One Glance of Your Eyes: A Montana Mercies Romance

by Myra Johnson

One chance . . . one glance . . . and their lives will never be the same.


With a heart for lifting men out of homelessness, Carl Anderson is a dedicated counselor-in-residence in a transitional home. When recent setbacks threaten the program’s continuation, he proposes an innovative plan to increase success by pairing at-risk residents with shelter dogs.

One glance from Carl’s stunning new supervisor, and he’s convinced his proposal doesn’t stand a chance. Rae Caldwell admires Carl's passion, but for her, every canine encounter is a heart-rending reminder of her late daughter’s final months and the loyal service dog who never left her side . . . and the tragic end of a marriage too shattered by grief to heal.

As they collaborate on the pilot program, Carl catches glimpses of the vulnerable woman beneath Rae’s chilly façade. Reluctant smiles turn to stolen glances and unspoken hopes for something more—until their carefully guarded pasts intrude and everything goes awry.

Can two wounded souls find the courage to open their hearts? With God’s help, along with a very persistent canine, Carl and Rae may discover that it's never too late for a second chance at love.

Escape to scenic Montana in this faith-filled later-in-life romance novel, and be inspired!

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2024

About the author

Native Texan Myra Johnson writes emotionally gripping stories about love, life, and faith. Myra is a three-time Maggie Awards finalist, two-time finalist for the prestigious ACFW Carol Awards, winner of Christian Retailing’s Best for historical fiction, and winner in the Inspirational category of the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Awards.

After living five years in Oklahoma, then eight years in the beautiful Carolinas, Myra and her husband are thrilled to be back in the Lone Star State enjoying wildflowers, Tex-Mex, and real Texas barbecue! The Johnsons share their home with a very pampered rescue dog and a cat with attitude.

Follow Myra on BookBub, https://www.bookbub.com/profile/myra-..., for deals and new releases.

Awards of note: When the Clouds Roll By, Till We Meet Again, Book 1 (Abingdon Press 2013), won the historical fiction category of the 2014 Christian Retailing's Best Award. Autumn Rains (Heartsong Presents 2009), won the 2005 RWA Golden Heart for Best Inspirational Romance Manuscript.

Myra’s writing career was launched in 1985 when she sold her first short story while taking a course through the Institute of Children’s Literature. Myra later joined the ICL staff as a magazine writing instructor, teaching hundreds of students the fundamentals of story and article structure, plotting, character development, and market analysis. She now writes full-time and is active in her church as well as local and national writers groups.

Myra and her husband have been married for 50+ years. The Johnsons have two married daughters, seven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

Reviews

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A touching story of finding love…at just the right time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Featuring two people with broken dreams and painful pasts, this book brings out a depth of emotions as tiny steps are taken toward forgiveness….and love.

I felt for Carl Anderson’s childhood situation. He’d tried to be a good older brother in a dysfunctional home, but is haunted by what happened. Now he’s a counselor in a transitional home for men and wants to add a dog therapy program. When Rae Caldwell becomes Carl’s new supervisor, she is reluctant to support Carl’s new idea. They must find a way to work together despite raw emotions from past difficulties.

I really felt empathy for the couple because of the traumas they’d each experienced and for Rae while she struggles to find her way back to God. As they stumbled to fix their own issues, I admired their desires to help each other. Plus I love the supportive community of Missoula, Montana, including folks from earlier books, as everyone watches out for their friends. The pups are fun, especially loyal, blue-eyed Frankie. And what a great ending!

I always enjoy author Myra Johnson’s faith-filled stories with deeply touching characters. I highly recommend One Glance of Your Eyes.

Favorite quotes:
God did seem to be moving in her life and in her heart again…or else she was finally appreciating the fact He’d been with her all along.
“I’ve learned worry is a waste of spiritual energy…..Either we trust God for our highest good, or we don’t.”

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carl is passionate about helping homeless men get off the streets and into stable lives - and he's convinced that his proposal to have some adopt selected dogs from the local shelter will make all the difference. But his first meeting with his new boss convinces him that she'll torpedo the idea, and he may need to put his best foot forward to even keep his job. For Rae, dogs are a reminder of her daughter's death and her family falling apart, so she's not happy to be in charge of Carl's new program. But as they spend time together, it opens the door to healing, and maybe more - if they can only make peace with their pasts...

An inspiring story of love and healing. I found Carl's attitude to his brother a bit hard to take at times, but it made sense that it was something he had to work through, and it made a beautiful picture of redemption. Rae tried so hard to help, albeit with mixed success, but it really showed her heart. Together, they make a great couple, once they finally work things out. The result is a story that is a satisfying and enjoyable read, with interesting characters, a thought-provoking message and a inspiring ending. Recommended, and I'm looking forward to more by the author.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barbara Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will confess it took a bit to get into this book for once I did I was hooked, and I ended up absolutely loving the story.

Carl has such a heart for homeless men and runs a successful ministry to help them. But he wants to do more. He’s working with a canine project to help these men transition out of homelessness and find healing and a fresh start.

Rae has been hired to work as a liaison with the main organization that supports Carl ministry. She’s given up on God, after all, he’s allowed her greatest hurt, and she wants nothing to do with dogs.

While this is definitely a romance. It is a very different one. The attraction is there, but these two also have so many obstacles that neither can fathom how to breach.

There’s much healing that takes place in this book which also includes a very strong faith element.

Beautifully done!

[Kayla H | Mom Devours Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main characters in this book are "real" people with real issues, as are many of their family members. There is a theme of redemption and restoration woven throughout and demonstrates how they grew closer to God and each other.

Rae had a failed marriage and a codependent family. Carl grew up in foster care and was separated from his brother. Yet, their career in ministry brought them together. With the help of friends and a few dogs, they find their way to each other.

This was my first book to read from this author, and I really enjoyed it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barbara Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming and Interesting

The first chapter snags your heart and attaches it to Carl’s. He has so much to lose and his potential for more loss keeps building throughout the pages. Who doesn’t have family difficulties? The ones in this story will make you think they are people you know. Beautiful friendships, tough decisions, of course the dogs, and an HEA make this well done story one you won’t want to miss.

[Erin Laramore]

Review to come

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written story. There is good character development. It is a Christian story, which I like, not preachy but we see how the characters are drawn closer to God. There are some serious issues the characters have to face, so it's not a fluffy story, but it isn't so heavy that it is hard to read. There is romance, too.

[Carol Ackerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was mostly about relationships. The ones we have with co-workers, friends, family, and God.
Rae and Carl become coworkers and have to learn to trust one another. Rae and her siblings have dependency issues. Carl and his brother have been estranged and need to rebuild their relationship.

But none of these relationships can have a happy ever after without the individuals having a right relationship with their Heavenly Father first.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The opinions and comments are entirely my own.

[Terry T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a sweet opposites attract, work place, enemies to more romance with no cliffhanger.
Some of the lines I really like --- Caring for an animal is a commitment. It nurtures gentleness, kindness, patience, self-control—fruits of the spirit we continually strive to instill in our residents. I firmly believe this program could have a lasting positive effect on both the men and the dogs.” --- “No matter how much we trust the Lord, we can’t escape our longing—our very real need—to be seen, loved, and valued by another human being." --- "Make a list of all those people you’ve conveniently forgotten about who at various times were there to show you the hands and heart of Jesus. Because without them, no way you’d have become the generous, compassionate, God-loving man you are today.” --- "The memories never go away, but you learn to live with them. You can only try with every ounce of strength you possess to keep moving forward, one day at a time.” --- “It’s never too late, and no one’s ever so far gone that God can’t turn things around." --- “We’re created to be in relationship. In the Book of Genesis, God makes it clear that being alone isn’t good for us. We need Him most of all, but we also need each other.” --- “Don’t be afraid of the tears. Let them wash away the pain and sorrow so you can finally heal.” --- "you’ve got to quit dwelling on what was and start looking ahead. The past is done with. What matters is what you do with the future God’s given you. He’s calling you to something better.
Something more amazing than anything you’ve yet to imagine.” --- "That’s like asking why the sun rises every day, why the stars come out at night.” --- “God in His mercy really has turned my life upside down.” ---
What's Witt up to? What's Kitty up to? What's Mr. Isaac up to? What's Ellis up to? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Rae and Carl's story and I'm sure you will too. This is the first book of her's that I've read, but it definitely won't be the last.

[Gwen Chester · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good! I loved all of the characters and how they worked together. The plot was great and everyone has to love the wonderful ending of this book. You all know how you get a book and think I am not sure if I am going to like this book or not and then you love it and hate to see the book end--well that would be this book. If you are in the mood for a good, clean, wholesome book this is it and I highly recommend this good to you.

This is a book about finding love when you least expect it. And learning to accept some things that we are very bitter about. Knowing that the Lord is always there for us thru it all. This book is based around two people Carl Anderson and Rae Caldwell. Two people who have had a hard time in their lives and very painful pasts, the book shows us how heart broken they are and how these deep emotions lead toward forgiveness and love. Can these two wounded souls find the courage to open their hearts? With God's help and beautiful dog that guides them in the right direction and helps them discover it is never too late to find a second chance at love.

Carl Anderson runs a transitional home. Where he takes men that are homeless in and helps them get reestablished in their lives. He is a dedicated counselor at the live in residence and a very kind, loving heart. Right now they are going through a very rough time at the home due to recent setbacks and the home may be in jeopardy of closing. Carl has the idea of pairing at-risk residents with shelter dogs and training them. One look at his new boss Rae Caldwell and he just knows that she hates the new idea. And as they pilot this new program and get it up and running they begin to grow closer and get to really know each other.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carl Anderson was a counselor in a Christian ministry program to help transition homeless men back into society. The program was not without its troubles, but Carl persevered and did a wonderful job, until recently when a few more problems threatened the programs funding and existence. Carl's childhood was spent in foster care, which separated him from his little brother. It's a secret he hasn't shared with anyone and one that still haunts him.
Rae is a new hire whose job is to supervise and help oversee the program. As Carl's boss, she's both professional and intimidating. As they work together & each other's vulnerabilities are revealed, can they become more--maybe even friends? Does God still answer prayer?
Rae was the eldest sibling in her family & was always expected to be the responsible one, the shoulder to cry on and the tower of strength. But was she? Her past heartbreak and ability to no longer trust in God needed to remain a secret, because she needed this new job.
The story started out slow but picked up. I liked how the author used life's experiences and lessons to encourage and help others, change hearts, and lead on paths back to God. A redeeming story! I'm so glad for the HEA ending that I had hoped for but wasn't sure was going to happen. And Frankie, a rescue dog, was a champion in the story!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deeply inspiring novel
Carl, a steadfast Christian, with a troubled childhood he prefers not to remember, and Rae, who struggles with building relationships and who hides her doubt in God’s presence, are forced to work in partnership in their ministry of rehabilitating formerly homeless men. When Carl proposes adding support dogs to the programme, Rae, reeling from recent tragedy involving a dog, voices her disagreement.
Ms Johnson has created a narrative rich in faith, emotion and detail, which delves into the relationships between family, friends and colleagues. Although the primary focus is on Rae and Carl, the author has developed the secondary characters to be a significant part of the story. She also highlights the authenticity and sixth sense of animal companions in bringing comfort and healing to their human carers.
Although this is a work of fiction, the credible characterisation and themes included in this novel are ideal for Christian study groups.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think we need more of these transitional homes in our world as well as in our hearts. There is so much pain in families where people's struggles have just become too much to bear and unless you have faith and a found family or friends who can help to support with love, assistance and the witness of God to share, it can become disabling.
The canine program is promising as I find the love of a pet is unconditional. I think the eyes mentioned in the title are from the pets we have around us.
Carl knows he is standing at the edge of a cliff. His concern for the men under his care and training is palpable and so reliant on financial as well as the good grace of a board controlling the purse strings. When a new representative, Rae, joins the company, with her baggage on her shoulders, it looks like there could be a clash. We learn that God doesn't only allow hardship, but also sends the right people to help if we just open our eyes.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in the mood for a clean romance with some meaning to the story and this one fit the bill. It was my first time reading a book by this author and I plan on reading more by her.

Carl and Rae both have family issues that interfer with knowing how to have a good relationship. In the story, the author makes you think about the foster care system and some potential causes of those caught in being homeless. Carl's history gives a lot of food for thought. Rae has other family issues with being the oldest sibling of 6. Her family depends on her in many ways.

Faith, dogs and good friends help to bring them together. So much of the story is strengthen by the faith developed by the characters and things they say can be impactful to you as the reader.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Janine Barnard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in the mood for a clean romance with some meaning to the story and this one was it for me. It was my first time reading a book by this author and I plan on reading more by her.

Carl and Rae both have family issues that interfer with knowing how to have a good relationship. In the story, the author makes you think about the foster care system and some potential causes of those caught in being homeless. Carl's history gives a lot of food for thought. Rae has other family issues with being the oldest sibling of 6. Her family depends on her in basically all aspects of life.

Faith, dogs and good friends help to bring them together. So much of the story is strengthen by the faith developed by the characters and things they say can be impactful to you as the reader.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kathryn Haueisen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a life-long lover of dogs, I was especially touched by the starring role played by one of several dogs in this inspiring tale about overcoming adversity. It is a realistic look at how people too easily wind up in horrific circumstances. Some are destined to such outcomes by the lack of childhood essentials of competent and compassionate adults to guide them toward adulthood. Some wind up there because of their own poor choices. This is a great look at the difference a few caring people can make in the lives of others. There is a budding romance and Johnson beautifully describes the on and off efforts of two wounded people in how they approach and repel one another. Mostly there is the power of an eternal divine love that simply will not give up on people. And a canine with the same dogged termination to love and be loved. A great summer read.

[Floraljoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Christian romance:
This was an uplifting and encouraging Christian romance. It explored complex issues such as foster care, homelessness and forgiveness whilst still being a fairly positive and upbeat story. I did like that the characters were flawed with real issues, although this did result in me taking a while to warm up to Rae. I was nevertheless pleased that Carl and Rae found each other.
It took a while for me to
Although this was supposedly the first book in the Montana Mercies series, I did feel like I had missed out a bit as characters from prior books were featured. I enjoyed the strong Christian message which was woven throughout but overall I found the story to be a bit idealistic and predictable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[C.Y. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an emotional yet stunningly beautiful read. The story is told through the eyes of Carl, Ellis, and Rae, each haunted by a past that makes trust a daunting task. Carl leads a program in Wyche that offers homeless men a fresh start through dog training. Rae, a participant in the program, grapples with dog interaction, and the reason is artfully disclosed within the narrative. Ellis, a brother separated from Carl at a young age, adds complexity to the story. The narrative delves into redemption, forgiveness, and the unwavering love of God, providing a comforting message. I wholeheartedly endorse this remarkable book.

I was given an advanced copy of this book for free, and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good. It's well written and holds your attention from the first page until the last. It has a cast of wonderful characters and deals with real life problems. It's a great read that you don't want to miss.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica Hembree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super sweet story! Faith and passionate causes and dogs!!! The characters are broken, real, relatable characters. It’s not a perfect storybook romance, but it’s a sweet, realistic, and tough in moments. Very good book!

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myra did a wonderful job at pulling you into the story and connecting with the characters in varying aspects. I truly enjoyed this story and hope to read more of her writing. This had wonderful characters, page-turner, inspirational, and HEA.

[Clara K Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book… it was truly a Christian book. I loved the characters, flaws and all. How throughout the book God was leading them to forgiveness and mending bridges with their families.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

This is a great story of transition & healing. 4-5 characters find hope, faith and healing of broken relationships.
This author kept the story moving and working towards resolutions to difficult relationships.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An emotional yet inspiring later in life romance. Loved the amazing setting, realistic storyline using rescue dogs and faith being at the front and center. Beautifully written with heart and authentic characters. 100% recommend!

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this emotional romance with real life situations and family difficulties. The characters were interesting and I liked how they became so supportive to each other.

[Lilian · Rating 1 out of 5]

First, I got irritated by how Rae behaved. Then when I started liking her, Carl became like a different person. Dnf at 40%