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Hope Springs #3
Not Until You: Hope Springs, Book 3
One mistake cost Nate everything. One woman stirs something he never expected to feel hope for the future. Nate’s star was rising in the world of Christian music. But all that was erased with a single life-shattering mistake. A mistake that has kept him from seeing his family for seven years. Working for his ruthless father is the last thing he wants to do now. But his dad has made it clear—it’s the only way he’ll be welcomed back into the family. So Nate dutifully heads to the small town of Hope Springs. He plans to keep his head down, put in his time, and leave the moment he can.
Three years after her husband’s death, Violet spends her days working to keep their antique store—and his memory—alive. Her friends say it’s time to move on, but she’s not sure she wants to. So when Nate moves in next door, she fights hard to ignore the feelings he stirs in her. Especially when she learns that his father wants to shut down her store.
But as the two work together to save the business, neither can deny the relationship that is starting to develop. Until Violet learns the devastating truth about Nate’s past. Will she walk away—or trust the God of second chances to give them a future?
Three years after her husband’s death, Violet spends her days working to keep their antique store—and his memory—alive. Her friends say it’s time to move on, but she’s not sure she wants to. So when Nate moves in next door, she fights hard to ignore the feelings he stirs in her. Especially when she learns that his father wants to shut down her store.
But as the two work together to save the business, neither can deny the relationship that is starting to develop. Until Violet learns the devastating truth about Nate’s past. Will she walk away—or trust the God of second chances to give them a future?
Audible Audio
Published June 12, 2023
1134 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Valerie M. Bodden
42 books456 followersI have three great loves: Jesus, my family, and books. And chocolate (okay, four great loves). I write fast-paced, emotional Christian fiction that weaves real-life problems, real-life people, and real-life faith. My characters may (okay, will) experience some heartache along the way, but I promise I'll always give them a happy ending.
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VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR A FREE BOOK!
www.valeriembodden.com
CHAT WITH ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/ValerieMBodden/
CHECK OUT MY PINTEREST!
https://www.pinterest.com/valbodden/
HANG OUT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM
https://www.instagram.com/valboddenbo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
June 26, 2023
*Updated Audio Book Review*
I read this book a few years ago and had honestly forgotten what an amazingly moving story it was. What a joy to be able to listen to it in audio book format! The narrator did a great job and the budding romance of Nate and Violet captured me completely once again.
Violet had a great set of supportive friends, yet she still looked back to the past, when she was married to her high school sweetheart. When he died, Violet felt that all of her future hopes died as well. Nate thought that because of a bad decision he made years earlier, he no longer deserved a happy future. It seemed that even his family didn’t want him around. Could he ever possibly be forgiven and start anew?
I really enjoyed the way these two characters got to know each other and grew to care for each other. It seemed that they both might be able to have a happy future full of love together. Yet, there were things that Violet did not know about Nate that could affect the possibility of them being together.
I loved listening to this story! Even though it is book three in the Hope Springs series, it can be enjoyed as a stand alone novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
*Original Review of Ebook*
Not Until You was an emotional and gripping story that touched my heart and dug deeply into the topics of grief, forgiveness, and consequences for actions. It is book three in the Hope Springs series, yet can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone novel.
I really felt for the two main characters, Violet and Nate. Violet was still hurting from the death of her husband, but was beginning to take a few steps small steps forward. It was interesting to watch as she began to develop feelings for Nate. The hope of life and love battled against guilt within her.
Nate was a character I liked a lot. I felt very sorry for him and wanted for him to find the forgiveness only possible through Jesus. His journey toward forgiving himself and falling in love with Violet was wonderful. I enjoyed this story from start to finish.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I read this book a few years ago and had honestly forgotten what an amazingly moving story it was. What a joy to be able to listen to it in audio book format! The narrator did a great job and the budding romance of Nate and Violet captured me completely once again.
Violet had a great set of supportive friends, yet she still looked back to the past, when she was married to her high school sweetheart. When he died, Violet felt that all of her future hopes died as well. Nate thought that because of a bad decision he made years earlier, he no longer deserved a happy future. It seemed that even his family didn’t want him around. Could he ever possibly be forgiven and start anew?
I really enjoyed the way these two characters got to know each other and grew to care for each other. It seemed that they both might be able to have a happy future full of love together. Yet, there were things that Violet did not know about Nate that could affect the possibility of them being together.
I loved listening to this story! Even though it is book three in the Hope Springs series, it can be enjoyed as a stand alone novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
*Original Review of Ebook*
Not Until You was an emotional and gripping story that touched my heart and dug deeply into the topics of grief, forgiveness, and consequences for actions. It is book three in the Hope Springs series, yet can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone novel.
I really felt for the two main characters, Violet and Nate. Violet was still hurting from the death of her husband, but was beginning to take a few steps small steps forward. It was interesting to watch as she began to develop feelings for Nate. The hope of life and love battled against guilt within her.
Nate was a character I liked a lot. I felt very sorry for him and wanted for him to find the forgiveness only possible through Jesus. His journey toward forgiving himself and falling in love with Violet was wonderful. I enjoyed this story from start to finish.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
February 4, 2020
A story of forgiveness
This sort is about Violet learning to move on after the death of the love of her life but mainly it is about forgiveness. Nate is the new man in Vi's life but he has a secret which he thinks is unforgivable. Kate's talk with Pastor Dan moved me to tears. We are forgiven because Christ already paid the price. I highly recommend this book.
This sort is about Violet learning to move on after the death of the love of her life but mainly it is about forgiveness. Nate is the new man in Vi's life but he has a secret which he thinks is unforgivable. Kate's talk with Pastor Dan moved me to tears. We are forgiven because Christ already paid the price. I highly recommend this book.
April 10, 2025
Not a huge fan of third person POVS but I didn’t hate it
April 18, 2019
Valerie Bodden has done it again! What a great read that you just can't put down. I am looking a little tired this week from not wanting to stop reading to go to bed! Finally, Violet gets a second chance at love when a newcomer, Nate, moves to town. Violet is torn between her love for Cade and learning that she is allowed to love again without forgetting about her love with Cade. I really love the references to forgiveness in this book. We get to hear a little bit about Sophie and Spencer's honeymoon and we also have more interaction with Dan. Praying the next book follows Kayla finding love...don't know who Kayla is? Read Not Until You to find out!
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June 9, 2019Thought provoking... How our choices affect others
I enjoyed this story by Valerie Bodden. I like reading stories where God has a major role. Several times something she wrote would stop my reading and I would spend time thinking about what I would do in the same situation. It was a romance, and there was a happy ending, but there were a lot of issues the H and h had to work through to get to their HEA. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys clean romances.
I enjoyed this story by Valerie Bodden. I like reading stories where God has a major role. Several times something she wrote would stop my reading and I would spend time thinking about what I would do in the same situation. It was a romance, and there was a happy ending, but there were a lot of issues the H and h had to work through to get to their HEA. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys clean romances.
January 27, 2025
Really cute pallet cleansers.
November 16, 2019
A powerful, moving story of love, faith, forgiveness and moving on with one's life!
November 21, 2019
A really awesome story! My heart ached for them. Loved it!
April 21, 2019
This is the first book I have read by this author but I am hooked!
Sophie comes home to see her dying grandma and runs into her old flame - Spencer.
She had chosen her career over marriage to him but seeing him the sparks fly again.
Do they have a second chance at love?
Reading this book I felt like I was falling in love all over again.
What a heartwarming story of second chances at love!
Sophie comes home to see her dying grandma and runs into her old flame - Spencer.
She had chosen her career over marriage to him but seeing him the sparks fly again.
Do they have a second chance at love?
Reading this book I felt like I was falling in love all over again.
What a heartwarming story of second chances at love!
April 21, 2019
5 STARS PLUS!
WOW!
WHAT AN AWESOME MESSAGE IN THIS BOOK!
It gave me a lot to think about.
I highly recommend this book! It's good to the very end!
Sins we can't forgive ourselves for.
A past we can't seem to leave behind and move forward from.
But God...
WOW!
WHAT AN AWESOME MESSAGE IN THIS BOOK!
It gave me a lot to think about.
I highly recommend this book! It's good to the very end!
Sins we can't forgive ourselves for.
A past we can't seem to leave behind and move forward from.
But God...
February 14, 2024
This series by Valerie Bodden is one of the best, most moving, influential series of stories I have ever read. Nate and Vi's story is overwhelming at times. Emotional for sure. I confess that I came close to hating Nate's dad. I wanted to go find him and give him a piece of my mind! Truly my emotions while reading this were so real! And I am so thankful I read it!
March 9, 2025
Such a beautiful, faith filled story! It’s so refreshing to read a romance with faith as the focus, and characters that have depth and express their love for each other in a meaningful way.
August 20, 2019
Sweet story
I just finished this whole series and enjoyed each completely! I loved the characters and how each set of characters p!aged into each book in this series.
I just finished this whole series and enjoyed each completely! I loved the characters and how each set of characters p!aged into each book in this series.
May 8, 2019
Violet has lost her husband and seeks solace in the grace of the Lord. Nate makes a decision that is life changing and he pushed the Lord away. Sometimes it is harder to forgive ourselves and others than for the Lord to forgive us. This book made me think about how unforgiving I can be and has kept me thinking. A romance but also a story of family, forgiveness, redemption and starting again.
August 2, 2019
Wonderful story of new beginnings
And overcoming past mistakes . It leaves you with a feeling of hope and knowledge that all things are possible if you believe and have faith.
And overcoming past mistakes . It leaves you with a feeling of hope and knowledge that all things are possible if you believe and have faith.
September 14, 2019
I love the way this book centers on both the fear of disrespecting a lost spouse and how impossible it feels to be forgiven for a decision that totally alters the lives of so many people you love. I loved how the story describes the many feelings Violet was wrestling with since the death of her husband Cade 3 years before. They were going to pick up a piece for their antique shop that day but after an argument & angry words she decided not to ride with him on the trip that ended in the accident that took his life. How many of us regret the last words exchanged with a loved one before their passing? She was also trying to battle with the thought that if she were willing to open her heart to anyone else it would make the memories and love she had with Cade fade away as if they had not been real and treasured.
Nate's Dad had picked him up from prison & promptly put him on a bus to Hope Springs. While he was giving him a job & place to live it was just part of his plan to keep him ostracized from his Mom & sister. Nate is battling so many things, his relationship with his family of course but his guilt and anger with himself and fear of getting close to anyone. But the most haunting one is the feeling that God didn't care for him anymore because of the huge mistake he made causing his time in prison. I really love the way that Valerie peels the layers of these tremendous fears both Violet and Nate are battling. They are obviously falling in love but both need to come to grips with the realization that God has forgiven them and will truly walk with them every step of the way showing they are worthy of both love & forgiveness.
We all love to read second chance romances but the thing that really gives these stories heart for me is when the characters have a true relationship with Christ. Without Him stories are just that, a story. But with faith & a real love for God there is a depth and meaning we can actually learn and grow from as we are enjoying a love story!! Thank you Valerie for writing these stories with substance! <3
Nate's Dad had picked him up from prison & promptly put him on a bus to Hope Springs. While he was giving him a job & place to live it was just part of his plan to keep him ostracized from his Mom & sister. Nate is battling so many things, his relationship with his family of course but his guilt and anger with himself and fear of getting close to anyone. But the most haunting one is the feeling that God didn't care for him anymore because of the huge mistake he made causing his time in prison. I really love the way that Valerie peels the layers of these tremendous fears both Violet and Nate are battling. They are obviously falling in love but both need to come to grips with the realization that God has forgiven them and will truly walk with them every step of the way showing they are worthy of both love & forgiveness.
We all love to read second chance romances but the thing that really gives these stories heart for me is when the characters have a true relationship with Christ. Without Him stories are just that, a story. But with faith & a real love for God there is a depth and meaning we can actually learn and grow from as we are enjoying a love story!! Thank you Valerie for writing these stories with substance! <3
July 17, 2019
Great book
I enjoyed this book tremendously. I recommend that everyone should read it. I know they will enjoy it as well.
I enjoyed this book tremendously. I recommend that everyone should read it. I know they will enjoy it as well.
August 6, 2019
I just can't put these books down! As soon as I received a copy and started reading, I could not put it down. Love that Violet was the main focus of this book as I was really hoping she would find love again. Nate and Violet are perfect for each other and I LOVE the addition of the dog. This book left me feeling so amazing. Such a great deviation from the psychological thrillers I normally read. Valerie Bodden has an amazing talent for making you feel right along with the characters in her books.
July 8, 2019
Loved this Christian Romance!
Valerie is an amazing author! I’m so happy I discovered her writings. If you enjoy a good clean love story, this book and her other books are for you! I am an avid reader and have been so for many years. I have rarely left any reviews. But I felt this was worth it! You need to check the Hope Springs books out! Loved them! The only problem is waiting for more to come out!
Valerie is an amazing author! I’m so happy I discovered her writings. If you enjoy a good clean love story, this book and her other books are for you! I am an avid reader and have been so for many years. I have rarely left any reviews. But I felt this was worth it! You need to check the Hope Springs books out! Loved them! The only problem is waiting for more to come out!
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May 10, 2019NOW AVAILABLE!
I'm so excited to share this book with you. Even though it's the third book in the Hope Springs series, it's actually the first I wrote (apparently I like to do things out of order), so it has a special place in my heart. I hope it will find a place in yours as well!
I'm so excited to share this book with you. Even though it's the third book in the Hope Springs series, it's actually the first I wrote (apparently I like to do things out of order), so it has a special place in my heart. I hope it will find a place in yours as well!
September 14, 2019
Wow!
What an amazing book! The whole storyline was just perfect for reading but also as a wonderful reminder of God's unfailing Grace and how His plans for our life are so much better than our own! Even through all the hard stuff.
What an amazing book! The whole storyline was just perfect for reading but also as a wonderful reminder of God's unfailing Grace and how His plans for our life are so much better than our own! Even through all the hard stuff.
March 24, 2024
Really good story. Emotionally gripping and a great message.
September 27, 2019
Fantastic Book
I enjoyed reading about the lives of Violet and Nate. They both have a past that is effecting there future. This is a great book to read
I enjoyed reading about the lives of Violet and Nate. They both have a past that is effecting there future. This is a great book to read
October 3, 2022
Really great Christian reads! Can’t wait to read more f her books!
October 30, 2022
I really liked this story and its message of hope and forgiveness (especially of self, which I’ve addressed in my own writing) and the slow building of a lasting romantic relationship. I even had tears in my eyes a time or two! I did feel that Nate’s ‘I don’t deserve to be happy’ manta got a little repetitive, and I thought the author should have addressed the emotional impact of seven years in jail (which I felt was unrealistic for a first offense where no one died, esp since I’ve seen people do worse and get nothing more than a slap on the wrist). But… I had a real issue with the way the dad was portrayed. He was downright cruel and he manipulated Nate by withholding Nate’s ability to see his mom and sister. I actually thought the guy was abusive, otherwise why wouldn’t his mom and sister figure out a way to contact Nate? (For that matter, why didn’t they try harder to contact Nate?) Then I find out the guy is supposed to be a Christian and he acted that way because he was ‘disappointed’ that both his children wouldn’t have the life he wanted for them. HELLO, you’re an adult, get over it and support both your kids!! And maybe apologize to Nate for treating him so terribly. Nate was more mature than his father! And the deal with the “bad guy” Talmadge was flimsy at best. Still a great story but certain aspects needed more depth.
August 29, 2025
Heartfelt beyond words!
I’m in awe of the way that Mrs Bodden tells her story I’m only a few books in (between River Falls and Hope Springs) but she’s fast becoming a new to me favourite author. I wasn’t sure if I was ready to continue with Hope Springs just yet but I “accidentally” started reading it and I’ve not been able to put it down. It’s been a long, long time since I’ve read a book way into the night. Maybe I can put it down to divine intervention!
Violet and Nate’s story took root quickly and just went deeper and deeper into my very soul. My heart ached for the both of them and rejoiced exceedingly for them as their friendship blossomed into love.
I used to read countless mainstream romance stories thinking that they resonated with me but nothing quite compares to a Christian perspective. The theme of forgiveness and our sins being paid in full was a key part of this story, just as letting go of the past and living for the future.
This ticks all boxes for Small Town, Grumpy/Sunshine, Next Door Neighbours, Redemption/ Healing, Clean Christian Romance. There are some possible sensitive topics so readers should check authors notes/ website.
I don’t give 5 Stars easily but I never questioned for a moment that it was anything less!
5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m in awe of the way that Mrs Bodden tells her story I’m only a few books in (between River Falls and Hope Springs) but she’s fast becoming a new to me favourite author. I wasn’t sure if I was ready to continue with Hope Springs just yet but I “accidentally” started reading it and I’ve not been able to put it down. It’s been a long, long time since I’ve read a book way into the night. Maybe I can put it down to divine intervention!
Violet and Nate’s story took root quickly and just went deeper and deeper into my very soul. My heart ached for the both of them and rejoiced exceedingly for them as their friendship blossomed into love.
I used to read countless mainstream romance stories thinking that they resonated with me but nothing quite compares to a Christian perspective. The theme of forgiveness and our sins being paid in full was a key part of this story, just as letting go of the past and living for the future.
This ticks all boxes for Small Town, Grumpy/Sunshine, Next Door Neighbours, Redemption/ Healing, Clean Christian Romance. There are some possible sensitive topics so readers should check authors notes/ website.
I don’t give 5 Stars easily but I never questioned for a moment that it was anything less!
5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 17, 2023
Forgiveness
Forgiveness and hope can seem incongruous when you've trapped yourself in a prison of regret. The thing is, we're already forgiven. We have to accept that before we can forgive others... especially ourselves.
This story is a beautiful expression of His love for us, of his plans for good in our lives. Acceptance of God's unfailing grace is weaved through the tapestry of this book.
I enjoyed the truth, the characters, and the depth of emotion throughout.
It's a story that will live in my heart for a long time. I'm so glad Nathan's and Violet's story came out the way it did. His grief and his redemption were as beautiful as her grief and her trust in Our Father.
I also want to Thank Mrs. Bodden for sharing this with us. Kindle Unlimited has enriched my life lately, and Valerie is one of the ways God has used to bring me closer to Himself.
If Christian Romance, complete with characters who deeply believe, if this is your genre, this tale should not be missed.
Grateful,
-ncv
Forgiveness and hope can seem incongruous when you've trapped yourself in a prison of regret. The thing is, we're already forgiven. We have to accept that before we can forgive others... especially ourselves.
This story is a beautiful expression of His love for us, of his plans for good in our lives. Acceptance of God's unfailing grace is weaved through the tapestry of this book.
I enjoyed the truth, the characters, and the depth of emotion throughout.
It's a story that will live in my heart for a long time. I'm so glad Nathan's and Violet's story came out the way it did. His grief and his redemption were as beautiful as her grief and her trust in Our Father.
I also want to Thank Mrs. Bodden for sharing this with us. Kindle Unlimited has enriched my life lately, and Valerie is one of the ways God has used to bring me closer to Himself.
If Christian Romance, complete with characters who deeply believe, if this is your genre, this tale should not be missed.
Grateful,
-ncv
December 29, 2025
Seeing Nate and Violet’s story play out was beautiful to see. They slowly got to know each other and both had to grapple with somethings. Nate’s guilt and shame over causing his sister to become paralyses due to his drunk driving was a real issue and I loved how Valerie handled it. Contrary to what the world preaches we as Christian’s are told to forgive people with the sane compassion God forgave us and not to hold that thing against them if they are in Christ because we’ve been made new. Seeing Nate’s journey and how Violet continued to show him the love of Christ was beautiful even if she didn’t know until the end.
Seeing Violet struggle with her feelings for Nate as a widow was an angle I hadn’t thought about considering the man she was coming yo gave feelings for (Nate) committed a similar crime to the one that took her husband’s life. But through forgiveness, she’s able to build something new and lasting with Nate.
Seeing Violet struggle with her feelings for Nate as a widow was an angle I hadn’t thought about considering the man she was coming yo gave feelings for (Nate) committed a similar crime to the one that took her husband’s life. But through forgiveness, she’s able to build something new and lasting with Nate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2020
Learning To Forgive
It's just Nate against the world. One colossal mistake ends up with him in jail and he has no idea if his sister is even alive. His father hates him and he has never been allowed to even speak to his mother since the car crash. When he is banished to Hope Springs, his neighbor, Violet, gives him hope for tomorrow.
When she learns of his previous actions, he decides to leave and not put her through any more trauma.
During worship this morning, this situation of much needed forgiveness, came to mind. " The God Who Stays ", by Matthew West came to mind ( the lyrics, I couldn't remember the name of the song ), and it reminded me of how God is ALWAYS there, we just have to call upon Him. Nothing is beyond God's forgiveness. It's man, we hold grudges and withhold forgiveness of other and ourselves
It's just Nate against the world. One colossal mistake ends up with him in jail and he has no idea if his sister is even alive. His father hates him and he has never been allowed to even speak to his mother since the car crash. When he is banished to Hope Springs, his neighbor, Violet, gives him hope for tomorrow.
When she learns of his previous actions, he decides to leave and not put her through any more trauma.
During worship this morning, this situation of much needed forgiveness, came to mind. " The God Who Stays ", by Matthew West came to mind ( the lyrics, I couldn't remember the name of the song ), and it reminded me of how God is ALWAYS there, we just have to call upon Him. Nothing is beyond God's forgiveness. It's man, we hold grudges and withhold forgiveness of other and ourselves
November 26, 2021
Redeemed
A thoughtless action with good intentions can still change the course of your life. Nate's Christian band has gotten its first real break; A rep for a record label had been in the audience during their concert. Her taken the band took a price local bar to celebrate their chance at a deal. And Nate, along with his band mates, had finally accepted a drink, and several more to follow. So when his 16 year old sister calls for a ride home from a party, too drunk to drive, he responds like always and heads out to pick her up. He's never consumed alcohol, and just doesn't think about the effect it might have on him.
A beautifully written book with deep caring and kindness and reminders that forgiveness isn't necessarily something found easily in the human heart, but a gift that God shares freely if we let him.
A thoughtless action with good intentions can still change the course of your life. Nate's Christian band has gotten its first real break; A rep for a record label had been in the audience during their concert. Her taken the band took a price local bar to celebrate their chance at a deal. And Nate, along with his band mates, had finally accepted a drink, and several more to follow. So when his 16 year old sister calls for a ride home from a party, too drunk to drive, he responds like always and heads out to pick her up. He's never consumed alcohol, and just doesn't think about the effect it might have on him.
A beautifully written book with deep caring and kindness and reminders that forgiveness isn't necessarily something found easily in the human heart, but a gift that God shares freely if we let him.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews