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Redemption Shores #5

Lake Shore Sanctuary

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Winning her husband’s heart might be the adventure--if not the achievement--of her life. If she can pull it off.Grady Briggs is quiet and dependable and wants a life that looks nothing like his years spent working as a criminal investigator. But when a known member of the cartel comes searching for Isa Romero, that calm, predictable life he'd hoped to find in Luna goes up in flames. Things get complicated when Grady discovers why the crime boss is after Isa.

Though the flirty, vivacious young woman has rubbed him wrong since day one, Grady is willing to go to any length to protect her--even if that means marrying her.

Isa wanted a life full of romance and adventure, but her search for it has landed her in a whole lot of trouble. Grady’s offer of protection is the smart choice, but a lifeless, loveless marriage isn’t something she can live with. Her best option? Win her husband’s heart—which might be the adventure, if not the achievement—of her life, if she can pull it off.

Their marriage is supposed to be her refuge, but the danger only gets worse . . .

Just when they discover that they might have a chance at a real future together, their secret is exposed. When the danger becomes life-threatening, will Grady be able to protect his wife like he promised?

Come back to the majestic beauty of Elk Canyon Lake, a remote and breathtaking wonder hidden in the stunning Montana Mountains. There you'll find unexpected romance, page-turning adventures, and soul-stirring redemption.

REDEMPTION

1. Lake Shore Wandering
2. Lake Shore Return
3. Lake Shore Splendor
4. Lake Shore Awakening
5. Lake Shore Sanctuary

283 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2025

262 people are currently reading
61 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Rodewald

40 books413 followers
Jennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.

Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.

Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.

Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Aya Zickefoose.
19 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2025
In the months between reading books 4 & 5, I found myself often wondering about my friends from Sanctuary Shores. The characters are so realistic and relatable. In book 5 I’m glad we got to wrap up the stories for many of the important characters. I don’t know if there will be more books to follow in the series or not- it leaves room for closure or new stories. We’ll see! I definitely recommend reading this book if you have already read the other 4 in the series. There are beautiful themes throughout that encourage me in my faith journey.
Profile Image for Iola.
Author 2 books28 followers
April 14, 2025
I have developed a sudden taste for well-executed modern marriage of convenience stories, and Lake Shore Sanctuary is an excellent example. I’m also developing a real enjoyment of the grumpy-sunshine trope.

Isa Romero was raised in a Christian family but went through a rebellious patch. Her rebellion has landed her in Elk Lake … pregnant to her ex, leader of a violent cartel. When his adult son shows up in town, she is surprised and grateful when gruff Grady steps in and helps.

Grady Briggs is new in town, a forest ranger with a background in law enforcement. He doesn’t expect his two worlds to collide, yet finds himself proposing marriage to Isa to keep her safe from the cartel. I loved the fact that Grady’s gruff and grumpy exterior was at least in part to hide his attraction to Isa.

Isa is definitely the sunshine character.
She decides to make the best of the situation and determines to make Grady fall for her, because marriage is forever and she can’t face the thought of a loveless marriage. But getting Grady to smile turns out to be easier than changing his feelings … because Isa doesn’t know what the reader knows.

Lake Shore Sanctuary is the fifth book in Jennifer Rodewald’s Redemption Shores series. This series is a little out of the ordinary for Christian fiction, for several reasons.

It doesn’t easily fit into a genre.
The stories are definitely small-town contemporary Christian fiction, with an emphasis on the Christian. The stories all have a romantic element, but the romances aren’t tied in a pretty bow by the end of each book. There are a lot of mysteries, and the stories also have elements of suspense.

I loved watching Isa and Grady develop real feelings for each other as they discover they have more in common than they thought, and I also enjoyed catching up with some of the characters from the earlier books in the series.

It’s more of a serial than a series.
While each book focuses on a couple of main characters, they also follow the characters from the earlier books: the prickly Hazel, her brother Hunter, his one-time girlfriend Janie, his best friend Bennett, and Bennett’s half-siblings.

Yes, you could read Lake Shore Sanctuary as a standalone title and you would probably enjoy it. But you’ll enjoy it all the more if you read the series in order, starting with Lake Shore Wandering.

Recommended for readers looking for Christian fiction with less of a romance focus, and more spiritual depth.
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,184 reviews45 followers
March 11, 2025
I absolutely loved this story! Jennifer Rodewald never disappoints. Whenever I pick up one of her books, I know that I’m going to get an authentic, emotional, and God-honoring romance full of relatable characters dealing with real life issues.

I enjoyed getting to know Isa and Grant better. I was very concerned for Isa. She had been in a dangerous situation and I was very worried about how it would all turn out. She’s known to be a big flirt, but there was a lot she was hiding behind all that. I really liked Grady. He was a bit of a grump, but I loved seeing how protective and caring he was beneath that gruff exterior. Their romance was a bit unconventional, but I enjoyed seeing them grow closer and learn to trust one another.

I loved seeing what Hazel and Bennett were up to, and was hoping things would work out for the best with Nathan and Gemma.

There was danger lurking beneath the surface, which came to a nerve wracking conclusion towards the end. It made me so anxious! I was very surprised by the twist.

I love this series so much. It’s been a joy to follow these characters' lives. It’s been emotional too. I’ve cried many times. Happy and sad tears. I’ve loved seeing the characters' growth. Their highs and lows. And I’ve especially loved seeing them learn to trust in the Lord. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. I’d recommend starting with the first one since the books build on each other and follow the same set of characters.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for MeReadRomance.
16 reviews
March 11, 2025
I want to thank Jennifer Rodewald and her team for giving me an ARC for this book! Honestly I haven't read any of the books from the Redemption Shores series prior to this, and clearly it would have been better if I had, but it was still an enjoyable and great read! 

I've been trying to find more romance series where the couple’s story doesn't end after just one book. So this was a fantastic discovery! And the book follows the story of 3 couples, although in this one, it's mainly focused on Grady and Isa. 

TBH, the marriage of convenience (MoC) trope, in usual romance novels, is kind of ‘meh’ for me. However, MoC in christian romance (CR)… Now we're talking!

There's a charm in knowing that divorce is (usually) not an option in CRs. And so what are they gonna do? Are they gonna pick love? Forgiveness? Patience? Because there's going be trouble when you marry someone out of convenience. And clearly Grady and Isa's MoC didn't go so well at first, even until almost the very end, they still had trouble communicating. But one thing I love about these characters, is that they will constantly try to communicate with God about what they should do/feel/act. And that's the key.

There's also a little action and mafia sprinkled in here, which made the book a little more exciting. Definitely want to see more of those in CRs.

SPOILER ahead!
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.
.
[I have many favorite moments from the book, but my number one would be Bennett choosing God's love instead of hatred, and his heart was instantly filled with compassion toward his dad. He even prayed for him.]

So if you are interested, I really recommend you check this book yourself. Don't skip on the first 4 books though, you won't get the full experience.

And reading this definitely got me curious about Bennett and Hazel's story, with all that amnesia and rich boy & country girl love. So if you're gonna look for me, I'll be here reading the other books in the series 🤭 
1,019 reviews33 followers
March 12, 2025
Isa has made a new life for herself in Luna, and it's a good one. Everyone seems to like her - except Grady, the grumpy ranger. And that's unfortunate because she finds him intriguing. But when her past comes calling and her secrets start to surface, it's Grady who steps in and offers her a way out. A loving marriage to him could be all she's ever dreamed, but the name-only marriage he's offering? She's not sure she can make it work - and for his sake maybe she should refuse the offer. Can she make their marriage real? And has the marriage really rescued her from the danger in her past?

Another great read in the series. Grady and Isa's story is closer to a standalone story than most in this series, but it also includes the ongoing story of Hazel and Bennett's romance that will be better read as part of the series. I particularly enjoyed Grady and Isa's story - while they don't have it easy and both do some serious growing, it's perhaps a little lower angst than some previous books? I appreciated that, while Isa has clearly made some very bad choices in her past, she's repented and is working to change. Isa and Grady make an interesting couple, partly because Grady in particular fights it so hard. Once they finally decide to make things work, it's a delightful change, albeit still a work in progress. I'm hoping to see more of them in previous books and watch future developments. All in all, an inspiring and enjoyable read, with a touch of background suspense. Recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
177 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2025
The redemption theme running through this book is heartwarming. Meeting Isa and Grady was a delight. Lakeshore Sanctuary doesn't just tell of Isa and Grady's story but reveals more of other characters from previous books. You read about their growth, their next steps and how they all come together to get a support system for each other.
Isa has experienced a terrible past and feels unworthy of God's love or people's respect and love once they discover her past. Her desire to be seen as attractive and desirable led her down a path that brought pain. Her secret is deep, one she tries to hide with a cheerful facade. Grady has his own personal issues but uses a grim facade as a cover up. However, when Isa is in danger, he comes to her rescue. Their interactions reveals to each of them that God's love is immeasurable and He can take the broken pieces and bring restoration. It was beautiful seeing Isa and Grady evolve from strangers to friends to helpmeet and a support for each other, ready to go into harm's way just to ensure protection.
Lakeshore Sanctuary is a powerful story of God's redeeming grace and love. In this story you see friendship, love, adventure, hope and joy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jaycies.
30 reviews
March 10, 2025
I was given the privilege of receiving an advanced copy of this book to review. I must say sometimes you come across a book that would also make an excellent movie and this is one of those!

Grady Briggs craves a peaceful life far removed from his past as a criminal investigator. But when a cartel member arrives in Luna searching for Isa Romero, his quiet existence is upended. To protect her, Grady offers marriage—a choice that complicates their relationship and places them both in greater danger.

Isa, a spirited woman drawn to adventure, sees Grady’s proposal as a lifeline but struggles with the idea of a loveless union. Determined to win his heart, she embarks on the challenge of a lifetime.

The characters are clearly defined and easy to understand in their reactions and emotions. I never had to go to previous pages to remind myself who the additional characters were and their relationship to Grady and Isa. The characters were believable as were their personal struggles and thoughts.

I would characterize this book as a reminder of God's forgiveness and redemption for us all, "hold your breath" suspense, and warm feelings of romance.

I highly recommend this book!
38 reviews
March 15, 2025
I loved all the redemption arcs in this book! Almost all the characters had them to some degree (except the villains). I also liked that when Isa went to talk to her pastor and told him she wanted her husband to love her, she really took his advice to treat Grady the way she wished he would treat her to heart. This is very basic knowledge for Christians, but much harder to act on. I liked that Isa did, even when Grady came back to the cabin they were staying in with a fearsome scowl, and she was afraid he would reject her. Another favorite scene was Bennett not blowing up at his father (even though he really deserved it) because that would him no better. I had not read any of the previous books, but I did not feel lost. I would probably have enjoyed Bennett and Hazel's story more if I had, but this did make me curious about them.
I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own.
309 reviews4 followers
February 19, 2025
The great thing about this series is that characters flow through each book, revealing a bit more within the books. Isa is not quite who I thought she was. Is she a shameless flirt? Maybe, but she is also so much more. Grady is stoic, gruff even, but there is so much more to him as well. He’s kind and gentle and tender, at least under the right circumstances. Maybe don’t yet tell Isa; she might not believe it anyway…until he turns all of that toward her. Covering the entire book and each character is the doctrine of grace and how unfathomable it is. Unmerited grace that keeps showing up and bubbling over. I likely said this about each of the previous books, but THIS one is my favorite so far. The earnest effort Grady extends combined with Isa’s repentant heart are enough to bring this gal near to tears. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective).
1,436 reviews89 followers
August 1, 2025
Once again Rodewald has swept me away into a story that is full of emotion, trials, encouragement, and more. This modern marriage of convenience story is sure to touch hearts, stir the soul, and simply make you smile. Readers can't help but cheer for Isa and Grady.

This series has been such a joy to read. You see progression in different stories and I like how she's not always wrapping everything up by the end of the book. It leaves you wanting the next! But honestly, she's also writing true to life. We don't always get to wrap up every single situation we come across in a neat and tidy bow. Sometimes it's messy. Sometimes it's unresolved. I think this is why I run to Rodewald's writing so much - she keeps it real.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for April Wilson.
415 reviews19 followers
February 26, 2025
Willing to pay the cost!

This is a fairly new author to me; the writing style flows well and the characters are well developed. There are Biblical truths throughout and the characters grow among the trials, hardships, and joys that come their way.

Grady and Isa do face physical danger and emotional tension frequently. But they both learn that God is their anchor. Their marriage is definitely unconventional, but they both, separately, ask God for help to love the other. That was really tender and mature; to choose to love someone no matter what. They get their HEA!

I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
3 reviews
March 6, 2025
The redemption shores series as a whole was such an interesting series by Jennifer Rodewald. I couldn't wait for book 5 to come out and it was not a disappointment!
Jennifer writes Christian fiction that is fresh and honest. Isa and Grady are the characters that star in this book. As you get to know each of them better, you get really invested in them and cheerlead for them.
Can Grady keep Isa safe? Can Isa ever experience the romance she dreams of?
Some expected plot twists, updates on previous characters in the series, and humorous moments kept me reading--sometimes much later than I wanted to.
This book was a satisfying read!
Profile Image for Evelyn Foreman.
739 reviews31 followers
March 11, 2025
Just when my heart would beat normally, the suspense kicked it into gear again! Despite the ever present danger threatening Isa’a very existence, the ever present protection and love of God continued to carry and shield her. Adding Grady, the handsome Game and Parks rep to the mix, elicited sparks neither saw coming as he vowed to do everything in his power to protect her, going as far as proposing marriage. But was that the answer for either of them? For both of them? My first book by this incredible author and most definitely not my last!
80 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2025
Lovely

Oh my goodness how these books just wrap around your heart and give it a little squeeze. They're full of every day life and all the heartaches and joy that comes with it. You find yourself just wanting to slip inside the story to help out where there's a need, to show a little love, give a little encouragement. Jennifer Rodewald, what a beautiful job you do bringing us dedicated readers such beautiful stories to read that are full of faith. So excited to know that more books in this series are coming ❤
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,671 reviews
March 23, 2025
I recommend that you read this series in order, if at all possible. This book just jumps right in the middle of a lot of the characters' stories, and if you haven't read the earlier books, you'll end up with lots of questions about why things are happening the way they are. I wish this book had already been written when I first discovered the series!

As it was I got sucked right into the story, and was thankful that I could spend the day reading it. I really liked the good advice various characters give about marriage and how to love one's spouse.
1,461 reviews12 followers
August 21, 2025
Grady Briggs the local Parks and Game worker, wants a peaceful life, but gets involved with Isa when a crime boss’s son comes looking for her. In order to protect her and her unborn child, he marries her. Their relationship is rocky to begin with and they must learn to understand each other, and communicate. They make strides while he is on a ten day assignment away from Luna, but the crime boss becomes a problem and Isa is kidnapped. An interesting and uplifting story about relationships, and commitment.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,195 reviews52 followers
March 19, 2025
This was a great read. This story focuses on Isa and Grady who marry in nam only due to unconventional circumstances, but can they fall in love with each other and make their marriage work? Under Grady's grumpy, gruff exterior is a protective nature. Isa has made some mistakes in her past.
I enjoyed the ongoing stories with Hunter and Jamie, Bennett, Hazel, Nathan, and Gemma and hope to see more of Nathan and Gemma. This story not only has danger but also has faith elements. Wonderful read.
6 reviews
November 14, 2025
The Best Story of the Whole Series

I liked Grady and Isa the best if all of the couples in this series and the characters development came about truthfully and realistically. They were easier to connect with tgan tge ups and downs experienced by the other two couples. The ending to the series was great. I really like Ms. Rodewald's writing style so I was sure she wouldn't disappoint after a start I found a little disjointed.
1,403 reviews8 followers
February 24, 2025
In this book you will read about a small town with amazing people, dangerous people and finding love. When Isa came to Luna to hide her life will change forever. Granny is a wonderful person who is scared to show his emotions. Watching these two become friends then more will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next.
2,704 reviews20 followers
March 10, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book of family, faith, and redemption.  The suspense kept me turning the pages and the characters spoke to my heart, especially Isa and Grady.I enjoyed the story from beginning to end as Isa turned to her faith throughout the book and even asked her pastor for advice.  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly show to write an honest review.
10 reviews
March 13, 2025
Grady and Isa both have issues they need to deal with. Can the love/hate relationship be resolved?This book combines faith, love, humor, and suspense all in one! It is a great read! Jennifer has done an outstanding job keeping the attention of the reader and keep a message of faith through out the entire plot! Great book. I highly recommend it!
1 review
April 2, 2025
Not the usual Christian Fiction

I loved this book and the the few others I have read written by Jennifer Rodewald. She very cleverly weaves Christian principles into exciting stories. I have been a huge fan of Janet Oke and have found another author who writes with amazing skill. I look forward to following this series of books as well as others written by her.
1 review
June 26, 2025
Excellent book. I have read all of Jennifer Rodewald's books if I'm not mistaken and I hope she writes more books soon. Have enjoyed them all. I thought The Carpenter's Daughter was probably the best but not sure now since I have just finished this last series. Thanks for writing good clean fiction with a Christian twist. Please continue to write.
1,847 reviews24 followers
February 25, 2025
This is a great story of two completely opposite people. It's amazing how we can be so wrong about another's actions and the meaning behind them. There was a little more suspense in this one that kept it moving. Very well done.
19 reviews
February 28, 2025
This book was so refreshing. Imperfect people, working through real-life struggles, guided by their loving Savior. And the element of danger kept me reading when I should have been sleeping. Can't wait for Jennifer Rodewald's next book to come out!
519 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2025
An Honest Review: It's Amazing!

True: I wouldn't have chosen Isa and Grady either because I didn't like them, but Rodewald has shown us a side of the characters we didn't see. And Hazel : the change in her was amazing and realistic. Keep writing, Rodewald. God is using you.
6 reviews1 follower
March 24, 2025
We all love a story with a good ending

I love that the main characters loved God and depended upon Him to guide them. This book series was written so well, it was like reading true life stories.
Profile Image for CindyG.
89 reviews
April 18, 2025
Isa and Grady? Out of nowhere it seems. And complicated for real! Nice to see that Hunter & Janie are happy and that Bennet & Hazel are on good footing. Glad this series isn’t over because I need to know things ha. Waiting on the next book!
205 reviews2 followers
April 19, 2025
Great book

This was another great book that I recommend reading. I felt like it wrapped up a bit quickly, bit if was so great to get to follow the characters' shows stories across multiple books.
4 reviews
May 17, 2025
great read

Loved all five books and will be coming back to revisit all of the wonderful characters. What happened to Moose the dog? You left us hanging a bit. I hope he lived to meet the next generation
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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