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Falling for the Preacher
Eleanor Handson has thrown herself into serving and loving single moms and children. Marriage has long since become a faded dream, ever since Austen Stuart walked out of her life—not that she ever really planned to marry him in the first place.
Austen Stuart is invested in church ministry while he interns under his pastor. Eleanor has barely crossed his mind for the last twelve years—maybe a little on purpose.
When Austen is called upon to ask for Eleanor’s help in the aiding of a young woman, they’re forced to work together. Can two estranged friends be reconciled by the united efforts to help another soul in need?
Austen Stuart is invested in church ministry while he interns under his pastor. Eleanor has barely crossed his mind for the last twelve years—maybe a little on purpose.
When Austen is called upon to ask for Eleanor’s help in the aiding of a young woman, they’re forced to work together. Can two estranged friends be reconciled by the united efforts to help another soul in need?
207 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2024
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Foster
10 books144 followersHannah Foster lives in Idaho with her husband. She writes Christian contemporary fiction, using her words and stories to point her readers to the foot of the cross, reminding them of the hope, joy, forgiveness, and grace they have in Jesus Christ. If she is not reading or writing, she may be found baking, working as a barista, watercolor painting, playing tennis with her husband, or thrifting.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
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August 6, 2024Updated 8/6/24: The ebook is now available for purchase, or you can read on KU for free. The paperbacks are now available for purchase as well. Enjoy!
If you love prolife themes, a little bit of enemy to lover, small town setting, and sweet and clean romance with strong Christian themes then I think you'll enjoy this book.
If you love prolife themes, a little bit of enemy to lover, small town setting, and sweet and clean romance with strong Christian themes then I think you'll enjoy this book.
July 24, 2024
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Hannah Foster is a master at writing Christ-centered, romantic stories!
Austen and Eleanor were both relatable characters who had real-life struggles. I loved how they served others, and I enjoyed "seeing" them get together. I also liked getting an update on Cash and Annabelle, the main characters in Falling for the Farmer.
Plenty of character development, sweet moments, and struggles kept me flipping those electronic pages. I appreciated that Hannah Foster kept both the romance and language clean, and, like I said at the beginning of my review, I loved how Christ-centered this story was.
Overall, Falling for the Preacher was a sweet read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and contemporary romance.
Hannah Foster is a master at writing Christ-centered, romantic stories!
Austen and Eleanor were both relatable characters who had real-life struggles. I loved how they served others, and I enjoyed "seeing" them get together. I also liked getting an update on Cash and Annabelle, the main characters in Falling for the Farmer.
Plenty of character development, sweet moments, and struggles kept me flipping those electronic pages. I appreciated that Hannah Foster kept both the romance and language clean, and, like I said at the beginning of my review, I loved how Christ-centered this story was.
Overall, Falling for the Preacher was a sweet read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and contemporary romance.
July 26, 2024
* Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.*
*Watch my full review here: https://youtu.be/alc8CYbqKR0?si=CUPbR... *
A Beautiful Story! 4 Stars!
I was excited to hear that there was a sequel coming in A Still Meadows Romance series. I enjoyed Falling for the Farmer and was intrigued to return to the world of Cash, Annabelle and Austen.
And Foster did not disappoint. This was a worthy sequel full of the same values, messages and heart. The same easy-going country setting was there and I was pleased to recognize familiar names right from the start.
The romance was so sweet! I enjoyed following along and watching as Eleanor and Austen went from enemies to friends to lovers. It was great seeing their relationship go deeper than just “feelings and fluff” as they were supportive and encouraging to one another. Beyond this cute couple was Charlie- oh goodness, he was a handful but so cute! And Eleanor’s unconditional love for him was so endearing.
One of my favorite themes was that of the importance of family and the church raising up strong men that aren’t afraid to lead their families. Such a good message and prevalent to today!
My only dislike was that Eleanor made herself so busy while trying to deal with a bad situation that she did Austen badly for a time. I felt bad for him. But Eleanor is a very relatable character so…I can kinda see it. But poor Austen.
All in all-I really enjoyed this sweet story and recommend it if you like wholesome Christian romance, country settings and family values. Special thanks to the author for the ARC copy! 🙂
*Watch my full review here: https://youtu.be/alc8CYbqKR0?si=CUPbR... *
A Beautiful Story! 4 Stars!
I was excited to hear that there was a sequel coming in A Still Meadows Romance series. I enjoyed Falling for the Farmer and was intrigued to return to the world of Cash, Annabelle and Austen.
And Foster did not disappoint. This was a worthy sequel full of the same values, messages and heart. The same easy-going country setting was there and I was pleased to recognize familiar names right from the start.
The romance was so sweet! I enjoyed following along and watching as Eleanor and Austen went from enemies to friends to lovers. It was great seeing their relationship go deeper than just “feelings and fluff” as they were supportive and encouraging to one another. Beyond this cute couple was Charlie- oh goodness, he was a handful but so cute! And Eleanor’s unconditional love for him was so endearing.
One of my favorite themes was that of the importance of family and the church raising up strong men that aren’t afraid to lead their families. Such a good message and prevalent to today!
My only dislike was that Eleanor made herself so busy while trying to deal with a bad situation that she did Austen badly for a time. I felt bad for him. But Eleanor is a very relatable character so…I can kinda see it. But poor Austen.
All in all-I really enjoyed this sweet story and recommend it if you like wholesome Christian romance, country settings and family values. Special thanks to the author for the ARC copy! 🙂
September 26, 2024
Okay, where do I start with this review? This book was highly anticipated once the author shared with me she was writing Austen's story, a side character in "Falling for the Farmer". I enjoyed the latter story, and I was so very excited for this sequel featuring Annabelle's brother.
This story was so very touching, with a good dose of Hallmark-y sweetness (in the best sense possible), while having the struggles and trials of real life woven in, and great character growth. And I'm not sure if I should admit this or not...but Austen was a favorite character in the first book, but Eleanor quickly became my favorite! I absolutely adored her! This author did a wonderful job portraying her sweet personality, while also giving her struggles to work through. And my heart ached for her with the little boy she fostered.
And the romance!!! Such a sweet, clean relationship and I loved how Austen did his best to communicate with Eleanor. I really liked this relationship's development. It was also great to see Cash and Annabelle from the first book.
Ah, I just can't say enough about this book. It was a satisfying sequel. I would dearly love to see these characters again, but I'm not sure if this author has any more plans involving them. Either way, I highly recommend both stories!
I give this book 5/5 stars and it will be going on my list of favorite books of 2024. Well done, Mrs. Foster!
*I wanted to place a note here for younger readers that this book does involve the topics of miscarriage and pregnancy out of wedlock. Both topics were handled gracefully and Biblically, but I just wanted to give a heads up to younger readers or anybody who has experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage and might struggle with that theme in books.
This story was so very touching, with a good dose of Hallmark-y sweetness (in the best sense possible), while having the struggles and trials of real life woven in, and great character growth. And I'm not sure if I should admit this or not...but Austen was a favorite character in the first book, but Eleanor quickly became my favorite! I absolutely adored her! This author did a wonderful job portraying her sweet personality, while also giving her struggles to work through. And my heart ached for her with the little boy she fostered.
And the romance!!! Such a sweet, clean relationship and I loved how Austen did his best to communicate with Eleanor. I really liked this relationship's development. It was also great to see Cash and Annabelle from the first book.
Ah, I just can't say enough about this book. It was a satisfying sequel. I would dearly love to see these characters again, but I'm not sure if this author has any more plans involving them. Either way, I highly recommend both stories!
I give this book 5/5 stars and it will be going on my list of favorite books of 2024. Well done, Mrs. Foster!
*I wanted to place a note here for younger readers that this book does involve the topics of miscarriage and pregnancy out of wedlock. Both topics were handled gracefully and Biblically, but I just wanted to give a heads up to younger readers or anybody who has experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage and might struggle with that theme in books.
August 8, 2024
4 stars. For the first 4 chapters of this book I was wondering why Austen hated Eleanor so much—and when I found out, I laughed out loud. What a grudge to hold for 12 years!
From the above, you can extrapolate that humour isn’t lacking in this little story. Neither is the heartwarming. I’m not an avid romance reader but I enjoyed seeing A& E’s courtship blossom. They did a fantastic job building a solid, respectful, Christ-centred relationship! I love how Lucy’s and Charlie’s stories were interwoven, bringing in a solid pro-life message, but also emphasizing the practical, daily life help that is a part of the pro-life belief. All the characters were enjoyable, and dare I hint I’d love to see a romance featuring Devin next??
As always with Hannah Foster’s stories, the cozy small town feels are a joy, and the Christian message is strong. Fans of Contemporary Christian Fiction and/or Romance, don’t miss this sweet, simple story! Recommendation: 16+
Content:
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
From the above, you can extrapolate that humour isn’t lacking in this little story. Neither is the heartwarming. I’m not an avid romance reader but I enjoyed seeing A& E’s courtship blossom. They did a fantastic job building a solid, respectful, Christ-centred relationship! I love how Lucy’s and Charlie’s stories were interwoven, bringing in a solid pro-life message, but also emphasizing the practical, daily life help that is a part of the pro-life belief. All the characters were enjoyable, and dare I hint I’d love to see a romance featuring Devin next??
As always with Hannah Foster’s stories, the cozy small town feels are a joy, and the Christian message is strong. Fans of Contemporary Christian Fiction and/or Romance, don’t miss this sweet, simple story! Recommendation: 16+
Content:
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
August 1, 2024
I loved this cozy Christian romance even more than the first one in the series. Austen and Eleanor’s relationship felt natural and unforced–and its premise was unique and humorous. Eleanor was my favorite character–I admired how she helped those in need but could also relate to her thoughts and actions.
I also loved the small-town setting and writing style. Despite being set in contemporary times, this story has a vintage feeling that I absolutely adored. This is exactly what Christian fiction should be–I couldn’t recommend Falling for the Preacher more.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I also loved the small-town setting and writing style. Despite being set in contemporary times, this story has a vintage feeling that I absolutely adored. This is exactly what Christian fiction should be–I couldn’t recommend Falling for the Preacher more.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 12, 2024
I loved this story! It’s not just a sweet romance that feels like the story of some friends, but it shares some of the joys and heartbreak of foster care, the struggles of letting go, the silly grudges people can hang on to (oh, Austen!), and the joys of true friendship. I might have teared up over parts of it, smiled over others, and given a happy sigh when I reached the end.
Well written, wonderful characters who weren’t perfect but who grew in their Christian walk, and in friendship. The Christian messages were so good and not just tagged on or stuck in so it could be called “Christian.”
Well written, wonderful characters who weren’t perfect but who grew in their Christian walk, and in friendship. The Christian messages were so good and not just tagged on or stuck in so it could be called “Christian.”
August 28, 2024
In all honesty, I think this is more of a 3.5 for me, BUT I did still like it. The romance was sweet, gentle, and gradual with moments of humor sprinkled in. I did think the situation with Charlie was resolved a little too quickly, but it didn't hamper my enjoyment of the story.
****
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
****
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
January 20, 2025
Never say never. Despite some of the initial protestations of the characters in this book, it's fun to see what God does when our first impressions change. This is a sweet romance between Austen and Eleanor where we get to see them minister to others and admire each other's heart in doing so. Though we end up getting more of a glimpse of what Eleanor does in her pregnancy care ministry, I love that their callings complement each other as they love and shepherd those in need. This book exemplifies just what an impact Christians can have through small actions, whether through taking someone to the doctor, babysitting for them, or providing support to single mothers.
Austen and Eleanor are faithful and consistent in their giving natures whether they are embarking on official ministry activities or personal ones. The Gospel is clearly presented through word and deed, and it's reassuring to know that the Father is always waiting for us. The realities around foster parenting are presented realistically, with a full spectrum of emotions depicted. If you enjoy reading about Christians working in difficult ministries but who lovingly open their hands and hearts to others, this is a tender-hearted and selfless story about two young adults who do just that and in the process, find even more to love about one another.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
I am grateful to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Austen and Eleanor are faithful and consistent in their giving natures whether they are embarking on official ministry activities or personal ones. The Gospel is clearly presented through word and deed, and it's reassuring to know that the Father is always waiting for us. The realities around foster parenting are presented realistically, with a full spectrum of emotions depicted. If you enjoy reading about Christians working in difficult ministries but who lovingly open their hands and hearts to others, this is a tender-hearted and selfless story about two young adults who do just that and in the process, find even more to love about one another.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
I am grateful to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
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September 2, 2024This is such a sweet and wholesome Christian romance. The kind that provides a comfort-read, while still addressing important topics with depth. I smiled while reading and may have had to brush away a tear or two as well.
FTC disclosure: I received a copy of the story in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required.
FTC disclosure: I received a copy of the story in exchange for an honest review. A positive review was not required.
June 26, 2025
Falling for the Preacher is the first book I have read from author Hannah Foster and it has been a delightful read. Hannah Foster did not hold back from writing the truth about Jesus’ love and how we should love others like Christ loves us. I was pleased that from the start of chapter one, Jesus and salvation was mentioned multiple times.
The characters Eleanor and Austen encounter unique circumstances, yet are still relatable. As a new mom, I enjoyed the accuracy of motherhood that was displayed when Eleanor was caring for a child named Charlie.
This book involves strong family values, trust in God, forgiveness, servants hearts, and a seemingly unlikely love between two people that avoided each other for years.
Falling for the Preacher is a no spice, kiss only book that I can’t wait to recommend to friends. Be prepared to shed tears while reading chapter 16 and 17.
The characters Eleanor and Austen encounter unique circumstances, yet are still relatable. As a new mom, I enjoyed the accuracy of motherhood that was displayed when Eleanor was caring for a child named Charlie.
This book involves strong family values, trust in God, forgiveness, servants hearts, and a seemingly unlikely love between two people that avoided each other for years.
Falling for the Preacher is a no spice, kiss only book that I can’t wait to recommend to friends. Be prepared to shed tears while reading chapter 16 and 17.
August 9, 2024
This was a short and sweet clean contemporary romance. It had enjoyable characters, a strong pro-life message, and clear presentations of the Gospel.
The premise behind the second chance romance felt uncomfortable to me , and then for my liking. It was still a good read though! Hannah Foster clearly puts a lot of thought and care into her craft.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The premise behind the second chance romance felt uncomfortable to me , and then for my liking. It was still a good read though! Hannah Foster clearly puts a lot of thought and care into her craft.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews