What do you think?
Rate this book
Lowcountry Romance #2
Love Starts with Elle
Elle's living the dream but is it her dream or his?
Elle loves life in Beaufort, South Carolina lazy summer days on the sand bar, coastal bonfires, and dinners with friends sharing a lifetime of memories. And she's found her niche as the owner of a successful art gallery too. Life is good.
Then the dynamic pastor of her small town church sweeps her off her feet. She's never known a man like Jeremiah one who breathes in confidence and exhales all doubt. When he proposes in the setting sunlight, Elle hands him her heart on a silver platter.
But Jeremiah's just accepted a large pastorate in a different state. If she's serious about their relationship, Elle will take "the call," too, leaving behind the people and place she loves so dearly. Elle's friendship with her new tenant, widower Heath McCord, and his young daughter make things even more complicated.
Is love transferrable across the miles? And can you take it with you when you go?"
Elle loves life in Beaufort, South Carolina lazy summer days on the sand bar, coastal bonfires, and dinners with friends sharing a lifetime of memories. And she's found her niche as the owner of a successful art gallery too. Life is good.
Then the dynamic pastor of her small town church sweeps her off her feet. She's never known a man like Jeremiah one who breathes in confidence and exhales all doubt. When he proposes in the setting sunlight, Elle hands him her heart on a silver platter.
But Jeremiah's just accepted a large pastorate in a different state. If she's serious about their relationship, Elle will take "the call," too, leaving behind the people and place she loves so dearly. Elle's friendship with her new tenant, widower Heath McCord, and his young daughter make things even more complicated.
Is love transferrable across the miles? And can you take it with you when you go?"
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2008
186 people are currently reading
2113 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Hauck
74 books4,505 followersNew York Times, USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Rachel Hauck writes from sunny central Florida.
A RITA finalist and winner of Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and Career Achievement Award, she writes vivid characters dealing with real life issues.
Her book, Once Upon A Prince, was made into an original Hallmark movie.
The Wedding Dress has been optioned for film by Brain Power Studio
She loves to hear from readers. She also loves to encourage new writers and is a retired member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Executive Board.
A graduate of Ohio State University with a BA in Journalism, Rachel is an avid OSU football fan. She hopes to one day stand on the sidelines in the Shoe with Ryan Day.
Visit her web site to find out more and click on the icons to follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
www.rachelhauck.com
A RITA finalist and winner of Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and Career Achievement Award, she writes vivid characters dealing with real life issues.
Her book, Once Upon A Prince, was made into an original Hallmark movie.
The Wedding Dress has been optioned for film by Brain Power Studio
She loves to hear from readers. She also loves to encourage new writers and is a retired member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Executive Board.
A graduate of Ohio State University with a BA in Journalism, Rachel is an avid OSU football fan. She hopes to one day stand on the sidelines in the Shoe with Ryan Day.
Visit her web site to find out more and click on the icons to follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
www.rachelhauck.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
February 18, 2020
I do not know if I shall scream or cry or both. Love Starts with Elle is officially one of my favorite books of all time. It is by far my favorite book of contemporary Christian fiction. I enjoyed Sweet Caroline immensely, but it does not fully compare with the power and wonder of Elle. This is a sequel, but does stand alone on a firm foundation of Christ no less.
Elle is an artist, well in her heart. She mets Mr. Wonderful, who I did not like from page one, but he's so right. Until he's not, but really who is perfect? Well I did not see how in the world the plot could get her out of one situation or get her into another, but after reading the book in entirety I'm impressed. I cannot believe all that has happened. My goodness, our God is a mighty God.
Usually, I really do not like contemporary, because it's so real and harsh and there is just not enough "light". Rachel Hauck gives contemporary a good name. It is real, there is some harshness and full tears. But there is love and light beyond the darkness. The characters are so real, and I want to move to their town and lives near their lives. After Sweet Caroline I just could not see how the story could continue on in Elle's life, but it did and in such a neat way. I had my tears and my giggles. I got angry at people and frustrated when they did not head my suggestions. I cherish their joys and I cannot wait for more works to come from the wonder that I have found in Rachel's words on a page.
Elle is an artist, well in her heart. She mets Mr. Wonderful, who I did not like from page one, but he's so right. Until he's not, but really who is perfect? Well I did not see how in the world the plot could get her out of one situation or get her into another, but after reading the book in entirety I'm impressed. I cannot believe all that has happened. My goodness, our God is a mighty God.
Usually, I really do not like contemporary, because it's so real and harsh and there is just not enough "light". Rachel Hauck gives contemporary a good name. It is real, there is some harshness and full tears. But there is love and light beyond the darkness. The characters are so real, and I want to move to their town and lives near their lives. After Sweet Caroline I just could not see how the story could continue on in Elle's life, but it did and in such a neat way. I had my tears and my giggles. I got angry at people and frustrated when they did not head my suggestions. I cherish their joys and I cannot wait for more works to come from the wonder that I have found in Rachel's words on a page.
February 7, 2017
Love Starts with Elle. What a clever play on words this title has! Just look at this cover. It's book cover love for sure! This cover is a scene in the book where the children were given blank canvases and told to use their feet and bodies to paint it. After a whirlwind courtship Elle agrees to marry Jeremiah. After she agrees he then tells her he has agreed to pastor a mega church 3,000 miles away from her family and friends. Everything is about all the sacrifices she has to make for him including closing her successful art gallery. She tries to make a go of it but sees Jeremiah has no time for her. He is spreading himself way to thin with all the commitments he has and has no time for her. At this point I am silently screaming, hey it's time to leave this guy before you marry him and he neglects you and your marriage. She goes home to think things over to see if she even wants to work this out with this totally selfish guy. Back home she meets widower, Heath and his young daughter Tracy-Love. Meeting him makes the relationship with, Jeremiah more complicated for sure. I wasn't sure if my heart could take Elle's indecisiveness concerning her relationship with, Jeremiah.
This is the second book in the Lowcountry Romance series but does well as a standalone book. This is my first full length book by this author, I've only read novellas by her but I will definitely be reading more books by Rachel Hauck.
This is the second book in the Lowcountry Romance series but does well as a standalone book. This is my first full length book by this author, I've only read novellas by her but I will definitely be reading more books by Rachel Hauck.
July 26, 2019
I love when a relationship begins with a great friendship.
This was a cute book. I like Elle. Initially she was a strong character, but the wrong guy can make even a strong woman lose herself in a big personality like Jeremiah's.
After a terrible heartbreak, along comes a new neighbor with a vulnerable little daughter. A sweet friendship with no expectations is just what both Elle and Heath need.
I really liked this story and how it all turned out. Not corny at all. Just well done.
Addendum: I'm not an expert on grammar and word choices, so when this non-expert can pick up quite a few, it's time for a proofreader to go back through this book. Hopefully there's a newer edition that caught them. Examples: dirt and grim instead of grime, how can I replay you instead of repay, heath-food nut instead of health-food, taunt broad back instead of taut... and more.
This was a cute book. I like Elle. Initially she was a strong character, but the wrong guy can make even a strong woman lose herself in a big personality like Jeremiah's.
After a terrible heartbreak, along comes a new neighbor with a vulnerable little daughter. A sweet friendship with no expectations is just what both Elle and Heath need.
I really liked this story and how it all turned out. Not corny at all. Just well done.
Addendum: I'm not an expert on grammar and word choices, so when this non-expert can pick up quite a few, it's time for a proofreader to go back through this book. Hopefully there's a newer edition that caught them. Examples: dirt and grim instead of grime, how can I replay you instead of repay, heath-food nut instead of health-food, taunt broad back instead of taut... and more.
July 6, 2009
Loved this book. Passed it on two two "reluctant reader" friends who also devoured it. I don't typically read Christian fiction romance, but this exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended!!!
August 22, 2010
Original post at One More Page
A week ago, some colleagues and I were discussing relationships and romance, and how one must go in choosing a mate. Perhaps "choosing a mate" is not the proper phrase to use (frankly it sounds a bit too bestial for me), but the discussion was about how the other person can be qualified as a potential guy or girl or will they be cast off into the friend zone. It was quite an interesting discussion, and I was surprised at how some of the guys told me that I needed to find someone who I don't share too many common interests with but someone who is my opposite -- someone who complements me, to use their term. That kind of got me confused. I mean, I know people say "Opposites attract" but if you have no common ground, how will you even start talking? Isn't having something in common -- even a little -- a prerequisite in building good relationships?
It's timely that I started reading Love Starts With Elle by Rachel Hauck as I semi-wrestled with these questions. We first meet Elle Garvey in Sweet Caroline , as one of Caroline's best friends and someone who could not wait to get married. She was so set to find a man in Beaufort that she started Operation Wedding Day in Caroline's book, where she made a list of men that are qualified for her husband standards and set off to date them, only to find herself disappointed after kissing and dating many frogs that she hoped would be her prince. We see her at the end of Sweet Caroline done with her Operation Wedding Day and still no groom in sight, and yet she was still somewhat happy at the state of her heart.
We meet Elle again, this time a year after the events of Sweet Caroline, happily managing her own gallery and in love with assistant pastor Jeremiah Franklin for the past two months. Elle is at the peak of her career and life, and there was only one thing that would make her happier -- a ring. Jeremiah provided that for her immediately at the start of the story, but not without revealing a catch soon after she gives her yes: they would have to move to Dallas because Jeremiah accepted the a pastor job at a big church there. Elle felt torn, but she said yes, all in the name of love (cheesy, but it's the only way I can describe it).
It's here we see trouble brewing. Elle tries her best to submit to her husband-to-be's whims and wishes, but she can't help but feel stifled with Jeremiah's passion for ministry and lack of concern for her. Elle loves Jeremiah, but she also loves her life and her dream and her art -- one of them will have to give, but which? To make matters even more confusing, Elle becomes friends with her tenant, handsome and gentleman Heath McCord and his daughter, who both just happen to be there when she needed company the most.
Now, there is really nothing new or surprising in this novel, and I think everyone who's read the blurb will know what will happen in the end. And it is true: there's really nothing so surprising in how the story unfolded -- the storyline is pretty typical. In a way, it reminded me of the local movie Miss You Like Crazy (John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo), with less angst and more chaste.
So why give it a pretty high rating, if the story's so typical?
First reason: Love Starts With Elle is a breath of fresh air. I am really not a romance reader, but I like my share of chick lit. I love how everything in this book is still chick lit, yet it's also not your typical chick lit. Of course, it's Christian, so you won't expect to read any sex scenes in the book, but it doesn't sugarcoat the consequences of the actions of the characters. Case in point: Elle's younger sister, Julianne, had a child out of wedlock, and she had to deal with knowing who the dad was in the novel. Another example: Elle wasn't immune to the charms of Jeremiah, and she had to struggle with physical intimacy with him, and she knows that if she wasn't careful, she wouldn't be able to stop herself. I liked how the author wrote a very realistic setting and cast, which is kind of hard to do when writing Christian fiction. I think it's a common misconception that Christians/Catholics/religious people are if not too religious and always in church, are happy all the time. That is far from the truth, because we also get hurt, angry, sad and all that. The only difference is we believe that there's Someone who's willing to share (if not take) the burden from us, and that there is a bigger purpose for all the trials, one that we may not see or understand now, but will in the future. I think Hauck was able to convey that effectively in her novel, especially when Elle and Heath were both struggling with their own brokenness in the story. Elle's divine affirmations in the story felt a bit over the top for me at first, but I have to remind myself that God communicates to us differently, and who am I to say that He won't communicate in the way He did with Elle, even if she was fictional?
Second reason: the characters. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I am very particular to characters in a book. The Beaufort people shone so much in this novel that I really believed they existed. I loved their little quirks, the Southern charm and the townspeople who were far from perfect, yet still lovable. Furthermore, Elle Garvey is a well-written protagonist, and she was very human. Human in the sense that she wasn't perfect -- she got angry, was lazy, she felt far away from God, she was tempted. I could relate very much to her because like Elle, I grew up in a Catholic family and I grew up knowing God. People expect me to be always connected to Him, to always do good and all that stuff, but I'm not. Heath, on the other hand, is a pretty good male lead. His brokenness and grief was beautifully written, and while I can't empathize, I felt his pain in losing his wife and his confusion in raising a girl on his own. Heath is the awkward father and the handsome protector rolled into one, and even if he seemed a tad too perfect for me, I liked his character.
Compared to Sweet Caroline, this book actually has a semblance of villains! Spoiler warning starts here. Jeremiah Franklin is probably the most stuck-up guy I have ever read in Christian fiction, ever. I knew he wasn't good for Elle, and I remember mentally chiding Elle for sticking with him. I swear, I couldn't stand him. He reminded me of my friend's ex who we all disliked too, after he broke up with her. He was ambitious, self-centered, and unreasonable -- and he was supposed to be a pastor! For a character in Christian fiction to elicit this much dislike from me is something new, and I have to commend Rachel Hauck for that! His ending with Elle was kind of too clean, and I felt that he should have gotten more spite than he did...but then again, we must forgive. :P Spoiler warning ends here. Julianne, Elle's sister, is also a tough nut to crack, and I found myself getting annoyed at her a lot, too, but she managed to have her own redemption in the end.
So did I get my answer to my questions about complements and similarities and potential partners? In a way...yes. I learned, from Elle's story, that having something in common isn't really a prerequisite and neither is being opposites. Sure, it's nice to have something to talk about, and it's also nice to find someone who complements your personality. But if we're talking about forever and with bigger issues in life (ex. faith, family matters, direction in life), there has to be balance: you can't be too similar the other because there would be no growth, and you can't be too different, too, because you won't go anywhere. Each person must be willing to meet each other halfway (and sometimes, even more) to make the relationship work.
Of course, that is coming from someone who has never been in a relationship before -- so feel free to correct me. ;)
Overall, Love Starts With Elle is a pretty good book. Despite the typical storyline, strong characters and a pretty vivid setting is worth it enough for me to give this book a high rating. It definitely satiated my need for tingles and good, clean, fictional romance. ;) I am inviting males who are willing to read romance/chick lit to read this book -- I am very curious to know what you think about Elle and Jeremiah's relationship drama. :)
A week ago, some colleagues and I were discussing relationships and romance, and how one must go in choosing a mate. Perhaps "choosing a mate" is not the proper phrase to use (frankly it sounds a bit too bestial for me), but the discussion was about how the other person can be qualified as a potential guy or girl or will they be cast off into the friend zone. It was quite an interesting discussion, and I was surprised at how some of the guys told me that I needed to find someone who I don't share too many common interests with but someone who is my opposite -- someone who complements me, to use their term. That kind of got me confused. I mean, I know people say "Opposites attract" but if you have no common ground, how will you even start talking? Isn't having something in common -- even a little -- a prerequisite in building good relationships?
It's timely that I started reading Love Starts With Elle by Rachel Hauck as I semi-wrestled with these questions. We first meet Elle Garvey in Sweet Caroline , as one of Caroline's best friends and someone who could not wait to get married. She was so set to find a man in Beaufort that she started Operation Wedding Day in Caroline's book, where she made a list of men that are qualified for her husband standards and set off to date them, only to find herself disappointed after kissing and dating many frogs that she hoped would be her prince. We see her at the end of Sweet Caroline done with her Operation Wedding Day and still no groom in sight, and yet she was still somewhat happy at the state of her heart.
We meet Elle again, this time a year after the events of Sweet Caroline, happily managing her own gallery and in love with assistant pastor Jeremiah Franklin for the past two months. Elle is at the peak of her career and life, and there was only one thing that would make her happier -- a ring. Jeremiah provided that for her immediately at the start of the story, but not without revealing a catch soon after she gives her yes: they would have to move to Dallas because Jeremiah accepted the a pastor job at a big church there. Elle felt torn, but she said yes, all in the name of love (cheesy, but it's the only way I can describe it).
It's here we see trouble brewing. Elle tries her best to submit to her husband-to-be's whims and wishes, but she can't help but feel stifled with Jeremiah's passion for ministry and lack of concern for her. Elle loves Jeremiah, but she also loves her life and her dream and her art -- one of them will have to give, but which? To make matters even more confusing, Elle becomes friends with her tenant, handsome and gentleman Heath McCord and his daughter, who both just happen to be there when she needed company the most.
Now, there is really nothing new or surprising in this novel, and I think everyone who's read the blurb will know what will happen in the end. And it is true: there's really nothing so surprising in how the story unfolded -- the storyline is pretty typical. In a way, it reminded me of the local movie Miss You Like Crazy (John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo), with less angst and more chaste.
So why give it a pretty high rating, if the story's so typical?
First reason: Love Starts With Elle is a breath of fresh air. I am really not a romance reader, but I like my share of chick lit. I love how everything in this book is still chick lit, yet it's also not your typical chick lit. Of course, it's Christian, so you won't expect to read any sex scenes in the book, but it doesn't sugarcoat the consequences of the actions of the characters. Case in point: Elle's younger sister, Julianne, had a child out of wedlock, and she had to deal with knowing who the dad was in the novel. Another example: Elle wasn't immune to the charms of Jeremiah, and she had to struggle with physical intimacy with him, and she knows that if she wasn't careful, she wouldn't be able to stop herself. I liked how the author wrote a very realistic setting and cast, which is kind of hard to do when writing Christian fiction. I think it's a common misconception that Christians/Catholics/religious people are if not too religious and always in church, are happy all the time. That is far from the truth, because we also get hurt, angry, sad and all that. The only difference is we believe that there's Someone who's willing to share (if not take) the burden from us, and that there is a bigger purpose for all the trials, one that we may not see or understand now, but will in the future. I think Hauck was able to convey that effectively in her novel, especially when Elle and Heath were both struggling with their own brokenness in the story. Elle's divine affirmations in the story felt a bit over the top for me at first, but I have to remind myself that God communicates to us differently, and who am I to say that He won't communicate in the way He did with Elle, even if she was fictional?
Second reason: the characters. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I am very particular to characters in a book. The Beaufort people shone so much in this novel that I really believed they existed. I loved their little quirks, the Southern charm and the townspeople who were far from perfect, yet still lovable. Furthermore, Elle Garvey is a well-written protagonist, and she was very human. Human in the sense that she wasn't perfect -- she got angry, was lazy, she felt far away from God, she was tempted. I could relate very much to her because like Elle, I grew up in a Catholic family and I grew up knowing God. People expect me to be always connected to Him, to always do good and all that stuff, but I'm not. Heath, on the other hand, is a pretty good male lead. His brokenness and grief was beautifully written, and while I can't empathize, I felt his pain in losing his wife and his confusion in raising a girl on his own. Heath is the awkward father and the handsome protector rolled into one, and even if he seemed a tad too perfect for me, I liked his character.
Compared to Sweet Caroline, this book actually has a semblance of villains! Spoiler warning starts here. Jeremiah Franklin is probably the most stuck-up guy I have ever read in Christian fiction, ever. I knew he wasn't good for Elle, and I remember mentally chiding Elle for sticking with him. I swear, I couldn't stand him. He reminded me of my friend's ex who we all disliked too, after he broke up with her. He was ambitious, self-centered, and unreasonable -- and he was supposed to be a pastor! For a character in Christian fiction to elicit this much dislike from me is something new, and I have to commend Rachel Hauck for that! His ending with Elle was kind of too clean, and I felt that he should have gotten more spite than he did...but then again, we must forgive. :P Spoiler warning ends here. Julianne, Elle's sister, is also a tough nut to crack, and I found myself getting annoyed at her a lot, too, but she managed to have her own redemption in the end.
So did I get my answer to my questions about complements and similarities and potential partners? In a way...yes. I learned, from Elle's story, that having something in common isn't really a prerequisite and neither is being opposites. Sure, it's nice to have something to talk about, and it's also nice to find someone who complements your personality. But if we're talking about forever and with bigger issues in life (ex. faith, family matters, direction in life), there has to be balance: you can't be too similar the other because there would be no growth, and you can't be too different, too, because you won't go anywhere. Each person must be willing to meet each other halfway (and sometimes, even more) to make the relationship work.
Of course, that is coming from someone who has never been in a relationship before -- so feel free to correct me. ;)
Overall, Love Starts With Elle is a pretty good book. Despite the typical storyline, strong characters and a pretty vivid setting is worth it enough for me to give this book a high rating. It definitely satiated my need for tingles and good, clean, fictional romance. ;) I am inviting males who are willing to read romance/chick lit to read this book -- I am very curious to know what you think about Elle and Jeremiah's relationship drama. :)
June 20, 2024
3.5 I was skeptical of this book at first but ended up enjoying it. It was sweet and I loved the way I got to see the characters grow in love but also in their faith. It was refreshing to read a romance where God was highlighted.
December 23, 2015
A Quickie Review
My second time through this book, and I enjoyed it once again. However, the cover picture is a bit off; the narrator describes Elle as having "brown legs," yet, the woman on the cover is rather fair-skinned. Despite that quibble, this was a good one.
Score: 4/5
My second time through this book, and I enjoyed it once again. However, the cover picture is a bit off; the narrator describes Elle as having "brown legs," yet, the woman on the cover is rather fair-skinned. Despite that quibble, this was a good one.
Score: 4/5
August 12, 2015
I loved this book! I had been wanting to read it for quite some time, so, when I finally got it, I practically devoured it! Finished it within a day.
What can I say..? Rachel Hauck is a pretty great author. The characters were very real to me (which makes a good book just that much better!). My two favorite characters were Elle (obviously) and her dad. Loved the relationship between those two — it was really special. Ms. Anna was another truly wonderful character. The world needs more prayer warriors like her. My least favorite character would have to be Jeremiah. Gosh! That guy just totally got on my nerves! :(
I didn’t read the back of the book, so I had no idea what part any of the characters played or what to expect. However, within the first few pages, I had decided that Elle would not end up with Jeremiah. What I wasn’t sure about was how exactly the author would go about switching things around. I did like the way she did it, though.
To quote the book — “It must seem like the world is ending, but wait and see what God will do. He must have something wonderful in mind.” Seeing the way God can use what we humans consider “bad things/situations” and “tragedies” to work good in the lives of His children… Wow. Elle & Jeremiah, Elle & Heath, Heath & his daughter, Julianne & her family, etc. The issues that the characters in this book had to deal with were numerous. One of the “victories” gained that I particularly liked was Julianne’s in dealing with her child, the child’s father, and her own parents. I also really liked the way Elle tried to advise her sister — which all good sisters should try to do.
One part that really touched me personally and got me thinking: “Seek Him now when nothing is demanding your attention. No schedule, no expectations. Then, when demand comes, you’ll be ready.“ That statement really challenged me to do better at this myself.
What can I say..? Rachel Hauck is a pretty great author. The characters were very real to me (which makes a good book just that much better!). My two favorite characters were Elle (obviously) and her dad. Loved the relationship between those two — it was really special. Ms. Anna was another truly wonderful character. The world needs more prayer warriors like her. My least favorite character would have to be Jeremiah. Gosh! That guy just totally got on my nerves! :(
I didn’t read the back of the book, so I had no idea what part any of the characters played or what to expect. However, within the first few pages, I had decided that Elle would not end up with Jeremiah. What I wasn’t sure about was how exactly the author would go about switching things around. I did like the way she did it, though.
To quote the book — “It must seem like the world is ending, but wait and see what God will do. He must have something wonderful in mind.” Seeing the way God can use what we humans consider “bad things/situations” and “tragedies” to work good in the lives of His children… Wow. Elle & Jeremiah, Elle & Heath, Heath & his daughter, Julianne & her family, etc. The issues that the characters in this book had to deal with were numerous. One of the “victories” gained that I particularly liked was Julianne’s in dealing with her child, the child’s father, and her own parents. I also really liked the way Elle tried to advise her sister — which all good sisters should try to do.
One part that really touched me personally and got me thinking: “Seek Him now when nothing is demanding your attention. No schedule, no expectations. Then, when demand comes, you’ll be ready.“ That statement really challenged me to do better at this myself.
June 15, 2009
I read romance manuscripts in my day job, and have read countless published romances. You'd think after awhile they would all be the same. Not so. Rachel Hauck has penned a romance that took my breath away. She starts with the setting in Beaufort, South Carolina (what could be more romantic?) Brings in characters that you are sure you would find there, whom you want to meet and know. Then, she adds surprises and grabs your emotions. Sigh. I didn't want this story to end. If I could write a romance and pick how I wanted readers to feel afterwards, I'd pick mine to make readers feel like this one! She already did it and did an amazing job. (And isn't the title clever??) I loved this love story--that starts with Elle.
July 17, 2019
This book was...strange and a little all over the place. I'm convinced that if Rachel Hauck would have written this in 2019 it would have been so much stronger, as her writing has definitely improved.
I think a lot of my issues came from reading the ebook edition..it was filled with so many errors: misplaced dialogue, repeated words, and just bad formatting that disconnected me from the story. As far as the story goes, I liked the premise and thought it was unique, but some of the characters were straight up mean for no real reason (Julianne), or unnecessary (the whole thing with Huck). I read the first one over 10 years ago, which didn't help since there were times having knowledge of the Caroline's story (or just characters in the first book) would have been helpful.
I liked Elle and Heath, although I felt their relationship has some odd embraces when they were "just friends" that seemed out of place for the story; and odd nicknames would appear out of nowhere near the end (i.e. Why did she start calling him counselor?). The ending felt a little rushed
BUT, editing pen aside, it had sweet scenes; I liked the message and the emphasis on the power of prayer. TL and Rio were adorable, and the story did have heart-wrenching moments. I did feel for both Elle and Heath's grief, and Jeremiah definitely added tension to the story.
Overall a good story if you can get past all the oddities. And be sure to read the print version.
I think a lot of my issues came from reading the ebook edition..it was filled with so many errors: misplaced dialogue, repeated words, and just bad formatting that disconnected me from the story. As far as the story goes, I liked the premise and thought it was unique, but some of the characters were straight up mean for no real reason (Julianne), or unnecessary (the whole thing with Huck). I read the first one over 10 years ago, which didn't help since there were times having knowledge of the Caroline's story (or just characters in the first book) would have been helpful.
I liked Elle and Heath, although I felt their relationship has some odd embraces when they were "just friends" that seemed out of place for the story; and odd nicknames would appear out of nowhere near the end (i.e. Why did she start calling him counselor?). The ending felt a little rushed
BUT, editing pen aside, it had sweet scenes; I liked the message and the emphasis on the power of prayer. TL and Rio were adorable, and the story did have heart-wrenching moments. I did feel for both Elle and Heath's grief, and Jeremiah definitely added tension to the story.
Overall a good story if you can get past all the oddities. And be sure to read the print version.
July 26, 2010
So I'm going to say it right now: this is a Christian/Spiritual novel. So now some of you can run away, but for those of you who remain, do stay and sit awhile.
In a nutshell: "Sleepless in Seattle" meets the Christian faith.
For a Christian novel, this story and the characters really stuck to me. I found this book on Goodreads and started reading it via the Google Preview. I remember really, really liking it but for some reason, I didn't check it out until I raided my library system this past week. I'm so glad I picked it up.
Even though I skimmed over some parts where it was thick with the Lord this, Him that, I still loved Elle and Heath's characters. It was a touching story and Rachel Hauck presented it so well, I felt myself cheering for Elle (especially during her victorious scene with Jer *wink*). I was nearing the end of the book and I found myself demanding, "Okay!! We know they're meant for each other! Let's get this show on the road already!" A sign of a good story when you cheer for the characters and are moved with them.
One thing that surprised me (considering how good a book it was, content-wise), there were many grammar and editorial mistakes. Words wouldn't be spaced right and there would be a left out quotation mark (") confusing me. Still, I didn't let it distract from the story and it's a minor detail when I finished with it.
I absolutely loved reading about these characters. Tracey-Love was so adorable and I loved the backdrop that she and Rio provided. I loved reading about Elle's sister, Julianne, struggle with her own heavy secrets and shame. I was so glad when she got through them and everything worked out just fine and dandy.
The summary make sit sound like the whole thing revolves around Elle's relationship with Jeremiah but it really isn't. It's about Heath and Elle and how they're dealing with their own inner demons.
While I didn't grow up in the deep south, many of the phrases make me pang with longing for Kentucky. I really loved the southern humor and hospitality portrayed.
This isn't really meant to be a young adult novel. It's labeled as "Adult Fiction" on my library system. But it's entirely appropriate for young adults and for all you romance junkies out there, this is a great romance to sigh along to. (The only reason I felt safe picking up an adult fiction book was due to it's spiritual backdrop.)
Overall, a fantastic read. I was laughing and giddy at the end. This is a perfect summer read. Rachel Hauck is brilliant.
Overall grade: A
In a nutshell: "Sleepless in Seattle" meets the Christian faith.
For a Christian novel, this story and the characters really stuck to me. I found this book on Goodreads and started reading it via the Google Preview. I remember really, really liking it but for some reason, I didn't check it out until I raided my library system this past week. I'm so glad I picked it up.
Even though I skimmed over some parts where it was thick with the Lord this, Him that, I still loved Elle and Heath's characters. It was a touching story and Rachel Hauck presented it so well, I felt myself cheering for Elle (especially during her victorious scene with Jer *wink*). I was nearing the end of the book and I found myself demanding, "Okay!! We know they're meant for each other! Let's get this show on the road already!" A sign of a good story when you cheer for the characters and are moved with them.
One thing that surprised me (considering how good a book it was, content-wise), there were many grammar and editorial mistakes. Words wouldn't be spaced right and there would be a left out quotation mark (") confusing me. Still, I didn't let it distract from the story and it's a minor detail when I finished with it.
I absolutely loved reading about these characters. Tracey-Love was so adorable and I loved the backdrop that she and Rio provided. I loved reading about Elle's sister, Julianne, struggle with her own heavy secrets and shame. I was so glad when she got through them and everything worked out just fine and dandy.
The summary make sit sound like the whole thing revolves around Elle's relationship with Jeremiah but it really isn't. It's about Heath and Elle and how they're dealing with their own inner demons.
While I didn't grow up in the deep south, many of the phrases make me pang with longing for Kentucky. I really loved the southern humor and hospitality portrayed.
This isn't really meant to be a young adult novel. It's labeled as "Adult Fiction" on my library system. But it's entirely appropriate for young adults and for all you romance junkies out there, this is a great romance to sigh along to. (The only reason I felt safe picking up an adult fiction book was due to it's spiritual backdrop.)
Overall, a fantastic read. I was laughing and giddy at the end. This is a perfect summer read. Rachel Hauck is brilliant.
Overall grade: A
October 28, 2014
I honestly felt this book was closer to 4 stars because it has a cute story and the characters are well developed, making it an overall good read. However, I gave it 3 stars because of the continuous distraction from typos and thought drops that were never picked back up. A book with two editors should never have this problem.
January 14, 2015
Somehow I forgot to rate and review this book last year! It's a sweet story that stayed with me for awhile.
I loved Elle from the start, and it seemed pretty plain to me from the beginning that I didn't want her to end up with Jeremiah. He definitely rubbed me the wrong way! So I was rooting for Heath and his daughter from day one. I hope to own my own copy of this sweet book someday!
I loved Elle from the start, and it seemed pretty plain to me from the beginning that I didn't want her to end up with Jeremiah. He definitely rubbed me the wrong way! So I was rooting for Heath and his daughter from day one. I hope to own my own copy of this sweet book someday!
May 13, 2016
Proof Read!
Sadly, this book has so many errors, especially punctuation, that it was a struggle to decipher the meaning. Punctuation marks or lack of them as well as incorrect paragraphing during dialogue was confusing and caused the reader to have to reread passages to attempt to figure them out. The book was not worth that kind of effort.
Sadly, this book has so many errors, especially punctuation, that it was a struggle to decipher the meaning. Punctuation marks or lack of them as well as incorrect paragraphing during dialogue was confusing and caused the reader to have to reread passages to attempt to figure them out. The book was not worth that kind of effort.
September 26, 2016
PLEASE hire a proofreader!
This is a good story but it's hard to enjoy because it has so many errors. I'm a court reporter and proofreader, and I'd be fired if my finished product looked like this. Send me your next manuscript and I'll proof it! I hate that you poured your heart and soul into this and yet it was published with so many glaring errors.
This is a good story but it's hard to enjoy because it has so many errors. I'm a court reporter and proofreader, and I'd be fired if my finished product looked like this. Send me your next manuscript and I'll proof it! I hate that you poured your heart and soul into this and yet it was published with so many glaring errors.
October 9, 2019
This had a nice story, but I didn't like the characters. The town is charming, and the romance was sweet when it starts. I didn't like the way it happened, though, but there is a happy ending. I also liked the art in the story. That was the best part of the story.
November 6, 2008
I LOVED EVERY MINUTE of this book. From the very first page to the last I delighted in Elle's life and her family, and you will too. Rachel Hauck has captured my heart with Elle's story. It's filled with fun,unforgettable characters, situations that made me laugh out loud, and parts which were thought provoking. Rachel drew me into Elle's life,
and her dilemma. Rachel answers some questions that we may have asked ourselves while reading. Questions such as: "Just because we have feelings of love for someone does it mean that we were meant to marry the person?","What is real love anyway?", "Does everything go smoothly just because you have given control to God?", and "Is there such a thing as a social Christian?". Be prepared to stay up late so that you can finish reading this book. You won't want it to end, I know I didn't.
Nora St.Laurent - Book Club Servant Leader
www.psalm516.blogspot.com
and her dilemma. Rachel answers some questions that we may have asked ourselves while reading. Questions such as: "Just because we have feelings of love for someone does it mean that we were meant to marry the person?","What is real love anyway?", "Does everything go smoothly just because you have given control to God?", and "Is there such a thing as a social Christian?". Be prepared to stay up late so that you can finish reading this book. You won't want it to end, I know I didn't.
Nora St.Laurent - Book Club Servant Leader
www.psalm516.blogspot.com
July 25, 2015
When I finished the first book in this series, it left me wondering what happened to the main characters, so I immediately picked up book two and finished it in a day. The story of Elle Garvey, an art gallery owner, and her struggles with relationships is another realistic look at life through the lens of Christian fiction. Hauck's writing is believable and her characters well-developed. They have real issues and Hauck does an excellent job keeping them all "touchable" and "real". I love that. Oddly enough, I don't feel I need to plunge right into the third book in this series as it appears to be about new characters in the small town of Beaufort, SC...although, I'm sure I would also enjoy this. There is no question that Hauck is one of the authors that has risen to the top of my "must read" writers.
April 27, 2012
Religious chick-lit. It was an enjoyable, quick read. I haven't read a chick-lit in a while, so this was a treat. I think if I read too much of this author, it would become more annoying than enjoyable, but as it was, it was fun to escape into the worlds where it is obvious who should end up with who, and they always do just at the right time when all career problems seem to be resolved. And I was pleasantly surprised that the religious side of it was pretty realistic. No sudden conversions, but always showing the characters growing in their faith and trust in God.
May 26, 2014
Yet another novel from Rachel Hauck, this one reads like an old-school romance movie, and features characters with multiple issues.
October 11, 2012
WOW! what can i really say about this book, it was awesome. The story was something new for me, sweet and at times, I wanted to kill Jeremiah. Overall, this book was nice, sweet wholesome and just made me feel good all inside. Love, Love, this book. :) Highly recommend it.
May 17, 2019
One of Rachel Hauck's earlier titles, but excellent in its own right! Very sweet and moving Christian romance.
February 13, 2013
I honestly likes this book. I believed every word on the page...even the feather part. This book was really good and I love that Rachel doesn't do stereotypes.
June 20, 2019
Loved this book! Elle Garvey believes her God given talent is art but all the art critics tell her she is just an amateur. They tell her to seek another career. So she opened an art gallery to show the work of other artists. She always believed her life was with her family in Beaufort, South Carolina. Elle falls in love with the associate pastor of her church. On the night he asks her to marry him, he also tells her he has accepted a job as senior pastor at a church in Dallas, Texas. He has to be there in two weeks and he wants her there with him. Elle and her Mother plan the wedding, she sells her gallery, and she rents out the cottage she lives in. The widower who has rented her cottage shows up early with his four year old daughter, so she moves out to her studio apartment. Things with her fiancé, Jeremiah Franklin, aren't quite right. He ends up calling the wedding off which devastates Elle. In her sorrow she turns completely to God to show her what He called her to do. In her journey her friendship with the widower, Heath McCord, blossoms. His six month stay in Beaufort is about up and he's moving back to New York. Do long distance relationships work? Elle's desire is to paint and everyone seems to love her art work except the people who matter in the art world. Jeremiah shows back up wanting Elle back. Who does she truly love? What does God want her to do? This book can also strengthen the readers relationship with God.
February 4, 2019
Elle Finds Her Heart
The second book of the Lowcountry series continues the story of Elle's search for love, but in the process she finds so much more. In this book, both male and female points of view are included, along with the developing story that Heath is writing about his grandfather's WWII days in the Aleutian Islands and the girl he left at home. Elle learns much about herself, her capacity to love, her relationship to God, and the power of prayer. Heath deals with his grief, renews his relationship to his daughter, and opens his heart. The appearance of the feathers and how God used them to strengthen Elle's confidence in His will was an amazing part of the story, especially with the story of the art critic. Nothing is impossible for God and how He can use it. Everything this author writes is among my favorites. Since this one dealt so much with self-doubt and knowing God's will, it was extremely meaningful.
The second book of the Lowcountry series continues the story of Elle's search for love, but in the process she finds so much more. In this book, both male and female points of view are included, along with the developing story that Heath is writing about his grandfather's WWII days in the Aleutian Islands and the girl he left at home. Elle learns much about herself, her capacity to love, her relationship to God, and the power of prayer. Heath deals with his grief, renews his relationship to his daughter, and opens his heart. The appearance of the feathers and how God used them to strengthen Elle's confidence in His will was an amazing part of the story, especially with the story of the art critic. Nothing is impossible for God and how He can use it. Everything this author writes is among my favorites. Since this one dealt so much with self-doubt and knowing God's will, it was extremely meaningful.
August 21, 2022
What I read: Love Starts with Elle by Rachel Hauck
Why I picked it up: Number two in a series I really liked the first one of!
How I read it: On audio at 1.5x, I really like the narrator of this series!
What it’s about: Elle has found her guy, Jeremiah, and he’s asked her to marry him. Then he told her he took on a new church assignment – in Dallas – Texas! She’s in love so she rents her house, sells her gallery, and makes plans to move to Dallas with Jeremiah. Until she gets a box in the mail with all of her stuff in it. Turns out she’s not getting married, but her house is still rented and her gallery is still sold.
What I liked: I loved Heath and Tracey-Love, so sweet!!
What I disliked: Jeremiah was the worst, and when it looked like she might get back together with him, I almost stopped listening.
Genre: Christian love story.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and yes, could be stand alone but better with the first one.
Why I picked it up: Number two in a series I really liked the first one of!
How I read it: On audio at 1.5x, I really like the narrator of this series!
What it’s about: Elle has found her guy, Jeremiah, and he’s asked her to marry him. Then he told her he took on a new church assignment – in Dallas – Texas! She’s in love so she rents her house, sells her gallery, and makes plans to move to Dallas with Jeremiah. Until she gets a box in the mail with all of her stuff in it. Turns out she’s not getting married, but her house is still rented and her gallery is still sold.
What I liked: I loved Heath and Tracey-Love, so sweet!!
What I disliked: Jeremiah was the worst, and when it looked like she might get back together with him, I almost stopped listening.
Genre: Christian love story.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and yes, could be stand alone but better with the first one.
October 1, 2020
I would happily have given this book three stars. I enjoy Hauck's characters; they're never too good to be true. Her plots have a good amount of ups and downs before arriving at the expected conclusion. This book was no exception to that. But the ebook I got from my library was riddled with proofreading/editing errors, from the 20th word on to the end. Things like repeated words and phrases, spelling Hemingway "Hemmingway" twice, punctuation and grammar issues, and misused words. As an editor myself, I know that I am apt to notice things others don't, but there were so very many errors in this book that it pulled me out of the plot.
September 28, 2025
Finally finished this series which I read in a very odd order! I read the third book, Dining with Joy first then Sweet Caroline and now I'm finally finished with Love Starts with Elle which honestly was the book I needed most to read after the year I've had. I have absolutely loved this series, each one is a bit different but all set in the same town with the same cast of characters. I wish there were more than three of these books because I've really enjoyed not only the religious themes (which I needed), but the side characters. Sadly, there aren't any others, but so far, I've enjoyed every Rachel Hauck book I've read and I'll be bugging my library for more.
February 26, 2020
This is the second book in the series. It wasn't as good as the first book but was still enjoyable. I had difficulty connecting with the characters and the plot seemed to drag in places.
I still enjoy this author's writing style and will read the next book in the series. Maybe it was just my mood, so don't take my word for things. Even though it wasn't, in my opinion, a great book it was still entertaining.
I still enjoy this author's writing style and will read the next book in the series. Maybe it was just my mood, so don't take my word for things. Even though it wasn't, in my opinion, a great book it was still entertaining.
July 17, 2020
The story of Elle and Heath is just adorable. At times Elle was frustrating because she couldn’t just let go of Jeremiah but how many people have been in the same position and don’t want to throw away all that time invested?
Danny being Rio’s daddy was surprising and even more surprising that they were truly in love and he wasn’t just some creepy old guy.
I would love to see future books about their love story.
Danny being Rio’s daddy was surprising and even more surprising that they were truly in love and he wasn’t just some creepy old guy.
I would love to see future books about their love story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews