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Hatcher Hollow #1
Reckless Love: A Redemption Story
A pregnant girl
A desperate woman
The God who sees them both
Amina Abdel’s sheltered world is turned upside down when she finds herself alone and with child. The daughter of immigrants flees her mother’s judgment and father’s shame, unexpectedly finding shelter with the small town’s pastor and his wife. Their kindness feels foreign to Amina, until she realizes they too want something from her—the baby.
All Melissa Abrams has ever wanted was a son to carry on her husband’s family legacy of keeping an Abrams man behind the pulpit. As barrenness pushes her to a breaking point, God seemingly drops the answer on their doorstep. Clinging to this last hope, she ignores the warning signs and forges ahead, convinced this is God’s plan.
When Amina second-guesses giving up her child, Melissa’s desperation drives her to an ill-conceived arrangement that will test them both. Will the little boy that initially tied them together be what breaks them apart? Or is God’s hand in it all to bring lost sheep into the fold?
This Hagar and Sarah-inspired novel puts a contemporary spin on an ancient story of struggle, longing, heartbreak and redemption.
A desperate woman
The God who sees them both
Amina Abdel’s sheltered world is turned upside down when she finds herself alone and with child. The daughter of immigrants flees her mother’s judgment and father’s shame, unexpectedly finding shelter with the small town’s pastor and his wife. Their kindness feels foreign to Amina, until she realizes they too want something from her—the baby.
All Melissa Abrams has ever wanted was a son to carry on her husband’s family legacy of keeping an Abrams man behind the pulpit. As barrenness pushes her to a breaking point, God seemingly drops the answer on their doorstep. Clinging to this last hope, she ignores the warning signs and forges ahead, convinced this is God’s plan.
When Amina second-guesses giving up her child, Melissa’s desperation drives her to an ill-conceived arrangement that will test them both. Will the little boy that initially tied them together be what breaks them apart? Or is God’s hand in it all to bring lost sheep into the fold?
This Hagar and Sarah-inspired novel puts a contemporary spin on an ancient story of struggle, longing, heartbreak and redemption.
336 pages, Paperback
Published September 26, 2024
46 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 3, 2024
Reckless Love by Kate Goodwin - 5 Stars
Wow, what a story. Beautiful. Redemptive.
Blog post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This book is a Hagar and Sarah inspired story with a contemporary spin. Amina (Amy) finds herself a single woman, pregnant with no where to go. Melissa has always wanted a son to carry on her husband's family legacy. When Melissa is told she is going through Menopause and her pregnancy test is negative, she feels her entire hope of having a family has gone. As barrenness pushes her to a breaking point, God seemingly drops the answer on their doorstop - or so they think. Amina and Melissa's arrangement doesn't go to plan and they are both put to the test. And Melissa's thoughts of what's to come gets changed by the true plans of the Lord.
I was thoroughly impressed with this biblical retelling. I love how Kate put this contemporary spin on it and you really felt empathy with the characters and the heartbreak they were going through. The grace and mercy given in the end of this book was absolutely beautiful.
Seeing Amina's story and her coming to Jesus was very impactful. I loved Loretta and Tom as they were the hands and feet of Jesus in the moments Amina needed it most. Seeing how the Lord worked in these families lives in the end made me cry - such a beautiful, emotional ending. Absolutely lovely faith content.
If you like biblical retellings or contemporary stories by Francine Rivers, this would be a perfect read for you.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content warning: infertility, premature birth
Wow, what a story. Beautiful. Redemptive.
Blog post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This book is a Hagar and Sarah inspired story with a contemporary spin. Amina (Amy) finds herself a single woman, pregnant with no where to go. Melissa has always wanted a son to carry on her husband's family legacy. When Melissa is told she is going through Menopause and her pregnancy test is negative, she feels her entire hope of having a family has gone. As barrenness pushes her to a breaking point, God seemingly drops the answer on their doorstop - or so they think. Amina and Melissa's arrangement doesn't go to plan and they are both put to the test. And Melissa's thoughts of what's to come gets changed by the true plans of the Lord.
I was thoroughly impressed with this biblical retelling. I love how Kate put this contemporary spin on it and you really felt empathy with the characters and the heartbreak they were going through. The grace and mercy given in the end of this book was absolutely beautiful.
Seeing Amina's story and her coming to Jesus was very impactful. I loved Loretta and Tom as they were the hands and feet of Jesus in the moments Amina needed it most. Seeing how the Lord worked in these families lives in the end made me cry - such a beautiful, emotional ending. Absolutely lovely faith content.
If you like biblical retellings or contemporary stories by Francine Rivers, this would be a perfect read for you.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content warning: infertility, premature birth
September 25, 2024
I haven't read a contemporary retelling of Sarah and Hagar's story before, but I am thankful that I had the opportunity to do so. This was a book that unearthed so many emotions, including anger, frustration, disappointment, pain, and jealousy. I felt what the characters on the page were feeling and could relate to Amina and Melissa in various ways. This was skillfully written with multiple POVs where we could truly journey with the women as they expressed heartbreak in the midst of their trials. This book hit the nail on the head for me of what it looks like when we try to make plans for ourselves without God's leading and the consequences that arise due to running ahead of Him.
