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Unfailing Love #1
Just As I Am: Unfailing Love, Book 1
She’s running from trouble, but a fake relationship with a kind stranger might give her the protection she needs and a love she never expected.
Declan King has lived a life of solitude and duty for the U.S. Army. When the deaths of his grandparents bring him home to his family farm, he is forced into contact with people who know too much about his past to simply leave him alone.
Adeline Rhodes makes a daring escape from her controlling boyfriend, planning to hide out in the small town of Carson, Georgia. When Addie’s past catches up to her, she finds herself thrust into a fake relationship to protect her from her vengeful ex.
As Addie and Declan’s chance meeting begins a journey that heals old wounds, they struggle to stay ahead of the danger and deny their growing attraction to each other. Declan will do anything to protect her, and failure isn’t an option when Adeline’s life is on the line.
Welcome to the small town of Carson, Georgia where a group of friends vow to do whatever it takes to protect the women they love. Just as I Am is a gripping romantic suspense with an inspiring happily ever after.
Declan King has lived a life of solitude and duty for the U.S. Army. When the deaths of his grandparents bring him home to his family farm, he is forced into contact with people who know too much about his past to simply leave him alone.
Adeline Rhodes makes a daring escape from her controlling boyfriend, planning to hide out in the small town of Carson, Georgia. When Addie’s past catches up to her, she finds herself thrust into a fake relationship to protect her from her vengeful ex.
As Addie and Declan’s chance meeting begins a journey that heals old wounds, they struggle to stay ahead of the danger and deny their growing attraction to each other. Declan will do anything to protect her, and failure isn’t an option when Adeline’s life is on the line.
Welcome to the small town of Carson, Georgia where a group of friends vow to do whatever it takes to protect the women they love. Just as I Am is a gripping romantic suspense with an inspiring happily ever after.
Audible Audio
Published April 9, 2020
803 people are currently reading
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About the author
Mandi Blake
43 books873 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 2, 2024
3.5 stars
I’m always here for a fake dating romance, and I enjoyed this sweet romantic suspense book. The couple went from fake to real very fast and the ending felt rushed to me, but overall I enjoyed Declan and Addie’s story.
I’m always here for a fake dating romance, and I enjoyed this sweet romantic suspense book. The couple went from fake to real very fast and the ending felt rushed to me, but overall I enjoyed Declan and Addie’s story.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Lorana Hoopes
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 5h 57m
February 28, 2026
Just as I Am by Mandi Blake
Book 1 in the Unfailing Love Series
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I am going back and reading Mandi's backlist and really enjoying my time with them. These are always a good time with a fierce protector guy, sweet, clean romance and good faith moments. We follow Adeline and Declan. She goes to her aunt and uncles house in Georgia as she went on the run from her abusive ex-boyfriend and meets Declan. He is newly home from the Army so he is naturally a protector. When he sees Adeline in danger from her ex, he saves her from the situation and they fake date due to the circumstances. Their fake relationship turns to real one really fast. The stakes get high as her ex keeps creeping in and coming after her. The suspense at the end was wild!
I liked the characters and friend group was really good to be introduced to. While the romance is quick, I still had a good time with it. This was Mandi's debut book and I love going back to her backlist and seeing where she started. I have read over 20+ of her books now and I just love the comfort I get, and connection to the characters in her books. They are true comfort reads, even when the suspense elements are added.
Read this with my friend Melissa and we had a good time chatting about it!
Looking forward to more in the series as I continue her backlist.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Clean Romance, Abusive Ex-Boyfriend, Grief from Parental Loss Mentioned, No Language
Book 1 in the Unfailing Love Series
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
I am going back and reading Mandi's backlist and really enjoying my time with them. These are always a good time with a fierce protector guy, sweet, clean romance and good faith moments. We follow Adeline and Declan. She goes to her aunt and uncles house in Georgia as she went on the run from her abusive ex-boyfriend and meets Declan. He is newly home from the Army so he is naturally a protector. When he sees Adeline in danger from her ex, he saves her from the situation and they fake date due to the circumstances. Their fake relationship turns to real one really fast. The stakes get high as her ex keeps creeping in and coming after her. The suspense at the end was wild!
