Love's True Home

True Calling #2

by Lori DeJong

Allyson Kincaid needs roots. Born and raised on the foreign mission field, all she wants is home and hearth on American soil. Finally past the break-up with the man she’d thought was the love of her life, she’s ready to put herself back out there. Too bad the first guy who’s made her pulse skip in nearly two years dreams of a life spent in foreign missions. She’s been there, done that, and, although she supports him in his calling, knows his choice means she’ll be laying even more broken dreams, and a newly shattered heart, at the feet of Jesus.

When Zane Carpenter relocates to Arlington, Texas, his seventh move in thirteen years, his only thought is to meet his obligation with Becker Ministries in a few months, then take a foreign mission assignment, his dream for the past several years. But working so closely with Ally in student ministry has him feeling things he’s never experienced. He’s ready for a future with her, until he accepts an opportunity to work on foreign soil and Ally stays behind. He knows God put him there for a reason, although his heart still longs for the girl back home.

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 25, 2024

About the author

Lori DeJong (pronounced DeeYung) is an award-winning contemporary Christian romance author who enjoys penning stories full of grace and the redemptive power of God’s love that inspire others to hope regardless of circumstance, find joy in the moment, and grow in their faith.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Lori arrived in Texas in 2005 and dug those roots right in. She currently resides in beautiful Georgetown, north of Austin, with her husband of thirty years. Other than their two fur-babies, their nest is empty, as their daughter and son-in-law are settled in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.

Lori loves to write about love and romance and all that fun stuff, with a firm foundation of faith. Clean but sassy, sparkly, and even goose-bumpy romance, with God in the middle and characters seeking and learning and changing, couldn’t be more heartwarming or spine-tingly.

Lori's debut novel, "Love's True Calling", released in 2023, was the 2022 winner of the ACFW Genesis Award for Romance, a double finalist in the 2024 Selah Awards, and was named the 2023 Scrivenings Press Contemporary Book of the Year (tie). "Love’s True Home", released in June 2024, was also a Selah finalist. "Love’s True Measure" released in June 2025. Lori's Christmas novella, "Jingle Bell Matchmakers", a part of "A Match Made at Christmas" novella collection, released October 2024, and was named a 2025 ACFW Carol Award finalist.

Reviews

[Staci · Rating 3 out of 5]

This second in the series is primarily about the battle between our own plans and listening for the voice of God to share His plans for us.

After being born into a missionary family, Allyson wants nothing more than to have a home, a garden and a dog in Arlington, Texas. Her dad continues to serve in Central America. When Zane and Allyson meet and find a connection, she's frustrated by what Zane feels as a calling to serve in a foreign mission field. Allyson is a nurse and she's needed and can make a difference anywhere in the world. When none of the jobs in the Dallas Fort Worth area feel like the right one, what's next?

Good messages in the pages of this novel.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a Christian romance, with the emphasis on Christian, so if you don’t like reading about God at work in people’s lives, you may want to skip this one. However, it tells a moving story. I don’t read many romances, but this novel piqued my interest with its focus on serving God and influencing others to walk with Him. The story explores how the characters view God and serve Him, with one main character firmly desiring to stay in the United States and work with teens and the other who feels a call to serve in foreign missions. The two are drawn together, but this conflict may ruin their chance at a happy ever after as a couple. Pain from the past also affect each of them. The tale feels like real life recorded on the pages and makes one think about desires and choices and dealing with conflict. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Amy Anguish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored the first book in this series, so I was excited to read the second. It did not disappoint. Seeing the character I didn't like from the first book be redeemed and more in the second was so satisfying. The story is sweet, but deep, full of attraction and fun, but also growth in both characters. It has great settings, great side characters, and a great ending. I am thoroughly enjoying this series.

[Mary Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved book 2 in Lori Dejong's True Calling series. Love's True Home picked up shortly where Love's True Calling left off ... and I'm SO glad it did! I thoroughly enjoyed both books and wasn't ready for either one to end. Zane and Ally's love story is fraught with past baggage, but I appreciated them facing their struggles through Christ. Can't wait for Love's True Measure. Keep writing!

[Angie Hyche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Christian romance by Lori DeJong. The characters are real and authentic, and they grow closer to God throughout the story as they grow in their faith and in their relationships with each other. I really enjoyed the symbolism represented by Ally’s charm necklace and the description of a thriving college ministry and a thriving foreign mission.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get ready to be swept off your feet and spiritually uplifted with Lori DeJong’s newest gem, Love's True Home. This is so much more love story; it's a soul-stirring journey of faith and devotion that will resonate deeply with anyone seeking to live out God’s calling.

This story touched my heart. Allyson Kincaid longs for stability and a place to call home, and she’s finally ready to settle down on American soil. But God’s plans are different from our own. Enter Zane Carpenter, a man whose heart is set on foreign missions, just as Allyson is ready to embrace a life at home. Their journey together is one of navigating love, faith, and the beautiful, God-ordained blessings that come with truly following His path.

The authenticity of the Christian faith woven throughout the book resonated deeply with me. I found myself relating to both Allyson and Zane at various times, for varied reasons. Allyson’s struggle to reconcile her past and Zane’s steadfast commitment to his calling are portrayed so genuinely. Zane, in particular, stands out as a beacon of faith, always keeping his eyes on Jesus while using his hands and feet to serve Him.

The themes in Love's True Home are beautifully conveyed. This book is a gentle reminder to always put God first, to spend time in prayer, and to live a life worthy of His calling. It inspires me to live out His plans for my life, rather than fulfilling the suggestions and expectations of others.

Although the story doesn’t have dramatic twists and turns, it doesn't need them. The emotional and spiritual depth is where this book truly shines. It evoked a longing in me to immerse myself more in God's Word and to keep my focus on what He wants for my life. This journey of faith and love left a lasting impression on my heart.

Lori DeJong’s writing is engaging and filled with uplifting messages. Here are a few quotes that really stood out to me:

“God has something wonderful planned for you, beyond your wildest dreams. And I can’t wait to see what that is.”

“… please don’t measure your worth based on somebody else’s expectations. Especially expectations that go against what you know is God’s best for you. You do matter. Not only to God, but to a lot of people and for the right reasons.”

“Every night … read Psalm 139. Every single morning for the next seven days, before your feet hit the floor, read that chapter. It’s all about how God made you intricately special and how utterly precious you are. Your Maker knows exactly who He made you to be, so look to Him alone for your identity.”
These quotes are just a glimpse of the wisdom and encouragement found within these pages.

"Love's True Home" is more than just a romance novel; it’s a beautiful testament to the power of faith and living a life dedicated to God’s calling. Lori DeJong has written a story that is both sweet and deeply profound, with characters that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that combines heartfelt romance with deep spiritual insights. It's a journey worth taking, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for you through this story.

I received a digital ARC of Love’s True Home from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love's True Home is a story all about finding your true home, where you belong, and with the people who will be your true home. Ally and Zane both have quite painful pasts, loss of immediate family when they were so young. As they get to know one another, they both open up about their young lives.

Ally really touched me and all that she was going through. Her ex-boyfriend, the one she thought was hers has just married a dear friend of hers. She sees that they are right for one another, but it is letting go of the dream that really makes her cry. I like how she is trying to put her life into perspective and is letting go of all her dreams and trying to be careful to hear the true calling on her life. Not any easy thing to do and a decision she must make every day.

In walks Zane, a swoony, funny, and caring guy who would like to get to know Ally more. As he does, and likes what he sees, he'd like to sweep her off her feet. However, they have some major roadblocks that need to be addressed.

There are family issues that need to be worked through, and also where each see their vision for the ministry. That last one is the big one and one that both are having trouble with. You see, Zane's ultimate dream of foreign mission work is the one thing Ally won't do, due to her history. With all that going on, they must decide if their relationship is worth fighting for at all.

This was an uplifting read that brought all the emotional feels of one moving on from heartbreak and moving on to an unknown future.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love’s True Home by Lori DeJong is a Christian Contemporary Romance. This book is the second book in the True Calling series. While you probably could read this book on its own and enjoy it, I definitely recommend reading the books in order. The first book centers around Harper and Wyatt. This second book centers around Allyson Kincaid and Zane Carpenter.

As someone who moved around a lot growing up, I can appreciate the desire to put down roots and create a home and community. Today's youth need strong Christian leaders to help them build their relationships with God and each other. Dealing with some of our youth's realities today adds a needed dimension to this book.

The author creates two characters on opposite ends of the “putting down roots” spectrum. Raised on the mission field, Allyson craves roots and stability. She finds herself over the man she thought was the love of her life, only to find herself falling for a man who desires to serve in the mission field.

The mix of characters, the storyline development, and the way they come together make this a book I found myself unable to put down. I loved reading about how Allyson and Zane serve the youth of their community. I thought the type of organization they created and the relationships they built would be excellent for today's teens.

So, if you want a Christian Contemporary Romance, check out Love’s True Home by Lori Delong. I recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very special to me because it reminds me that where your heart is, there is your home. I loved following both Allyson and Zane on their journey. They each are seeking God for a direction. Allyson is a gifted nurse who decides to go part time so she can give more to mission work. It must have been a real eye opener to travel to a foreign land and see all the needs for people who had little when she followed her parents overseas. Her emotions are mixed when an opportunity arises.

Zane has a special gift that helps him minister to people. I found his compassion to be what draws people to him. He yearns to go back into the mission field as well. When Zane and Allyson meet, I knew God had brought them together for a reason. The story definitely has a good faith element as we see God in every decision made by these two characters.

I will stop here because moving forward is a journey that readers need to experience on their own. If you have ever wondered where God wants you, read this book and see how He works to help those decisions be made. I enjoyed the honesty of the characters when they shared their struggles. Get ready for a wonderful story that illustrates, grace, humility and deep faith.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Love's True Home” is a wonderful love story bathed in spiritual faith and growth. It beautifully shows how overcoming obstacles makes us stronger and how God puts us where He wants us.

Allyson and Zane are believable characters who show so much growth and are easy to connect with. I enjoyed witnessing them meet and watching as their paths were made straight throughout the story. The strength in this story, for me, is how their faith and growth is so evident.

I enjoyed the writer’s voice, making it effortless to sink into the story. If you enjoy journeying through satisfying redemption stories, look no further. These characters (and some secondary ones as well) will surely find a place in your heart.

First Line: The bouquet sailed through the air, like a guided missile zeroed in on its target.
Series: True Calling, book 2
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Author: Lori DeJong
Page Count: 360

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love's True Home is the second installment from Lori DeJong's True Calling series. I loved the first book, Love's True Calling and was excited to have the opportunity to read this one. I enjoyed the main characters, Allyson and Zane. I found them to be true to life characters who were relatable. Their story was a beautiful that was full of faith and love. I loved it.

I am giving Love's True Home a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe fans of clean romantic fiction will want to give it a read. I would love to read the third book from the True Calling series to see what Lori DeJong has in store for her characters.

I received a paperback copy of Lori DeJong’s Love's True Home from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love’s True Home, by Lori DeJong, is a heart warming, inspirational contemporary Christian romance story. It is the second book in the True Calling series. Having not read the first book in the series, I did find myself wondering about some parts of the story at times. However, the author does a great job introducing characters and giving background information through out the story.

Allyson’s and Zane’s stories are so inspirational. While she grew up a missionary’s child and dreams of a permanent home, he dreams of traveling as a missionary. I enjoyed how similar parts of their youth was, yet how differently they felt about it. This is an enjoyable story to read. I especially enjoyed how well they worked together and how easy they were with responding to each other.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love's True Home" by Lori DeJong is a wonderful book about characters being willing to give up what they want and what they believe God wants them to do. This is a clean romance as well as a spiritual read. I had to keep turning the pages to see if the two main characters ended up together or if God wanted them to be separated in different mission fields. I really love the ending and hope there is another book coming with these characters. this book is also about forgiveness, I did have to put the book down for a little while at one point because of something
That happen in the past to Zane's sister. It was too much real life to me. But, l am glad I picked the book back up this morning and finished it.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit , and these opinions are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a good story about learning to align your will with God and learning how to let go of things that you may want and learning to trust Him. I liked how both Ally and Zane both have dreams that don’t seem to include each other but I liked seeing them work through the difficulties to find a way to be together and follow the Lord’s will. I liked seeing the faith of these characters grow and seeing them be vulnerable with each other. I thought the characters were believable and relatable. Overall, I thought this was a good Christian romance.

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.

[Beth Westcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Allyson and Zane's sweet love story as they learn that following God will involves difficult choices, even if they're committed to ministry. As they fall in love, they discover they must let go of dearly held dreams and deal with the past before they can move forward. The multilayered characters and the plot twists drew me in and kept me reading. The narrative is natural and realistic and includes strong elements of faith and family.

[Kristi Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic read from author Lori DeJong. A character who, perhaps, wasn't a favorite in book #1, Love's True Calling, comes to life and is well-loved in book #2, Love's True Home. A sweet, beautiful love story that includes a cast of loveable friends and family. If you like Karen Kingsbury, take a look at DeJong's True Calling Series. Grab a copy of Love's True Home today.

[Christina Rost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love’s True Home is book # 2 in the Love’s True Calling Series and is perfect blend of romance & heart string tugging journeys of faith! Along with Allyson & Zane’s story you’ll also get a glimpse into how Harper and Wyatt from book # 1 are doing! If you enjoy warm, feel good romance check out Lori’s series! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.

[Trish McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just as good as the first book in the series! I love how the author authentically keeps Faith at the center of the main characters' lives... makes me root for them all the more. I can see the Lord's hand in each of their situations, orchestrating their relationships, and it inspires and encourages! I already can't wait for the next book in the series to be published.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

home is when we’re together

This book demonstrates well that we all have areas that need work. It’s neat how they were both able to help each other with those areas. Home could possibly look the way it should, but when a person follows God’s plan, home is better than he or she ever expected. Well done!

[Barbara Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I enjoyed the characters and reading about the Connect Up ministry. The author did a wonderful job of drawing the reader into the story where you feel a part of the story. I definitely recommend this book.

[Janice Particka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loves true home

I loved this story. Hope there are more like this available soon. There is drama and love in this story. It truly a Christian and God feel adventure. You will not be disappointed in this book.

[Linda Aldridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m really enjoying this series. On to book 3 soon 📚

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lori DeJong did it again! There is just something in the way she writes that gets me.

What happens when you have two people trying to do the will of God, even if it breaks their hearts?That is the formula for a love story you won't want to put down.

If you loved book one in this series, you will fall in love all over again when you read Aly and Zane's story in Love's True Home.

[Renee Gentry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Love's True Home certainly delivers an emotional rollercoaster of a journey. I loved Zane and Ally's love story, and the spiritual journeys they went on to get where they were supposed to be were perfection. The supporting characters were also endearing, and I look forward to the next book in the series.