The spiritual depth in Reckless Love is astounding as Amina and Melissa encounter God's truths in fresh ways, whether through friends, church, or the pastors in the story. What I appreciated most is that none of the scenes felt forced and could be plausible enough given the state of desperation in someone's life. It was refreshing and realistic to read a story about an immigrant family, along with found families, written as sensitively as this one was. If you're looking for a gripping story of God's fulfilled promises and His heart in providing for His children, this is a book that will bless, encourage, and edify readers.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
The spiritual depth in Reckless Love is astounding as Amina and Melissa encounter God's truths in fresh ways, whether through friends, church, or the pastors in the story. What I appreciated most is that none of the scenes felt forced and could be plausible enough given the state of desperation in someone's life. It was refreshing and realistic to read a story about an immigrant family, along with found families, written as sensitively as this one was. If you're looking for a gripping story of God's fulfilled promises and His heart in providing for His children, this is a book that will bless, encourage, and edify readers.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
October 4, 2024
Ug. Lee. Crying. I am SO ugly crying over here. I don't even know how to form words for this review.
So this is a modern day Sarah and Hagar retelling. And let me tell you, it's been retold POWERFULLY here. Did I mention my ugly crying?
Oh my goodness! I just realized something else that took me entirely too long to realize! Amina and her family are from Egypt. EGYPT. Wow. How did that not compute before?
Sorry; I saw a squirrel.
I honestly don't know what to say other than I have been deeply impacted by this book. God really sees us, you know?
This book is going to stay with me for a long LONG time.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
So this is a modern day Sarah and Hagar retelling. And let me tell you, it's been retold POWERFULLY here. Did I mention my ugly crying?
Oh my goodness! I just realized something else that took me entirely too long to realize! Amina and her family are from Egypt. EGYPT. Wow. How did that not compute before?
Sorry; I saw a squirrel.
I honestly don't know what to say other than I have been deeply impacted by this book. God really sees us, you know?
This book is going to stay with me for a long LONG time.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
September 26, 2024
I received an advance digital copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love retellings. I’ve read some amazing fairytale retellings, mythology retellings, and retellings of classic novels. But some of my very favorite retellings have been those that reimagine a Biblical story in some unique way. For example, Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is a brilliant retelling of the book of Hosea, set during the American Gold Rush. A recent favorite, A Crown of Chains by Erin Phillips, is a dark fantasy reimagining of the book of Esther, and I found it incredibly original. Reckless Love is a contemporary reimagining of the story of Sarah and Hagar, and I thought it was incredibly well done. Goodwin captured the heartache and betrayal of their story, but also gave us the kind of hope and restoration that is only found in Jesus, thus breathing so much grace and forgiveness into the story.
The first character we meet is Amina. Eighteen and pregnant, Amina runs away from the convenience story her family calls home because she knows her parents won’t forgive her mistake. Melissa Abrams is a pastor’s wife. The Abrams family has been pastoring a small church in the community for nearly a hundred years, but Melissa has been unable to bear a child to continue that legacy, and her time has run out. When she finds Amina, lost and incredibly alone, she sees an answer to prayer. Not in Amina herself, but in the child Amina carries.
The parallels between this contemporary fictional reimagining and the Biblical account were pretty spot on until the end of the story. It was here she gave us that mercy and grace and forgiveness that we don’t see between Sarah and Hagar in the Old Testament account. And because this was so spot on in terms of theme, at least for the first half of the book, I struggled. As someone who experienced fertility issues and was never able to have my own children, as someone who had some bad experiences with the foster care system and who cannot afford to privately adopt, encountering stories that deal so strongly with unplanned pregnancies and infertility and failed adoptions is difficult. While I thought the book was very well crafted and the story very well told, I really struggled with the first half. I had to put the book down frequently because I found it so stressful.
But then I reached the back half of the book.
The catharsis of that back half made the pain of the front half feel worth it.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment. While Amina’s plight tugged on my heart, I had a hard time understanding her mindset at first. The way she approached everything, with such suspicion and distrust, is just not something I can really understand. And wow, does this book showcase both the best and the worst of Christianity. I simply cannot fathom, as an established adult and most especially as a Christian, treating someone younger than me, someone who was in a difficult situation and didn’t even have a relationship with Jesus to lean on, with the kind of emotional callousness Melissa shows Amina. I honestly had a very difficult time finding her at all likable or sympathetic, despite the common ground we share in terms of infertility. Her husband, our Abraham stand-in, came across as weak for a large chunk of the book, but as I’ve always found Abraham weak in his treatment of Hagar and Ishmael, this worked for me. Samuel, Amina’s child, wasn’t always wholly believable in his dialogue, but I still enjoyed him regardless. And thank goodness for Loretta and Tom and Gabby, and so many other characters in the back half of the novel. They were beautiful examples of the body of Christ truly loving others.
Some of the dialogue felt just a tad over-the-top, and the faith elements could come across as heavy-handed at times. But I found Reckless Love to be excellently crafted overall, with some lovely metaphorical language, beautiful prose, and well-drawn characters and settings. I would recommend this novel to fans of Karen Kingsbury and the more contemporary works of Francine Rivers.
I love retellings. I’ve read some amazing fairytale retellings, mythology retellings, and retellings of classic novels. But some of my very favorite retellings have been those that reimagine a Biblical story in some unique way. For example, Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers is a brilliant retelling of the book of Hosea, set during the American Gold Rush. A recent favorite, A Crown of Chains by Erin Phillips, is a dark fantasy reimagining of the book of Esther, and I found it incredibly original. Reckless Love is a contemporary reimagining of the story of Sarah and Hagar, and I thought it was incredibly well done. Goodwin captured the heartache and betrayal of their story, but also gave us the kind of hope and restoration that is only found in Jesus, thus breathing so much grace and forgiveness into the story.
The first character we meet is Amina. Eighteen and pregnant, Amina runs away from the convenience story her family calls home because she knows her parents won’t forgive her mistake. Melissa Abrams is a pastor’s wife. The Abrams family has been pastoring a small church in the community for nearly a hundred years, but Melissa has been unable to bear a child to continue that legacy, and her time has run out. When she finds Amina, lost and incredibly alone, she sees an answer to prayer. Not in Amina herself, but in the child Amina carries.
The parallels between this contemporary fictional reimagining and the Biblical account were pretty spot on until the end of the story. It was here she gave us that mercy and grace and forgiveness that we don’t see between Sarah and Hagar in the Old Testament account. And because this was so spot on in terms of theme, at least for the first half of the book, I struggled. As someone who experienced fertility issues and was never able to have my own children, as someone who had some bad experiences with the foster care system and who cannot afford to privately adopt, encountering stories that deal so strongly with unplanned pregnancies and infertility and failed adoptions is difficult. While I thought the book was very well crafted and the story very well told, I really struggled with the first half. I had to put the book down frequently because I found it so stressful.
But then I reached the back half of the book.
The catharsis of that back half made the pain of the front half feel worth it.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment. While Amina’s plight tugged on my heart, I had a hard time understanding her mindset at first. The way she approached everything, with such suspicion and distrust, is just not something I can really understand. And wow, does this book showcase both the best and the worst of Christianity. I simply cannot fathom, as an established adult and most especially as a Christian, treating someone younger than me, someone who was in a difficult situation and didn’t even have a relationship with Jesus to lean on, with the kind of emotional callousness Melissa shows Amina. I honestly had a very difficult time finding her at all likable or sympathetic, despite the common ground we share in terms of infertility. Her husband, our Abraham stand-in, came across as weak for a large chunk of the book, but as I’ve always found Abraham weak in his treatment of Hagar and Ishmael, this worked for me. Samuel, Amina’s child, wasn’t always wholly believable in his dialogue, but I still enjoyed him regardless. And thank goodness for Loretta and Tom and Gabby, and so many other characters in the back half of the novel. They were beautiful examples of the body of Christ truly loving others.
Some of the dialogue felt just a tad over-the-top, and the faith elements could come across as heavy-handed at times. But I found Reckless Love to be excellently crafted overall, with some lovely metaphorical language, beautiful prose, and well-drawn characters and settings. I would recommend this novel to fans of Karen Kingsbury and the more contemporary works of Francine Rivers.
September 27, 2024
Kate Goodwin’s newest release, Reckless Love, is a modern retelling of Hagar and Sarah from the Bible. I honestly wasn’t sure how that story would work in a modern setting (if you know the original story, you might also wonder how that would work), but Goodwin beautifully transformed this biblical story of brokenness and heartbreak into a modern story.
I can’t get over how much I loved this book! The two main characters are Amina, a young woman suddenly dealing with unexpected pregnancy, and Melissa, a childless pastor’s wife with a legacy to leave. Reckless Love is definitely women’s fiction with a sprinkle of romance near the end. But honestly, I didn’t miss the romance one bit (and that says a lot because I’m primarily a romance-only reader). Goodwin crafted such interesting and multi-faceted characters into a story that pierced my heart from the first chapter. I could not put this book down! I had to know what happened – and the journey along the way with these broken characters was so worth the Truth of the restoration found in Christ alone that Goodwin wove into this book. Grab this book today! You won’t be able to put it down, and your heart will be encouraged!
Intimacy: Sweet Kisses Only
Content Considerations: Teen Pregnancy, Infertility
I can’t get over how much I loved this book! The two main characters are Amina, a young woman suddenly dealing with unexpected pregnancy, and Melissa, a childless pastor’s wife with a legacy to leave. Reckless Love is definitely women’s fiction with a sprinkle of romance near the end. But honestly, I didn’t miss the romance one bit (and that says a lot because I’m primarily a romance-only reader). Goodwin crafted such interesting and multi-faceted characters into a story that pierced my heart from the first chapter. I could not put this book down! I had to know what happened – and the journey along the way with these broken characters was so worth the Truth of the restoration found in Christ alone that Goodwin wove into this book. Grab this book today! You won’t be able to put it down, and your heart will be encouraged!
Intimacy: Sweet Kisses Only
Content Considerations: Teen Pregnancy, Infertility
October 11, 2024
This one was so beautiful. It has the same theme as the Bible story with Abraham, Sarah, & Hagar so I was very interested to see how the Author would work this story. I’m not sure my review will justify the depth of this one but I will say Amina (18 & pregnant) feels invisible and thinks she doesn’t have choices in life. She meets Pastor John & his wife Melissa (who cannot have children) and they rush to help her but she still feels very used and not truly wanted. She ends up leaving their home and accidentally stumbling into a town where she is met with real Christ like love. She feels SEEN.
There is a whole lot more wrapped up in this story that truly deserves to be read. I enjoyed all of the side characters & the family feel. Kate is a new to me Author and I am so glad that I tried this one. This book is raw and difficult but it’s met with mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Thank you, Kate for this beautiful story! 🤍
—Quotes
✨God’s was a love she didn’t have to earn. Even when she messed up, even when she missed His will and His plan, He would never leave her or forsake her. When she wandered from the flock, He was the shepherd that would leave the ninety-nine to rescue her.
✨“I’m not really sure how anyone could miss you, Amina. I haven’t been able to tear my eyes away since you cut the line at the pharmacy.”
✨“Amina Abdel, I don’t know how long it’s going to take for you to believe that I love you and that I’m not going anywhere. But however long it is, I’m here for it, and for every day after that, if you’ll have me.”
✨Everything beautiful she had now was because of the God who saw her, even when she couldn’t see Him. All because of His never-let-you-go, recklessly-chase-after-you kind of love that broke down every wall she had built until there was none left. All because He loved her before she even knew him.
There is a whole lot more wrapped up in this story that truly deserves to be read. I enjoyed all of the side characters & the family feel. Kate is a new to me Author and I am so glad that I tried this one. This book is raw and difficult but it’s met with mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Thank you, Kate for this beautiful story! 🤍
—Quotes
✨God’s was a love she didn’t have to earn. Even when she messed up, even when she missed His will and His plan, He would never leave her or forsake her. When she wandered from the flock, He was the shepherd that would leave the ninety-nine to rescue her.
✨“I’m not really sure how anyone could miss you, Amina. I haven’t been able to tear my eyes away since you cut the line at the pharmacy.”
✨“Amina Abdel, I don’t know how long it’s going to take for you to believe that I love you and that I’m not going anywhere. But however long it is, I’m here for it, and for every day after that, if you’ll have me.”
✨Everything beautiful she had now was because of the God who saw her, even when she couldn’t see Him. All because of His never-let-you-go, recklessly-chase-after-you kind of love that broke down every wall she had built until there was none left. All because He loved her before she even knew him.
October 1, 2024
Wow! This story is incredible! When I heard this was a modern Abraham, Sarah and Hagar story I was very excited to read it. I figured on how some of it would go but the author took every single aspect of this biblical story and retold it in a way that is just amazing! You can just feel the Lord’s hand on this story. Melissa and her husband,Pastor John, have wanted a son for years. Just when Melissa thinks she is getting her baby she finds out she is going through menopause. Amina gets pregnant out of wedlock and eventually finds herself at the church doors. Melissa takes this as an answered prayer that she and John will take care of Amina and she will give them her baby. Things don’t work out exactly as planned. This story is full of emotion. I really felt for these main characters, I could feel their pain. The writing is absolutely amazing and the Christian content is very strong! Overall, this story just blew me away and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 19, 2024
It’s been a long time since I have been so impacted by a book. Sobbed my eyes out from 70% on. Thank you to Kate for allowing me to be an ARC reader!
What an incredible Hagar and Sarah retelling. I have never read a modern version of this biblical story. It was so impactful!
It was emotional for two reasons. One, going through my own fertility journey, I was feeling Melissa’s pain. Two, watching Amina come to Jesus just makes me fall in love with the Lord all over again.
What an incredible Hagar and Sarah retelling. I have never read a modern version of this biblical story. It was so impactful!
It was emotional for two reasons. One, going through my own fertility journey, I was feeling Melissa’s pain. Two, watching Amina come to Jesus just makes me fall in love with the Lord all over again.
October 6, 2025
A beautiful redemption story inspired by Hagar and Sarah from the Bible. Some of the dialogue was wooden, the romance was a little unnecessary, and honestly the resolution felt pretty rushed, but this book brought forth allll the feelings.
I really related to Amina's trust/abandonment issues. God's love for me is still something that I really struggle to know for myself. I loved seeing her find her place, and I pray someday I will find mine.
I fell in love with Hatcher Hollow, TN and all the lovely people that live in it and I can't wait to read the next book <3
I really related to Amina's trust/abandonment issues. God's love for me is still something that I really struggle to know for myself. I loved seeing her find her place, and I pray someday I will find mine.
I fell in love with Hatcher Hollow, TN and all the lovely people that live in it and I can't wait to read the next book <3
September 21, 2024
I loved this book!! I got my hands on Kate Goodwin's Reckless Love as an ARC reviewer and I'm so glad I did. This is one book that I quite liked. A retelling of the Sarai-Hagar story, Ms.Goodwin cleverly transposes the barebones of the biblical tale, fleshed out very nicely, into this modern retelling.
Enter Melissa Abrams the pastor's barren wife who feels she has failed in her duty to produce the next Abrams heir who will continue the century-old legacy of Abrams men pastoring their church. Her path crosses rather fortuitously with pregnant 15 year old Amina Abdel a quiet girl from a local immigrant family. Amina feels she is unseen, unheard, unloved and knows how to become invisible.
Melissa and her husband John care for Amina but only for one reason. I know Melissa had her reasons, but honestly, I thoroughly disliked her character. She won't even listen to her mother-in-law who though she has Alzheimer's, hears from God quite clearly.
About three years later, a twist in the tale occurs resulting in another Sarai-Hagar moment, and possibly the lowest point in the tale. Kate Goodwin goes on to weave the redemptive love of God into the tale quite skilfully and we have our happy ending.
I like that the author gave Melissa's mother-in-law, Annie who has Alzheimer's a prominent role in the novel. That lady is something despite her illness, and is a testament to how God can use people the world deems "useless", "past their use-by date", or "past" their prime. We are nobody to decide on our or anyone else's usefulness or otherwise to God and thus have no right to take life on the grounds of it being useless to society and people.
Similarly, we cannot decide how God will choose to act or try and force his hand. He is God. I loved this novel because Kate Goodwin so clearly portrayed the reckless love of a God Who Sees everyone - even the unloved, unlovable, unwanted, unworthy, unseen and unheard people in our society. May it give you hope in the God who Sees You and loves you with a reckless, everlasting love.
I received an ARC copy to review, but this review sets out my opinions without coercion or inducement of any kind.
#RecklessLove #KateGoodwin
Enter Melissa Abrams the pastor's barren wife who feels she has failed in her duty to produce the next Abrams heir who will continue the century-old legacy of Abrams men pastoring their church. Her path crosses rather fortuitously with pregnant 15 year old Amina Abdel a quiet girl from a local immigrant family. Amina feels she is unseen, unheard, unloved and knows how to become invisible.
Melissa and her husband John care for Amina but only for one reason. I know Melissa had her reasons, but honestly, I thoroughly disliked her character. She won't even listen to her mother-in-law who though she has Alzheimer's, hears from God quite clearly.
About three years later, a twist in the tale occurs resulting in another Sarai-Hagar moment, and possibly the lowest point in the tale. Kate Goodwin goes on to weave the redemptive love of God into the tale quite skilfully and we have our happy ending.
I like that the author gave Melissa's mother-in-law, Annie who has Alzheimer's a prominent role in the novel. That lady is something despite her illness, and is a testament to how God can use people the world deems "useless", "past their use-by date", or "past" their prime. We are nobody to decide on our or anyone else's usefulness or otherwise to God and thus have no right to take life on the grounds of it being useless to society and people.
Similarly, we cannot decide how God will choose to act or try and force his hand. He is God. I loved this novel because Kate Goodwin so clearly portrayed the reckless love of a God Who Sees everyone - even the unloved, unlovable, unwanted, unworthy, unseen and unheard people in our society. May it give you hope in the God who Sees You and loves you with a reckless, everlasting love.
I received an ARC copy to review, but this review sets out my opinions without coercion or inducement of any kind.
#RecklessLove #KateGoodwin
October 4, 2024
Reckless Love by Kate Goodwin was a very powerful, emotional story of redemption and forgiveness. Amina is a young lady who always felt invisible and unloved. After making a mistake, she finds herself pregnant and alone. Melissa is the wife of a pastor and wants to be that perfect pastor's wife, however, she has been unable to give her husband a son and heir, someone to take over the ministry. When Amina ends up in the sanctuary of their church, Melissa thinks this is an answer to her prayers. So, instead of helping an unwed expectant mother to HELP the mother, she helps Amina so they can adopt the child.
This story is a modern retelling of the story of Hagar from the book of Genesis in the Bible. If one knows the story of how Abraham and Sarah decided to take God's promise of a son into their own hands, one will easily see the parallels.
The story starts with Amina discovering she is pregnant and her running away from home, and Melissa discovering she has hit early menopause. After a brief time during Amina's pregnancy, it skips to the birth of the baby and the unique and complicated arrangement that is made between the young mother and the older couple. It then skips ahead again to when the child is a few years old and Melissa discovers a miracle has occured. The situation suddenly changes and Amina finds herself alone with her son, abandoned again.
But there is still so much more of the story to come. A story where we see God working in both Amina's and Melissa's lives. A story of redemption and forgiveness. A story of knowing that, even when we find ourselves feeling alone and unloved, there is One who sees us and cares for us and is still working in our lives.
I found myself in tears multiple times in this book. And I admit, I did NOT care for Melissa and even her husband for quite a bit of the book. And it made me wonder what I would have thought of Abraham and Sarah and the way they treated Hagar. I really loved the way the author was able to parallel this Bible story and make it a wondeful, contemporary retelling.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
This story is a modern retelling of the story of Hagar from the book of Genesis in the Bible. If one knows the story of how Abraham and Sarah decided to take God's promise of a son into their own hands, one will easily see the parallels.
The story starts with Amina discovering she is pregnant and her running away from home, and Melissa discovering she has hit early menopause. After a brief time during Amina's pregnancy, it skips to the birth of the baby and the unique and complicated arrangement that is made between the young mother and the older couple. It then skips ahead again to when the child is a few years old and Melissa discovers a miracle has occured. The situation suddenly changes and Amina finds herself alone with her son, abandoned again.
But there is still so much more of the story to come. A story where we see God working in both Amina's and Melissa's lives. A story of redemption and forgiveness. A story of knowing that, even when we find ourselves feeling alone and unloved, there is One who sees us and cares for us and is still working in our lives.
I found myself in tears multiple times in this book. And I admit, I did NOT care for Melissa and even her husband for quite a bit of the book. And it made me wonder what I would have thought of Abraham and Sarah and the way they treated Hagar. I really loved the way the author was able to parallel this Bible story and make it a wondeful, contemporary retelling.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
May 1, 2025
4 Stars
Completed: Apr. 28/25
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: TBBS's "book in the south" -- this is set in Tennessee
Book #53 of 2025: This book is *inspired* by Hagar and Sarah of the Bible. It is not to be confused with a modern-day retelling.
I enjoyed several aspects of this sophomore novel by Kate Goodwin. The juxtaposition of Melissa finding out she could not have children, and Amina who is pregnant, leaves a person feeling for both parties.
The co-parenting aspect doesn't make sense to me. Melissa and John clearly have no legal status so I don't see how that was possible. The entire arrangement was awkward and stiff. Children pick up on such animosity.
It bothers me that Amina is portrayed as being so much less at fault for the issues that happened later. They all make mistakes, exhibit selfishness, and are inconsiderate. Amina makes a lot of impulsive assumptions and decisions and yet seems to find others to take care of her. I found her character to be somewhat frustrating.
Melissa seems to have a split-personality of sorts. She goes from being the mom on Leave it to Beaver to manipulative, desperate, and unrealistic.
There is a lot of heartache in this story but there is also redemption and important things being learned. When people are hurting, desperate, etc., they can make some poor decisions and display selfishness actions. Fortunately God's mercy and grace can cover all of that.
Completed: Apr. 28/25
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: TBBS's "book in the south" -- this is set in Tennessee
Book #53 of 2025: This book is *inspired* by Hagar and Sarah of the Bible. It is not to be confused with a modern-day retelling.
I enjoyed several aspects of this sophomore novel by Kate Goodwin. The juxtaposition of Melissa finding out she could not have children, and Amina who is pregnant, leaves a person feeling for both parties.
The co-parenting aspect doesn't make sense to me. Melissa and John clearly have no legal status so I don't see how that was possible. The entire arrangement was awkward and stiff. Children pick up on such animosity.
It bothers me that Amina is portrayed as being so much less at fault for the issues that happened later. They all make mistakes, exhibit selfishness, and are inconsiderate. Amina makes a lot of impulsive assumptions and decisions and yet seems to find others to take care of her. I found her character to be somewhat frustrating.
Melissa seems to have a split-personality of sorts. She goes from being the mom on Leave it to Beaver to manipulative, desperate, and unrealistic.
There is a lot of heartache in this story but there is also redemption and important things being learned. When people are hurting, desperate, etc., they can make some poor decisions and display selfishness actions. Fortunately God's mercy and grace can cover all of that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2024
This book was a great modern picture of the Bible's dynamic between Sarah and Hagar. The storyline keeps you engaged in mind and heart as you watch the entwined struggles of two women at very different points in life. The dual POV reminded me of how we can so strongly see our view when someone living next to us sees it completely differently. Truthfully, even though I understood Melissa's life more, there were times that it was hard to see her selfishness play out because of how desperate she was to be a mother. It's a picture of what's inside of all of us when we are waiting on God's timing. Most of all, the entire book points to God's unmatchable love for every one of us. "When this life is all there is, those hard times can pull you right under. But when you know there's more, when you place your hope in something else, in something higher and greater with a purpose, that brings peace that passes all understanding. That's what it's like living a life for God." Highly recommend.
September 30, 2024
Read if you like:
Redemption stories
Infertility rep
Biblical retellings
Found family
Single mom rep 🤍
Light romance
Melissa & Amina
Oh man, these two women are like oil and water. This story is a retelling of Hagar and Sarah. In this story, Hagar (Amina) is a young woman who has found herself pregnant with no where to go.
Melissa is a preacher’s wife, and strives for perfection in every aspect of her life. When she and her husband struggle to conceive they decide to take matters into their own hands.
This is one of those books that will make you cry and be grateful for it. If you’ve ever tried to push God’s hand, this is a beautiful reminder of how God will still have His way in the end.
Content/triggers: Failed adoption. Infertility. Parental abandonment. Alzheimer’s. Cesarean birth. Pregnancy complications. Premature birth. NICU stay. Zero cursing. Kisses only on page.
Redemption stories
Infertility rep
Biblical retellings
Found family
Single mom rep 🤍
Light romance
Melissa & Amina
Oh man, these two women are like oil and water. This story is a retelling of Hagar and Sarah. In this story, Hagar (Amina) is a young woman who has found herself pregnant with no where to go.
Melissa is a preacher’s wife, and strives for perfection in every aspect of her life. When she and her husband struggle to conceive they decide to take matters into their own hands.
This is one of those books that will make you cry and be grateful for it. If you’ve ever tried to push God’s hand, this is a beautiful reminder of how God will still have His way in the end.
Content/triggers: Failed adoption. Infertility. Parental abandonment. Alzheimer’s. Cesarean birth. Pregnancy complications. Premature birth. NICU stay. Zero cursing. Kisses only on page.
October 4, 2024
I read many books, mostly Christian historical fiction. “Reckless Love” by Kate Goodwin ranks highly!
Based on the characters of the Biblical Sarah and Hagar, the story of these two women and their desires regarding a new baby lead to an a very interesting situation. Initially it seems an ideal outcome for both women but it deteriorates into a war! Much heart searching and the gentle whispers of the Lord are woven into the script, culminating in a wonderful resolution for both women.
The writing style is delightfully fresh with compact sentences which move you into the story quickly. The characters are real, representative of all of us as we struggle with the effects of sin in a fallen world.
You really need to read this book to see how skilfully the author takes the reader on this journey of redemption.
Based on the characters of the Biblical Sarah and Hagar, the story of these two women and their desires regarding a new baby lead to an a very interesting situation. Initially it seems an ideal outcome for both women but it deteriorates into a war! Much heart searching and the gentle whispers of the Lord are woven into the script, culminating in a wonderful resolution for both women.
The writing style is delightfully fresh with compact sentences which move you into the story quickly. The characters are real, representative of all of us as we struggle with the effects of sin in a fallen world.
You really need to read this book to see how skilfully the author takes the reader on this journey of redemption.
September 15, 2024
A pastor and wife who couldn’t have children, a pregnant young girl with nowhere to go. Seemed like the perfect solution to both their problems. But when they try to blend their families together, things start to unravel. I loved the twists and turns of the story for each woman and the ending was wonderful. I had a hard time with the toxic way the women started to treat each other once the baby was born and felt the pastor’s character should have had more of a backbone, but it does align with the biblical story of Sarai and Hagar. A beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, growth, second chances and faith.
September 17, 2024
A beautiful redemption story and retelling of Sarah and Hagar.
Amani, 18, daughter of immigrant parents finds herself pregnant and alone. In the same office, Melissa, a pastors wife struggles with infertility. When the two women meet, it seems as though adoption will be in the best interest of both parties. They soon learn the consequences of forcing His hand and the heartache and trouble it brings. This story truly shows the struggle of desperation and faith. Even when you feel unwanted, unloved, and unworthy, He sees you. This is a story of redemption, faith, and the reckless love of God.
Huge thank you to Kate Goodwin for allowing me to read an ARC of Reckless Love
Amani, 18, daughter of immigrant parents finds herself pregnant and alone. In the same office, Melissa, a pastors wife struggles with infertility. When the two women meet, it seems as though adoption will be in the best interest of both parties. They soon learn the consequences of forcing His hand and the heartache and trouble it brings. This story truly shows the struggle of desperation and faith. Even when you feel unwanted, unloved, and unworthy, He sees you. This is a story of redemption, faith, and the reckless love of God.
Huge thank you to Kate Goodwin for allowing me to read an ARC of Reckless Love
May 22, 2025
This was such a wholesome, faith based book that really looked at God's love for us and his faithfulness to us. I found this to be a great pallet cleanser after the countless romance and fantasy books I've been reading. I loved the story of Amina and seeing her grow in her faith and step into her confidence as a person. I loved the thought that was put into this story with the different Bible versus throughout and seeing the different characters relationship with Jesus and how they talked about and showed it through their interactions with others.
September 26, 2024
This book beautifully weaves a tale of drama and forgiveness, inviting readers into a profound exploration of God's unwavering love. The characters' journeys are both heart-wrenching and uplifting, showcasing the transformative power of grace. With each turn of the page, I found myself captivated by the depth of emotion and the reminder that redemption is always within reach. A truly inspiring read that lingers long after the last page.
November 10, 2025
3 // This was a bit dry for my liking. I loved the idea of a modern spin to Abram and Sarai’s story in the Bible, but it kinda fell flat for me. It was extremely slow and it took me forever to get through. It did pick up some a few times, and although Melissa’s character annoyed me, the other characters made up for it. And the ending made it all worth the read in the end!
October 9, 2024
I'm not a person who normally reads romantic fiction. I downloaded the book and could not stop reading it. I just had to find out what happens to Amina and Sammy. I was not disappointed. It's a feel good book, filled with second chances and personal growth. Highly recommend.
October 12, 2024
What a great retelling of Sarai and Hagar
I loved this book. It tugged on my heartstrings from the beginning. I wondered what the author would do with the story of Sarai and Hagar and she did it well. The hurt, the pain, the betrayal but God was there through it all.
I loved this book. It tugged on my heartstrings from the beginning. I wondered what the author would do with the story of Sarai and Hagar and she did it well. The hurt, the pain, the betrayal but God was there through it all.
September 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this contemporary retelling of Sarah and Hagar. There was a lot of depth and emotion portrayed from each character and the author did a beautiful job writing each one so well.
This book is right up there with Francine Rivers books for me. The faith content was well done.
This book is right up there with Francine Rivers books for me. The faith content was well done.
October 8, 2025
book review
Great book of love and forgiveness. The first part of this book, I wasn’t crazy about the characters, mainly Melissa but it ended on a great note. Definitely a must read.
Great book of love and forgiveness. The first part of this book, I wasn’t crazy about the characters, mainly Melissa but it ended on a great note. Definitely a must read.
October 14, 2025
A very beautiful story about God’s redeeming love!
This story is a reminder of how important it is to trust God’s divine plan for our life, and not rush ahead of Him. Though we do this often, His love for us remains and His plan still prevails.
This story is a reminder of how important it is to trust God’s divine plan for our life, and not rush ahead of Him. Though we do this often, His love for us remains and His plan still prevails.
November 3, 2025
What an absolutely beautiful contemporary retelling of Sarah and Hagar. Goodwin did not shy away from the grittiness of that biblical account, and it was eye-opening to get both perspectives. Such a well-written novel!
September 15, 2024
This realistic redemptive story is so good! A modern day retelling of Sarah and Hagar that is thought-provoking, convicting, and heart-warming. This book was hard to put down!
October 3, 2024
I loved this book! I couldn’t put it down. It gave me all the feels! I recommend 100%. Kate Goodwin has done it again!! Read this book!!!!!!
February 28, 2025
Don't miss this story about God's reckless love for us. A reminder that He never stops pursuing us. He sees us even we can't see Him. A bit of a retelling of Sarah and Hagar.
June 29, 2025
I was caught up as early as the dedication! "For anyone who has felt 'unseen' ... He sees you."
And that heightened sense that this book is going to give me goosebumps and a full heart continued on page one...
"Heaving the bulky bag's strap back onto her shoulder, she continued, propelled by the message. Unwanted. unloved. unworthy."
And I wasn't disappointed!!!
A Hagar-Sarah inspired story of redemption, I was yanked hard by the heart strings by the One who loves me so much!
As in the words of adorable Sammy, "It is perfect, cuz I love it!"
Also ... a story that handles the beauty and pain of pregnancy (unwanted and loving for), traumatic birth, and the pains and joys of parenthood.
A MUST-READ FOR EVERY CHRISTIAN MOTHER! You will be ON YOUR KNEES in gratitude and humbleness by the God who says, "I see you, child." Because you are. A story of relentless, redeeming, RECKLESS love!
A book that will peel back your soul, turn your heart inside out, and release your life to the King on High who gave up everything -- because YOU ARE WORTH EVERYTHING! Five stars for Goodwin's "Reckless Love!"
And that heightened sense that this book is going to give me goosebumps and a full heart continued on page one...
"Heaving the bulky bag's strap back onto her shoulder, she continued, propelled by the message. Unwanted. unloved. unworthy."
And I wasn't disappointed!!!
A Hagar-Sarah inspired story of redemption, I was yanked hard by the heart strings by the One who loves me so much!
As in the words of adorable Sammy, "It is perfect, cuz I love it!"
Also ... a story that handles the beauty and pain of pregnancy (unwanted and loving for), traumatic birth, and the pains and joys of parenthood.
A MUST-READ FOR EVERY CHRISTIAN MOTHER! You will be ON YOUR KNEES in gratitude and humbleness by the God who says, "I see you, child." Because you are. A story of relentless, redeeming, RECKLESS love!
A book that will peel back your soul, turn your heart inside out, and release your life to the King on High who gave up everything -- because YOU ARE WORTH EVERYTHING! Five stars for Goodwin's "Reckless Love!"
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