I liked the characters and friend group was really good to be introduced to. While the romance is quick, I still had a good time with it. This was Mandi's debut book and I love going back to her backlist and seeing where she started. I have read over 20+ of her books now and I just love the comfort I get, and connection to the characters in her books. They are true comfort reads, even when the suspense elements are added.
Read this with my friend Melissa and we had a good time chatting about it!
Looking forward to more in the series as I continue her backlist.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Clean Romance, Abusive Ex-Boyfriend, Grief from Parental Loss Mentioned, No Language
September 2, 2024
3.5 stars
JUST AS I AM
● Declan & Addie (24)
● Addie is hiding from her dangerous ex-boyfriend
● Addie is at her aunt and uncle’s house
● Declan is home from the army
● Declan has been gone in the military for 10 years
● when Addie’s aunt & uncle run into Declan they ask him if he can keep an eye on her
● when he first meets Addie at her work (hair salon) he decides to hang around to make sure she gets home
● she is attacked by her ex and that situation brings Declan & Addie together
● fake dating so they can try to catch her ex
JUST AS I AM
● Declan & Addie (24)
● Addie is hiding from her dangerous ex-boyfriend
● Addie is at her aunt and uncle’s house
● Declan is home from the army
● Declan has been gone in the military for 10 years
● when Addie’s aunt & uncle run into Declan they ask him if he can keep an eye on her
● when he first meets Addie at her work (hair salon) he decides to hang around to make sure she gets home
● she is attacked by her ex and that situation brings Declan & Addie together
● fake dating so they can try to catch her ex
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Lorana Hoopes
Length: 5h 57m
June 6, 2019
Sweet Christian Romance with a Dash of Suspense
This was a sweet and gentle romance with just enough suspense and danger to keep you on your toes. It had strong Christian elements and sometimes that detracted from the story but overall it was a sweet and cute romance.
This was a sweet and gentle romance with just enough suspense and danger to keep you on your toes. It had strong Christian elements and sometimes that detracted from the story but overall it was a sweet and cute romance.
February 12, 2025
This story was everything! It was the sweet/clean romance I needed right now. Loved both main characters and their journey. I can’t wait to continue in this series!
July 8, 2025
This was a sweet love story…easy read (listen)! I would certainly recommend just for a feel good story!
March 8, 2022
I’m just gonna start this review by saying I thoroughly enjoyed this story from the very beginning to the very end! I loved the characters, the romance, and the unexpected thread of suspense!
Addie is one of my favorite female characters! She is so kind and thoughtful and I just loved her! I loved how she brought Declan out of his shell and I loved his protectiveness towards Addie. The secondary characters and the light suspense thread really added to this story.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series! Also, if you listen to audiobooks, I highly recommend this one! I loved the narrator and how she voiced Addie! If you’re looking for a wonderful romance with a thread of suspense and great characters, this is the story for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Addie is one of my favorite female characters! She is so kind and thoughtful and I just loved her! I loved how she brought Declan out of his shell and I loved his protectiveness towards Addie. The secondary characters and the light suspense thread really added to this story.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series! Also, if you listen to audiobooks, I highly recommend this one! I loved the narrator and how she voiced Addie! If you’re looking for a wonderful romance with a thread of suspense and great characters, this is the story for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
April 14, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed ready Mandi’s novel Just as I am. She kept me turning the pages as I read this afternoon to find out what was going to happen as Declan and his mates worked together to protect Addie from Jason’s evil revenge. The dawning of trust between Declan and Addie as they drew together to overcome their past experiences to find love and happiness together. I look forward to reading Mandi’s next novel Never Say Goodbye
May 8, 2019
I loved this book! What a great debut by Mandi Blake. This love story takes you through twists and turns of suspense but also it shows the story of healing for both of the main characters. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
May 5, 2019
First, I want to thank Mandi Blake for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Just as I am Unfailing Love Book 1 By Mandi Blake is an incredibly powerful read that tugged at my heart strings.
This breathtaking cover first got me interested in the book. So, kudos to the graphic designer that created this cover for Mandi.
Warning this book has topics and situations that may trigger some readers. If you are not comfortable reading about stalking, physical abuse and controlling personality. This book may not be for you.
Unfailing Love started out very intense and hooked me right away! Mandi did an incredible job with the Jason and Addy’s I scenes. Mandi was extremely passionate about this duo and their storyline. You could tell by all the passion she wet into these two characters and their storyline.
What I loved about this book was it was faith based. However, you never guess that until the middle of the book. It wasn’t overpowering but it was subtle. Yet, it was just right for the scene it was written for.
I thought it was comical when she thanked her husband for reading her sappy romantic book.
Just as I am Unfailing Love Book 1 By Mandi Blake is an incredibly powerful read that tugged at my heart strings.
This breathtaking cover first got me interested in the book. So, kudos to the graphic designer that created this cover for Mandi.
Warning this book has topics and situations that may trigger some readers. If you are not comfortable reading about stalking, physical abuse and controlling personality. This book may not be for you.
Unfailing Love started out very intense and hooked me right away! Mandi did an incredible job with the Jason and Addy’s I scenes. Mandi was extremely passionate about this duo and their storyline. You could tell by all the passion she wet into these two characters and their storyline.
What I loved about this book was it was faith based. However, you never guess that until the middle of the book. It wasn’t overpowering but it was subtle. Yet, it was just right for the scene it was written for.
I thought it was comical when she thanked her husband for reading her sappy romantic book.
May 4, 2019
Just As I am is the debut novel of Mandi Blake. This is a romantic suspense and I really enjoyed it. The book was easy to read and the characters were likeable. The author also had a Christian inspirational message. This will be a series and I know the author will have a great future in store.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author. This is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author. This is my honest opinion.
May 8, 2019
This is an awesome book! This book has it all, action, drama, suspense and romance. Her writing is so vivid that this book plays like a movie in your mind. I can't wait to read more from this author. I highly recommend this book to everyone that likes good christian fiction.
April 22, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Was a new to me author. Had me reading in one sitting, non stop from page one
February 6, 2022
I totally enjoyed this book! Fun fast read with good clean romance and some adventure/action. Not a really deep book but good clean fun! I’ll definitely read the next book in the series!
December 11, 2020
Just As I Am was the second book that I had read written by Mandi Blake. I had read the sixth book, What If I Loved You, in her Unfailing Love series first, and since I liked it so much I decided to read them all. Just As I Am is the first book in Mandi Blake’s Unfailing Love series. It was super sweet and cute, and I adored the characters. Adeline and Declan were relatable characters and I loved reading about their faith in God.
Adeline Rhodes has spent the last few years locked up in a New Orleans apartment by her controlling criminal boyfriend, she has finally taken the first steps to get her life back on track and finds herself in Carson, Georgia. Declan King has spent the last few years in the U.S Army. But the death of his grandparents brings him back home and forced into contact with people who knew him too well to simply leave him alone. When the demons of Addie’s past come back to haunt her, Declan and Addie find themselves in a fake relationship in order to protect Addie from her vengeful ex. As they work together, they begin a journey that heals old wounds and maybe could lead to a relationship.
This was a great debut novel! Addie was such a sweet character, she was learning how to stand back on her own two feet. She cared for Declan and she trusted him from the beginning. I felt bad for her as she was living in fear from her ex. She tried so hard to be strong, but she was worried about these new friends she had made. I liked her character development, as she learned to be herself and turn to God.
Declan was a big softy, he reminded me of a teddy bear. I loved his character, he was so protective of Addie and yet he was also shy. I found it sweet how comfortable he was with Addie. He had some things to work through, as he learned to let people in but Addie was worth it for him. He had to learn what it meant to be in a relationship with Addie, although he had been hurt before. He had to let go of his anger and turn to Christ.
I was intrigued by the plot of the book and I ended up reading it in one day! Declan and Addie had to work together to save Addie from her ex, but they may not be able to do it on their own. They will have to turn to God for guidance and trust their friends to help them.
Just As I Am was really good and one of the things that I really liked about it, was the character’s faith in God. Their faith didn’t feel forced or fake. I also liked the side characters, Declan’s friends were super nice and I am super excited to read their books! I would definitely recommend this book! Just As I Am is a clean, contemporary Christian book that has a slight element of suspense.
Adeline Rhodes has spent the last few years locked up in a New Orleans apartment by her controlling criminal boyfriend, she has finally taken the first steps to get her life back on track and finds herself in Carson, Georgia. Declan King has spent the last few years in the U.S Army. But the death of his grandparents brings him back home and forced into contact with people who knew him too well to simply leave him alone. When the demons of Addie’s past come back to haunt her, Declan and Addie find themselves in a fake relationship in order to protect Addie from her vengeful ex. As they work together, they begin a journey that heals old wounds and maybe could lead to a relationship.
This was a great debut novel! Addie was such a sweet character, she was learning how to stand back on her own two feet. She cared for Declan and she trusted him from the beginning. I felt bad for her as she was living in fear from her ex. She tried so hard to be strong, but she was worried about these new friends she had made. I liked her character development, as she learned to be herself and turn to God.
Declan was a big softy, he reminded me of a teddy bear. I loved his character, he was so protective of Addie and yet he was also shy. I found it sweet how comfortable he was with Addie. He had some things to work through, as he learned to let people in but Addie was worth it for him. He had to learn what it meant to be in a relationship with Addie, although he had been hurt before. He had to let go of his anger and turn to Christ.
I was intrigued by the plot of the book and I ended up reading it in one day! Declan and Addie had to work together to save Addie from her ex, but they may not be able to do it on their own. They will have to turn to God for guidance and trust their friends to help them.
Just As I Am was really good and one of the things that I really liked about it, was the character’s faith in God. Their faith didn’t feel forced or fake. I also liked the side characters, Declan’s friends were super nice and I am super excited to read their books! I would definitely recommend this book! Just As I Am is a clean, contemporary Christian book that has a slight element of suspense.
October 22, 2019
Great suspenseful read
She had an abusive boyfriend. He refused to leave her alone, and when she realized he was a drug dealer, Addie knew she had to leave. As she ran to the only family she had left, she knew that he could find her at any time, and she also knew he would kill her. She knew too many of his secrets AND she had dared to run away. What Addie didn't realize was that she had backup. GOD was planning her steps and He knew what the end result would be. Just after she moved in with her aunt and uncle, they suggested she apply for a job at the beauty shop where she'd changed her looks with a total makeover. Suddenly her life was changing. Addie had a job, was going back to school, and had new, caring friends all around her. Everything was going well until she saw Jason in town and was attacked by him. True friends came to her rescue without even knowing the sordid details...could she trust them with her past? Well, she didnt have much choice...Jason went after everyone who stood in between him and Addie. Howcould she remove this threat to her new friends and family as well.as her own life? Well, GOD had a plan...Addie just needed to get with His program....
Great read. First in a series, the other books are on my to read list.
She had an abusive boyfriend. He refused to leave her alone, and when she realized he was a drug dealer, Addie knew she had to leave. As she ran to the only family she had left, she knew that he could find her at any time, and she also knew he would kill her. She knew too many of his secrets AND she had dared to run away. What Addie didn't realize was that she had backup. GOD was planning her steps and He knew what the end result would be. Just after she moved in with her aunt and uncle, they suggested she apply for a job at the beauty shop where she'd changed her looks with a total makeover. Suddenly her life was changing. Addie had a job, was going back to school, and had new, caring friends all around her. Everything was going well until she saw Jason in town and was attacked by him. True friends came to her rescue without even knowing the sordid details...could she trust them with her past? Well, she didnt have much choice...Jason went after everyone who stood in between him and Addie. Howcould she remove this threat to her new friends and family as well.as her own life? Well, GOD had a plan...Addie just needed to get with His program....
Great read. First in a series, the other books are on my to read list.
April 14, 2020
Love and Redemption
What a wonderful story, full of emotions and challenges and excitement. The theme of forgiveness, love, redemption, pain and sorrow growing into joy were illustrated beautifully by the author. Addie had been trapped in an abusive relationship and with the help of God and angels among us, she was able to escape from Jason. She found new friends and a new life with her aunt and uncle. They asked a trusted man, with his own demons to look out for her, knowing that Jason wasn't going to let addie get away. Declan agreed to watch out for her and was there to save her life. There follows adventures and terror as Jason keeps trying to get her. Declan poses as her boyfriend in an attempt to discourage Jason but real feelings emerge as they spend time together. These two discover healing through trusting God and each other. Thankfully Jason is caught in the end. I was blown away by Addie and her ability to forgive. This book combines a wonderful love story with truth. Highly recommend!
What a wonderful story, full of emotions and challenges and excitement. The theme of forgiveness, love, redemption, pain and sorrow growing into joy were illustrated beautifully by the author. Addie had been trapped in an abusive relationship and with the help of God and angels among us, she was able to escape from Jason. She found new friends and a new life with her aunt and uncle. They asked a trusted man, with his own demons to look out for her, knowing that Jason wasn't going to let addie get away. Declan agreed to watch out for her and was there to save her life. There follows adventures and terror as Jason keeps trying to get her. Declan poses as her boyfriend in an attempt to discourage Jason but real feelings emerge as they spend time together. These two discover healing through trusting God and each other. Thankfully Jason is caught in the end. I was blown away by Addie and her ability to forgive. This book combines a wonderful love story with truth. Highly recommend!
April 11, 2025
From the very first page, Just as I Am had me hooked with its blend of suspense, faith, and heart-melting romance. Adeline is on the run from a past that’s left her scarred and afraid—but her path crosses with Declan, a quiet, protective Army veteran grieving the loss of his grandparents. What starts as a fake relationship for protection slowly, seamlessly turns into something real, healing, and deeply moving.
Declan and Addie’s connection felt so authentic, and I adored the way their relationship grew with tenderness and trust. Mandi Blake masterfully wove in just the right amount of suspense and danger while grounding the story in grace, redemption, and God’s unwavering love. This book doesn’t shy away from difficult topics—like stalking and abuse—but it handles them with such care and intention.
Mandi’s stories always leave my heart full, and this one was no exception. Gentle yet gripping, sweet yet powerful—this story reminds us that healing is possible and love can be found even in the most unexpected places. 💛
📖 Perfect for fans of:
✔️ Small-town romance
✔️ Faith-filled storytelling
✔️ Quiet protectors
✔️ Fake dating with real feelings
✔️ Emotional depth with suspenseful twists
Declan and Addie’s connection felt so authentic, and I adored the way their relationship grew with tenderness and trust. Mandi Blake masterfully wove in just the right amount of suspense and danger while grounding the story in grace, redemption, and God’s unwavering love. This book doesn’t shy away from difficult topics—like stalking and abuse—but it handles them with such care and intention.
Mandi’s stories always leave my heart full, and this one was no exception. Gentle yet gripping, sweet yet powerful—this story reminds us that healing is possible and love can be found even in the most unexpected places. 💛
📖 Perfect for fans of:
✔️ Small-town romance
✔️ Faith-filled storytelling
✔️ Quiet protectors
✔️ Fake dating with real feelings
✔️ Emotional depth with suspenseful twists
October 25, 2019
E-Reader. unfailng love
Addie Rhodes was living New Orleans, with her boyfriend, Jason for 6 years. After Mother & Dad died in car. Addie decided he was very controlling.
Addie packed as she could much & in small bag. And she called Uber. He arrived in 5 minutes. This was very kind to Addie. He drove her to Carson, Georgia. And do not allow Addie pay him.
Karen Addie a job at a salon. Answer all calls to make appointments, swept the floor to get hair off to pile. Addie also had wash & used dryer for all towels.
Declan came in the salon to get his hair cut. This the first time he met Addie. He felt Addie very beautiful.
Karen called Declan, that Addie would him to cleanup his grandparents house. Addie did this for free.
They both started have romantic fee
There too characters to list in this very good book!
I hope you will read very book to end.
I hope you will enjoy very this very book as much as I did l
Addie Rhodes was living New Orleans, with her boyfriend, Jason for 6 years. After Mother & Dad died in car. Addie decided he was very controlling.
Addie packed as she could much & in small bag. And she called Uber. He arrived in 5 minutes. This was very kind to Addie. He drove her to Carson, Georgia. And do not allow Addie pay him.
Karen Addie a job at a salon. Answer all calls to make appointments, swept the floor to get hair off to pile. Addie also had wash & used dryer for all towels.
Declan came in the salon to get his hair cut. This the first time he met Addie. He felt Addie very beautiful.
Karen called Declan, that Addie would him to cleanup his grandparents house. Addie did this for free.
They both started have romantic fee
There too characters to list in this very good book!
I hope you will read very book to end.
I hope you will enjoy very this very book as much as I did l
October 21, 2019
Adeline Rhodes spent 6 years locked away in an apartment, controlled by an abusive boyfriend. When she found out that he was a drug dealer she made a daring escape; She ended up with an aunt and Uncle living in a different town. There she got a new job, a new haircut and started making new friends.
One day DeClan King and friend of her aunt and uncle stopped in to visit them. They asked him if he would help keep an eye on Adeline to keep her safe from this boyfriend, who they figured would come and look for her.
Wel, that night he did come and when she took out the garbage from the salon where she worked, he attacked her from behind with a knife. DeClan was sitting in his truck waiting for her to finish work when he heard a scream. He ran to her aide and received a knife wound in his stomach.
Read the book to find out what happened to Addie to De Clan and the former boyfriend. It is a well written , don't put me down type of book. I very much enjoyed it.
One day DeClan King and friend of her aunt and uncle stopped in to visit them. They asked him if he would help keep an eye on Adeline to keep her safe from this boyfriend, who they figured would come and look for her.
Wel, that night he did come and when she took out the garbage from the salon where she worked, he attacked her from behind with a knife. DeClan was sitting in his truck waiting for her to finish work when he heard a scream. He ran to her aide and received a knife wound in his stomach.
Read the book to find out what happened to Addie to De Clan and the former boyfriend. It is a well written , don't put me down type of book. I very much enjoyed it.
February 23, 2025
Declan King and Adeline Rhodes were truly written in to fit the story, "Just As I Am", by Mandi Blake. Declan, who returned home after eight years in the Army, returned as quiet as he was before. However, now, he's added reclusive and even more shy to his personality traits. He feels alone now that he's lost his mother and grandparents, but he knows that his Savior walks with him every single day. Even through his past deployments.
Adeline Rhodes, otherwise known as Addie, was running from an abusive, controlling and manipulating ex-boyfriend. Once she started to put the pieces of her life back together, her past comes calling. With trust in Declan, and his friends, she begins rebuilding her life. Her faith receives the opportunity to grow. Her fears subside and her past begins to fade, at least until it comes knocking. Throughout this book, hope, renewal of Faith, love and truth seem to guide the pages -- one by one. What I gained from this book is that with God, all things are possible, yet the truth will set us free. I give this book 5 stars. This is the same rating from before, however, this time I realized my belief that God can calm any storm is as strong as my faith in Him.
Adeline Rhodes, otherwise known as Addie, was running from an abusive, controlling and manipulating ex-boyfriend. Once she started to put the pieces of her life back together, her past comes calling. With trust in Declan, and his friends, she begins rebuilding her life. Her faith receives the opportunity to grow. Her fears subside and her past begins to fade, at least until it comes knocking. Throughout this book, hope, renewal of Faith, love and truth seem to guide the pages -- one by one. What I gained from this book is that with God, all things are possible, yet the truth will set us free. I give this book 5 stars. This is the same rating from before, however, this time I realized my belief that God can calm any storm is as strong as my faith in Him.
April 23, 2019
Just as I am is a beautifully written love story with a good dose of suspense.
Addie has been held captive so to speak by her boyfriend for years shutting her off from the outside world. Once she discovers his true career choice she flees.
Declan is ex military who fights with the demons of his past. He's reclusive and only associates when needed.
When Declan and Addie's worlds collides he takes it upon himself to protect her from her ex. Their feelings for each other are growing but can either learn to trust?
Will Declan be able to save her in time from the clutches of her ex?
Addie has been held captive so to speak by her boyfriend for years shutting her off from the outside world. Once she discovers his true career choice she flees.
Declan is ex military who fights with the demons of his past. He's reclusive and only associates when needed.
When Declan and Addie's worlds collides he takes it upon himself to protect her from her ex. Their feelings for each other are growing but can either learn to trust?
Will Declan be able to save her in time from the clutches of her ex?
May 16, 2019
This was an interesting mesh of things I really liked and things I really disliked.
I liked the romance between two real, troubled characters with pasts and flaws. I liked the surprising friendships that added so much to the story and the characters' lives. I liked the scenes that were described so vividly that I could play them like a movie in my head.
However, I was not expecting a romantic suspense or so much violence. I was not expecting so many kisses and unchaperoned cuddling. In real life, there would have been too much temptation for something sexual to happen, but it was ignored in this story. I would have given this a PG-13 rating for sure, if it was a movie. Now, admittedly, I'm a bit of a sissy when it comes to violence, as my overactive imagination is too impressionable, and I'm sure most people wouldn't have much problem with this.
I also didn't like how few Christian threads were actually a part of it. It was barely more than a sweet romance with just a few mentions of God and a quick church scene thrown in.
And while the vast majority of it was well-written, I didn't like the transitions. The exposition dragged the story down too much, slowing it down unnaturally in some places. It could have been shortened and the pace quickened by getting directly to the scenes that kept me turning pages.
I loved all the supporting characters, how distinct each of Declan's friends was. But I didn't like the villains (one of which was one-dimensional and I never understood his motivation).
I did love the setting. And I loved the characters of Addie and Declan, who are very memorable and relatable.
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
I liked the romance between two real, troubled characters with pasts and flaws. I liked the surprising friendships that added so much to the story and the characters' lives. I liked the scenes that were described so vividly that I could play them like a movie in my head.
However, I was not expecting a romantic suspense or so much violence. I was not expecting so many kisses and unchaperoned cuddling. In real life, there would have been too much temptation for something sexual to happen, but it was ignored in this story. I would have given this a PG-13 rating for sure, if it was a movie. Now, admittedly, I'm a bit of a sissy when it comes to violence, as my overactive imagination is too impressionable, and I'm sure most people wouldn't have much problem with this.
I also didn't like how few Christian threads were actually a part of it. It was barely more than a sweet romance with just a few mentions of God and a quick church scene thrown in.
And while the vast majority of it was well-written, I didn't like the transitions. The exposition dragged the story down too much, slowing it down unnaturally in some places. It could have been shortened and the pace quickened by getting directly to the scenes that kept me turning pages.
I loved all the supporting characters, how distinct each of Declan's friends was. But I didn't like the villains (one of which was one-dimensional and I never understood his motivation).
I did love the setting. And I loved the characters of Addie and Declan, who are very memorable and relatable.
(I received this book for free. The decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own. I was not compensated for this review.)
May 22, 2020
He Will Hunt Me Down
Addie was treated more like a slave than a girlfriend for seven years before she learned the truth about Jason. She escaped with very little, but it was a risk for her to leave at all. She knew he would hunt her down. At her aunt and uncle’s home in GA., she made a new life which she liked far more than what she had before. Jason sought her out as expected. He didn’t count on her new friends protecting her so carefully. There’s definitely a new romance too!
Addie was treated more like a slave than a girlfriend for seven years before she learned the truth about Jason. She escaped with very little, but it was a risk for her to leave at all. She knew he would hunt her down. At her aunt and uncle’s home in GA., she made a new life which she liked far more than what she had before. Jason sought her out as expected. He didn’t count on her new friends protecting her so carefully. There’s definitely a new romance too!
November 12, 2020
Addie is trying to start over and stay safe from her ex. Declan never thought when her aunt and uncle asked him to look out for her that it would change his life forever. The author made me believe that these two really did fall in love at first sight. Great suspense wondering when or if the ex would show up. I have read the other books in this series out of order so it was great getting to know them - loved the card playing scene. There is of course some angst but true love wins in the end. I actually listened to this book and the narrator did a great job.
July 30, 2024
Addie is running from a bad relationship. Declan was asked by her aunt and uncle to keep an eye out for her. The night Declan and Addie meet, Addie’s ex comes back in town. It awakens a plan of a fake relationship between Declan and Addie to draw Jason out while Declan can protect Addie at the same time.
This book was fast paced for me. I liked the romance. I like the communication between Addie and Declan. I do wish the book was longer to draw out the relationship and build it a bit longer. But that is a personal thing for me. Declan is another walking green flag. I like it!
The next book will follow Dakota who is a friend of Declan that you get a introduced to in this book. I do plan on reading that book as well, but I have a few books to finish before I can get to that.
This book was fast paced for me. I liked the romance. I like the communication between Addie and Declan. I do wish the book was longer to draw out the relationship and build it a bit longer. But that is a personal thing for me. Declan is another walking green flag. I like it!
The next book will follow Dakota who is a friend of Declan that you get a introduced to in this book. I do plan on reading that book as well, but I have a few books to finish before I can get to that.
October 21, 2019
Suspenseful Read
This book had lots of emotional descriptions along with tremendous suspense! It was very difficult to put it down while other things needed tending to. I really enjoyed seeing the characters help each other make a renewed choice to seek God and make Him their first priority in their lives. I loved the ending because it directed my thoughts to a hopeful beginning for the main couple.
This book had lots of emotional descriptions along with tremendous suspense! It was very difficult to put it down while other things needed tending to. I really enjoyed seeing the characters help each other make a renewed choice to seek God and make Him their first priority in their lives. I loved the ending because it directed my thoughts to a hopeful beginning for the main couple.
January 10, 2020
Love this series by Mandi Blake. I really was invested in Adeline escaping her controlling boyfriend. Starting a fake relationship with the equally damaged Declan was icing on the cake. Had me rooting for them to heal each other from the get go. Nice easy read with Christian values. I really enjoyed it!
March 13, 2023
This was a sweet Christian read. It definitely has gospel principles in it, but it didn't feel preachy like other Christian fiction I've read. It's not a light book because of the subject matter (running away from an abusive boyfriend who in turn hunts her down). It was sweet and entertaining to listen to.
December 29, 2019
I am in awe that "Just As I Am" is Mandi Blake's premier book. This novel is so well written, one would think that she had been publishing for years. She throws her heroine into conflict straight out of the gate, and fights with her own determination, help from new friends, and God, to save her from the dark situation. I fell in love with Addie and Declan and cheered them on as they battled their inner struggles, as well as. their foe and fell in love along the way. "Just As I Am" is actually the second book I read in Blake's Unfailing Love Series. If you want to read a sweet romance with suspense, this book and series is for you. I am looking forward to reading book 2, "Never Say Goodbye."
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