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Suamalie Islands #11
Treasured Keepsakes
It doesn’t always end with a happily ever after.
Feeling unappreciated by her husband and burnt out at her job, Leah Kamuela needs to clear her head. Traveling to Laumua Island, she stays with her cousin, Sabrina, for a fresh start and to finally heal old wounds she’s covered up for years.
Jayson Kamuela has spent his life climbing the corporate ladder and his upcoming promotion will give him the life of his dreams, but at what cost? His wife has left him. He’s hit rock bottom. Maybe it’s time for him to change.
When Jayson is forced to go on sabbatical, he goes to search for his wife. Leah, however, after seeing Sabrina’s business success, believes she could also have a successful business on the Suamalie Islands.
With Leah needing to start on a new path and Jayson finally seeing the errors in his ways, how will the two of them work it out to finally have a happily ever after?
Take a trip to the Suamalie Islands where palm trees sway, the sand and sea pulse with life, and the people will steal your heart.
Feeling unappreciated by her husband and burnt out at her job, Leah Kamuela needs to clear her head. Traveling to Laumua Island, she stays with her cousin, Sabrina, for a fresh start and to finally heal old wounds she’s covered up for years.
Jayson Kamuela has spent his life climbing the corporate ladder and his upcoming promotion will give him the life of his dreams, but at what cost? His wife has left him. He’s hit rock bottom. Maybe it’s time for him to change.
When Jayson is forced to go on sabbatical, he goes to search for his wife. Leah, however, after seeing Sabrina’s business success, believes she could also have a successful business on the Suamalie Islands.
With Leah needing to start on a new path and Jayson finally seeing the errors in his ways, how will the two of them work it out to finally have a happily ever after?
Take a trip to the Suamalie Islands where palm trees sway, the sand and sea pulse with life, and the people will steal your heart.
174 pages, Paperback
Published March 23, 2024
4 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Skatvold
34 books817 followersRachel Skatvold is a Christian author of over a dozen books and a stay-at-home mom from the Midwest. She enjoys writing inspirational romance and encouraging blogs. Rachel completed her first series, the Riley Family Legacy Novellas in 2014 and is now working on the Hart Ranch Series, set in the Montana wilderness and the Ladies of Ardena Series, set in medieval times. She is also a contributing author in the Whispers in Wyoming and Brides of Pelican Rapids Series. Other than writing, some of her hobbies include singing, reading and camping in the great outdoors with her husband and two young sons.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 28, 2024
I recently read Treasured Keepsakes by Rachel Skatvold, and it was a great book. This book takes you on a journey to the Suamalie Islands, which is the setting for several books in the series. However, each book has a different cast of characters, making it an interesting ride. The book is a Christian romance story with different twists and turns that keep you engaged. Adventure is usually present in these books, and this one is no exception.
The story revolves around Leah, who leaves her workaholic husband Jayson in Hawaii to visit and stay with her cousin in the Suamalie Islands. She thinks her marriage is over and leaves a note explaining her actions. Leah does not have a strong relationship with God, and her faith is non-existent. She did go to fellowship with her mom when she was young, but after her mom died, she never went back to church. I could relate to her because I had a similar experience. Jayson is too blinded by his work to notice that he is alienating his spouse. He makes a lot of bad decisions that lead him to an accident. He finally realizes he should try to seek his wife out and make things better.
While on the Suamlie Islands with her cousin, Leah accepts Jesus as her Lord and Savior. She starts to find hope, and she thinks that her marriage can be saved. However, she does not know how. Jayson finds her, but will they make it? You will have to read the book to find out.
This book was a refreshing adventure that offers a look at how we all are before we accept Jesus as our Lord and savior. Many of us may have some sort of experience in knowing about Jesus, but not truly knowing Him or being known by Him. Jesus is such a gentle shepherd, and He will extend grace even when we stray from Him. However, we should not wait too long, as we do not know the time or hour He will come back or the time of our death. This book will make you laugh, cry, and be encouraged.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion.
The story revolves around Leah, who leaves her workaholic husband Jayson in Hawaii to visit and stay with her cousin in the Suamalie Islands. She thinks her marriage is over and leaves a note explaining her actions. Leah does not have a strong relationship with God, and her faith is non-existent. She did go to fellowship with her mom when she was young, but after her mom died, she never went back to church. I could relate to her because I had a similar experience. Jayson is too blinded by his work to notice that he is alienating his spouse. He makes a lot of bad decisions that lead him to an accident. He finally realizes he should try to seek his wife out and make things better.
While on the Suamlie Islands with her cousin, Leah accepts Jesus as her Lord and Savior. She starts to find hope, and she thinks that her marriage can be saved. However, she does not know how. Jayson finds her, but will they make it? You will have to read the book to find out.
This book was a refreshing adventure that offers a look at how we all are before we accept Jesus as our Lord and savior. Many of us may have some sort of experience in knowing about Jesus, but not truly knowing Him or being known by Him. Jesus is such a gentle shepherd, and He will extend grace even when we stray from Him. However, we should not wait too long, as we do not know the time or hour He will come back or the time of our death. This book will make you laugh, cry, and be encouraged.
I received a complimentary copy from the author through Celebrate Lit, for my honest opinion.
April 26, 2024
What I think you should know:
Treasured Keepsake by Rachel Skatvold is the eleventh book in the Suamalie Islands series. and the author’s second book in the series. The book is set on the Island of Lauma. The series is a Contemporary Christian Fiction set on a fictional set of Islands in the Pacific. The series is written by several authors with stories that have the common connection of the Islands. While this book *could* be read as a Standalone I highly recommend that you read Skatvold’s Wheeler’s Design prior to reading this book as this does give updates on the characters from that book!
What you might need to know:
Leah suffered the loss of her premature daughter prior to the start of this book, some of that is discussed.
Leah leaves her troubled marriage at the start of the book.
What I think about this book:
I was skeptical about reading a book about divorce, but I am a huge fan of Skatvold and have read all of the prior books in the series, so I decided to give it a try anyway. I am very glad I did! Not only did this book give updates on Sabrina and Chad, but it gave me new characters to connect with. One interesting part of this book was that neither main character were Christians at the start of the book. I really appreciated how this story unfolded and how the author allowed the characters to have authentic feelings in the situations that they were facing. I can’t wait to see what is next for ALL of the characters in this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Treasured Keepsake by Rachel Skatvold is the eleventh book in the Suamalie Islands series. and the author’s second book in the series. The book is set on the Island of Lauma. The series is a Contemporary Christian Fiction set on a fictional set of Islands in the Pacific. The series is written by several authors with stories that have the common connection of the Islands. While this book *could* be read as a Standalone I highly recommend that you read Skatvold’s Wheeler’s Design prior to reading this book as this does give updates on the characters from that book!
What you might need to know:
Leah suffered the loss of her premature daughter prior to the start of this book, some of that is discussed.
Leah leaves her troubled marriage at the start of the book.
What I think about this book:
I was skeptical about reading a book about divorce, but I am a huge fan of Skatvold and have read all of the prior books in the series, so I decided to give it a try anyway. I am very glad I did! Not only did this book give updates on Sabrina and Chad, but it gave me new characters to connect with. One interesting part of this book was that neither main character were Christians at the start of the book. I really appreciated how this story unfolded and how the author allowed the characters to have authentic feelings in the situations that they were facing. I can’t wait to see what is next for ALL of the characters in this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
April 27, 2024
This has been a wonderful journey that looks at a marriage that seems to be on the rocks. Frustration from Leah and Jayson pull them in different directions. All Leah really wants is her husband’s attention. After a devastating loss they seem to drift apart. Sometimes we react to a situation without thinking it through. Leah makes a rash decision and goes to see her cousin. The breathtaking view that awaits her as she steps off the plane calms her. Will this getaway help her focus on what is important?
Jayson is overwhelmed at work which causes him to spend more time away from home. It is obvious that bitterness has entered their marriage and lack of communication draws them further apart. Jayson is reminded that “lust is a sin,” when he makes a bad decision. Waking up in a hospital starts to have him rethink what is most important to him.
There are many wonderful lesson in this faith filled story. Forgiving someone can be hard but Leah will need to forgive Jayson so they can begin to reconcile. I loved how they both discovered that God needed to be a part of their lives and in their marriage. Bitterness and jealousy also finds it way in if we aren’t careful. The author illustrated how the enemy can come in and distract us and begin to push us away from people.
Once again I am blessed by this author who writes stories that guide us to God. When things look bleak, all we need to do is pray and trust God. I liked that both Leah and Jayson swallowed their pride and allowed their hearts to be filled with unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Jayson is overwhelmed at work which causes him to spend more time away from home. It is obvious that bitterness has entered their marriage and lack of communication draws them further apart. Jayson is reminded that “lust is a sin,” when he makes a bad decision. Waking up in a hospital starts to have him rethink what is most important to him.
There are many wonderful lesson in this faith filled story. Forgiving someone can be hard but Leah will need to forgive Jayson so they can begin to reconcile. I loved how they both discovered that God needed to be a part of their lives and in their marriage. Bitterness and jealousy also finds it way in if we aren’t careful. The author illustrated how the enemy can come in and distract us and begin to push us away from people.
Once again I am blessed by this author who writes stories that guide us to God. When things look bleak, all we need to do is pray and trust God. I liked that both Leah and Jayson swallowed their pride and allowed their hearts to be filled with unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
April 29, 2024
In “Treasured Keepsakes,” Rachel Skatvold invites readers on an unforgettable journey to the enchanting Suamalie Islands, where the echoes of the past intertwine with the promise of a brighter future.
Amidst the sun-drenched shores and swaying palms, Leah Kamuela seeks refuge from the strains of her marriage and career. Finding solace on Laumua Island, she embarks on a quest for healing and renewal, uncovering long-buried secrets and rediscovering the strength within herself.
Meanwhile, Jayson Kamuela grapples with the consequences of his relentless pursuit of success. As his marriage crumbles and his career teeters on the brink, Jayson is forced to confront the emptiness of his ambitions and the true meaning of happiness.
Against the backdrop of the Suamalie Islands’ breathtaking beauty, Leah and Jayson’s paths converge in a story of redemption and second chances. As they each confront their pasts and embrace the possibility of a new beginning, they discover that true treasures are found not in possessions, but in the bonds of love and forgiveness.
With its engaging narrative and vivid imagery, “Treasured Keepsakes” is a timeless tale that will capture the hearts of readers young and old. Join Leah and Jayson as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of the Suamalie Islands.
I give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
Amidst the sun-drenched shores and swaying palms, Leah Kamuela seeks refuge from the strains of her marriage and career. Finding solace on Laumua Island, she embarks on a quest for healing and renewal, uncovering long-buried secrets and rediscovering the strength within herself.
Meanwhile, Jayson Kamuela grapples with the consequences of his relentless pursuit of success. As his marriage crumbles and his career teeters on the brink, Jayson is forced to confront the emptiness of his ambitions and the true meaning of happiness.
Against the backdrop of the Suamalie Islands’ breathtaking beauty, Leah and Jayson’s paths converge in a story of redemption and second chances. As they each confront their pasts and embrace the possibility of a new beginning, they discover that true treasures are found not in possessions, but in the bonds of love and forgiveness.
With its engaging narrative and vivid imagery, “Treasured Keepsakes” is a timeless tale that will capture the hearts of readers young and old. Join Leah and Jayson as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of the Suamalie Islands.
I give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
April 25, 2024
Treasured Keepsakes by Rachel Skatvold is the eleventh book in the Suamalie Islands series and a Christian Contemporary Romance. Sometimes, marriage does not lead to happily ever after. Leah Kamuela’s husband does not appreciate her fees, and she is burnt out from her job. She also struggles with the loss of her baby daughter. So, she decides to take a trip to see her cousin on the Suamalie Islands. She finds herself reconnecting with her artistic side and connecting with her faith in God.
Jayson Kamuela worked hard to climb the corporate ladder, but he finds he may have paid a terrible cost for his choices. With a secretary who constantly flirts with him and disrespects his marriage, he is temporarily caught up in the “what might have been rather than the reality. The
The author creates a touching and heartfelt story that keeps you reading. A terrible accident helps Jayson determine what priorities he should honor and find God. This book takes you on an emotional journey that illustrates the work marriages truly take. Marriage tends to be only successful when faith in God is a cornerstone.
So, if you enjoy Christian Contemporary Romances, check out Treasured Keepsakes by Rachel Skatvold and the rest of the Suamalie Islands series. All of the books are wonderful.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Jayson Kamuela worked hard to climb the corporate ladder, but he finds he may have paid a terrible cost for his choices. With a secretary who constantly flirts with him and disrespects his marriage, he is temporarily caught up in the “what might have been rather than the reality. The
The author creates a touching and heartfelt story that keeps you reading. A terrible accident helps Jayson determine what priorities he should honor and find God. This book takes you on an emotional journey that illustrates the work marriages truly take. Marriage tends to be only successful when faith in God is a cornerstone.
So, if you enjoy Christian Contemporary Romances, check out Treasured Keepsakes by Rachel Skatvold and the rest of the Suamalie Islands series. All of the books are wonderful.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
April 24, 2024
I LOVE Christian Contemporary Romance books and Rachel Skatvold is one of my favorite authors for this genre. Treasured Keepsakes is Book 11 in the Suamalie Islands series which is written by 9 different authors. I have read many books in this series and I am always excited when a new book comes out.
I truly LOVED the storyline of this book from the very beginning. Leah and Jayson Kamula are struggling in their marriage. Leah decides to go visit her cousin in Laumua Island. Sometimes a refreshing start is what is needed to be appreciate by others, especially an unloving husband. Jayson realizes that he has been putting his job before his marriage after Leah has left. He quickly realizes he wants to find his wife and hopes it isn't too late. Leah and Jayson are reunited at Laumua Island. Leah has discovered she LOVES how her cousin has succeeded in creating a business and being happy in life on Laumua Island and wants to continue living on the Island. I LOVE that Leah and Jayson realized that distance makes the heart grow fonder. The book is one of LOVE, FORGIVENESS, HEALING, FAITH and so much more. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance books! WONDERFUL BOOK!
I truly LOVED the storyline of this book from the very beginning. Leah and Jayson Kamula are struggling in their marriage. Leah decides to go visit her cousin in Laumua Island. Sometimes a refreshing start is what is needed to be appreciate by others, especially an unloving husband. Jayson realizes that he has been putting his job before his marriage after Leah has left. He quickly realizes he wants to find his wife and hopes it isn't too late. Leah and Jayson are reunited at Laumua Island. Leah has discovered she LOVES how her cousin has succeeded in creating a business and being happy in life on Laumua Island and wants to continue living on the Island. I LOVE that Leah and Jayson realized that distance makes the heart grow fonder. The book is one of LOVE, FORGIVENESS, HEALING, FAITH and so much more. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance books! WONDERFUL BOOK!
April 30, 2024
Treasured Keepsakes is a unique addition to the Sumalie Island series. This one is about a married couple and some issues they face.
This is a great author. I love her books. They move quickly. The characters are wonderful and really draw you in. I always feel like I’m in the middle of the action and part of the book.
In this book, we have Leah who needs some time away. She goes to stay with her cousin on the island. While there she sees the opportunity to have a business. When her husband follows can they work together and overcome all the obstacles in their way? Or will they split for good?
This is the 11th book of the series. You do not have to read the books before this one to know what’s going on. However, if you have read the rest you’re going to be revisiting old friends!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
This is a great author. I love her books. They move quickly. The characters are wonderful and really draw you in. I always feel like I’m in the middle of the action and part of the book.
In this book, we have Leah who needs some time away. She goes to stay with her cousin on the island. While there she sees the opportunity to have a business. When her husband follows can they work together and overcome all the obstacles in their way? Or will they split for good?
This is the 11th book of the series. You do not have to read the books before this one to know what’s going on. However, if you have read the rest you’re going to be revisiting old friends!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
April 20, 2024
Rachel Skatvold delivers a sweet romance with a twist by writing the opening scene where the married Leah leaves her husband.
At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the story. I instantly connected with Leah and her plight in a troubled marriage. I loved the way the author kept me guessing early in the book if it was going to be a reconciliation romance or not. You’ll have to read it for yourself to find out.
I enjoyed the way the author had me rooting for all the main characters, even the one a reader might expect to dislike. The ups and downs of the romance and life of the characters kept me turn the pages.
Fans of clean, sweet romance and Christian romance will fall in love with this story. I highly recommend it.
Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Both main characters come into a full relationship with Jesus. Faith plays a central role to the story.
Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Celebrate Lit Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the story. I instantly connected with Leah and her plight in a troubled marriage. I loved the way the author kept me guessing early in the book if it was going to be a reconciliation romance or not. You’ll have to read it for yourself to find out.
I enjoyed the way the author had me rooting for all the main characters, even the one a reader might expect to dislike. The ups and downs of the romance and life of the characters kept me turn the pages.
Fans of clean, sweet romance and Christian romance will fall in love with this story. I highly recommend it.
Romance: Very clean. Light kissing.
Faith: Both main characters come into a full relationship with Jesus. Faith plays a central role to the story.
Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Celebrate Lit Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
May 1, 2024
For Treasured Keepsakes Rachel Skatvold followed the theme of rekindled romance, marriage second chances, and reconciliation with God and man. We also get to revisit Sabrina and Chad and their romance and upcoming marriage.
Leah’s marriage has been dying for some time. Her husband Jayson has been becoming more distant. When she can’t take it anymore she decides to go visit her cousin Sabrina in the Suamalie Islands.
Skatvold weaves a wonderful tale in which we watch the lives of two couples - one whose lives are looking happy and bright, and one whose lives feel like they are at the bottom of a dark pit. The salvation message is evident in the story which may help some readers turn their lives around.
While Treasured Keepsakes is an adult novel, there is nothing that would keep it from being included in a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for high schoolers.
I received a complimentary copy of Treasured Keepsakes. This is my honest review.
Leah’s marriage has been dying for some time. Her husband Jayson has been becoming more distant. When she can’t take it anymore she decides to go visit her cousin Sabrina in the Suamalie Islands.
Skatvold weaves a wonderful tale in which we watch the lives of two couples - one whose lives are looking happy and bright, and one whose lives feel like they are at the bottom of a dark pit. The salvation message is evident in the story which may help some readers turn their lives around.
While Treasured Keepsakes is an adult novel, there is nothing that would keep it from being included in a K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for high schoolers.
I received a complimentary copy of Treasured Keepsakes. This is my honest review.
April 3, 2024
Rachel Skatvold's Treasured Keepsakes is the eleventh installment from the multi author series, Suamalie Islands. It was a pleasure spending my day among the palm trees and sea with Leah and Jayson. Their story is one of faith, love, power of forgiveness, healing, and letting go of the past. I enjoyed it and wanted to see what direction the duo would take in their lives. It was easy to finish this tale in one sitting. One of my favorite books from this series.
I am giving Treasured Keepsakes five stars. I believe fans of clean romantic fiction will enjoy it as much as me. I am looking forward to continuing the Suamalie Islands series with Chautona Havig's Trust Fall.
I received a digital copy of Rachel Skatvold's Treasured Keepsakes from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Treasured Keepsakes five stars. I believe fans of clean romantic fiction will enjoy it as much as me. I am looking forward to continuing the Suamalie Islands series with Chautona Havig's Trust Fall.
I received a digital copy of Rachel Skatvold's Treasured Keepsakes from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
April 28, 2024
I thought this was a good book about reevaluating your priorities and learning what is really important in life. I liked how in this story Leah had such supportive family while she was dealing with the difficulties in her marriage. I liked how they helped her to decide to follow her dreams. I also liked how her husband, through the difficulties he faced, learned how important she was to him and also learned to find God in his difficulties. I liked how they were able to discovery what was most important to them and build on the good memories from the past. I also liked how they learned to forgive each other.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own
May 3, 2024
I really loved this short story about a marriage in trouble. This tale shows that sometimes your loved ones need to have first priority in your life even over your job. But it also shows that you have to place God first in your life in order to place the other things in the right position. Yes I I know that this book has a happy ending and that all marriages don’t end up with that happy ending, but isn’t that why we all read fiction anyway so that we get that happy ending. Another great tale in this great collection of books.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
April 15, 2024
Marriage should come with a happily ever after, but when life hits you from all sides, “happily” can slip away with the tide. The retreat can be slow and unnoticeable or quick and painful.
Life choices and God’s plans can work miracles if the participants deem the vows and promises worth the effort. Even the beautiful Suamalie Islands cannot work their magic with unwilling, unforgiving hearts.
Thanks for the journey! Bravo, Rachel
Life choices and God’s plans can work miracles if the participants deem the vows and promises worth the effort. Even the beautiful Suamalie Islands cannot work their magic with unwilling, unforgiving hearts.
Thanks for the journey! Bravo, Rachel
April 20, 2024
A great story! I love how each Suamalie story is unique.
Loved this story about Leah and Jayson. They were believable and I could hardly put the book down. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are mine.
Loved this story about Leah and Jayson. They were believable and I could hardly put the book down. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are mine.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews