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The Lewis Legacy #0.5
Prelude
The exciting prequel to the popular, beloved contemporary Christian romance Lewis Legacy Series, Prelude is the love story of Samuel J. Lewis and Sarah Jordan, parents to Sam Lewis, the core character of The Lewis Legacy Series. Prelude gives insights into Sam’s family history in this involving, heartfelt story of family, friendship, and love. A story of never letting go of our dreams, and how faith, sacrifice and trusting our lives to the Lord’s guidance will always triumph over our human fears, temptations, insecurities and frailties.
On April 24, 1962, U.S. Air Force Captain Samuel Lewis returns home to small Rockbridge, Texas. Six years older than Sarah, Sam is the boy who moved four doors down when she was ten. A teenager who nicknamed her Tomboy and teased her like an older brother. That boy is now a fully grown, incredibly handsome man who makes her heart race, but what does she know of love or life? In another year, she’ll be able to save the five thousand dollars she needs to attend nursing school in Austin. Besides, everyone in Rockbridge expects Sam to date her older sister, Tess, the prettiest girl in town with the beauty queen titles to prove it. Not to mention Tess announces her intention of marrying Captain Lewis.
After his return stateside, Sam Lewis finds Sarah Jordan occupying his favorite pondering spot at Thornton’s Creek. After his years away from home, first at the Air Force Academy and then serving in the Air Force, Sam finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Sarah. The sassy, funny girl he used to tease has grown up into a beautiful, charming woman with wit and intelligence who challenges him more than any other woman he’s ever met. Sarah’s frequent reminders that she’s leaving Rockbridge, along with her encouragement to date any other girl in town, unsettle him.
During the eventful summer of 1962, their friendship grows deeper and blossoms into love. Sam knows he can’t hold Sarah back from achieving her dreams. Besides, he has no plans to leave town since he’s stepped into place beside his father as the vice president of Rockbridge Savings & Loan. Sam's heart is torn.
All seems hopeless when she tells him it’s her dream to work as a nurse on mission fields across the world. When an unexpected financial gift gives Sarah the needed funds to enter nursing school in the fall, she faces saying good-bye to Sam earlier than expected.
Are Sam and Sarah destined to be together or to spend their lives apart? Can these two find a place where their hearts can meet or does the Lord have a much better plan that only He can design?
Prelude releases on December 19, 2014.
On April 24, 1962, U.S. Air Force Captain Samuel Lewis returns home to small Rockbridge, Texas. Six years older than Sarah, Sam is the boy who moved four doors down when she was ten. A teenager who nicknamed her Tomboy and teased her like an older brother. That boy is now a fully grown, incredibly handsome man who makes her heart race, but what does she know of love or life? In another year, she’ll be able to save the five thousand dollars she needs to attend nursing school in Austin. Besides, everyone in Rockbridge expects Sam to date her older sister, Tess, the prettiest girl in town with the beauty queen titles to prove it. Not to mention Tess announces her intention of marrying Captain Lewis.
After his return stateside, Sam Lewis finds Sarah Jordan occupying his favorite pondering spot at Thornton’s Creek. After his years away from home, first at the Air Force Academy and then serving in the Air Force, Sam finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Sarah. The sassy, funny girl he used to tease has grown up into a beautiful, charming woman with wit and intelligence who challenges him more than any other woman he’s ever met. Sarah’s frequent reminders that she’s leaving Rockbridge, along with her encouragement to date any other girl in town, unsettle him.
During the eventful summer of 1962, their friendship grows deeper and blossoms into love. Sam knows he can’t hold Sarah back from achieving her dreams. Besides, he has no plans to leave town since he’s stepped into place beside his father as the vice president of Rockbridge Savings & Loan. Sam's heart is torn.
All seems hopeless when she tells him it’s her dream to work as a nurse on mission fields across the world. When an unexpected financial gift gives Sarah the needed funds to enter nursing school in the fall, she faces saying good-bye to Sam earlier than expected.
Are Sam and Sarah destined to be together or to spend their lives apart? Can these two find a place where their hearts can meet or does the Lord have a much better plan that only He can design?
Prelude releases on December 19, 2014.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2014
56 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 24, 2017
A lovely love story actually set in my generation. The characters were well developed and the story was a typical girl next door romance. Since I live in a small town the welcome home and interactions were on target of a typical small southern town. Check it out, you won't be sorry.
June 7, 2015
PreLude: Prequel to the Lewis Legacy Series
By: JoAnn Durgin
A love story that captivates your whole being
Taken place in 1962, this story reveals the courage, strength, determination and love of a soldier returning to his hometown to settle down and make a home for himself while taking a position in his father's bank. The one thing he never expected to do was fall in love. Not right away anyway nor did he expect to fall in love with his long-time neighborhood friend. Even though friends for years, can he move past friendship and let love in? Not only him, but could she? She has so much to consider, with plans of leaving town to pursue her education to obtain the career she's always dreamed of, and having the assumption no one could ever love her. Can she come out of her comfort zone and explore a whole new life awaiting her? With the guidance and unconditional love of their faith in our Father, journey this path with Sam and Sarah and be touched by a love so strong that pulls your heartstrings and leaves you on the edge of your seat breathless. Sam and Sarah, the most beautiful love story that will make you fall in love all over again too. Warm, compassionate, endearing, loving, joyous and full of spontaneity, Sam and Sarah take you on paths of friendship and love that will melt your heart and grab your attention like no other. Sam and Sarah's story touched my heart on a very personal level. Taken back to the love that my grandmother and grandfather shared, growing up watching their love for each other blossom then hitting road blocks that led them to hard times and struggles, but keeping their faith in Him that their love with God's help, they can conquer anything He places in their path. Their meaning of true love for each other showed in so many ways and seeing that, I kept Him close to me always in guiding my future to finding my true love. Married to a military man and being just like Sarah is in her story, true love is out there and their story brought back so many memories back in the day and I too fell in love with my husband all over again. Sam and Sarah have a unique way of nurturing love that will warm your heart, bring tears to your eyes and melt your soul. You will love these two like no other and become very great friends with them. I look forward to reading more of the Lewis Legacy Series and so blessed Sam and Sarah are a part of me now. Thank you JoAnn for a very touching read. Reader friends, may God bless you in many ways with Sam and Sarah's story! Happy Reading!!
By: JoAnn Durgin
A love story that captivates your whole being
Taken place in 1962, this story reveals the courage, strength, determination and love of a soldier returning to his hometown to settle down and make a home for himself while taking a position in his father's bank. The one thing he never expected to do was fall in love. Not right away anyway nor did he expect to fall in love with his long-time neighborhood friend. Even though friends for years, can he move past friendship and let love in? Not only him, but could she? She has so much to consider, with plans of leaving town to pursue her education to obtain the career she's always dreamed of, and having the assumption no one could ever love her. Can she come out of her comfort zone and explore a whole new life awaiting her? With the guidance and unconditional love of their faith in our Father, journey this path with Sam and Sarah and be touched by a love so strong that pulls your heartstrings and leaves you on the edge of your seat breathless. Sam and Sarah, the most beautiful love story that will make you fall in love all over again too. Warm, compassionate, endearing, loving, joyous and full of spontaneity, Sam and Sarah take you on paths of friendship and love that will melt your heart and grab your attention like no other. Sam and Sarah's story touched my heart on a very personal level. Taken back to the love that my grandmother and grandfather shared, growing up watching their love for each other blossom then hitting road blocks that led them to hard times and struggles, but keeping their faith in Him that their love with God's help, they can conquer anything He places in their path. Their meaning of true love for each other showed in so many ways and seeing that, I kept Him close to me always in guiding my future to finding my true love. Married to a military man and being just like Sarah is in her story, true love is out there and their story brought back so many memories back in the day and I too fell in love with my husband all over again. Sam and Sarah have a unique way of nurturing love that will warm your heart, bring tears to your eyes and melt your soul. You will love these two like no other and become very great friends with them. I look forward to reading more of the Lewis Legacy Series and so blessed Sam and Sarah are a part of me now. Thank you JoAnn for a very touching read. Reader friends, may God bless you in many ways with Sam and Sarah's story! Happy Reading!!
January 17, 2016
What a fun, romantic, nostalgic, and spirit-filled book! It made me laugh out loud, it made me smile, it made me say “awe”, it brought tears to my eyes, it made me think of the times I shared with my grandparents, and it made me consider scripture as it pertains to life. Does it get any better than that?
This is a prequel, but yet, it didn’t seem out of place after reading the other books in the series. In fact, it complimented them. If you’ve not read the other books in the Lewis Legacy Series, I’d start with this one; it will set the stage for the future books. If you’ve already read the other books, read this one too; it will complement the other stories and tie a lot of things together.
I love the scripture choices the author uses throughout the book. They not only give the story great spiritual backing, but they also are scriptures that are so applicable to our everyday lives. I found myself considering how they applied to my life and my situations.
The depth of the characters pulls you into their lives as if they were real people. I especially enjoyed the deep relationship the main characters had with God and the way they so naturally lived it through their lives. The story is so well written and so descriptive, that I could picture every scene in my mind as though it was a movie, flowing seamlessly from one scene to the next.
Another Five-Star book from JoAnn Durgin!!
This is a prequel, but yet, it didn’t seem out of place after reading the other books in the series. In fact, it complimented them. If you’ve not read the other books in the Lewis Legacy Series, I’d start with this one; it will set the stage for the future books. If you’ve already read the other books, read this one too; it will complement the other stories and tie a lot of things together.
I love the scripture choices the author uses throughout the book. They not only give the story great spiritual backing, but they also are scriptures that are so applicable to our everyday lives. I found myself considering how they applied to my life and my situations.
The depth of the characters pulls you into their lives as if they were real people. I especially enjoyed the deep relationship the main characters had with God and the way they so naturally lived it through their lives. The story is so well written and so descriptive, that I could picture every scene in my mind as though it was a movie, flowing seamlessly from one scene to the next.
Another Five-Star book from JoAnn Durgin!!
July 12, 2015
I was loving this story... and then it went on too long until I finally sped through the last fifty pages.
Sarah and the rest of their small town welcome Sam back from serving in the air force. He remembers Sarah as his tomboy neighbor, six years younger than him being a huge difference back then. Sarah has plans to leave for nursing school if she can only get enough money saved up. Sam and Sarah build a friendship that's sweet and refreshing. And then I wish the story was shortened by a hundred or more pages (a preachy conversation here, an extra character subplot there). The main story is great.
Sarah and the rest of their small town welcome Sam back from serving in the air force. He remembers Sarah as his tomboy neighbor, six years younger than him being a huge difference back then. Sarah has plans to leave for nursing school if she can only get enough money saved up. Sam and Sarah build a friendship that's sweet and refreshing. And then I wish the story was shortened by a hundred or more pages (a preachy conversation here, an extra character subplot there). The main story is great.
December 3, 2015
Very good!! If the rest of the series is this good, I want to read it!
March 11, 2017
A Wonderful Beginning
To think that that when they met, he was 16 and she was 10! This is such a good story. It really took me back to my teen years! It made me nostalgic & I had forgotten about no air-conditioning in houses in Texas. Most of the main characters really lived their faith
To think that that when they met, he was 16 and she was 10! This is such a good story. It really took me back to my teen years! It made me nostalgic & I had forgotten about no air-conditioning in houses in Texas. Most of the main characters really lived their faith
September 16, 2021
Nice try, but the story is not ready for publication.
Characters are not consistent in any way. Dialogs are strange, rarely advancing the story. Sub plots do
little to provide cohesion. I tried to read this book but halfway through I started scanning. Another dozen or two pages, I gave up.
Characters are not consistent in any way. Dialogs are strange, rarely advancing the story. Sub plots do
little to provide cohesion. I tried to read this book but halfway through I started scanning. Another dozen or two pages, I gave up.
December 29, 2023
wonderful
This story is a one that is heart felt and full of Gods word. The characters are loving God fearing people who truly show others the way to be a better Christian. There is romance and love throughout the story as well as relationship issues between siblings. A very good book
This story is a one that is heart felt and full of Gods word. The characters are loving God fearing people who truly show others the way to be a better Christian. There is romance and love throughout the story as well as relationship issues between siblings. A very good book
September 18, 2019
Loved it
I wish men today still had this kind of adoration and utmost respect for women. Many do, but there’s just something special about men from the 1960’s. I’m
I loved Sarah’s love for people.
I wish men today still had this kind of adoration and utmost respect for women. Many do, but there’s just something special about men from the 1960’s. I’m
I loved Sarah’s love for people.
July 3, 2022
Captivating story
I would give this book more stars if they were available. I loved the way the author sketched the characters. They feel like friends. Highly recommend to clean romance readers!
I would give this book more stars if they were available. I loved the way the author sketched the characters. They feel like friends. Highly recommend to clean romance readers!
August 9, 2017
This is such an enjoyable book. I loved the characters.
The era was great. I can hardly wait to read the next
book in the series.
The era was great. I can hardly wait to read the next
book in the series.
June 6, 2019
Really enjoyed getting to know Sam Lewis and Sarah Jordan. Romance, humor, historical tidbits, delicious food descriptions, heartwarming characters, and great dialogue.
October 11, 2019
When I saw that this was a 'background' story, I assumed it would be just a quick novella, but it was full-length like the rest of the series! That was great :) Such a good series
October 19, 2016
FANTASTIC!!!!!
This was such a great story!!! Just like all the stories in the Lewis Family Legacy
This was such a great story!!! Just like all the stories in the Lewis Family Legacy
February 1, 2015
I came across the author - JoAnn Durgin in a Christian Book or Book Review group that I'm a part of on Facebook. I sent her a message inquiring about the review opportunity that she mentioned. We talked about the other authors that I've worked with recently and strangely enough found a lot of common ground. It was so fun and nice to chat with her a little bit before reading the book. She commented on the Amazon email address that I provided and I mentioned that it is because I've always been a little bit of a tomboy. She said that it's funny that I said that and would know why when I started reading Predlude - I must admit, with such a gorgeous cover I couldn't understand how that would have anything in common with the story, but boy does it. :)
Reading Prelude, set in Texas in the early 1960s was a time period and location that I felt connected to because my mom was born in Texas about the same time (my grandpa was stationed out there in the Air Force). The time period and the setting of Rockbridge was so charming! I think this is the first time I've read a book set in this time and most certainly set in Texas.
Sarah and Tess are very interesting people and quite opposites to be sisters. I suppose that is no different from any other siblings. Debbie is adorable!
Sam oozes charm, that hometown boy trust, and a quite praise and confidence in him.
The people of this town grab you by the heart and you feel right at home and connect with the characters, Rockbridge, and the daily activities depicted in the novel. I suppose that might be because of the areas that I grew up and am currently living that are definitely "small town" - no doubt about it, but I feel at home in an area like that and very much out of place in bigger cities.
Sarah and Sam's friendship, struggles, and triumphs are very real and relatable. You are cheering for them a little way into the story, probably beginning with the "scene" involving Kathy Parker. It was so nice to vividly read the values of Sam and Sarah and the importance families used to take in their children's lives and relationships. I was raised the same way (thank you mom and dad - particularly in this day and age - and it's nice to know that others can experience it, even if through this story, that care and consideration should be taken in your appearance, your relationship with your significant other, and to not be put in uncomfortable or reputation damaging situations.
Sam and Sarah's relationship starts out with childhood friendship. This was poignant to me, because my husband and I started out as friends in high school. It's funny the parallels that touch you when you read and you realize it's because you've been there or experienced some of that yourself. They are now adults and are figuring out their lives in and out of Rockbridge, Texas and eventually their life together.
I was sad to finish this story, it was so refreshing and a touching read for me. I laughed and cried throughout the novel and I hope you will do the same.
This is the first book that I've read by Mrs.Durgin, so I don't know the rest of the family like some of her readers, but I'm greatly anticipating reading more about this family and their faith and love stories moving forward with great a great foundation in their patriarch Sam and matriarch Sarah Lewis.
* I was provided an e-copy of Prelude by JoAnn Durgin in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Reading Prelude, set in Texas in the early 1960s was a time period and location that I felt connected to because my mom was born in Texas about the same time (my grandpa was stationed out there in the Air Force). The time period and the setting of Rockbridge was so charming! I think this is the first time I've read a book set in this time and most certainly set in Texas.
Sarah and Tess are very interesting people and quite opposites to be sisters. I suppose that is no different from any other siblings. Debbie is adorable!
Sam oozes charm, that hometown boy trust, and a quite praise and confidence in him.
The people of this town grab you by the heart and you feel right at home and connect with the characters, Rockbridge, and the daily activities depicted in the novel. I suppose that might be because of the areas that I grew up and am currently living that are definitely "small town" - no doubt about it, but I feel at home in an area like that and very much out of place in bigger cities.
Sarah and Sam's friendship, struggles, and triumphs are very real and relatable. You are cheering for them a little way into the story, probably beginning with the "scene" involving Kathy Parker. It was so nice to vividly read the values of Sam and Sarah and the importance families used to take in their children's lives and relationships. I was raised the same way (thank you mom and dad - particularly in this day and age - and it's nice to know that others can experience it, even if through this story, that care and consideration should be taken in your appearance, your relationship with your significant other, and to not be put in uncomfortable or reputation damaging situations.
Sam and Sarah's relationship starts out with childhood friendship. This was poignant to me, because my husband and I started out as friends in high school. It's funny the parallels that touch you when you read and you realize it's because you've been there or experienced some of that yourself. They are now adults and are figuring out their lives in and out of Rockbridge, Texas and eventually their life together.
I was sad to finish this story, it was so refreshing and a touching read for me. I laughed and cried throughout the novel and I hope you will do the same.
This is the first book that I've read by Mrs.Durgin, so I don't know the rest of the family like some of her readers, but I'm greatly anticipating reading more about this family and their faith and love stories moving forward with great a great foundation in their patriarch Sam and matriarch Sarah Lewis.
* I was provided an e-copy of Prelude by JoAnn Durgin in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2016
Cute love story
February 1, 2015
This is the first book I have read by JoAnn Durgin, but will not be my last. This is a Prequel to her Lewis Legacy Series, what a great place to start.
Sarah Jordan is a waitress in the same small town she has grown up in. She can't wait to earn enough money to leave town and become a nurse. When her childhood friend, who is six years older returns from service, she is not expecting all these feelings. What will her future hold now. Could Samuel actually see her for more than the 'tomboy' she was? What about her nursing plans. Sarah has a strong will and sometimes her honest opinion gets her in trouble. She is a determined girl who truly wants only what the Lord wills for her life.
Captain Samuel Lewis returns home to his small town, with some secrets of his own. He never imagined his 'tomboy' friend to have grown up into such a beautiful lady. When he learns of her plans to leave town can he love her enough to let her go? What is it the Lord would have of him? Can he face his fears and learn to let go?
I loved the dialogue, personalities and theme of this book. I definitely look forward to reading more from the Lewis family. You will fall in love with many of the character throughout this book. I look forward to leaning more about this town and its families.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading good, clean, christian, 1960's, romance books. I was given a copy of this book from the author for my honest opinion.
Sarah Jordan is a waitress in the same small town she has grown up in. She can't wait to earn enough money to leave town and become a nurse. When her childhood friend, who is six years older returns from service, she is not expecting all these feelings. What will her future hold now. Could Samuel actually see her for more than the 'tomboy' she was? What about her nursing plans. Sarah has a strong will and sometimes her honest opinion gets her in trouble. She is a determined girl who truly wants only what the Lord wills for her life.
Captain Samuel Lewis returns home to his small town, with some secrets of his own. He never imagined his 'tomboy' friend to have grown up into such a beautiful lady. When he learns of her plans to leave town can he love her enough to let her go? What is it the Lord would have of him? Can he face his fears and learn to let go?
I loved the dialogue, personalities and theme of this book. I definitely look forward to reading more from the Lewis family. You will fall in love with many of the character throughout this book. I look forward to leaning more about this town and its families.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading good, clean, christian, 1960's, romance books. I was given a copy of this book from the author for my honest opinion.
June 11, 2016
I got this novel quite a long time ago but had not found the chance to read it until recently. I kept looking at the cover and telling myself I needed to read it, but other books, by necessity, had to come first. I finally had a free moment to pick up something from my backlist to-be-read pile and Joann won first prize, or maybe I did.
I expected with the .5 and a name like Prelude for this to be a novella and fully intended to finish it in a night, boy was I surprised when I read a few hours and had only made it about a fourth of the way! Usually, I look up that sort of thing, but as I said, I'd had this one a while so I just picked it up. I was not disappointed that I was wrong, it just took me longer to read than it otherwise would have. There is such depth within the story that I was easily able to go a few weeks between setting it down and picking it back up. My mind would get right back into the story with ease.
Joann weaves a pleasing hero and a strong heroine in Prelude. Both have their faults and I love that they are "human" enough to admit to there being physical temptations in budding relationships. I also love that this novel shows them dealing with it in healthy, normal ways. This was an excellent start to a series that is (at the time of this review) into its seventh novel, so should keep anyone who has just discovered it busy with good reads for a while. I know I will be.
I expected with the .5 and a name like Prelude for this to be a novella and fully intended to finish it in a night, boy was I surprised when I read a few hours and had only made it about a fourth of the way! Usually, I look up that sort of thing, but as I said, I'd had this one a while so I just picked it up. I was not disappointed that I was wrong, it just took me longer to read than it otherwise would have. There is such depth within the story that I was easily able to go a few weeks between setting it down and picking it back up. My mind would get right back into the story with ease.
Joann weaves a pleasing hero and a strong heroine in Prelude. Both have their faults and I love that they are "human" enough to admit to there being physical temptations in budding relationships. I also love that this novel shows them dealing with it in healthy, normal ways. This was an excellent start to a series that is (at the time of this review) into its seventh novel, so should keep anyone who has just discovered it busy with good reads for a while. I know I will be.
June 18, 2015
Author JoAnn Durgin takes us a generation back from her beloved The Lewis Legacy series to introduce us to the ones who started it all, Sarah Jordan and Samuel J. Lewis. I thoroughly enjoyed the blossoming relationship between these two as they rediscover their friendship after years apart.
But this story isn’t just about two people falling in love. It’s also about small town life, people going out of their way to care for one another, and the impact that has on the entire community.
Even though Sarah plans to leave her hometown as soon as possible, she seeks out a grieving neighbor, deals with a drunk and despairing man, and stands up to racists on behalf of a colored couple. I wanted to stand up and cheer for her as she instigated an impromptu dance to celebrate the young couple’s honeymoon visit.
And Sam isn’t just a war hero, he’s a man with secrets that bind him. But that doesn’t keep him from pursuing, ever so gently, his former tomboy friend. Sam is an honorable man, and the fact that he doesn’t want Sarah to have to choose between him and her dreamed-of future as a nurse made me fall in love with him.
Both these characters are realistic, likeable, and people I would want to know as friends. Their story is enchanting, and the supporting cast is true to life. For that reason, Prelude earns five stars.
But this story isn’t just about two people falling in love. It’s also about small town life, people going out of their way to care for one another, and the impact that has on the entire community.
Even though Sarah plans to leave her hometown as soon as possible, she seeks out a grieving neighbor, deals with a drunk and despairing man, and stands up to racists on behalf of a colored couple. I wanted to stand up and cheer for her as she instigated an impromptu dance to celebrate the young couple’s honeymoon visit.
And Sam isn’t just a war hero, he’s a man with secrets that bind him. But that doesn’t keep him from pursuing, ever so gently, his former tomboy friend. Sam is an honorable man, and the fact that he doesn’t want Sarah to have to choose between him and her dreamed-of future as a nurse made me fall in love with him.
Both these characters are realistic, likeable, and people I would want to know as friends. Their story is enchanting, and the supporting cast is true to life. For that reason, Prelude earns five stars.
March 14, 2016
This is actually the first book by this author that I have read, and I LOVED it!
The book takes place in the 1960's. Sam has just come home after serving in the air force. Sarah's sister, Tess, wants to go out with him, but Sam is more interested in Sarah (several years younger than him). The two kick off a renewed friendship, though this time it's not teenage-kid (big brother), it's man and woman.
The author slowly takes us on a journey as their friendship blossoms into something else.. Sarah is strongly independent and has a goal of nursing school she wants to meet. She can't let Sam or anything else stand in her way. But the lack of money may keep her from filling her dream.
The author continues to take us on this journey throughout the book. Both Sam an Sarah have small issues to overcome. Other key characters add spice to the story. I especially liked Tess and her father's disapproval of her behavior at a dinner. I liked that physical attraction was allowed, but kept clean and in a Christian perspective. I love watching Sam and Sarah grow not only physically and emotionally closer, but also spiritually. I loved watching them pray together.
This was one of those books that, when reading the last page, I sighed and wished it were longer! It was THAT good for me!
The book takes place in the 1960's. Sam has just come home after serving in the air force. Sarah's sister, Tess, wants to go out with him, but Sam is more interested in Sarah (several years younger than him). The two kick off a renewed friendship, though this time it's not teenage-kid (big brother), it's man and woman.
The author slowly takes us on a journey as their friendship blossoms into something else.. Sarah is strongly independent and has a goal of nursing school she wants to meet. She can't let Sam or anything else stand in her way. But the lack of money may keep her from filling her dream.
The author continues to take us on this journey throughout the book. Both Sam an Sarah have small issues to overcome. Other key characters add spice to the story. I especially liked Tess and her father's disapproval of her behavior at a dinner. I liked that physical attraction was allowed, but kept clean and in a Christian perspective. I love watching Sam and Sarah grow not only physically and emotionally closer, but also spiritually. I loved watching them pray together.
This was one of those books that, when reading the last page, I sighed and wished it were longer! It was THAT good for me!
January 2, 2015
witty 60s romance full-length prequel
Sarah is a waitress in a small town diner, just waiting to earn enough to leave and go to nursing school. Sam is a returning Air Force town hero, with all the single girls chasing him, including Sarah's sister. Friends from years before, will they overcome the obstacles and find each other? I really enjoyed the witty repartee between these two...their friendship grew with deep conversation. They both had deep, prayerful relationships with God, and I loved how the author brought this in so naturally. Really enjoyed this start to the Lewis Family Legacy. There were a lot of twists that kept me turning the pages. I also liked the chapter headings that gave you the timeline. I nice touch on my iPad was a red heart at chapters and other places. This is the first book I have read from this author, but it won't be the last. I really recommend this book!
I was given this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I truly enjoyed the book!
Sarah is a waitress in a small town diner, just waiting to earn enough to leave and go to nursing school. Sam is a returning Air Force town hero, with all the single girls chasing him, including Sarah's sister. Friends from years before, will they overcome the obstacles and find each other? I really enjoyed the witty repartee between these two...their friendship grew with deep conversation. They both had deep, prayerful relationships with God, and I loved how the author brought this in so naturally. Really enjoyed this start to the Lewis Family Legacy. There were a lot of twists that kept me turning the pages. I also liked the chapter headings that gave you the timeline. I nice touch on my iPad was a red heart at chapters and other places. This is the first book I have read from this author, but it won't be the last. I really recommend this book!
I was given this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I truly enjoyed the book!
January 18, 2015
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed the story of Sam's parents. It gave you such a clearer picture of their faith and how Sam was raised into the man of God He turned into. I also loved the teasers about how Team Works became such a cause for this family. JoAnn writes with such clarity that the characters turn into people you can see and identify with - she truly shows depth and emotion and makes you feel these things also. I find myself talking to the characters as I read because they become so real to me and I also cry with them, rejoice with them, and celebrate with them. This is a wonderful love story filled with faith and love and such tenderness that you cannot imagine. My only regret is that it wasn't the first of the series when I started the series, but even so, I LOVED IT! Be mindful, it is only my opinion that I would have liked it to be first - it really won't matter what order you read it in, it will be one that you will not want to put down!
January 25, 2015
Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, It does!!! I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed the story of Sam's parents. It gave you such a clearer picture of their faith and how Sam was raised into the man of God He turned into. I also loved the teasers about how Team Works became such a cause for this family. JoAnn writes with such clarity that the characters turn into people you can see and identify with - she truly shows depth and emotion and makes you feel these things also. I find myself talking to the characters as I read because they become so real to me and I also cry with them, rejoice with them, and celebrate with them. This is a wonderful love story filled with faith and love and such tenderness that you cannot imagine. My only regret is that it wasn't the first of the series when I started the series, but even so, I LOVED IT!
February 13, 2015
A Christian romance story of faith, God, and love
This Christian story of faith, God, and love is one you will not want to put down, but because of the length you will have too. However , you will fall so much in love with the characters that you will come back until finished. Then you will want to read the Lewis Legacy series. I have never read Christian romance with this great length making it one that lots will pass over. However I can assure you it's worth the read to anyone that likes Christian romance. I loved the respect and love that the the main characters had for each other. Thank you, JoAnn for allowing me to read and review for you. I was given a free copy for an honest review.
This Christian story of faith, God, and love is one you will not want to put down, but because of the length you will have too. However , you will fall so much in love with the characters that you will come back until finished. Then you will want to read the Lewis Legacy series. I have never read Christian romance with this great length making it one that lots will pass over. However I can assure you it's worth the read to anyone that likes Christian romance. I loved the respect and love that the the main characters had for each other. Thank you, JoAnn for allowing me to read and review for you. I was given a free copy for an honest review.
March 23, 2016
JoAnn Durgin is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors of Christian romance. This lady has a great talent! Prelude is a wonderful introduction to her popular The Lewis Legacy Series. Samuel J. Lewis is a war hero returning to his hometown to stay and build his life there. Sarah Jordan is a young waitress with dreams of becoming a nurse, and for that she'll need to leave the small town to go to the nursing school. Sam is fascinated with the beautiful girl who at the same time challenges and encourages him like nobody else. Sarah's heart responds to his feelings, but her life dream is supposed to lead her away from him. Prelude is a spirit-filled book that made me want to read many more novels by JoAnn Durgin.
January 10, 2015
Prelude: Prequel to the Lewis Legacy
The story of Sam and Sarah set in the 60's. Sam came home from being in the service. Tess, Sarah sister is interested in Sam but he is actually interested in Sarah , Tess does realize that and tells Sam and Sarah they should be together. Sarah wants to go to nursing school, she is working as a waitress and trying to save up for it. Sam tries his best to help her to go but she wants to do it on her own. Love the characters of Sam and Sarah, also the secondary characters in the book. I haven't read any of the books in the series yet but I am going to now. I know I am going to love this series. You definitely need to read this book, you will love it.
The story of Sam and Sarah set in the 60's. Sam came home from being in the service. Tess, Sarah sister is interested in Sam but he is actually interested in Sarah , Tess does realize that and tells Sam and Sarah they should be together. Sarah wants to go to nursing school, she is working as a waitress and trying to save up for it. Sam tries his best to help her to go but she wants to do it on her own. Love the characters of Sam and Sarah, also the secondary characters in the book. I haven't read any of the books in the series yet but I am going to now. I know I am going to love this series. You definitely need to read this book, you will love it.
April 13, 2016
Full review on Faithfully Bookish
Oh boy! I really enjoyed my little trip to 1960s small town Texas. Swimming in the creek, town-wide dances, local diner, seeing everyone in church on Sunday, those good old days are so appealing! Sam Lewis and Sarah Jordan are my kind of people, they are compassionate, loyal, and self-sacrificing but they also know how to kick back and have some good, clean fun! JoAnn Durgin, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “I like your style!” I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the Lewis Legacy series.
Oh boy! I really enjoyed my little trip to 1960s small town Texas. Swimming in the creek, town-wide dances, local diner, seeing everyone in church on Sunday, those good old days are so appealing! Sam Lewis and Sarah Jordan are my kind of people, they are compassionate, loyal, and self-sacrificing but they also know how to kick back and have some good, clean fun! JoAnn Durgin, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “I like your style!” I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the Lewis Legacy series.
April 26, 2015
Other than the fact I almost died trying to read it (LOL), I think this is, so far, my favorite book by this author. I've already read books 1-3 in the Lewis Legacy series and can very much see Sam, Jr. (from book 1) in his dad (who PRELUDE is about). Solid men of faith who are heart-stopping heroes. Sarah and Sam are perfect for each other, and I loved getting to know them and reading their story.
Only one warning - don't drink or eat while reading. Laughing while swallowing is not healthy. LOL
Only one warning - don't drink or eat while reading. Laughing while swallowing is not healthy. LOL
March 21, 2015
Great book
This really covered a lot of issues that military personnel deal with when they come home as well as small town issues. I love the strength of the characters and their strong Christian beliefs.
I chose the five star rating because it was well written, the charters were very well developed and the over all story line was believable and held me interest. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good Christian book.
This really covered a lot of issues that military personnel deal with when they come home as well as small town issues. I love the strength of the characters and their strong Christian beliefs.
I chose the five star rating because it was well written, the charters were very well developed and the over all story line was believable and held me interest. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good Christian book.
May 24, 2015
Prelude
Good story. Having read all of the other books to date, it was good too go back and learn about Sam's parents and their courtship. There write a few errors, inconsistencies, but not enough to throw off the book for you. I am a proof reader and its my job to notice them. It's good to go back and remember the beginning after thirty-five years of marriage, eight children, all adults, and eight grandchildren. It's also great to read good Christian romances.
Good story. Having read all of the other books to date, it was good too go back and learn about Sam's parents and their courtship. There write a few errors, inconsistencies, but not enough to throw off the book for you. I am a proof reader and its my job to notice them. It's good to go back and remember the beginning after thirty-five years of marriage, eight children, all adults, and eight grandchildren. It's also great to read good Christian romances.
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