should become available in the spring of 2011. Yep, you guessed it – Shar is BUSY!!!

Shar has done numerous book-signings across the country, appeared on many national television and radio shows, and participated in countless interviews. She has been married to the love of her life since December of 1975, has two wonderful daughters and two handsome sons-in-law. The joys of her life, however, are her adorable grandchildren. Besides her involvement in music at her local church, Shar has been a speaker for the local MOPS organization, is involved in KIDS’ HOPE, USA, a mentoring program for at-risk children, counsels young women in the international APPLES OF GOLD program, and attends two bi-weekly Bible studies. She and her darling husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan with Peyton, their loveable collie, and Mocha, their big, lazy cat.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Andrea AKA Catsos Person.
790 reviews107 followers
December 11, 2014
I won this book in a GR first reader drawing.

This is my first experience with xn fiction and this author, but the story was compelling and the two MCs were likable.

The author did a an excellent job of taking the reader through the process of the h/H going from uneasy acquaintances, to tentative friendship to friendship to love/HEA. I enjoyed the journey. I don't know about xn historical romances, but too many mainstream HR authors play the "insta-love" card. It's one of my pet peeves, but there is none of that here.

As a hardcore HR romance reader, the "historical" element was not well done as I would have liked. The historical setting was "wall paper" instead of being an integral part of the story. In other words, this story was not dependent on period detail and could have been written at a CR (contemporary romance/xn). This is not good if the novel is supposed to be an HR.

I would recommend this title to readers who want a compelling story and enjoy the buildup of a strong connection between the h/H. The historical setting /period did not add anything to the story.
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,166 reviews12 followers
January 17, 2015
I really appreciate how Sharlene MacLaren weaves the Gospel message into her books. The book is classified as Fiction/Christian/Romance. There is also an undercurrent of Suspense involved. It was a very interesting read.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,257 reviews
May 13, 2019
Threads of Joy was a well written and appealing read filled with emotion, visual scenes, action, faith, romance and moments of suspense. Joy Westfall past brought gossip around the small town of Paris; however, the young preacher Lucas Jennings was not going to let that stop him from being a good neighbor. Little Annie Westfall added to the story with her love and childish ways. I’m grateful Sharlene Maclaren books are filled with a solid Christian message of God’s love, forgiveness and grace for each one.

I’m looking forward to reading Gift of Grace, the final book in Tennessee Dreams series. MacLaren has become one of my favorite Christian historical fiction writers.
Profile Image for Andrea AKA Catsos Person.
790 reviews107 followers
September 29, 2015
I won this book in a GR drawing and I thought that I was signing up to win an Historical romance. This is in fact, Christian fiction historical romance. But I think since this fact was not obvious when I entered the drawing, the author's team wanted to expand this author's exposure beyond her Christian readership of Chistian Fiction/Romance. Since I won this book and read it, they were successful, because I am not a member of the target audience for Christian fiction.

The author is a good writer and the plot was compelling. The religious element was not heavy-handed or burdensome to the story.

This book, however, was not effective as an Historical romance. The scant period detail was poor. I also saw errors in little bit of period detail that the author did attempt to include.As a discerning reader of mainstream Historical romance, I would like the author to know that there is a lot more to crafting historical romance than the clothing the characters wear and the riding of horses/drawn vehicles.

Also there is the tricky issue of accurate portrayal of how the southern community in this story would have treated and viewed African Americans in the 19 C. There was a Black man, though a small role, had a key role here that I find unbelievable. Undoubtedly, the author did not want to offend her Southern US bible-belt readership.

But, the plot itself was a good and compelling read, but I think this author should stick to contemporary romance. Historical romance is more than clothes and horses.
Profile Image for Lynne Young.
185 reviews13 followers
August 27, 2014
This is book 2 in the Tennessee Dreams series. I loved Book 1 - Heart Of Mercy and didn't think any other book in the series could be as good. I was wrong. The story of Joy Westfall just grabbed my heart. I loved her innocence, her strength, her determination, but the one thing that really grabbed me was her feeling that she wasn't worthy of anyone's love - including God. Her spiritual awakening and realization that others didn't think of her the way she did was a beautiful thing to watch unfold through the pages of this book.

Ms. MacLaren did a wonderful job of telling Joy's story and that of the preacher Lucas Jennings. I could put myself in the story and came away feeling like these characters have been friends of mine for years. The characters are well rounded and approachable. Are there tense moments? Yes. Is there a person in the book you would love to hate? Yes. Is there a child everyone will fall in love with? You bet!

I did not want this book to end but it came to it's natural conclusion beautifully. I look forward to book 3 and can't wait to see how the author has matured Mercy from book 1 and Joy from book 2. I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
142 reviews
August 8, 2016
It has been a few years since I have read any novels by Sharlene MacLaren. I remember I enjoyed the series I read, so I was excited to read this one. I liked this one even more than the others I read! :)

This is the second in the series, however as I read everything made sense. I knew a couple of the other characters mentioned were from the first book. Their story wasn't continued in this one leaving me to wonder what was happening. They were just mentioned from time to time. It can very easily be read as a stand-alone.

Something that took me a wee bit to get used to was way the dialogue was written. It wasn't a big thing, just took a little getting used to at first.

I really loved the characters! I loved how Joy was independent, strong but softened and was able to accept love. I loved Lucas' was a wonderful blend of laid back and caring with a good sense of humor.

It was a very sweet story with lovable characters and a great message! I really look forward to reading more by Sharlene MacLaren.

*I received this book free from Goodreads as part of their first-reads program.
Profile Image for Sarah Grace.
16 reviews
February 21, 2015
Sharlene MacLaren never disappoints. Now if only she could write as fast as I read! Lol! ;) Received the book today and read the whole thing today! I could not put it down. An excellent book of love, and a good reminder to never judge another person. I would highly recommend this author, and all of her books, to anyone.
Profile Image for Terri.
235 reviews54 followers
February 25, 2015
My mother and I have read both of the series of this books. Sharlene have written very clearly telling a story and true inspirations & scriptures in it. I am looking forward to read third book!
Profile Image for Angie.
14 reviews
June 5, 2024
Simple, sweet refreshing story of love so strong it can wait on God’s perfect timing.
Profile Image for Victor Gentile.
2,035 reviews64 followers
May 2, 2015
Sharlene MacLaren in her new book, “Threads Of Joy” Book Two in the Tennessee Dreams series published by Whitaker House takes us into the life of Joy Westfall.

From the back cover: Joy Westfall seems too young to be jaded, but the twenty-eight-year-old has already weathered more hardship and sorrow than most people twice her age. She moves home to Paris, Tennessee, with her three-year-old daughter, the only good thing to have come from her mistake of a marriage and sets up housekeeping, as well as her tailoring business, in a tiny abode she inherited from her aunt. She doesn’t much mind living on the outskirts of town, especially since the residents of Paris seem disinclined to welcome a divorcee. The same is true of the congregants of the church next door. Just as well. Joy doesn’t need their sympathy.

Lucas Jennings feels blessed to be shepherding his own flock so early in life. Since his arrival, the congregation of Paris Evangelical Church has swelled, of course, it can’t hurt that he’s an eligible bachelor. Single women flock to the church from all over Henry County, yet none of them, not even the most pious manages to capture his attention quite like the newcomer next door, who is hungry for the gospel but unwilling to admit it.

A spark ignites between the “scandalous” divorcee and the upright pastor, but Joy’s rocky past has made her wary of male attention, and her feelings of failure, not to mention her disbelief in a God of love, drives an even deeper wedge between them. Moreover, Lucas puts the brakes on their budding friendship when his congregants begin to question his intentions. When an unforeseen danger threatens Joy and her daughter, will the tight-knit town stand by and watch? Or will they open their hearts to the God of mercy and allow Him to do an unexpected work?

You would think a person named Joy would be, at least, somewhat happy. Joy really has nothing to be happy about. She married, had a daughter, then found out the man was already married and cheating on her. So she is now divorced and living outside of town because the townspeople are shunning her because she is a divorcee. However she lives right next to the church and likes what she hears. Pastor Lucas is single and likes both Joy and her daughter but has to be careful to not cause a scandal. This is all about forgiveness and forgiveness and many levels; forgiveness of self, of others, from God. And then on top of that there is the romance–not just any kind of romance but a real, gentle romance that only springs from God. Ms. MacLaren does an outstanding job with all the characters especially Lucas and Joy and we really get behind them to succeed. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Whitaker House. 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.”
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews271 followers
July 30, 2014
I just love Sharlene MacLaren! Her books are just wonderful, too. She is definitely not afraid to proclaim the Gospel message. Sometimes I read Christian fiction with barely a mention of the name of God. In fact, I have read CF with nary a mention of the name of God! Sad, in my opinion.

However, Sharlene is not afraid to mention God's name and to point the way to His Son, Jesus, as being the only way to God! For that, I am most thankful. If a nonbeliever happened to pick up one of her books to read, they'd surely be convicted in their hearts.

Sharlene takes us back to Paris, Tennessee in book two of this series. Joy Westfall is a tailor/seamstress who lives next door to the church. She is divorced and that makes her a pariah in this age to nearly everyone. She only has one friend in the enter town. But her house sits next to the church and she sometimes sits on her porch and listens to the folks singing in church and the minister preaching. A minister, who, is quite attractive, but Joy will not allow herself to ever feel anything for another man.

Lucas Jennings, minister of the small church, is quite intrigued by the widow Westfall, and soon makes friends with her precious little girl. He longs to win Joy to Christ, but sees instinctively that she has been hurt badly.

But...there is danger brewing from another quarter that will threaten both Joy, her little girl and Lucas. Will they be able to overcome?

God always has a plan and His plans are always working out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. I cried during the last few chapters of this book. I can't wait for the next one in the series, but it's not coming till winter 2015!
Profile Image for Trinity Rose.
434 reviews17 followers
August 23, 2014

Threads of Joy by Sharlene MacLaren is a wonderful, uplifting book full of love and surprises.
Joy felt no one liked her or cared for her, and rightly so she thought, because of her past. Joy felt her life was on the right track when she married the man whom she thought was the answer to her dreams. He turned out a swindler and already married, but now Joy has a little girl whom she loves more than life.
Living next to a preacher and his church is bad enough, but when he is so kind to them Joy can’t stand it. How can she repay her debt to him and get him to leave them alone.
Many, many adventures happen in Threads of Joy, much soul searching and hardships. You will be amazed at the way this book turns out. You will see how God directs both of these people and how when things turn bad that you can always depend on God to see you through.
I just love the cover picture and the title. They really fit the book.
I have never read a book by Sharlene MacLaren that I haven’t liked. Her books always are full of love, forgiveness and deep. She doesn’t write books that are fluff as I call them. You come away from her books uplifted and know she puts a lot of thought and knowledge in them.
Highly recommended.


Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for 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 255
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,327 reviews160 followers
July 22, 2014
A thoroughly enjoyable read! Sharlene MacLaren is one of my favorites and this book is no exception. Joy Westfall is an easy character to love and "Mr. Churchman", Lucas Jennings is equally as admirable. The work of the Holy Spirit in Joy's life is whisper-soft and divinely-strong as God uses some of the most likely and unlikely people in Joy's life to draw her to Himself.

Ironically, un-churched Joy Westfall lives next door to a Paris, Tennessee church with her daughter, Annie. Tagged as "divorced", Joy often feels the stigma of an outcast among her neighbors; even though she earns her own living as a proficient seamstress. Imagine her discomfort when the handsome pastor, Lucas Jennings, begins to befriend Joy and her daughter. Their friendship grows strong roots and when Joy's past collides with her ever-changing-present, Lucas' faith is challenged beyond his imagination.


A great continuation of the "Tennessee Dreams" series.
Profile Image for Cathy Caffas kowalkowski.
27 reviews11 followers
August 30, 2014
Another great read from Shar Maclaren. I love Lucas and Joy. Probably in my top 7 by Maclaren. =]

"...she'd had a difficult time accepting herself and believing God could love her after all the flubs she'd made. The truth was, the idea still baffled her; but Jesus' directive to come to Him and find rest for her soul was pretty clear. In her mind, finding His rest meant that she would have to put away her insecurities and set down her heavy burdens - and Lord knew they weighted a ton - and allow God to give her a brand new identity in Him." page 191

Sharlene MacLaren has real characters. People who need redemption, and she presents the gospel right. We are all sinners and need a Savior- whatever we've done, no matter where we come from, or how much money we have...He's there, waiting for us to come.
Profile Image for Kathy.
79 reviews
August 10, 2014
I was given this book with the hope I would read it and review it.

This is the first book by Sharlene MacLaren I have read. It is a Historical Christian Romance set in Tennessee and is second in a series. Joy is raising her little girl on her own, supporting them by being a seamstress. She feels that people look down on her because of her status as a divorced woman. They live next door to a church and it's young bachelor minister. It is nice to see the attraction unfolding between them and interaction of the local people around them.
This book had enough of all elements that I look for in a book for me to give it 5 stars for it's genre. If you like Historical Christian Romance I would recommend this book. I think I am going to have to get another of Ms MacLaren's books.
Profile Image for Gretchen.
130 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2015
This was the first book that I've read by this author, It was really good. It started out fairly slow and I wasn't really getting into it...By the 100th page I was definitely drawn in. Drawn in by: The characters and how realistic their life and faith were, the story-line and the overall plot. I definitely liked the main male character (Lucas), I feel that sometimes female gve unrealistic attributes to their male characters but I found him to be very believable. I also liked the realistic questions that Joy (main female character) had about the Christian faith. Overall his was a great read and I would strongly recommend,
Profile Image for June.
1,542 reviews17 followers
February 15, 2015
Joy and Lucas slowly become friends when he hires her to help out. Joy is trying to start over
her life with her young daughter. Lucas helps her to realize she is worthy of God's love and grace.

Entertaining and emotional story that was very well written and very much enjoyed! Looking forward to reading the third book in this series!
Profile Image for Teresa Snyder.
707 reviews30 followers
August 2, 2014
Enjoyable second book in the series. Lucas was adorable as was Joy. Really enjoyed seeing Sam and Mercy again. Looking forward to book three in the series.
Profile Image for Beth.
176 reviews
Want to read
September 22, 2014
Ran out of time to read this book, for I had it checked out from the library. Will have to check it out again when I don't have so many other books to read.
Profile Image for trish rushing.
1 review
April 26, 2015
Very good book

This book kept my interest from start to finish. Loved the way that the Lord was on just about every page.
Profile Image for Martha.
1,939 reviews73 followers
July 23, 2016
I enjoyed this tale of two unlikely people getting together, as well as the history of how divorced people were treated in that day and age. It had some flaws in it, but overall, a pleasant read.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

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