What do you think?
Rate this book
Redeeming the Past: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Can repairing an old house…open the door to a new love?
To make amends for his misspent youth, bodyguard John-Parker Wisdom vows to turn his late foster mum’s property into a home for neglected teenage boys. Only there’s a catch — unexpected co-heir Zoey Chavez. The pretty widow needs the house proceeds to support her children, and she won’t let a former bad boy stand in her way. Now they have three months to agree on a plan or forfeit their shared inheritance. But when John-Parker’s past complicates things as the deadline looms near, will they risk everything for a chance at a forever partnership?
Mills & Boon Love Inspired — Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
To make amends for his misspent youth, bodyguard John-Parker Wisdom vows to turn his late foster mum’s property into a home for neglected teenage boys. Only there’s a catch — unexpected co-heir Zoey Chavez. The pretty widow needs the house proceeds to support her children, and she won’t let a former bad boy stand in her way. Now they have three months to agree on a plan or forfeit their shared inheritance. But when John-Parker’s past complicates things as the deadline looms near, will they risk everything for a chance at a forever partnership?
Mills & Boon Love Inspired — Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
208 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published December 24, 2024
35 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Linda Goodnight
222 books523 followersNY Times and USA Bestseller, Linda Goodnight writes novels of faith and family that point to hope through Christ. Her emotional stories have won the RITA , the Carol, the Reviewer’s Choice, and numerous other industry awards. Her two great passions are faith in Jesus and her large extended family. (And pie. she loves pie.)
Readers may connect with Linda through her website at www.lindagoodnight.com or on Facebook.
Readers may connect with Linda through her website at www.lindagoodnight.com or on Facebook.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 28, 2025
I usually love books by Linda Goodnight, but not this one. I did not care for Zoey at all.
December 11, 2024
This was the sweetest story! Both Zoey and John-Parker were hoping to make moves that redeemed the past. But little did they know that their future plans would be so dependent on each other!
In "Redeeming the Past": John-Parker is returning back to his hometown to surprise his foster mother after 15 years away. But what he finds is Zoey living in her home, with her two kids, and he learns his foster mother had passed away! Their meeting was not pretty,and it only gets worse when both find out the house and inheritance is shared between them. The rules: they both have to work together and fix up the house for 3 months to unlock the inheritance. They also have to agree on what to do with the home... something they are not agreeing on! They are at odds, and they can't agree on much. But if one walks away from the arrangement, both miss out. So, they are going to have to stick it out! Both are weary of the other. He is worried that Zoey talked her way into the inheritance. And Zoey questions why John-Parker is mentioned at all, when he hadn't been around for 15 years! They both have a past they are trying to overcome and secrets to why they need to overcome it all. But with 3 months of working together, those walls are bound to come down. But what good would it be to open themselves to each other, when he is only here for the inheritance? He doesn't even live in town. And does she really want to open her kids up to another disappointing man in their life?
This was so sweet!
What you'll find:
-enemies to lovers
-secret pasts
-forced proximity
-foster care background
-faith elements throughout!
Rating: 4.5 rounded to 5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. It didn't not influence this review in any way.
In "Redeeming the Past": John-Parker is returning back to his hometown to surprise his foster mother after 15 years away. But what he finds is Zoey living in her home, with her two kids, and he learns his foster mother had passed away! Their meeting was not pretty,and it only gets worse when both find out the house and inheritance is shared between them. The rules: they both have to work together and fix up the house for 3 months to unlock the inheritance. They also have to agree on what to do with the home... something they are not agreeing on! They are at odds, and they can't agree on much. But if one walks away from the arrangement, both miss out. So, they are going to have to stick it out! Both are weary of the other. He is worried that Zoey talked her way into the inheritance. And Zoey questions why John-Parker is mentioned at all, when he hadn't been around for 15 years! They both have a past they are trying to overcome and secrets to why they need to overcome it all. But with 3 months of working together, those walls are bound to come down. But what good would it be to open themselves to each other, when he is only here for the inheritance? He doesn't even live in town. And does she really want to open her kids up to another disappointing man in their life?
This was so sweet!
What you'll find:
-enemies to lovers
-secret pasts
-forced proximity
-foster care background
-faith elements throughout!
Rating: 4.5 rounded to 5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. It didn't not influence this review in any way.
December 9, 2024
Some houses aren’t just built with bricks and mortar—they’re built with love, memories, and second chances. In this tender story, the weathered walls of a foster mother’s home become the canvas for two hearts searching for healing and purpose.
Zoey Chavez and John-Parker Wisdom couldn’t be more different, yet they find themselves bound by an inheritance that holds both the weight of the past and the promise of the future. The task of restoring the house is far more than a physical undertaking; it’s an emotional journey filled with challenges, compromises, and unexpected discoveries.
Faith quietly weaves through every moment. The lessons of a remarkable foster mother linger in the air, shaping decisions and inspiring courage. Each brushstroke of paint and every nail driven into place reflects a deeper restoration—the healing of hearts broken by life’s disappointments, regrets, and the rekindling of hope.
The theme of fostering shines like a beacon, reminding readers of the profound impact one life can have on many. This story about rebuilding a house and it’s about nurturing lives, creating a haven, and believing in the beauty of a future designed by God’s loving hands.
Linda Goodnight crafts characters who feel achingly real, with flaws and fears that make their journey all the more compelling. The interactions between Zoey and John-Parker are tender and heartfelt, filled with moments of vulnerability and grace. As they learn to trust and lean on one another, a quiet, steady love begins to take root, bringing a warmth that lingers long after the final page.
This story is a heartfelt celebration of faith and family, where God’s plans bring unexpected beauty from life’s broken places. It’s a tender tale of hope, healing, and a love strong enough to rebuild what once seemed beyond repair.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Zoey Chavez and John-Parker Wisdom couldn’t be more different, yet they find themselves bound by an inheritance that holds both the weight of the past and the promise of the future. The task of restoring the house is far more than a physical undertaking; it’s an emotional journey filled with challenges, compromises, and unexpected discoveries.
Faith quietly weaves through every moment. The lessons of a remarkable foster mother linger in the air, shaping decisions and inspiring courage. Each brushstroke of paint and every nail driven into place reflects a deeper restoration—the healing of hearts broken by life’s disappointments, regrets, and the rekindling of hope.
The theme of fostering shines like a beacon, reminding readers of the profound impact one life can have on many. This story about rebuilding a house and it’s about nurturing lives, creating a haven, and believing in the beauty of a future designed by God’s loving hands.
Linda Goodnight crafts characters who feel achingly real, with flaws and fears that make their journey all the more compelling. The interactions between Zoey and John-Parker are tender and heartfelt, filled with moments of vulnerability and grace. As they learn to trust and lean on one another, a quiet, steady love begins to take root, bringing a warmth that lingers long after the final page.
This story is a heartfelt celebration of faith and family, where God’s plans bring unexpected beauty from life’s broken places. It’s a tender tale of hope, healing, and a love strong enough to rebuild what once seemed beyond repair.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
January 22, 2026
First, I loved the dedication to an avid book reader, Susan. This definitely scored high points for the author!
Second, the story of foster care has touched my heart in such a special way. I enjoy reading stories about people who have prevailed despite extremely difficult times in their lives.
Third, the characters in the story are so relatable. I enjoyed the dynamic between Zoey and John Parker. I also enjoyed how John Parker sought God in everything that he did and also looked for ways to mentor other people.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Second, the story of foster care has touched my heart in such a special way. I enjoy reading stories about people who have prevailed despite extremely difficult times in their lives.
Third, the characters in the story are so relatable. I enjoyed the dynamic between Zoey and John Parker. I also enjoyed how John Parker sought God in everything that he did and also looked for ways to mentor other people.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
December 24, 2024
John-Parker and Zoey are co-heirs to his foster mother’s home. Two different people with two different ideas with how to take care of the house.
This is a nice story. I’m not big on mushy romance stories and what I really liked about this story is that it felt real and not make believe. Not mushy. Not unbelievable. Just real and a good story to back it up.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from Harlequin and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.
This is a nice story. I’m not big on mushy romance stories and what I really liked about this story is that it felt real and not make believe. Not mushy. Not unbelievable. Just real and a good story to back it up.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from Harlequin and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.
November 12, 2024
Nowadays a successful business owner of an elite security company, John-Parker Wisdom is at the top of his career. No longer the little orphan who was taken in by Mamie Benzek . A woman that fostered teenager boys.
When he turn 18 he left and never looked back. Though Mamie’s teachings and her beliefs in God never left him. Fifteen years later he’s back in town to show Mamie the man she helped form.
Never did John-Parker expect to find the house in need of repairs, a young woman opening the door, and the heartache he felt when he discovers Mamie has passed away.
And let’s not forget the fact that Mamie left the house to both him and single mom Zoey Chavez,. But stipulations have been placed that if not followed will forfeit their share of the inheritance.
We have two individuals with clear picture of what they want, who have been hurt in the past, and want to make a difference. But their goals for the house are at opposite ends.
Can they find a solution ? What happens when an attraction develops? Will Zoey be able to trust a man again? Will John-Parker help Zoey open her heart to a future and to God?
This was a sweet, touching, at times heartbreaking as well as heartwarming clean Christian story. Both characters were complex and a reminder that the experiences we have as children will affect us as adults.
It’s also a story about hope, faith and new beginnings in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired Publishing . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
When he turn 18 he left and never looked back. Though Mamie’s teachings and her beliefs in God never left him. Fifteen years later he’s back in town to show Mamie the man she helped form.
Never did John-Parker expect to find the house in need of repairs, a young woman opening the door, and the heartache he felt when he discovers Mamie has passed away.
And let’s not forget the fact that Mamie left the house to both him and single mom Zoey Chavez,. But stipulations have been placed that if not followed will forfeit their share of the inheritance.
We have two individuals with clear picture of what they want, who have been hurt in the past, and want to make a difference. But their goals for the house are at opposite ends.
Can they find a solution ? What happens when an attraction develops? Will Zoey be able to trust a man again? Will John-Parker help Zoey open her heart to a future and to God?
This was a sweet, touching, at times heartbreaking as well as heartwarming clean Christian story. Both characters were complex and a reminder that the experiences we have as children will affect us as adults.
It’s also a story about hope, faith and new beginnings in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired Publishing . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 2, 2025
I finished reading this book hours ago and I’m still feeling remnants of all the feels—sacrificial love, hope despite the circumstances, anger at the meanness in the world, trust that God can overcome anything, and tears of happiness. This book touched me and opened my eyes to the need for children in foster care to have adults to mentor and care for them. When I read the afterword by the author I realized that this book was written by someone with the understanding that comes from experience as she has fostered (and adopted) quite a few youngsters. I was deeply moved. In spite of the heaviness that the topic encompassed I was entertained as well by the romance between the main characters of John-Parker and Zoey. They were at cross purposes for most of the book but their attraction was undeniable and eventually mutual trust broke down their barriers. The secondary characters in the book were some of my favorites. Zoey’s children were so appealing. The two elderly friends that took John-Parker under their wing were hilarious. And Mamie, John-Parker’s foster mom, who had passed away before the book’s timeline began was inspirational and central to the story. I loved this book and I can hardly wait for the next story in the series! Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All opinion expressed are strictly my own.
October 7, 2025
Great introduction to a new series
John-Parker came home to show his foster mother Mamie how he had made good of his life and she had saved him. But Zoey opened the door of his old home and eventually told him that Mamie had died 3 months ago. Devasted, he learns that Mamie had left all her possessions to him and Zoey equally, as long as they stayed in town and worked on the house together. They also had to agree in the end what would happen to the house. But Zoey wants to fix it up and sell it, so she can provide for her 2 very young children. John-Parker wants to make a new home to shelter and train teenage foster boys. Can they find a way to work together to one purpose, or will they both lose everything? Read this first book in the series to find out!
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has a few kisses but no steam. The characters are vibrant and engaging. The Christian ideals are woven into the story moving it along. Enjoy this sweet and heartfelt story.
John-Parker came home to show his foster mother Mamie how he had made good of his life and she had saved him. But Zoey opened the door of his old home and eventually told him that Mamie had died 3 months ago. Devasted, he learns that Mamie had left all her possessions to him and Zoey equally, as long as they stayed in town and worked on the house together. They also had to agree in the end what would happen to the house. But Zoey wants to fix it up and sell it, so she can provide for her 2 very young children. John-Parker wants to make a new home to shelter and train teenage foster boys. Can they find a way to work together to one purpose, or will they both lose everything? Read this first book in the series to find out!
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character centered storyline that has a few kisses but no steam. The characters are vibrant and engaging. The Christian ideals are woven into the story moving it along. Enjoy this sweet and heartfelt story.
October 20, 2024
Redeeming the Past is a story about two people, thrown together in an unlikely situation.
Bodyguard John-Parker Wisdom and widow Zoey Chavez have inherited Aunt Mamie's house. Zoey was Mamie's caregiver during her last days. John-Parker was one of Mamie's foster kids growing up in the house. When they learn they have inherited the house, she wants to sell but John-Parker wants to turn it into a foster home for unwanted boys. There in lies the battle. They have three months to fix up the house, and make a decision of the fate of the house. A romance blooms, although neither John-Parker nor Zoey want it to develop. Zoey just wants a home for her children.
A sweet and interesting story. Linda Goodnight has a way of writing believable stories that touch the heart. A clean well written story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 23, 2024
Heartwarming
John-Parker Wisdom and Zoey Chavez don't know each other, but that changes when John-Parker returns to Rosemary Ridge. His return is not a happy one for Zoey, especially when they are thrust together to honor the terms of a will. Not only do they have to work together, but they each have a different goal in mind. How in the world can two people with such different goals work toward common ground, especially when growing feelings make their way in?
I absolutely loved this story! I especially loved how the author blended love, faith, forgiveness, and second chances with the themes of foster care, recovery from a broken relationship, and judgmental attitudes. Linda Goodnight has done a flawless job of blending these into an awesomely heartwarming story that will deeply touch your heart.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
John-Parker Wisdom and Zoey Chavez don't know each other, but that changes when John-Parker returns to Rosemary Ridge. His return is not a happy one for Zoey, especially when they are thrust together to honor the terms of a will. Not only do they have to work together, but they each have a different goal in mind. How in the world can two people with such different goals work toward common ground, especially when growing feelings make their way in?
I absolutely loved this story! I especially loved how the author blended love, faith, forgiveness, and second chances with the themes of foster care, recovery from a broken relationship, and judgmental attitudes. Linda Goodnight has done a flawless job of blending these into an awesomely heartwarming story that will deeply touch your heart.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
May 29, 2025
In Redeeming the Past, John-Parker returns to his hometown after 15 years to surprise his foster mother but learns she has passed away. To his surprise, her house is now occupied by Zoey and her two children. Tensions rise when they discover the house and inheritance are shared between them, with the condition that they must work together for three months to renovate the house and agree on its future.
Suspicious of each other’s intentions, John-Parker questions Zoey’s involvement in the inheritance, while Zoey resents his sudden reappearance after years away. Both carry personal struggles and secrets, making their collaboration even more challenging. However, as they spend time together, their barriers begin to fall. Yet, trust remains a challenge—especially when Zoey fears exposing her children to potential heartbreak and John-Parker wrestles with his own motives. Their journey is one of reconciliation, healing, and deciding whether their connection is worth risking it all.
Suspicious of each other’s intentions, John-Parker questions Zoey’s involvement in the inheritance, while Zoey resents his sudden reappearance after years away. Both carry personal struggles and secrets, making their collaboration even more challenging. However, as they spend time together, their barriers begin to fall. Yet, trust remains a challenge—especially when Zoey fears exposing her children to potential heartbreak and John-Parker wrestles with his own motives. Their journey is one of reconciliation, healing, and deciding whether their connection is worth risking it all.
December 14, 2024
Redeeming the Past by Linda Goodnight is a stirring story. I liked the relatable and realistic characters. Zoey’s son, Owen was adorable. You could tell that he needed a male role model in his life, and he was quite taken with John-Parker Wisdom. The two older men who befriended John-Parker were a hoot. They were a great addition to the story. Both Zoey and John-Parker have had tough times. One had opened their heart to God, but the other had not. Zoey and John-Parker have opposing plans for the house that was left to them. They need to find a solution, or they could both lose out. This is an emotional story that will touch your heart. I like that it is a clean story. There were repetitive details which happen when a story is told from more than one point of view. Redeeming the Past shows us that what we experience as children can affect as adults. This is a story about hope, forgiveness, a new beginning in life and in love, family, and faith. I liked the ending in Redeeming the Past. I am looking forward to the next book in the House of Hope series.
January 7, 2025
Enemies to frenemies to friends to more?
John-Parker Wisdom and Zoey Chavez have very different ideas about what to do with the house they had jointly inherited from Miss Mamie. John-Parker wants to remodel the house and turn it into a home for struggling foster care boys. Zoey wants to remodel the house and sell it, using her half of the proceeds to build a new life for her children.
They go back and forth nearly every day as the house is remodeled. Time and again they butt heads of the final use of the house. John-Parker wants Zoey to give in to his wishes. Zoey wants John-Parker to see reason and sell the house.
Who is going to be the winner in this debate over the use of Miss Mamie's house?
John-Parker Wisdom and Zoey Chavez have very different ideas about what to do with the house they had jointly inherited from Miss Mamie. John-Parker wants to remodel the house and turn it into a home for struggling foster care boys. Zoey wants to remodel the house and sell it, using her half of the proceeds to build a new life for her children.
They go back and forth nearly every day as the house is remodeled. Time and again they butt heads of the final use of the house. John-Parker wants Zoey to give in to his wishes. Zoey wants John-Parker to see reason and sell the house.
Who is going to be the winner in this debate over the use of Miss Mamie's house?
February 17, 2025
Beautiful story!
Another great read by Linda Goodnight! Linda is one of my favorite all time authors of Christian romance! She is a gifted writer, creating wonderful, relatable characters, beautifully written stories of redemption and romance. And above all, her writing honors God, as the gospel is always presented in a clear and engaging way. I came away from this story inspired and uplifted. Thank you Linda for continuing to write great, clean Christian romance!
Another great read by Linda Goodnight! Linda is one of my favorite all time authors of Christian romance! She is a gifted writer, creating wonderful, relatable characters, beautifully written stories of redemption and romance. And above all, her writing honors God, as the gospel is always presented in a clear and engaging way. I came away from this story inspired and uplifted. Thank you Linda for continuing to write great, clean Christian romance!
December 19, 2024
This old house....
Is a metaphor for healing their past. John-Parker inherits a house, but he is not the only one who inherits the house. So does Zoey. They have cross purposes for the house they share. He wants to use it as a home, she wants to sell it to support her kids. Yet, they have to work together, fix up the house and decide what to do. A nicely layered book.
Recommend.
Is a metaphor for healing their past. John-Parker inherits a house, but he is not the only one who inherits the house. So does Zoey. They have cross purposes for the house they share. He wants to use it as a home, she wants to sell it to support her kids. Yet, they have to work together, fix up the house and decide what to do. A nicely layered book.
Recommend.
April 15, 2025
Wow! A lot going on here
I loved the story because it was good but showed some of the ugliness that happens when somebody cares. Two people come together because their mentor is dead but she wants her legacy to continue. More revelations as the story goes n but we find them both relying on God more and more. Thanks for a wonderful story.
I loved the story because it was good but showed some of the ugliness that happens when somebody cares. Two people come together because their mentor is dead but she wants her legacy to continue. More revelations as the story goes n but we find them both relying on God more and more. Thanks for a wonderful story.
December 9, 2024
Redeeming the Past was phenomenal. It is full of hope & redemption. John- Parker & Zoey end up together in the most unconventional way, and seeing them fall in love, while.execurijg their plans was beautiful. My only downside to the book was the fact that it wasn't longer! I loved it.
January 21, 2025
I wasn't sure about this one at first, but this is my favorite Love Inspired non-suspense author, so I kept reading. Turned out to be a great read. Loved the characters, plot, and Christian message of the book.
Read
December 2, 2024Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
House of Hope (Book #1)
Miniseries
House of Hope (Book #1)
Read
December 2, 2024Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
House of Hope (Book #1)
Miniseries
House of Hope (Book #1)
May 18, 2025
Review to follow!
December 29, 2024
Be ready to experience all of your emotions as you read this book. Single mother of two trying to overcome the damage caused by her former husband finds herself having to work with one of the former foster sons of her adopted aunt. Mamie had a lot of secrets but even more love. One foster child held more of her heart than the others. Leaving these two her estate with stipulations leaves them confused and on opposite sides. Will they get answers and come into agreement on what to do with the house? How do they handle the opposition? What does it take for them to admit their hidden feelings? I can't wait to read the rest of this series. Adoption touches my family as well.
November 9, 2024
Linda Goodnight has a way of writing stories that are sweet and heartfelt. It has been a while since I have read a story that intertwines foster care in it and I found it to be refreshing and enlightening. You will definitely want to read this one.
This book is from the Harlequin Love Inspired series and is scheduled to be released November 26,2024 . I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
This book is from the Harlequin Love Inspired series and is scheduled to be released November 26,2024 . I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews